QT Queenstown opens: A remarkable hotel, fit for a queen

QT Hotels & Resorts' latest hotel promises "a luxurious nostalgic alpine and apres-ski ambiance", a perfect note to hit for its Queenstown, New Zealand location. On the edge of Lake Wakatipu, it has views of both the water and the soaring Remarkables, a dramatic cinemascope from all angles.

And QT is hyping equal drama indoors, as herringbone patterns and leather and brass details "channel vintage outdoor sports gear" while "exposed surfaces and a disruptive bold graphic approach runs throughout the visually intriguing spaces, featuring carefully curated art displays and bespoke furnishings".

But behind the hipster buzzwords, Nic Graham's design has a timeless beauty that sits in gorgeous synergy with the surrounds, and the 69 guest rooms and suites have substance as well as style, with QT Gel Beds, high-thread-count linen, and floor-to-ceiling windows capturing those striking panoramas.

Those views are maximised on the top floor, from the Remarkable King suite, which comes with "personalised bellhop benefits, a welcome G&T waiting on arrival, a lavishly late check-out and a host of plush perks."

Graham is a QT veteran, having created beautifully site-appropriate properties, the QT Gold Coast, QT Bondi and QT Port Douglas, among many other high-end projects.

His work is complemented by that of stylist Anna Roberts, who for the Queenstown project sourced local touches to place in-room, such as treats from Remarkables Sweet Shop, a ceramic tui bird sculpture and Central Otago drops in the mini bar.

Downstairs, QT Queenstown's public spaces are understated to focus on the grandeur of the surrounding scenery. But there's nothing understated about the F&B offerings at QT Queenstown's Bazaar Interactive Marketplace with sizzling live food stations and an impressive local wine list; and Reds Bar, open since early last year and offering a great sunset backdrop for craft cocktails. Rooms from NZD$250 in the low season.

See qthotelsandresorts.com