Auckland Hotels

Auckland City Hotel Reviews

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 03:04:00 +0000

Auckland hotels in New Zealand are plentiful in and around Auckland City offering a range of accommodation decor, sizes, styles, and character. Hotel accommodation include contemporary, new, boutique, character, and luxury settings. Many top international hotels are present in and around the Auckland CBD and with others present consistent quality of service and facilities. Many hotels are close to the Sky Casino for entertainment, Queen Street for shopping, central business district, Auckland harbour, and entertainment venues such as Aotea Square convention centre. (Image of Auckland Skyline at StockXpert by jchambers)

Perhaps you can find the hotel you require in the directory list below, and perform a search to get more information for a more informed view point. Please read Auckland Luxury Hotels - How to Search Online (Internet search tips to find a suitable luxury hotel in Auckland City)

(Image of Auckland City Water Front Apartment Complex at StockXpert by CJPhoto)

Auckland Hotels and Accommodation:

Because hotels or companies may change their names, brands, or merge with others, etc, of which their web sites names might also change. So rather than to add links to their web sites, it might be better to copy the hotel names and then search from this site for specific information, such as pricing, online bookings, and package deals.

Auckland City Hotel (157 Hobson Street): Provides relaxed contemporary decor, with character from it's past. Has over 130 guest rooms and suits for leisure and business travelers offering a range of features, such as satellite TV, wireless internet, voice mail, and more. Staff are internationally culturally trained with linguistic skills. Close to business, shopping, entertainment and motorway for quick access.

Hyatt Regency (Now Hotel Pullman) (Corner Princess and Waterloo Quadrant): Offers around 370 rooms which includes suites, residence rooms, suites, and penthouses, with great harbour and park views, and within walking distance of the city. Great facilities including high speed internet, air conditioning, Sky TV, minibar, tea/coffee facilities, and more. Included is the Hyatt Spa, health club, gymnasium, heated lap pool, sauna rooms, and fitness equipment. Also the business centre, room service, garden and lobby bar, cafe restaurant and catering services. There is also a ballroom, meeting rooms, and pre-function and social functions are available including wedding service.

Best Western President Hotel Auckland (27-35 Victoria Street West): Mid-range accommodation of about 120 rooms, with quality, spacious comfort, at great value. Professional staff from multi-cultural backgrounds dedicated to provide good service and comfort to independent and corporate travellers. The restaurant provides New Zealand and popular international meals. Close to Queen Street for shopping, attractions, Sky Casino, and the business central district.

Mercure Auckland Windsor (58-60 Queen Street): Located in central Queen Street accommodating 79 modern rooms with features such as satellite and cable TV, minibar, radio, telephone, fast internet access, room service and more. Indoor parking, one restaurant, bar, and meeting room, business services, and can help organize family reunions, events, and weddings with good support.

The Sebel Suites (Mirvachotels.com, 85-89 Customs Street West): Four star apartment hotel are close to the business and shopping district, and are stylish studio to one bedroom executive suite. They provide boutique events, meeting events, and weddings, and a stylish conference room. Also private meeting /interview rooms to complement their stylish modern apartments.

Crowne Plaza Hotel Auckland (128 Albert Street): Several levels of accommodation with meeting rooms, dining and relaxation features for business needs. Over 350 guest rooms, 330 non smoking rooms, 180 double rooms, 160 single rooms, and one restaurant. Includes a range of business services and health and fitness center, sauna, laundry with ironing, and more. Close to many city attractions, - Albert and Victoria Park, Queen Street, Movies, Shopping, and more.

The Quadrant (10 Waterloo Quadrant, Phone): Great Auckland hotel city or harbour views with accommodation from over 250 modern stylish studios, including one or two apartments with a private balcony. The rooms have fully equipped kitchens, with DVD player, dining table,Sky TV, WiFi, DVD hire, and city meal delivery service. Short walk to central city and the harbour, for shopping, entertainment, business district, and attractions.

Hilton Auckland Hotel (Princess Wharf, 147 Quay Street): Situated on the end of Princess Wharf, over looking the harbour, with over 173 guest rooms, with high speed internet, walk in shower, and a balcony. Includes suites, and deluxe and executive rooms, with extra large bathrooms. Plenty of business and family services for convenience and comfort: business centre, meeting rooms, fax, mobile phone rental, photocopying, audio/visual rental, currency exchange and more. Additional services include car rental, airline desk, room service, multi-lingual staff, etc. The restaurant has harbour view, a private dining area, and a stylish bar. Also a fitness room, running track and swimming pool. Their web site has online resource for pricing and booking events (e-event tool), personal web site creating for your event attendees, and a wedding website.

Bianco of Queen Apartments (2 White Street): Accommodation for business or pleasure travelers in 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments, which encompass standard and superior apartments reflected in size, larger beds, no. of bathrooms, separate lounge, kitchen facilities, and more. Plenty of services, and facilities -on site parking, baby sitting, safe deposit, 24 hour reception, valet dry cleaning, meal deliver, secretarial services, and more. Adjacent to public transport, and entertainment such as Aotea centre, Sky casino, civic centre, and the harbour.

SkyCity Grand Hotel: (90 Federal Street):

Premium facilities and service to provide that extra comfort that includes health and beauty services. This includes a gymnasium, heated lap, sauna, and spa poll, personal trainers, a doctor, baby sitting service, a in room bath menu, and more. Accommodation with various hotel packages, in luxury king or twin rooms, or superior, premier, and grand suites. The packages include breakfast, dinner, and other features, and their is a choice of two restaurants, cocktail/lobby lounge and a function center. Superb features and functions for a very comfortable accommodation.

Rendezvous Hotel Auckland (Mayoral Drive and Vincent Street): Noted as New Zealand's largest premier hotel, within easy walking distance to Auckland City's premium entertainment, shopping, and dining venues. This includes a underground linkage tunnel to important entertainment venues: Aotea square and centre, Auckland town hall, and the Civic for great entertainment events. Superb accommodation for business and leisure clients, offering great facilities - business centre, heated indoor pool, valet parking, gymnasium, health club, sauna's, and a range of restaurants and bars and includes a club wine and dine.

Over 450 rooms and suites styled from deluxe to the indulgent royal suite. Great packages and special offers to enjoy, and a dedicated meetings and events team to assist your event at the pre-function area and grand ballroom. Their comprehensive hotel web site has links to tourism information, local restaurant and bars, and also Auckland events.

Latitude 37 Apartments (Pakenham Street East and Customs Street West) : Boutique style residential apartments situated near the water at the Auckland Viaduct. Enjoy the settings of ponds and native trees, and easy access to shops, public transport, motorway, ferry transport, bars, and restaurants. 1 to 4 bedroom set up with comprehensive facilities - oven, dish washer, microwave, fridge-freezer, kitchen utensils and more. Room service if stay is longer than 8 days, and car parking for one apartment with extra parking available. Telephone, Sky TV, and Broadband Internet available.

The Metro Suites (1 Courthouse Lane): Large elegant one and two bedroom suites equipped with kitchen facilities, laundry, and entertainment system. Also includes fast internet, TV, telephone, air conditioning, alarm clock, and more. Services and facilities include indoor heated pool, sauna, spa, gymnasium, valet service, in room safe, baby sitting, maid service, business centre, and more. Situated in Auckland's central business district, with views of Albert park, harbour, and the city. Close walk to the art gallery, sky city, Britomart transport centre, Queen street shopping, Aotea centre, and entertainment venues.

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The Chifley Suites (74 Albert Street): Over 110 high end serviced one and two bedroom suites, offering good views of the harbour bridge, Waitakere ranges and central city (CBD). The suites have modern furniture and facilities - stereo MP3/i Pod output, kitchen and laundry and the 2 room suites have two bathrooms. Enjoy flat screen TV, broadband internet, and Sky TV, and close walk to entertainment (Vector Arena, Sky Casino, Aotea Centre, and more) and shopping, and the harbour.

The Langham Hotel (83 Symonds Street): Five star luxury central Auckland hotel with style and elegance. Has over 400 spacious rooms, club rooms and a dozen suites including accommodation choices from classic, executive, and royal rooms and suites. Provides business and fitness facilities, including heated pool and sauna, large meeting facilities and ball room. Outstanding lounges, bars, and restaurants. The spacious accommodation rooms provide modern amenities, including broadband internet, satellite TV, business desks, telephones with voice mail, and more. Provides for large functions such as weddings, business functions, team building groups and more.

City Central Hotel (Corner Albert and Wellesley Street): Central Auckland hotel that provides for holiday guests and business travellers, with 10 to 30% discounts for corporate clients. Various types of accommodation - standard and studio double or twin, balcony, triple, family, and quad rooms. Includes a range of facilities- fax service, dry cleaning, safe deposit, refreshments, and more. The rooms provide broadband & wireless internet, TV & telephone, hair dryer, ironing board, etc. Has a 24 hour reception, and breakfast provided 7 days a week. Walking distance to Sky City casino, Aotea and other entertainment venues, waterfront, public transport and other venues.

City Life Auckland Hotel (171 Queen Street): Spacious accommodation in central Auckland City for family or business requirements. Provides stylish standard rooms, apartments, and suites, each offering a range of features from broad band internet, sky and movie link, tea/coffee, ironing, in-room safe, and more. Range of services include gymnasium, baby sitting, restaurant, business centre, foreign currency, heated lap pool, dry cleaning, and more. Short walk to Sky City casino, Aotea convention and entertainment venues, waterfront, public transport and other venues.

Hotel DeBrett (2 High Street, Auckland CBD): Boutique hotel with 25 rooms, offering style, warmth and enticing surroundings with emphasis on personal service. The rooms and suites presents a certain style and atmosphere, with plenty of features - LCD flat screen TV, DVD player, personal safe, wireless and wired broadband internet, quality bed linen, and more. Bathrooms have underfloor heating, mosaic tiles with black granite flooring, furniture, with selected art works.

Hotel DeBrett provides a range of features: Private dining, function, meeting, and drawing rooms, dvd and book library, health and beauty treatments, personal service...and much more. Also more features for hosting functions and meetings in either the signature, classic and boutique suite. Then there is the drawing room, a private guests area to relax, in addition to the courtyard. Plenty of features, functions, and service to project warm and welcoming surroundings.

Copthorne Hotel (196-200 Quay Street): Located on the Auckland waterfront overlooking the harbour, and adjacent to restaurants, bars, shopping, water ferry, facilities, and the vector arena for entertainment. The hotel's standard rooms provide 2 beds (king size), dial up internet, Sky TV, mini-bar, radio, newspaper, and more. There are specials and packages, e.g. indulgence, pure pleasure, and more. Copthorne hotel provides business, photocopy and fax services, internet computers, wireless connection, and underground parking. Restaurant and bar with brasserie style, and local/international beverages, and experienced staff to organize events, conferences, entertainment, accommodation, and more.

Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland City (1 Hobson Street): The 19 level hotel projects over the Auckland viaduct harbour. Accommodation from 80 studio based rooms, with 1 or 2 bedroom suites with kitchen facilities, laundry access, all with balconies for harbour or CBD views. Hotel facilities include restaurant, bar, family rooms, safety deposit box, luggage storage and more. Services include business centre, laundry, fax/photocopying, room service, meeting facilities, ironing, on site parking and more.

Grafton Oaks Hotel (121 Grafton Road): Situated in central Auckland, and has 44 single to triple suite rooms, providing TV, radio, telephone, tea and coffee facilities, heating, and fridge. Provides discount rates, 24 hour office, fax, dry cleaning and laundry. Accommodation based on best quality, service, and price. Adjacent to Auckland motorway, Sky Casino, Auckland Hospital, Museum, Shopping, and University.

Oaks Smartstay on Hobson (186 Hobson Street): Comfortable and private one and two bedroom apartments with self contained kitchens and laundry. Includes high speed internet access, TV/DVD, telephone, and air conditioning. CBD location in Auckland - close to shopping, restaurants, cafe's, and Sky City.

Quest on Queen: (62 Queen Street): Central location in Auckland City allowing a short walk to entertainment (e.g. Vector Arena), restaurants, bars, shopping, and cafe's is ideally situated. Provides 36 one bedroom executive spacious apartments, with balcony views, air conditioning and internet access. Prepare your own meals and laundry activities or Quest can perform them, and other functions for you such as secretarial, pantry shopping, tour services, laundry/dry cleaning, restaurant charge back, and breakfast pack service. Several apartment facilities available including baby sitting, postage service, car rental, extensive safety features, non smoking rooms, and more. Meetings for up to 6 people can be conducted in the spacious apartments, along with fax/mode/phone service and secretarial services.

Quest on Nelson (90-92 Nelson Street): Located in central Auckland providing accommodation in 38 spacious one and two bedroom apartments. Apartments are equipped with kitchen, broadband internet, Sky TV, laundry, and telephone. Easy access to central shopping, Sky Casino, bars, restaurants, and entertainment avenues. Great harbour and city views.

Stamford Plaza Auckland Hotel (22 Albert Street): Luxury hotel in central Auckland, with over 280 rooms, and was refurbished in 2006. Includes a recreation centre, heated indoor pool, spa, sauna, fitness centre, and modern gymnasium. Service with 24 hour desk, facilities for disabled customers, room service, meeting rooms, laundry, bar and a choice of 4 restaurants. Provides baby sitting facilities, doctor on call, safety deposit facilities, business level floors, internet connection in rooms, and more. There are deluxe and superior rooms with accompanying packages such as "night on the town", "lazy daze", "business saver" and more.

Mollies Romantic Boutique Auckland Hotel (6 Tweed Street, St Marys Bay): Boutique small 5 star luxury hotel winning a few "hideaway" awards. Provides accommodation for 14 luxury suites (Junior, Villa, and Premier) some with ensuite bathroom and spa bath, all with designer features and tastes, with quality linen, along with garden or harbour views. Suites are accompanied with luxury packages - e.g. Rejuvenate Spa and Waiheke Island Tour Packages, and more. Ideal for corporate functions, meetings, honeymoons, and with it's dining room gourmet restaurant, courtyard gardens, and terrace bar provide a nice luxurious environment. Hotel facilities also include a drawing room, broadband/wireless internet, spa treatment rooms, gym fitness room, gourmet cuisine, library, cocktail bar, and more.

Visit Auckland Luxury Hotels - How to Search Online (Internet search tips to find a suitable luxury hotel in Auckland City)

Summer Holiday Plan

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:52:00 +0000

Planning a Summer holiday for your family requires a balancing act of priorities, for yourself, partner, and any children. Planning months ahead for your trip, should translate to better deals (e.g. affordable, discounts), favorable and smarter accommodation, and maybe additional trips such as day walks, or cruises around Auckland Harbour including fishing charters. Discuss with your family about a suitable destination (including hotel or motel location), and to involve yourselves as a family, along with your individual choices. You might have to reach a comprise to try suit everyone.

Goals for Travel Holiday
* Mobility - Preference - Perhaps stay in one location (e.g. Central City, Waterfront, Viaduct) or travel Countrywide?
* Weather - hot, humid, cool, or cold - what suits? (Check local and national weather reports)
* Spending amount and budgeting - is a strict budget required, and payment types to suit (e.g. credit card, eftpos, cash). Or is money no barrier?
* Length of time - few days, a week, or several weeks can make or some cases break your plans (plans can change during holidaying). Perhaps have a fixed holiday duration.
* Evaluating what you and others enjoy, and that you get to do the things that you planned for.
* Reason for Holiday? - to visit various locations, to go family fishing or shopping, or boat cruising. Or to do a series of adventures within one locality?

Accommodation and Location Research
Perhaps seek advice from a knowledgeable travel agency, ask in online forums, and participate in trip adviser, which may include photo's of accommodation and user ratings. Also visit hotel websites, travel directories, and major city websites such as Auckland NZ. Sign up to newsletters, read their guides, travel advice, and other information. Browse Google maps, with street view activated, to view and "virtual walk" through street locations. Consider the type and cost of accommodation - e.g. a hotel with citywide views, or a cosy motel, isolated lodge, high rise apartment, or perhaps cheaper self contained units, country cottage, or a beach bach.

Cheaper might mean fewer or limited services and facilities, further amenity travel, marginal wireless broadband, or poor television reception. Kids need to be entertained and occupied in their rooms, and basic essentials, if lacking might suddenly become essential - e.g. for notebooks, and the humble mobile or smart phone. If it's a hot summer, is there a pool, lake, or beach nearby? Make sure to ask management - as in ring and/or email (for future reference) about facilities.

Budget - Create a Plan
Costing might be a worry, as expenditure might increase higher than expected, e.g. for eating out, unforeseen circumstances, or detouring too much to unplanned side trips, adventure outings, and even shopping for any kids (don't they want more items or excursions than you? prey not...). But categorize your spend, e.g. for any car rental, insurance, food, petrol, outings, entertainment, and importantly accommodation. Also include extra money for those unforeseen or contingency events or plans. Maybe try out a online budget travel calculator such as independent traveler.

Bookings
Sign up to rss feeds, newsletter, and email updates, in addition to browsing daily, online travel and hotel websites. Hotel websites and reservation sites like Wotif, Expedia, Hotels Combined, etc, may offer a range of costings, packages, and deals if you book earlier, particularly during the off seasons. Travel sites like house of travel, and flight centre, etc, might have deals, competitions, and promotions. Early bookings will allow a better chance of dates to suit. This also applies to car rentals and tour buses, of which you may be able to make deals, to try get the best price, as with any hotel or motel bookings. Hopefully lower costs, than quotes you may have seen.

Best to taxi or get dropped off at the departure airport, unless you can arrange suitable parking for your car. I have written articles about researching location (for Auckland) , general reservation tips, and accommodating kids (View sidebar at left) and other, hopefully useful tips. Includes keeping (i.e. backing up online or creating a list) of essential phone numbers, prescriptions (if relevant), rental companies and contact details, insurance details, etc, that you may need to refer to when away from home.

Pack Away
Well maybe. Try do your best with less. Adapt and share, with hygiene in mind when in your motel or hotel. Create a packing list and try slim down. Maybe one netbook, camcorder might do. Discuss what's important. Mobile phone - maybe more than one, as a backup, including essential and emergency contact details (also backed up online). Fewer towels, shoes, clothing, and personals, including first aid kit, torch, and maybe a portable alarm and light for additional room security. Less weight and number of items, means less to worry about, and perhaps lower luggage expense. So itemize amongst your family, and allocate an acceptable amount of luggage to each, and find out what is acceptable by airline and chartered bus companies. How to shrink luggage (for women) describes a useful check list for clothing prior to traveling. Perhaps try online packing tools such as the universal packing list or the interactive packing list.

Being prepared for travel involves at least research, prioritizing, detailing itineraries, vacation budget, along with suitable travel and accommodation dates. Time spent planning means more time to enjoy and appreciate your Summer holiday. Effectively combining all these components together should result in favorable outcome for all, and better yet to remember long after your holiday.

Auckland City Hotel Party Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 09:38:00 +0000

Party for Fun or Celebrate?

Perhaps you want to host or throw a party for a small group of family and friends, then perhaps arrange at an Auckland City Hotel. Consider the Sky City Hotel or one of many accommodation venues around the City, or near the Waterfront at the Viaduct basin and Restaurant precinct. Maybe include harbor cruises, leisurely yachting, or fishing charters for your group. Or a hotel party adjacent to the Vector Arena for additional event entertainment if available.
Image of beverage glasses by fjklein at SXC.

Packages, including Wedding, Honeymoon, Celebration and other Events are generally available at Hotels to utilize and incorporate for a party function that you are planning. Therefore a party may be easily hosted for your convenience, and perhaps include any additional localized entertainment. So for that important function you might want to consider some tips listed below...

Hotel Party Ideas

* Select and contact a suitable Hotel that can provide the type of party or celebration that suits your idea or theme. This might be for a birthday, get together, celebration, official function, promotion, wedding anniversary or other themed gathering.

* Confirmation - with management that they do provide to your satisfaction, and if you can also provide any of your own requirements or functions. This might include own food, beverages, decoration (e.g. for cultural or religious type themes), number of guests, music band and other supplements. The aim is to query everything (that comes to mind) and to clarify or confirm that suits you. I think responsibility, openness (to management) and age might be key features, perhaps along with a 'small number" of guests for a party. For example requirements for hosting a 21st, along with the host (e.g. age), might be different than for a corporate function with senior or long serving staff. Who knows? Find out by contacting, along with parental or authoritative guidance if necessary. Though their are NZ event management companies, gourmet gift suppliers and NZ party suppliers for larger events should you want to scale up. Or maybe hotels can easily arrange up sized events.

Videos of Party Hosting and Event Planning

Hosting Your Party	How to Hire a Event Planner

* Visitation - Visit the hotel and view surrounding internal and external, to assess if sizable and suitable. This includes furniture, possibility of adjacent rooms, seating, suitable outside views, safety, banquet rooms, outside seating, parking, amenities, service, and other aspects that might come to mind when present at the Hotel. So become familiar with the establishment, any plans, and features. Perhaps discuss pricing and again confirmation if discussed previously as above. Hence you can convey to your group what to expect in terms of cost and amenities, and locational features.

* Accommodation requirements - Economizing on cost per head which includes allowable number of guests per room, whether if a actual physical bed needs to be utilized strictly as a single or double only. I have had extended family members of mine bunked up in a double room with only two real beds, though that was at a regional mid priced Motel.

* Guests needs - Check with staff if they provide particular meal menus and needs(e.g. vegetarian, disability requirements) for any of your group. Or if additional non staying guests can be allowed, and any time restriction for entering, leaving, and ending the party. This might include allowed or restricted zonal use of any of the amenities, parking, and washrooms within the immediate vicinity of the event or party.

* Guest entry - Hotel staff needs to be informed of your guests as they arrive, hence a procedure may be required to welcome them formally (if arriving at different times for example). They may need directing to the appropriate venue or hotel rooms.

* Establish cost - Discuss and establish before the function, and pay at least a deposit. Or maybe if their are payment plans or options if required. Of course you can get others to contribute, e.g. family and friends.

* Again, if not previously, remind your guests, family friends, or group of arrival time, function start time, suitable parking areas, hotel venue, and any procedure when arriving. Perhaps provide phone numbers, and refer them to visit online, e.g. Google Maps for Auckland City, or the Hotel Website as a point of reference and familiarity. Perhaps get to know public parking or transport options within the City, including car parks, buses, and trains to inform your guests. Maybe get to know Auckland City CBD or local main streets, such as Queen Street.

* Party time line tips - Perhaps for planning, establish an overall guide. This might include several aspects and features, in addition to general hotel reservation and planning. This can include...

* Guest or gift cards and name tags * balloon direction signs * Suitable lighting * Suitable music selection for all * dedicated present or gift stand * decor back grounds: decoration, banner stands, themed accents, props, mural, posters, etc * guest seating placement. Perhaps visit a planner guide or online party check list generated tool (e.g. for kids birthdays, bridal shower) to get more ideas and insights that you may not have thought off and specifically planned for.

* Then enjoy on the day for yourself and as a host, by being a bit in charge, mixing with your guests or group and hotel staff if required. By being involved in the planning process, earlier visitation, and then mixing within your group should hopefully evolve into a enjoyable party to remember not only for you, but also invited guests.

Accommodation Near Vector Arena

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 02:58:00 +0000

Situated in the heart of the Auckland CBD, one of New Zealand's multi-function venues, the Vector Arena is a superb venue for entertainment functions. The Arena is also close to Auckland City Hotels, Restaurants, Public transport such as the Britomart Train Station, Viaduct Harbour, Ferry Terminal at the Waterfront, Auckland City for Shopping, and other Auckland City Attractions. Exhibitions, Conventions, Banquets, Ballets, Opera, Netball, Family Shows, Hospitality functions (with private suites), and of course International music concerts from prominent entertainment celebrities can and have performed within it's premises.

Fortunately several Hotels are adjacent for accommodation, so as to easily attend functions held at the Arena. You may have to book a hotel room early if you intend a function, and perhaps become familiar with the surrounding area (Browse the above Google map with Earth view of the City), and browse the official Vector Arena Website for upcoming events, concerts, hospitality and venue hire or inquiries.

Street View of Auckland's Vector Arena
Navigate about to take a walk-through

View Larger Map

There are hotels and other accommodation venues that are "nearby", with perhaps 1 - 15 minute drive time (depending on traffic), and maybe 1 - 20 minutes walk time, with "local city" hotel distances of less than 1 km to about 2.5 km. But maybe prepare a little beforehand when traveling to and from the Arena -

- Familiarize yourself with the local area, including your hotel's, and perhaps map out the shortest journey. Remember the street address name of your hotel, adjacent landmarks, and a few street names
- Pedestrian and street traffic can be very busy at times, so factor that in, to allow a suitable time frame for your journey
- Maybe browse the Google Map at the top, which has 3D Earth View (you may need to download the plug-in), and a photo icon of the Vector Arena to try get a sense of placement
- Their might be "street alerts", i.e. road closures, e.g. road works, construction activities, hazard incidents, etc, that you may want to be aware of. I think the Auckland City Council Site (http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/) or the Queen Street Online web site (http://www.queenstreet.co.nz/) has a alert system
- Perhaps browse Auckland Web Cam Traffic internet sites (e.g. NZ Transport Agency, or All Auckland Motorways Cameras) by searching on Google
- Hotel management may have a journey prearranged package, advice, and contact details, which you should ask about
- Let someone know of your absence, and a contact number (e.g. mobile phone), at least with the hotel lobby
- If new to NZ, remember for all emergencies dial 111, not 911. It's 111. Most NZ emergencies relate to Ambulance, Fire, and Police services.
- For public transport, check out the Maxx Website, which has major routes for major local land and water based transport. Perhaps download time tables, if you do not know the streets. The travel routes include maps and route diagrams, with estimated times, and street address at most bus stops.

General and Relevant Information for Auckland CBD

- GST - There is a 15 % Good and Service Tax applied to goods and services in New Zealand, except for certain duty free goods, but with restrictions. The New Zealand Customs Official Website has more information for travelers, importers, business, etc, relating to duty free regulations.
- Trading banks are usually open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4.30 pm, and Auckland City banks provide ATM's (Automatic Teller Machines) and Foreign Exchange facilities). Some banks also trade on a Saturday.
- Perhaps become familiar with locations of City amenities, such as payphones, parks, restaurants, and dining facilities.
- Google Search and Maps can help tremendously here (remember to apply the "more.." tab at the top to view more information, e.g. for videos, web cams, videos, etc). Also perhaps click on the "show search options" next to Search Maps tab, then click on the user-created maps to view personal maps - which may display useful landmarks, shops, and other features and facilities. Then enter or re-enter your search (local) terms to try get relevant information.
- Car parks include Corner of Victoria and Kitchener Street, Civic Underground Car Park off Mayoral Drive, and Sky City at the corner of Federal and Victoria Streets. Check on Google Maps, and check for park times, and remember actual level location.

Auckland Hotels Near Vector Arena
(Perhaps visit the reviews page of Auckland Hotels or their web sites)

I have listed nearby Vector Arena hotels, so that you become familiar with their names for researching (e.g. user reviews, or specific map location). Their are many other accommodation venues, hotels, and apartments, spanning further out. But of course compare in terms of convenient distance, locality to attractions, suitability for accommodation (e.g. room size, room service, restaurant, i..e. features that suit you and/or your family)

Auckland City Hotel Names

Arena Hotel	Auckland Furbished Apartments	Waldorf Celestion Apartments
Hotel Grand Chancellor	Quay West Suites	Copthorne Hotel
Mercure Hotel	Stamford Plaza	All Seasons Hotel
Hotel deBrett	Heritage Hotel	CityLife Hotel
Best Western President	Metro Suites Serviced Apartments	Hilton Hotel
Sky City Grand Hotel	Crown Plaza Hotel	Auckland City Hotel
City Central Hotel	Rainbow Hotel	Elliot Hotel

Maybe read reviews or book the above Auckland Hotels by Clicking Here

Perhaps Select one of the above Hotels, or from many other
Accommodation Venues with Auckland City...

Hopefully you find a suitable Hotel relatively close to the Vector Arena, to conveniently and quickly travel to enjoy not only it's premises, but the event you are attending. Perhaps read my other articles on Hotel tips, e.g. for Discounted Hotel Booking Tips and Tips for Selecting a Hotel.

Auckland Hotels Rugby Accommodation Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 07:13:00 +0000

It's important to book hotel and motel accommodation now or soon for the world rugby cup games for the year 2011, of which accommodation is likely to be scarce around September to October 2011 within the Auckland City Region. Eden park and North Harbour Stadium are likely venues for the rugby matches. Auckland with dozens of city hotels, motels, self contained apartments, back backer lodgings, bed and breakfast premises, boutique lodges, and private rentals are likely to be in high demand. It's important to compare or at least evaluate accommodation costs to judge if they are representative of a particular hotel or motel average costs. So perhaps cross reference their website's costs against travel and accommodation booking agencies, evaluate current lodging costs, or perhaps with past experiences from family and friends.

The longer you put off accommodation bookings with the Central Auckland City, then you might end up paying more or staying further out in the Auckland Suburbs. This may mean arranging suitable public transport and become familiar with Auckland street names. But browse the above Google Map within Greater Auckland and the Maxx Transport site, which has great connecting transport routes, time tables, and maps for ease of navigation. The graph below indicates a significant search interest for accommodation relating to new Zealand World Cup 2011 interest (click graph for larger view)

Google Search Trend Chart for Auckland World Cup Rugby Accommodation

Videos of Auckland City

Inner Auckland City	Auckland City Attractions

For those unfamiliar with Auckland the chart below displays general regional segments within Greater Auckland, but can be approximately segmented as...

* Auckland CBD (Central Business District or City Center)
* North Shore (includes Takapuna, Devonport, and Hibiscus Coast)
* East Auckland (includes Auckland or Waitemata Harbour, Gulf Islands, and Eastern Suburbs)
* Manukau - Generally South Auckland (and includes Manukau City Centre and Auckland International Airport which has hotels and motels)
* Inner to Outer Suburbs radiating between Auckland CBD, and overlapping and extending beyond the four main directional quadrants - i.e. known as "Greater Auckland".

Radial Regional Chart of Auckland
(click for larger view)

Book Hotels in New Zealand and other Countries - Click HERE

Auckland City alone has numerous City Central Hotels and the outer suburbs, including Waiheke Islands have plenty of suitable accommodation and accompanying exploration, travel, and entertainment packages for your convenience and relaxation. Perhaps also consider a Auckland Harbour Cruise (My reviews) for dinner, family functions, sight seeing, fishing, yachting, "cruising" general relaxation and entertainment. Perhaps book hotel or motel accommodation well before the world rugby games, to ensure that you have the advantage of great accommodation, not only adjacent to the rugby matches, but also some of the finest venues (e.g. Viaduct accommodation and restaurants), sight seeing, transport and of course entertainment facilities and Auckland attractions all within Auckland City's Centre.

Auckland Hotels Family and Kids Accommodation

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:20:00 +0000

When conducting a online internet search for your family and your children, ideally you would want accommodation in a hotel that provides a welcome hospitality, particularly for your kids. It's interesting to note a Google search of "Auckland City Kids Hotels" displays the "10 pack" local business results of hotels for that search term (as at October 2009). Compare that for searching with "Auckland Family Hotels" of which only a few local business results are displayed. This perhaps suggests that Auckland CBD Hotels are targeted, and prepared for accommodating children.

However, there may be varying degrees of functions, services, and amenities for child accommodation within a hotel. Therefore you would need to check what the hotel offers that is suitable to your family. Perhaps call management, visit their web sites, visit and ask on forums (Trip Advisor com), and ask family and friends.

The hotels listed in the 1st 10 business results from a Google search include The Quadrant Hotel, Auckland City Hotel, Sky City Grand Hotel, The Westin Lighter Quay, Quality Inn West End, st. Martins Apartment Hotel, and Crowne Plaza Hotel. Perhaps contact those hotels about child accommodation, and what they offer, e.g a "kids club", play centre, emergency supplies (wipes, strollers, bibs, medical aids, treasures (or diapers), etc.

Hotel Features, Services and Functions for Child Accommodation

Parents would have a good idea what items to bring or features/functions to expect for their kids, and infants, when traveling or staying overnight and family or friends residences. Therefore similar would be considered when staying in a hotel or apartment. Therefore perhaps ask the hotel the following

Room service - Does it include services for children.
Interconnecting Rooms - Semi privacy area for parents that adjoins the kids rooms.
Large Room Suites - To easily accommodate kids.
Bedding Arrangement/Provision - Extra roll out beds, bed sharing, Cots (or Cribs); and if they incur additional per bed or per child.
Kitchenette Available - Important for quick snacks, and request at least a medium size fridge.

Dining Area/Restaurant - Are they child friendly in terms of meals, seating, disabled access, and eating in allocated areas.
Safety/Child hazard features/Protocols - Are their hazards or out of bound areas for children, rules (e.g. after hours within certain areas), or safety gadgets that must be used or considered.
Baby Sitting Services - Available any time, and can ask about character reference, employment length, and perhaps formally meet the baby sitter.
Children Programs/Activities - Available within the Hotel or adjacent. For Auckland City, there are various adult entertainment activities. Ask if the hotel knows of kids events nearby.

Indoor Pool - Check hours for kids, available pool toys, and safety rules.
Internet (Broadband/WiFi) - Entertain your kids at child friendly game sites. Perhaps the hotel has PC child games/learning activities.
Location of Hotel - Is it suitable in terms of walking with your kids to local amenities, parks, events, for shopping, etc. Is public transport or car hire nearby or easy to hire. Maybe read hotel location in to choose a hotel.

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For each of the above you could ask specifics, and a hotel that can provide all what you need, and with their suggestions, would make your search for a child friendly worthwhile. It's important to adopt safety features for your children in a hotel, be more observant than at home, and explain and show them potential hazard areas. This includes within the rooms, safely using (or not using) the plugs/outlets, bathroom/shower, door/window locks, sharp corners, and unstable furniture/lamps. So with hotel research for Auckland City, including querying management about child functions and policies accommodation, you should have an idea to select which hotel would be suitable.

Auckland Viaduct Harbour Hotels

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 22:16:00 +0000

There are a handful of hotels and apartments in close proximity to the Auckland Viaduct harbour, which is also adjacent to the central city (e.g. Queen street) for shopping, business needs and entertainment. The area is generally vibrant, and with viaduct restaurants, dining avenues, and quality accommodation, you can easily relax and enjoy yourself. Sometimes corporate events and shows, are present to add to the viaduct's atmosphere, and you can enjoy the Waitemata harbour views and local beaches along the Auckland waterfront.

You can benefit from Auckland's viaduct harbour through charter tour packages, such as America's cup sailing and Kelly Tarlton's harbour cruises. There are also fishing, and charter harbour tours for your enjoyment. Also the ferries (fullers at http://www.fullers.co.nz/) to travel to Waiheke or Rangitoto and other adjacent islands. Visit online sites such as NZ Com, Viaduct NZ (http://www.viaduct.co.nz/), Auckland NZ (http://www.aucklandnz.com/), Tourism NZ (http://www.tourism.net.nz/) and other online searching for harbour charters.
Image of the Viaduct By Sveres at SXC.

Viaduct Hotels Auckland (Adjacent to harbour)

Google Street view of Auckland Viaduct Hotels and Apartments

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The Sebel Suites (85-89 Custom Street West)
Stylish and modern luxury apartments overlooking the harbour with over 100 studios, providing services and amenities as a hotel should. Harbour activities can be arranged - sailing, cruises, fishing, and more.

Latitude 37 (Corner Pakenham St East and Customs St West)
Enjoy boutique styled apartments which are fully equipped with amenities, and surrounded with ponds and New Zealand native trees.

Hilton Hotel (Princess Wharf, 174 Quay Street)
Over 170 guest rooms within a fully functional hotel, with great views of the harbour. Includes event and wedding planning on their web site.

Auckland Water Front Apartments (Princess Wharf, 143 Quay Street) Great harbour view, in 1 to 3 bedroom water front quality furnished apartments, with fully equipped kitchen and white ware and many other features.

The Westlin Auckland Lighter Quay (21 Viaduct harbour Avenue)
Overlooks the viaduct harbour with expansive marina views, with over 170 suites, with luxury restaurant and water side bar. Accommodates events, wedding, and special occasions.

Visit other Auckland City Hotel reviews or to book a Auckland City Hotel (Refine search results for location distance from Viaduct Basin)

View Larger Map

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Auckland Viaduct Restaurants and Bars

There are several restaurants and bars to enjoy a meal and drinks within the viaduct for dining and relaxtion. Depending on your taste, there are bound to be something to enjoy such as...

Y Not Restaurant (Shed 23 Quay Street)
International and European Cuisine and Pizza and can accommodate up to 200 people

Kermadec Restaurant (level 1, Corner Quay and Hobson Street)
Ocean fresh restaurant with fresh fish and seafood dining. Includes bars, dining rooms, private functions and more.

Grand Harbour Chinese Restaurant (Corner Pakeham and Custom Street West)
Authentic Hong Kong style dishes from prepared from trained chefs to yield Asian dishes to enjoy. Large venue to accommodate weddings and corporate events.

Imperial Bar (Heineken Hotel 95-99 Custom Street West)
Breakfast, Lunch, and dinners with drinks. Also has a loyalty club to organize events, meetings, and parties.

Limon restaurant (Princess Wharf)
Mediterranean/Spanish Food with a bit of New Zealand (Kiwi style) flavor.

Sushi train (85-89 Custom Street West)
Japanese Cuisine to taste.

Liquid bar Bistro and Cafe (43 Market place Viaduct Harbour)
Breakfast, All day meals, cocktails, and desserts and of course beverages.

There are many other restaurants, bars, and cafe's to visit, and to compliment your hotel accommodation within Auckland's viaduct harbour. Perhaps visit "eating out" (http://www.eatout.co.nz/) to view other restaurants within Auckland and New Zealand. So if you want to relax and enjoy viaduct harbour views for a while, in close proximity to central city with it's various attractions and venues, then perhaps a Auckland hotel for accommodation should be considered.

Related posts

Hotel location selection and Hotel reservation

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Hotel Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 03:45:00 +0000

Having your wedding is an important celebration event and day in your life, and knowing how to organize your wedding in an Auckland City Hotel, can easily enhance such an occasion. With careful and timely coordination with a hotel's wedding or event manager, a hotel can help relieve the burden, and perhaps stress in planning your wedding. This will help allow you to focus on other wedding functions with your family, partner and friends with peripheral wedding arrangements.

There are benefits to arrange your wedding with a hotel's wedding manager, whom is likely to have experience, professional staff, and relevant resources, to easily provide for a wedding. Hotels in Auckland City can easily provide a wedding reception, to ensure that a important occasion is an enjoyable and perhaps memorable environment for you to enjoy.
Image of Rose Pearl By biewolf at SXC.

Hotel Wedding Needs

However, you may need to ask the hotel events manager to asses if the hotel can accommodate your needs. Factors such as - if the reception area/ballroom is suitable, it's convienience facilities, possible guest accommodation discounts, flexibility in supplying your own functions or vendors (e.g. photographer, band, DJ, priest, etc), Auckland City night life and attractions, additional fees - for cleaning, extended hours, and if they can adapt to your theme or specific culture.
Image of Wedding First Dance By jawnguy at SXC.

Hotels offer honeymoon/wedding type packages, including luxurious features, that may appeal to you. Generally though, a event manager will assess you needs, and present a outcome or an suitable alternative that should appeal to you. But remember it's about you (and partner), to try get the best hotel wedding ceremony outcome, as memories will be based on that day. Some important tips to consider in relating to planning a successful arrangement:

Payment Structure

Budget for the deposit, and any remaining percentage that may have to be paid within a due date prior to the wedding. Ask about any additional fees and discounts, for example if tips are covered, and if your guests are also entitled to discounts if staying overnight in their own rooms.

Contract for Wedding Booking

If you decide to delay or cancel your wedding, find out what, if any penalties are incurred. If additional functions can be supplied by the hotel (e.g. photographer, catering, furniture, video equipment, florist, extra staff, barmaids, etc) , what specific packages should be adhered to, (e.g. luxury suites, tour packages, spa and facial use). Read the contract carefully, and do ask questions, get advice from others, and specifics from the event manager. The contract needs to fulfill your needs to at least a level of positive satisfaction, that you know it's outcome, that you will enjoy on the day.

Hotel Policy
Probably covered in the contract, but expand a bit - Ask if you can supply your own entertainment vendors - e.g. DJ, band, and be aware of any hotel rules, e.g. noise levels, alcohol consumption rules, closing/reception hours, after hours bar, clubs, etc. Basically it's about confining to the hotels requirements and their other guests, so that their is a level of understanding, without disturbing other hotel clients.
Image of Wedding Bouquet By andreyutzu at SXC.

Search for Accommodation in Auckland New Zealand or World Wide - Click HERE

Accommodation for Your Guests

Your out of Auckland City guests may want hotel accommodation, so try to negotiate a accommodation discount, or help/refer them to stay in a nearby Auckland City Hotel or Apartment if they do not select your hotel for the wedding. My other posts on hotel reservation, cheap hotel deals, and hotel room security tips may help. Remember to plan with your guests in advance for any hotel bookings.

Keep Engaged

Well to your partner of course, but maintain contact with your hotel prior to your marriage date perhaps weekly, to observe any change in circumstances that may affect your booking. You may want to make sure no other major events (within and adjacent to the hotel) are around the same time, unexpected hotel changes may occur (e.g absence of important staff, hotel supplier changes, impending hotel maintenance, major roadworks in the area, etc).

Auckland City Hotels to Accommodate Weddings

Heritage Hotel - Mollies Boutique Hotel - Langham Hotel - Mecure Auckland Windsor - Hyatt Regency Auckland

Perhaps visit the above Auckland hotel websites, and ring or email them for wedding or pre wedding details and any special packages, including any event planning brochures, complimentary nights, (usually cost related), participating resorts, etc that the hotels can provide. Hence applying a strategic hotel wedding arrangement, and with the hotel's investment of expertise, time, energy and it's vast and diverse resources, your wedding should be easily reduced to a minimum on your behalf. This is important for your families, guests, and of course to you and your bride/bridegroom, so that such an occasion will be enjoyed and remembered.
Image of "Wedding" By Zeafonso at SXC.

New Zealand Links

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 10:01:00 +0000

New Zealand links or web sites might be useful if you intend to search online for items, services, and information online. So if you are from overseas and intend to stay in New Zealand, e.g. a hotel in Auckland City, then visiting NZ or Auckland specific internet sites might be necessary if you require relevant information. I have attempted to provide useful (hopefully relevant) NZ internet links that may be of use. The links can be viewed at my web site (www.pcsourcepoint.netfirms), near the bottom of the home page. If you are planning to reserve a hotel, then searching online for entertainment, travel, outings, etc, are important as are possible major road works, or events, which might have an impact during your accommodation in the city. Hence it might be wise to search online, and check with your hotel, for any possible planned disruptions or events when booking accommodation.

Auckland Links

Examples of Auckland information sites can be found at (http://www.auckland.co.nz/ about shopping, site seeing, events, major roadworks, etc), (www.aucklandnz.com relates to attractions, guides, travel, and more), Queen Street Online (www.queenstreet.co.nz) - Auckland City's main road, of which many of the City hotels are situated or are adjacent, has links to events, bars, restaurants, business, services, and more. There are numerous other sites pertaining to Auckland, and just require searching with your relevant search terms, for example on Google Search. Image of Auckland Sky Tower By watford at SXC.

Search for Accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand or World Wide - Click HERE

New Zealand Online Links

But if you want more general NZ information, perhaps download these useful New Zealand internet sites and other NZ sites. They are in word format, and have links to popular and government NZ sites (e.g. Seek (for work), Trademe (Auctions), NZ Customs, NZ Tourism, and more). Visit New Zealand Links for more comprehensive categories (http://www.benz1.com/), and NZ directories (e.g. yellow.co.nz, nzs.com, ubs.co.nz). Maybe the NZ top 50 could be useful (http://www.nztop50.co.nz/). Perhaps your hotel's internet access may be configured to display popular or useful NZ links, but may pay to ask what internet access costs are (if any).
Image of the Beehive - New Zealand's Government Parliament By twinkledee at SXC.

Search For links With Google

But do ask management or staff at your hotel if you need information, or items, as they are likely to inform you of the easiest, and quickest source or online site for further information. Perhaps compile, bookmark or email to yourself links of Auckland and New Zealand links (and your own frequented sites) for later reference. Hence it should be relatively straight foward to find hopefully relevant information, with Google search (including local). Remember to use Google maps/street view, news, blog, and image search for a more enhanced search experience.
Image of the Auckland Viaduct By severes at SXC.

Related post: Auckland Luxury Hotels - How to Search Online (Segmented searches with Google's "Wonder Wheel").

Auckland Five Star Hotels

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 06:03:00 +0000

Hotel advertisement terms such as "five star rating", "super deluxe", "luxury hotel", would generally convey high expectations about the quality of a hotel's services and facilities for visitors and guests. Perhaps within Auckland City there is no exception, as there is indeed highly rated (up to 5 star rating, based on the qualmark system) hotels. Specifically, a five star rating would indicate luxury features to the suite/room itself and it's immediate surroundings, e.g. heated floors, extra/large bathrooms, dedicated business office, etc. However other factors in convenience, additional comfort, and service, would need be combined to create a overall super deluxe or five star rating. Image of Hilton Hotel By jimipb at SXC.

Auckland Central Hotels that meet the qualmark 5 star rating include Sky City Grand Central, Hyatt Regency, Langham Hotel, Stamford Plaza, Hilton Hotel, and a few others. There are then, outstanding/luxury Auckland five star hotels to serve the need of guests, perhaps some hotels offering more than others. But how to quickly determine what luxury/highly rated hotel that's suitable? As with hotel reservation, it could be a combination of need, functionality, and convenience. These requirements then could be applied to certain categories, and then further information can be collected from reading online reviews, getting specifics from the hotel, and a bit of online research.

Hotel History: If the hotel (or it's parent company), has a long standing history, and world wide presence, then it's likely to have a wealth of experience. The Auckland Langham hotel for example has a long history, and the Hilton is part of an international hotel chain.

Location: Ideally close to suitable needs: e.g. transportation, business district, entertainment, harbour, shopping, restaurants, etc.

Services: Luxury hotels provide many services - laundry, business, concierge, valet, baby sitter, doctor, dentist, etc. You might want 24 hour service.

Room Service/Facilities: You would want modern technology - high speed internet, fax/telephone, in room safe, television/radio, perhaps a business desk.

Search for Accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand Cities or World Wide - Click HERE

Hotel Facilities: For quality rated/luxury hotels, you should expect outstanding service, comfort, and convenience for your enjoyment. Their should be access to sauna, swimming pool, exercise room with modern equipment, perhaps package deals for external events, tennis, golf activities etc. But also a professional business center, currency exchange, safety deposit box, and conference room, car rental, etc. Everything you normally require for business needs should be readily available.
Image of Jump In By bjearwicke at SXC.

Therefore attention should be highly focused on guests, ensuring that they are well catered for, and that their needs are a priority in a outstanding/world class hotel. Hotel guests dining needs should also be well catered for, and many award winning restaurants/menus are associated with luxury hotels. Often their could be more than one bar, or external restaurant, so you need to check what is suitable (e.g. specific menus, opening hours), as some hotels include Auckland City hotels for dining out. Image of Platter Deluxe By jekka at SXC.

So perhaps you need to be more selective in choosing a luxury hotel, so as to be serviced with specific functions you require. You would also expect close attention and personal service from hotel staff as a priority. Auckland City have a range of 5 star and luxury hotels that would specifically suit the business or leisure traveler. It might also help to choose a specific hotel location so as to enjoy your overall accommodation.

Cheap Auckland Hotels Discount Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:22:00 +0000

Many holiday and business travelers would want a cheap hotel deal or discount for accommodation, not only for a Auckland City Hotel, but for any hotel, particularly for an extended accommodation. The thrifty hotel guest or family, would want a economical hotel room reservation, to allow their budget to easily cover other costs such as road touring, sight seeing, local entertainment, family outings, and other expenditure outings. Included would be a cost contingency budget for any emergency or mishap that may arise. Therefore there would be a need to seriously consider - and search online, for a cheap hotel deal both for short and extended accommodation. Any expense saved can be wisely budgeted elsewhere for the hotel client. Image of Save Money By Scol122

Search for Online Accommodation Hotel Discount Rates

Though you can search for Auckland hotel reviews by Google search targeting and optimization. However, to assess and compare room rates (between and within hotel's reservation dates/room types) and possible deals, then you can search and visit accommodation and reservation web sites. Such sites would be important to visitors, that are planning a hotel reservation in Auckland City for the first time - from overseas. They might not know specific hotel names (and their web sites for booking in), or may want to expand on the aforementioned search targeting, or simply want to quickly find a last minute hotel deal - straight from the source: A Hotel reservation agency web site. Image of Global Search By clix at SXC.

Searching and comparing the many hotel reservation rates (and any discounts) web sites could be time consuming, but perhaps worth the effort for the budget conscious hotel visitor/traveler. Then it maybe useful to cross reference those room rates with their associated hotel's and the airlines web sites to gauge the total cost, to compare with the reservation sites rates (and possible packages) - but of course involves more time and effort.

Examples of Hotel Reservation Agency Web Sites:
Also include Auckland City Hotels rates -

Ezibed.com Hotels.com lastminute.com RatesToGo.com avishotel.com shortrates.com
Needitnow.com HotelClub.com tophotelrooms.com AsiaRooms.com shortrates.com wotif.com

Assess And Ask About a Discount or Cheap Hotel's Deal

But when is a room discount a discount? How do you define it? Are savings significant from various agencies? Is the room rate the final determining factor? What external factors would influence discount rates? These and other questions may be in the discerning hotel traveler's mind, trying to seek a cheap (and best or suitable) reservation deal. Thus a discount may or may not be a discount depending on certain factors - seasonal rates, agency fees, relative rates, Auckland City major events, between different rooms (e.g. ground/higher levels, different suite rooms), any penalty rates for cancellations or changes, and other possible factors.

Search for a quality Hotel or Motel in Auckland or Anywhere in the World

Perhaps draft up questions to email/phone online accommodation agencies, when you do book a hotel reservation. Questions may be slightly different, e.g. for a short hotel stay than a extended stay, or during the busy holiday seasons, a family last minute booking, busy flight schedules, and for a short week day compared to a week end stay. You may not want a last minute room change when you check in at a hotel. This may be avoided by asking specific questions earlier, and/or reviewing and accepting the online agencies policy for their services.
Image of Pen and Paper Ideas By mrjamin

Assess Online Reviews for Judgment

Also consider reading and comparing several reviews for hotel, accommodation agencies, and other relevant venues/agencies/companies, etc at TripAdvisor.com (Search for the Auckland City Hotels section). Though it might depend on how reviewer's rate or perceive quality, but for several reviews, then perhaps the more an overview one can gather about that hotel or agency. The Langham Auckland City Hotel, for example generally has plenty of good reviews. Based on those reviews (and any ratings), one would be better informed to asses if those reviews, reflect room rates offered by accommodation agencies or the hotel's web site rates.
You could also ask specifics in forums such as the worldwide Yahoo Answers, and local New Zealand Forums - NZBoards.com or TripAdvisor NZ forums.
Image of Hotel Shots By chopstix00

Consider Other Features and Services For Suitability

When reviewing hotel reservation agencies, not only consider and search their room rates and policy, but consider other features/sections on their site(s) that may be important to you or your family. Useful features and services that may apply could be: local car rentals, restaurants, guest reviews (compare with TripAdvisor.com), Auckland local attractions, popular room rates, links to other New Zealand/Worldwide Hotels, package/coast sight seeing tours, and so on.

Hence if you visit and use a reservation site, perhaps for a updated last minute cheap hotel deal, then visit at least a few to gather all relevant comparative information. Couple this with online reviews, (e.g. for Auckland City Hotel discount rates), then you are more likely to easily asses if you are in for a cheap hotel deal, without any undue expense or loss or reduction in services that you may affect you. Image of Review Notes By lupoianfla

Hotel Hygiene Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 10:20:00 +0000

When preparing reservation for a quality Auckland City Hotel, personal hygiene should be considered to minimize any sickness or health issues that may arise. Therefore it would be wise to bring hygienic and medical supplies, and to use them effectively once you are in your hotel room. When arranging hotel accommodation in Auckland CBD, check the weather forecast online. People in Auckland tend to get sick around June - July, with flu - cold type symptoms.
Also check with hotel staff, what similar medication would be available within or near your hotel. Specifically you should bring disinfectant sprays, disposable anti-bacterial wipes, liquid soaps, bedspreads, air fresheners (e.g. EcoQuest brand), disposable plastic bags, cups, cutlery and a first aid kit. Image of Auckland City by saltonzz at SXC.

Check Cleaning Schedule

Also maybe check with hotel staff their cleaning schedule, what items are cleaned, specifically how cleaning is performed, and if quality cleaning disinfectants and practices are implemented. If you are susceptible to sickness, make sure to have on hand specific medical (medicines, inhalers, etc) and bacterial disinfectant supplies, and inform hotel staff, as many have a doctor on call.

Hygiene Cleaning Procedures

When in your hotel room, first check the bedspread and any linen, and ask when they were last cleaned and specifically how. Were they washed with quality detergents or dry-cleaned? Perhaps remove the bedspread and shake it, then maybe spray with disinfectant before even sitting on it. Ask when the kitchen items were last cleaned, and maybe clean them, particularly glassware.
Image of Bedroom by cgarbiano at SXC.

Search for a quality Hotels or Motels in Auckland or Anywhere in the World

Hotel Hygiene cleanliness is important with many usable room items, including kitchen and food utensils. Therefore apply disinfectant spray or hand tissue wipes to taps, door and window handles, telephones, kitchenware, toilet handle and seat, remote controls and other push button objects, e.g. the television, microwave, and heater switch controls. The idea is to terminate any germs present. Remember as noted, clean hotel bedspreads, and any seats.
Image by SXC of Roast Lunch by ronny7362

Washing Your Hands

Remember to wash your hands properly with soap and warm water, and/or an anti-bacterial or sanitizer liquid. Then hand dry with a towel, and preferably a warm hand air blower afterward. Effective hand washing will reduce the spread of potential germs and bacteria from touching any potential source. Also dispose of any paper hand towels, and general rubbish properly, perhaps in sealed disposable bags. Check the hotel hygiene policy, including rubbish removal. Image of Bathroom by vierdrie at SXC.

Research Hygiene Reviews and Policy

Personal hygiene is important, but also is proper implementation practices to reduce the likelihood of getting sick. Hygiene focused hotels will have a strict procedure, and adhere to a quality guideline or policy. Research online at hotel sites, of any quality hygiene standards, and also review sites (e.g. TripAdvisor) to assess what other travelers are saying about hotel hygiene. You should then be better informed about hygiene practices for hotel accommodation, and with these tips, to select a hotel of your choice in Auckland City.

Hotel Room Security Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 23:08:00 +0000

Hotel room security in Auckland should be considered once you enter your room, and you have had a hotel staff member thoroughly check and demonstrate security features. There are several security tips for yourself or family/group to actively implement. Perhaps you have at least considered hotel reservation and travel accommodation security tips. First practice securely locking the door, including other members in your group. Always keep the door closed and locked, and at all times even when inside, to prevent unwanted entry. Read any security/safety documentation in the room, and note where safety exits and fire extinguishers are located, including out in the hallway. Implement a safety plan with your family or group, including a regular contact plan.
Image of Security Lock by linusb4 at SXC.

Group Organization Plan

Many of us know it's a matter of applying common sense for safety and security, but in a nice luxury comfortable Auckland hotel, it's possibly one can become too relaxed, and perhaps partially overlook security. Also some might forget to action, perform, or remind others in our family or group, or may apply security practices a bit differently. Hence the need for a uniform family/group discussion plan to specify and emphasize a plan for security and safety procedures, delegation, and responsibility. Below are hotel room security tips to consider and of course to perform if relevant.
Image of Network Plan by clix at SXC.

Visitors and Exiting the Room

- As noted above, keep the door securely closed and locked when inside. Maybe occasionally listen at the door for possible outside movement.
- Do not open the door unless you know for certain who the person is. You may have arranged/conversed with reception for specific visitors. If it's your group, get them to knock and announce their name, unless they have their own key/swipe card (but perhaps arrange for them to announce themselves). Image of Rooms by iboff at SXC.
- If you get an unannounced visitor phone call (e.g for room maintenance), ask as to why. Get a name and number, then ring/connect with hotel reception to check the validity of that caller.
- Arrange for room cleaning when you are still in the hotel (e.g. at breakfast or lunch), and that the cleaner attaches the do not disturb tag to the door.
- Consider where to store the door key/card. When inside you might want it easily accessible to others for safety issues. So perhaps place maybe near your bed, and with a working flash light.

- Consider storing your valuables at the reception safe/vault than in your room's safe, depending on the relative security factors between the two. (You may have discussed storage solutions and policies during the reservation process).
- If you have to leave a valuable item in the room, perhaps secure it with a security chain or lock (You might to discuss with staff about a fixture to secure the item).
-When you lock the room when you leave, "physically" but gently confirm that it is locked; i.e. nudge/twist the door knob/slot a little, turn the handle, etc. Push the door at the top, and bottom inwards. The door should be rigid, with minimum movement when pushed.
- Perhaps attach the do not disturb tag to your door - to indicate that you are inside, if you plan being absent.
- Leave a TV or Radio playing when you leave, and consider disconnecting the phone. Listen for audibility by listening outside your locked door. Image of Laptop by woodsy at SXC.

Outer Hotel Room Security

- Keep your room key or card within your pockets or secure bag. Do not display in public for others to view, particularly if it has your room number.
- Carry just sufficient cash for the day, perhaps in a secure waist pouch, and keep credit/cash cards and cash in separate pouches or pockets.
- Wear the minimum of jewelry, expensive clothing and bags, to help reduce theft.
- Inform reception if you see a unusual group of people, or individuals hanging or continuously strolling about the hotel.
- Be a bit vigilant when walking past elevators, stairwells, open door ways, and when walking towards someone in the opposite direction.
- Perhaps text/call someone in your family or group at regular intervals (as perhaps planned as above).

Book a Hotel in Auckland or Anywhere - Click HERE

- When entering a hotel elevator, and particularly for women, enter/or not with caution, depending on the character of other people entering the elevator.
- Maybe enter last if a small group, and select your floor buttons last if possible. Exit immediately if a suspicious or intoxicated person(s) enter. Perhaps stand near the buttons in case you need to use them in an emergency.
- View the outer streets or venue, before going outside your hotel, to determine if it is safe to do so.
-Have a good time, but not too much, as you may be seen as a easy target, or become disorientated or semi lost within your hotel.
. Image of Elevator by Bubbels at SXC.

Security Action in the Room

-Perhaps consider placing a door stop/wedge under your locked door, when having a shower, particularly if alone. This is to reduce entry.
-Do not leave a key in the door, as they can be pushed out and slid under the floor.
- If going out at night - then leave a light on, and the curtains/blinds partly closed.
-Keep your flash light near or on the bed, in case of emergencies, and keep your bed clear of tables, bags, etc.
- Maybe activate your portable sensor/burglar alarm, or improvise, by placing glass cups/metal ashtray/pan/forks along a chair edge, placed against the door. Then test it to hear if it makes a audible noise, when the door is opened.
- You may want to check with reception, if there are pending changes to your floor or adjacent hotel rooms, or visitors, or if they do courtesy calls and room visits.. You may want complete privacy.

Hotel Parking Security

-Try not to get your room number displayed on the hotel's park card or sticker in your car.
- Walk in at least pairs towards your car, and with your keys in your hand. You may want to store a spare safely elesewhere. Maybe activate your car alarm/pre-alarm some distance before you see your car.
- Park as close to the walk in entrance, without excess stairs/elevator use, and near a vehicle exit. Don't forget the parking floor level - look for it, (don't confuse with your hotel room level) and note any emergency escape exits.
- Be vigilant when carrying purses, shopping bags, etc. - keep them close to yourself. Or have a second purse already in your car for shopping purposes.
- Depending on parking space configuration, take the time to reverse park, say during the day, so as to be easily prepared to drive quickly frontward when driving out at night. Then frontward park when you come back (if dark/late).
- Do ask for a escort/valet service, particularly for women, and remember to state a time of arrival (check their parking hours) to possibly arrange valet service back to the hotel.
- When you exit a car park, note if the entry point is at a different location, so that you can quickly enter when you arrive back.
- Don't forget your charged mobile phone, and always keep a phone charger in the car. Also have a working flash light, a road map, and ensure you r vehicle has a road worthy inflated spare wheel, working jack, and wheel brace.
- If parking becomes too much in terms of security or inconvenience, then use a suitable alternative, such as a taxi, shuttle service, etc. Image of Underground Car Park by nickobec at SXC.

Overall Hotel Security: Effective Plan

Once you apply security and safety features and actions, then you should feel more confident in your hotel stay. But for family, and your group, remind them to apply security features as well, as you all need to think and combine as a complete team for a more effective security action plan.
Remember for New Zealand, the emergency number is 111 for all services. Please add any hotel room security tips (comments), and any that may be specific to Auckland city hotels, amenities, park areas, venues, or security in general.

Auckland Hotel Security Reservation Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 22:22:00 +0000

Security or at least general preparation thoughts may be in your mind once you reach your chosen hotel to confirm your reservation in a central Auckland City Hotel. Perhaps in preparation for hotel and travel security, you recall earlier saving and/or bringing important documentation, phone numbers, a map, and security items. You feel assured that you have saved your information online and securely in your mobile phone for possible reference. All good so far, but their are a few more security aspects when confirming reservation accommodation, if not for later convenience, to consider and implement. If you arrived on a taxi, maybe ask the driver for their business card, maybe at least two, for others in your group or family. This widens your contacts, and additional mode of transport, should you require a taxi from within Auckland. Image of World technology data back up by ilco at SXC.

Outside Hotel Lobby

Once you disembark, look carefully around the area to create a mental note of certain features, buildings, and objects to ascertain as a point of reference. Maybe ask the hotel doorman or security, if the general area's environment or atmosphere changes at certain times, which hopefully would suit you. As with most cities, Auckland City becomes more vibrant at night, with it's multitude of clubs, restaurants and general night life. Importantly stay with your luggage, and when brought to the lobby, keep it right along your side. Look around and remember the hotel's lobby positions of any safety exits, fire hoses, and telephones. Also take note of other guests or visitors within the lobby, and perhaps remember, and if you see them later, then you know that they are in fact guests.
Image of City by grngobstpr at SXC.

Reservation Room Security

When at the desk to confirm reservation, display proof of payment - important if booked by someone else, particularly through a third party booking agency, which may have not confirmed your reservation. Check to confirm if all your group's or family names are registered for your room or their rooms. Cautiously transact payment with your credit card, without unnecessarily displaying it to others, and make sure that your room number is not displayed on your key/swipe card or a tag. Best to remember it rather than risk carrying the room number, in case you lose or misplace it. Hopefully reception won't verbally announce you hotel room number, so converse discreetly when reserving your room. Perhaps quickly but kindly inquire reception first to take the initiative. Be a little proactive, with a smile, to help achieve a security conscious approach.
Image of Credit Card Security by woodsy at SXC.

Safe and Phone Hotel Security

Ask about their key or swipe card room lock policy, if one of your group loses or disables it, and you are absent. They may or may not provide a spare when most needed. Make sure that reception has your mobile number on file, and view it yourself particularly if hand written to make sure if it's legible. Maybe test by calling it, to ascertain if your mobile works. Mobile phones are essential for emergencies, but more so if it fully operational. So don't forget to check it's charge status. Also ask about any safety/security safes or deposit box. Is it more suitable to house large items (laptop or video camera) at reception or your room? What procedure was used since it's last use, for re-coding or re-assigning the safe for you? Were keys involved (which could be copied), or the locks changed or securely re-keyed? Don't be shy to ask, more importantly - don't forget. Image of Mobile phone check by linusb4 at SXC.

Click HERE to Book a Auckland Hotel in NZ or any Hotel Worldwide

Hotel Room Location

You may want to inquire about the exact location of your accommodation room in regards to security/safety, and make a judgment, either if alone or your whole group. For example is the hotel room near a stairwell, elevator, or service room? This may mean more people movement for security/safety contact help, but may mean unsuitable noise, or the risk of outside "visitors". Or is the room semi-isolated down the end of a long hall? Or is the room too high? Generally above the sixth floor may pose unsuitability for fire emergencies or general mobility (e.g fire ladder heights, distance for quick mobility during an evacuation) for disabled or frail guests. Many Auckland hotels are quite high, with great city and harbour views, but factor in security, safety and general convenience. Negotiate with reception about a suitable room, and general security procedures, particularly during a busy season, or if a large group reserves accommodation at the same time. Image: Hotel Corridor by Quil at SXC

Securing Contacts and Visitors to Your Room

To help secure a suitable room location, let reception know if any of your group has a disability, and that they may have difficulty in hearing or mobility issues, in case a hotel emergency arises. Then confirm if security can attend to them first in a event of a hotel emergency or general help. If not presented, ask for general security or safety procedures with the hotel, and contact numbers within the hotel, and external relevant numbers, and if the phones (including lobby, hall phones, etc) are direct dial. Also check and arrange any contact procedures if visitors or staff need to contact you from your room. Hotel staff should not give out your room number to unknown visitors or phone calls, unless if you arrange to do so. You could set up certain calls to your mobile phone, so that you have direct conversation. Remember though, not to loan your mobile to others (they may discharge it, or you might miss a important call), and have it powered on. Perhaps consider immediate call diversion, and again recharge or replace the battery.

Hotel Lobby to Room Security

Once you go to your room, maybe ask hotel staff to escort you to your room, and of course remember your floor level and room number. If using an elevator, remember the buttons, from where you enter, and when you exit. Some people may confuse elevator numbers with floor levels, and possibly room numbers. Take note of the number of steps to your room from the elevator, and any objects that you pass, and the location of fire exits, extinguishers, and external phones. Take note of the opposite room number to yours, and with these factors embedded in your mind, you have a frame of reference to remember. Hopefully you or your group can recall any location reference that you may need to quickly apply during an evacuation.
Image: Elevator going down by pzullo at SXC.

Hotel Room Entrance Security Check

Ask the staff member to check within your room or suite, including closets, adjoining rooms, bathrooms, including the balcony. Maybe get them check any security and safety devices (window and external door locks, the phone or other communication hardware), including a demonstration of your door lock, and a phone number (or preferably two numbers) to call for security issues. Perhaps ask about a direct number to security staff, and the nearest assembly location for evacuations. You might want to practice with your door lock, particularly if it's a coded swipe card. But remember in New Zealand, the emergency number for all services is 111, and for traffic issues the number is *555 - from a mobile phone only. Perhaps set them up on your mobile phone. By methodically applying these security procedure tips during your hotel reservation process in Auckland (or any hotel), will put you and your group in a more confident "secure"position. But once inside your room, their are additional practices to implement for a more safe and secure stay.
Image Locked and Unlocked by sco122 at SXC.

Related Post - Next Step: Hotel Room Security Tips

Auckland Hotel and Travel Security

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 10:13:00 +0000

Consider travel security preparation of yourself, personal documents and reference contacts at home, before your hotel room security first. Photo copy duplicates of your passport, travel insurance, drivers license, bank and credit cards and recent statements, air travel documents, and other relevant information. Then store them in different locations. Safety storage could be other family members, trusted friends, a post office box, or maybe your lawyer's safety box. Image of Card Security by Woodsy at SXC

Contact agencies for documentation Back Up

Spend time to call/email your important organizations, for example your driver's license office, insurance or travel agency may have reciprocal agencies world wide, including Auckland to transfer documentation and offer assistance. They may also have contact web sites, special contact numbers, etc, that they could set up for you. Visa for example, which has international bank associations world wide. But they may have other avenues to assist your documentation access, and general travel and accommodation procedures. Mail image by ilco at SXC

Use Internet and E-mail for Documentation Back Up

Additionally save documents online in at least two email accounts (even a temporary Gmail account), and on a online free host (e.g. your ISP or a free host like Microsoft Sky Drive). This allows you to access them from any internet enabled computer for reference from your chosen Auckland hotel. Maybe also set up at least two email contact address for you to keep in daily contact. Many hotel travellers probably contact via social sites like Bebo, Twitter, Facebook, and similar. Possibly prepare set up, and become familiar with internet access for contact on your mobile phone. Travel Documents by topfer at SXC

Arrange Contacts and Prepare Important References

Maybe prepare a list of important phone, bank numbers, email address, login passwords for online sites, and try to remember them or securely save them on your mobile. Check security options with your mobile phone supplier when getting set up for overseas roaming coverage. Become familiar with a country's phone national area codes - though hotels in Auckland may supply telephone area codes, as well as mobile phones. Perhaps set up Skype internet/mobile enabled voice calls, as a precautionary back up. Arrange for a constant contact person at home to regularly check and reply to your email/online messages. Also find out the contact details for your country's embassy, and save or bookmark their details or web site online, and your mobile phone. Email your embassy for advice and services, which may vary for different traveling nationalities. You have mail image by linusb4 at SXC

Click HERE to Book a Auckland Hotel in New Zealand or any Hotel Worldwide

Prepare and Pack Personal Security Items

For personal hotel accommodation and travel security items, bring a torch, batteries, chargers (also for mobile phone), portable sensor alarm and smoke detector, a small low wattage "night" light, world plug adapter, door wedge, padlocks, thin chain, & storage case/box (for securing luggage and expensive items), alarm clock, a whistle, and a cash travel/waist pouch. Leave unneeded expensive items at home, or arrange specific insurance coverage. Discuss suitable security storage at your hotel, which may be required by your insurance company, and then discuss with them if it's suits their policy. Research a little on suitable secure luggage bags and accessories (e.g. anti-theft luggage enclosures like Pacsafe) to improve securing your luggage.

Remember Relevant Street Names and Phone Numbers

Consider and familiarize yourself with a comprehensive Auckland street map, and become familiar with Auckland streets, within your hotel's vicinity. Queen street is Auckland's central street, so familiarize your self with it's local attractions, amenities, events, public notices, facilities, etc. Of course contact your hotel for security advice and what procedures that they implement. They are likely to provide you with important phone numbers, but remember for New Zealand, the emergency number is 111, and for traffic issues (e.g. road blockages, minor incidents, continuous erratic driving, etc) you call *555 from a mobile phone. You could visit NZ forums (e.g. NZBoards, Tripvisor, etc) and post queries or search for specific questions and answers on what you want to know about Auckland, safety, security, hotel accommodation reviews, and other topics.

Security Assurance For All - Be Prepared

Preparing yourself with relevant security and safety items, including establishing and securing documentation and contacts will elevate you in a more security conscious status mind; This perhaps is just a starting point, but will hopefully project security awareness to be implemented once you reach your hotel within Auckland City, and perhaps importantly, within your hotel room. You not only make yourself more secure, but perhaps your family or business associates, will also confidently feel secure, without undue worries in the knowledge that you will be secure. Laptop Work 5 image by Woodsy at SXC

Hotel Reservation and Booking Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:02:00 +0000

Perhaps you have finally selected the Auckland City Hotel for accommodation, but now it's a matter of reserving the best or at least an ideal room. You have searched online, compared hotel pricing at sites, and maybe read reviews at TripAdvisor and similar directory or review sites, and have at least good rates, and maybe a discount. You may have received favorable feedback about the hotel from family and friends, and discounts through loyalty programs, credits, or last minute deals. But to make sure you can get a ideal or the best room, it would pay to call and ask someone knowledgeable at the hotel for specifics of the room.
Image of Hotel Corridor by quil

Hotel Layout Plan

Ask if they can email or fax a plan of the hotel's layout, and surrounding area. Also ask details about features/services/facilities, not only for the room, but beyond the hotel room - e.g. is it high enough to display the Auckland Harbour or city view, does it receive direct and continuous sunlight in the morning, how close to your outside needs (e.g movies, restaurants, entertainment, etc), isolation from noisy traffic or clubs, adjacent to the hotel's elevator and other relevant accommodation factors to you.

Maybe specify your needs, and for others in your group, and ask for a recommendation. Refer to the hotel plan or website room images to hotel staff to help assess what would be suitable. Many rooms might be similar in layout in a large hotel, so options for reservations might be limited, unless you of course upgrade to a suite (e.g. like superior, deluxe, etc), or two a apartment style kitchenette room if you have children, and intend to stay a little while.
Image of plans by lusi

Click HERE to Book a Auckland Hotel or a Hotel Worldwide

Accommodating Families - Possible Discounts

If booking for your family, with children, ask Hotel Management, about their fees and set up (if any), about accommodating children. Do they allow free costs for additional bedding? Or are their cheaper "kids" rooms that are adjacent to your rooms? Are meals free? Are suitable amenities present or nearby? Are their restrictions on children in certain hotel sectors/areas and so on. For a sizable group, perhaps consider a package deal (if any), with your travel company, or with the hotel itself. Again, ask the hotel for a package deal or other deals such as promotion, family or business discounts, fly buys, or rewards system. Such features may not be advertised in time on their web sites, and hence you may have more favorable options for a hotel reservation.

Additional Costs

Ask about extra costs, e.g. energy/power costs, particularly if you have children that may frequently use radio's, hair dryers, television, etc. Also consider Hotel reservation by price rather than the hotel's quality to cost status, to suit your budget, without the need of additional services and facilities that may not be relevant to you and your family. There also may be parking costs, excess meal costs, and other fees to be considered.

Research Outcome - Ideal Room?

Similar to searching Hotels online, choosing an ideal Auckland Hotel with suitable nearby amenities, and now selective choice of the best or ideal hotel room, requires a bit of research, thinking specific needs, then asking or rather negotiating with qualified or experienced hotel staff. Hopefully you are provided a ideal room, or at least a suitable alternative. Hence your stay will be more enjoyable, with a room that suits specific requirements without significant loss in convenience throughout your stay.
Image of Bedroom by vranarc

Auckland City Hotels - How To Choose

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sat, 30 May 2009 01:02:00 +0000

Most Hotels in Auckland City are relatively close to major entertainment avenues, restaurants and night clubs, shopping facilities, educational institutions, harbor and waterside facilities. But for suitable accommodation how to choose a hotel in close quite proximity or provides alternatives to such facilities, that suits you? or your specific needs (e.g. for health, disability needs), family needs? (e.g. if you have infant children), your personal interests and character (might want quietness/privacy or prefer socializing/academic research/business conference) and so on. Image of Auckland Skyline at by jchambers

Research Hotel Accommodation Facilities and Local Amenities

You might have to do a little research on hotel accommodation, tourism, and Auckland related internet sites to find if those local entertainment avenues, and any important facilities or requirements (e.g. a doctor, baby sitting services) are adjacent or serviced by your hotel. Just Google search for a Auckland Hotel, and informational sites by typing in "Auckland". The internet sites (e.g. Auckland NZ.com) will provide relevant information that might help you choose a suitable hotel that accommodates your needs. For example, a doctor on call is available in Auckland City Hotels, such as the Copthorne and Best Western President Hotels and both provide baby sitting services. Or if your research indicates that a Hotel is close to the Auckland Library, University, Vector Arena, or Town Hall if that's what you prefer.

Directly Contact the Hotel

It would pay to directly contact (Skype call, or email) hotels and ask specific details for hotel services - Are they 24 hour? Are their additional related services/facilities available or nearby? (e.g. a chemist for prescriptions, specialist nurse, or a play center/park/amusement arcade/Mc Donald's - if suitable). Ideally you would want a short easy walking distance, so ask for distances, traffic safety, and a preferred route with Auckland city. Or would it be better to drive? Then you would want information on suitable parking, any park fees (don't want your car clamped or removed - from experience it can be a pain to locate where your car is stored) and when traffic is at it's most busiest. So to choose the best option for walking or driving, it helps to get direct information from hotel management.

Perhaps book a Hotel in Auckland or Anywhere in the World - Click HERE

Ask and Research about Specific Hotel's Adjacent Surroundings

Hotel visitors or travelers that prefer water activities, - Auckland Harbour Cruising, boat fishing, ferry trips to the outer Hauraki Gulf Islands may prefer a hotel near the harbour or water front. However within the harbour vicinity, it can be busy during summer, and perhaps a bit noisy at night with people socializing. Again, ask direct questions to hotel accommodation staff near such venues, to assess if it's suitable to you. The Auckland City Council has noise restrictions to control any possible noise, so perhaps contact them. If however, you prefer academic research, library reading, or similar, then a hotel nearer to the Auckland Library and University may be more suitable. Though some hotels include their own library, possibly with private rooms for reading and research. Again ask for specifics. Image of Auckland City Water Front Apartment Complex by CJPhoto

Familiarize Your Hotel's Region - Streets, Restaurants, Public Transport

Once you have the street address of your hotel, get familiar with the names of nearby streets, either with the online Google Maps (Browse the map above) and also using it's street view with images. Perhaps visit YouTube for Auckland City Videos (View the videos within this site). Maybe add specific details to your diary or mobile phone, including your hotel's details. Better, print them out if you can. Maybe have a Auckland map book to carry, and get others in your group or family to become familiar with street addresses, including for your hotel and facilities and avenues you intend to visit. Ask your hotel if they provide a directory or address pamphlet for entertainment, local amenities, facilities, etc, for you to study. Image of Web Icons by annsunnyda

So to really enjoy your accommodation in Auckland City, not only within your Hotel, but around the city, do a little preparation by actively asking, and researching online. Then you are likely to be better knowledgeable about the City's specific or functional features, that are important or relevant to you and your family. You need to seek a little to find a little, online and off line using the telephone and internet. Hence you can better choose between hotel services and relevant information that they may provide. Then better enjoy your stay in and around Auckland City with added confidence and assurance for all. Image of Auckland City by night by billruys

Privacy Policy For Auckland Hotels

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Sat, 30 May 2009 00:41:00 +0000

This blog uses third-party advertising companies or agencies to serve advertisements when visiting this site. These third parties may collect and use information (but not your name, address, email address, or telephone number) about your visits to this and other websites in order to provide future advertisements about goods and services of interest to you. If you would like more information about this process and to know your choices about not having this information used by these companies, please visit Google's Advertising and Privacy page.

If you wish to opt out of Advertising companies tracking and tailoring advertisements to your surfing patterns you may do so at Network Advertising Initiative.

Google uses the Doubleclick DART cookie to serve ads across it's Adsense network and you can get further information regarding the DART cookie at Doubleclick as well as opt out options at Google's Privacy Center.

Perhaps get an overview by visiting Google's Transparency and Choice informational page, which list their privacy principles, tools, related privacy links, and also includes statements for many of their properties and services.

Privacy

I respect your privacy and I am committed to safeguarding your privacy while online at this site Auckland Hotels (http://aucklandhotels.blogspot.com/). The following discloses how I gather and disseminate information for this Blog.

RSS Feeds and Email Updates

If a user wishes to subscribe to my RSS Feeds or Email Updates, if available (powered by Google - Feedburner), I only ask for contact information such as a name and email address. Users may opt-out of these communications at any time. Your personal information will never be sold or given to a third party. (You will never be spammed by me - ever).

Log Files and Stats

Like many blogging or publishing platforms I use a statistical package, in this case Google Analytics. This stores information such as visitor location, internet protocol (IP) addresses, browser type, internet service provider (ISP), referring, exit and visited pages, browser used, date/time stamp, track user’s movement in the whole, and gather broad demographic information for aggregate use. IP addresses, etc. are not linked to personally identifiable information. This now includes absence of search queries (keywords) displayed in Google Analytics, for searchers that are logged into Google Search. I use stats to help improve this blog by trying to create targeted content, to improve search engine visitors experience so that they can gain relevant information.

A cookie is a piece of data stored on the user’s computer tied to information about the user. This blog doesn't use cookies. However, some of my business partners use cookies on this site (for example - advertisers). I can't access or control these cookies once the advertisers have set them.

Links

This Blog contains outbound links to other sites, blogs, and images. Please be aware that I am not responsible for the privacy practices of these other sites. I suggest users to be aware of this when they leave this blog and to read the privacy statements of each and every site that possibly collects personally identifiable information. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by this Blog (http://aucklandhotels.blogspot.com/).

Advertisers

I use outside ad companies to display ads on this blog, and these ads may contain cookies and are collected by the advertising companies. I do not have any access to this information. I work with the following advertising companies: Google Adsense (Image and Contextual), Fishpond NZ (Books), and Hotels Combined (Accommodation Bookings). Please read the advertisers websites for their respective privacy policies.

Contact Information

Many thanks for visiting my blog and I hope you have found relevant information, services, and tips to your (and others) benefit for planning accommodation. If you have any questions or concerns please contact me at maw456@gmail.com. This privacy policy was updated November 2011. Take care of yourself, friends, and family on your travels, and enjoy your accommodation in Auckland and New Zealand. All the best - Sincerely - Michael.

Auckland Luxury Hotels - How to Search Online

noreply@blogger.com (Profile - pcsourcepoint) — Wed, 27 May 2009 22:28:00 +0000

When searching online, with "Auckland Hotels" as the search term with Google, you are likely to see a saturation of individual hotel web page results. This includes several sponsored ads of well known Auckland City quality hotels, indicating a very competitive market for hotel accommodation. Terms like "exclusive", "boutique", "attraction", and the imperative "luxury" some times appear in the web page's search results, emphasizing the hotel's features to attract customer's and particularly business travellers for accommodation. Displayed are also the Skype telephone numbers for easy telephone contact. For customer's, it may be overwhelming to try to select which hotel site would be suitable or appealing as many may appear to offer similar "luxury" attractions. So how does the discerning customer select a ideal hotel and it's reviews, particularly a luxury hotel in Auckland City, or perhaps for London luxury hotels (which are likely to be more expensive) and importantly, that specifically suit's their overall needs?

You can of course search online with the term "Auckland Luxury Hotels", but that may show less relevant results than "Auckland Hotels" which is a more popular search term (check at Google's keyword tool) as it's probably quicker to type in, and intuitively more hotel's would target that term (more generic) in their marketing/advertising of their web sites and with Google's paid ad word's system. Ideally search for sites that list several Auckland city hotels, such as Auckland Hotels and perhaps add the term "review", "directory" or similar. You are likely to get short relevant reviews referring to accommodation, facilities, functions, local attractions, events, etc. Hence you can quickly read through each of those reviews or descriptions, to make a more informed choice for a luxury hotel. Though again, there are many hotel accommodation review sites, so view the page rank or assess authority of that site for reviews.

There are also the Google online search tricks, including the minus trick - e.g. Auckland Hotel -budget. (Note: need space after Hotel, and no space between the minus sign and budget). This should return sites that do not have the term budget, and hence more targeted results will display. Though in such a competitive and diverse market, the decrease in hotel search results may not be significant, as the term "budget" might be used in any hotel's web site, or inadvertently in a directory/listing site. Further Google search tips can be found at lifehacker.com. Also consider clicking on the show options link once the results are displayed. Here you can search further on the review and forum links to digest further information relating to your hotel queries. Clicking on the "Wonder Wheel" will split your search term into segments, or sub categories, i.e. sub search terms that are related to the main search term. Refer these search images for the search term luxury "Auckland hotels -budget -cheap"

Standard Search Results Page...

Then Click Show Options, and view options on left hand side...

Then click Forums, Reviews, or "Wonder wheel" to display
targeted segments of your search term

Maybe Search and Book an Ideal hotel in Auckland, new Zealand, or Anywhere by clicking HERE

Then click on the Wonder wheels links for more targeted information, displayed with another Wonder wheel, and additional links. Hence adopting this search hierarchy method, you can target on specifics for your search term, that relate to Auckland luxury hotels. Though you might want to apply your own carefully selected original search term, to get hotel specific information that you want. Remember to search Google Images and Google Maps/Street view. Because there are around 660, 000 images relating to Auckland hotels, also add the hotel's name or address, and maybe a vicinity or descriptive term (e.g. harbour view, city view, historic, elegant, modern, boutique, etc).

But also search within article directories (e.g. GoArticles, Article Dashboard, Ezine directory, etc), where you can find, some times personal, articles relating to Auckland hotels or accommodation. The author may have further articles, web sites, site links, etc to offer a more focused search for hotels. Also use common or pronoun terms like "Tourism, Auckland" "New Zealand" for searching, which are likely to display sub categories for accommodation, and cross reference those reviews with your other review search results to get a better overall assessment for a particular luxury hotel.

It might seem a bit of a chore, to try to locate an overall suitable luxury Auckland city hotel online. It's about targeted and selective searching online, to quickly find what luxury hotel you really want and perhaps need. However with a focused search plan using Google search online tricks, common search terms, targeting accommodation review sites, article directories, and specific image searches, then you can hopefully drill down to a specific luxury hotel and it's accompanying attractions that appeal to you.

Visit Auckland Hotels - Summary of about 15 quality hotels in Auckland - has a Auckland city map, world time, weather and mini slide show of Auckland City and popular venues.