Doubletree Queenstown is far from the city centre, closer to the airport, but provides a regular shuttle service which we use on both days of our stay. This turns out to be quite convenient as we hitch a free ride to the airport (well, just across the road) on our last day (which would normally cost NZD 25.

We arrive at the hotel slightly before normal check-in time and decide to wait and have lunch at the Hilton across the road. I have a GF burger which substitutes lettuce for the buns. It is OK. My partner has the seafood chowder and it is good.

After lunch we go back to the lobby to collect our keys. We have been upgraded to a Deluxe King View room on the Hhonors floor, which is just lovely. Besides the stunning view of the lake, the functional one-bedroom apartment has a mini Kitchen with stove top and oven, separate bedroom and living room, and bathroom with shower. All amenities are provided including bathrobes.

And for me the standout is the welcome letter from our housekeeping attendant. A wonderful touch!

As Hhonors Diamond members we are given a drink voucher each to use at the ‘Cru Bar’ at the Hilton and enjoy 2 glasses of sparkling before a quick Asian-inspired meal at ‘Me Mee’ restaurant at the Doubletree. We are also given free access to the gym, pool, and spa at the Hilton which also has a steam and sauna room.

Back at the Doubletree we watch a movie in the dedicated movie theatre (similar to Gold Class) which huge armchair-type theatre seats making for an action-packed evening (‘Die Hard 4.0’!).

The next morning complimentary (Hhonors Diamond) breakfast is served back at the Hilton. It is a reasonably good spread but am surprised that there is a $5 charge for coffee.

Nonetheless, although there is a bit of to-and-fro from one hotel to the other, it is a pleasant stay.