New Zealand convention centres

nelson convention bureau •
news from nelson

Winter 2008

Don't Worry Be Happy

You might have caught up on the news a wee while back that a UMR Research study found Nelson was the happiest place in New Zealand.

The research didn't delve into why, but it's not exactly rocket science. We're surrounded by 25 wineries, 20% of the country's national parks and of course there's the sunshine factor to consider. And now a New York travel magazine reckons we've got the best shopping outside Auckland ...to be fair, I'm not sure if the journo went to Wellington during her visit!

Nelson PCO Janet Matheson, of Conferences & Events, describes our place as a 'concentive' destination - somewhere where conferencing is an incentive. And with the news that the Rutherford Hotel has completed its room renovations and Accor is moving its Grand Mercure brand into the region, there's no better time to reward your delegates with an event in Nelson.

For the ultimate concentive check out the amazing deal Awaroa Lodge is offering newsletter subscribers below.

Hope to see you in Nelson soon,

Angela Moriarty
Nelson Convention Bureau Manager

Accor Group Moves in To Nelson      

One of Nelson's premier conference venues, Monaco Hotel & Resort, will officially join the Accor group of hotels and resorts on 1 July 2008.

The 4 star plus resort will be rebranded Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco Apartments, in keeping with Accor's upscale boutique Grand Mercure brand.

The announcement comes as the resort nears its final phase of expansion. Due for completion at the end of October, this will see the resort's conference capacity increase to 180 and guest capacity to 280. The final accommodation configuration will be 20 hotel rooms, 36 one-bedroom studios, six one-bedroom cottages and 33 two-bedroom cottages.

Located just minutes away from Nelson's airport and the city centre, the resort features award-winning restaurant The Orangerie, an onsite health and beauty spa, swimming pool, gymnasium and the conference and events centre. Guests will also soon be able to visit an onsite hairdressing salon and the workshop of a master jeweler and goldsmith.

Nothing Standard About Rutherford Hotel      

Rutherford Hotel Nelson - a Heritage Hotel has recently retired the last of its standard rooms with the completion of its top-to-toe renovation.

Situated in the heart of Nelson's CBD on Cathedral Square, the hotel has 113 well appointed executive rooms and suites. It is surrounded by quality hotel and motel accommodation, amply catering for overflow accommodation within walking distance for large conferences.

Rutherford Hotel has five conference rooms, with a maximum capacity of 400.

Cruisy New Evening Function Venue for Nelson      

A new catamaran featuring revolutionary hull design is due to be available to the conference market from November.

Wilsons Abel Tasman chief executive Darryl Wilson says the new vessel will "revolutionise" day trips in the Abel Tasman National Park.

As well as being available for pre and post event activities in the country's most visited national park, the catamaran will be available for evening cruise functions.

The catamaran will seat 70 for evening banquets and host cocktail functions for up to 130 pax. Contact darryl@AbelTasman.co.nz for more information.

The Sky's the Limit      

Want to finish your conference on a high?

Many people's bucket list includes throwing themselves out of a plane, so what better way to ensure your event is a memorable one than getting them skydiving from 13,000 feet!

Based at Motueka Airport, Skydive Abel Tasman caters for groups of up to 40. Talk to Lisa Chambers on 03 528 4091; 0274 509949 or email lisa@skydive.co.nz

Awaroa Lodge Offer      

Awaroa Lodge is offering Nelson Convention Bureau newsletter subscribers a three nights for the price of two deal for any conference taken before October 30, 2008.

They'll also throw in free venue hire of the Harakeke Room (pictured), projector hire and internet access for the duration of the conference.

The award-winning Awaroa Lodge is nestled in the Abel Tasman National Park and has 26 rooms and suites. The Harakeke Room seats 50 pax theatre style.

Contact their events team for more details at events@awaroalodge.co.nz. To take advantage of this offer quote NCB Newsletter at the time of booking.  

Team Building for the Pros      

Interested in hosting your own Grand Prix or Bathurst?

Nelson's Pro Karts has developed a fantastic range of corporate products, modelled on some of the world's most popular racing events. Team or individual events, endurance or sprint races - they can recommend a package to suit your group's needs.

An electronic leader board tracks the race, which is pefect for team building or just a bit of fun. Winners podium presentation, trophies and champagne available.

Contact Nick at Pro Karts on nick@prokarts.co.nz or ph 03 548 KART

Fine dining in Richmond      

If you're looking for somewhere special for an evening function for up to 60, you should definitely get in touch with the team at Bouterey's at 251.

One of the region's finest restaurants, Bouterey's offers elegant but relaxed dining Nelson-style, priding itself on excellent customer service and showcasing local produce.

The winners of the 2007 Outstanding Hospitality Business in the Nelson Hospitality Awards have just been announced as finalists in the Cuisine 2008 Restaurant of the Year Awards. 

Contact Tania on 03 544 1114 or info@boutereys.co.nz.

New Additions at Monaco Hotel & Resort      

Monaco Hotel & Resort is offering free airport and city centre transfers in its new luxury Mercedes van. The van comfortably seats 12 guests.

Pictured with the van are the two latest team members at Monaco. Conference & Events Coordinator Shelley Haring joined the team in May, after 3 1/2 years as Guest Services Manager at the Lodge at Paratiho Farms. Shelley can be contacted at events@monacoresort.co.nz for any conference, event and function enquiries.

Reservations Manager Janine Grocott has been at the resort since January. Janine has held a variety of roles in the travel industry including travel consultant, sales & marketing liaison and trainer. Her key responsibilities are overseeing the Reception & Reservations Team to ensure the needs of Monaco's guests are met during their stay.  Contact Janine with any accommodation queries at janine@monacoresort.co.nz