Ohtel

Ohtel, a new boutique hotel located in Wellington’s exclusive seaside neighbourhood Oriental Bay, was inspired by the “hip designer” urban hotels of New York and other big cities of the world.

This chic, inner city hotel opened in March, and is the creation of designer Alan Blundell.

“After 22 years working in architecture, several trips overseas exposed me to some exciting new trends in hotel accommodation,” recalls Alan. “Famous designers such as Philippe Starck are creating dynamic hip accommodation at some of the world’s most popular addresses.”

Alan mentally filed away the idea until the Oriental Bay site came on the market, perfect for the 10-room eco-friendly hotel he had been mulling over for several years.

Ohtel is adjacent to Wellington’s main entertainment precinct and en route to the CBD from the international airport. Attractions such as Te Papa, theatres, restaurants and clubs are a stone’s throw away.

“We are targeting free independent travellers who select hotels carefully with a preference for individual ownership rather than chains,” explains Alan. “Plus high-end corporate and niche companies such as ad and film agencies, and currently the busiest of all, the local leisure market – time poor professionals who previously had to head over to the Wairarapa for a night away.”

Ohtel has two suites, four deluxe rooms and four studios, with room rates ranging between $250 and $450. The 1950s and 60s Scandinavian-influenced furnishings are a counterpoint to the contemporary concrete building and New Zealand artwork displayed throughout.

“We’ve had some very positive feedback,” says Alan, “including scouting visits from big hotel chains now buying baby hotels to operate under their umbrella, which shows we’ve registered on the radar. And we’ve had great reviews in the tourist industry media and reputable magazines such as Wallpaper.

“It’s been challenging, but we’re on track with our occupancy figures. I don’t have any plans for global domination, I’m just keen to get Ohtel absolutely right!”

www.ohtel.com