The Mayor of Queenstown Lakes, John Glover, cut the ribbon and formally declared the redeveloped Coronet Ridge Resort open on Thursday 12 March, highlighting the importance of continued investment in tourism infrastructure for the region.
Mayor Glover was joined by Coronet Ridge Resort’s owners from New Bay Group, Capstone Hotel Management (the management partner behind the resort’s operations), 80 project partners, representatives from the local tourism industry, and invited media for an elevated evening celebration.
Mayor Glover expressed enthusiasm for the resort’s contribution to the region’s visitor economy, commenting: “The location of this hotel has always been a standout feature for its customers – the sweet spot between the countryside and easy access to a thriving downtown Queenstown. The former Nugget Point hotel stood the test of time, but it is wonderful to see the site revamped, refreshed and re-named under new ownership that has the confidence to invest in our district. Meanwhile a bustling community with great food, craft beers and coffees has evolved on the doorstep along with the bike trails and bus services that help visitors minimise their impact whilst getting around.”
The multimillion-dollar redevelopment of the former Nugget Point Hotel by New Bay Group arrives at a pivotal time for the alpine resort. Queenstown is experiencing a period of strong demand from both international and domestic visitors, with international passenger movements at Queenstown Airport reaching 111,625 in January 2025 – a 10% increase on the same month last year. The destination continues to lead the country in hotel performance, with operators posting simultaneous growth in revenue per available room (RevPAR), occupancy, and average daily rate (ADR).
“We saw Nugget Point Hotel in 2022 and fell in love with it. To see Coronet Ridge Resort come to life in such a spectacular setting is immensely rewarding. We believe this property will set a new standard for alpine luxury in New Zealand and become a sought-after destination for discerning travellers from around the world,” said HC Tan, Executive Director, New Bay Group.
Perched above the Shotover River in the exclusive enclave of Arthur’s Point, the 41-room Coronet Ridge Resort is positioned as the definitive address for sophisticated travellers seeking a combination of awe-inspiring natural scenery and refined luxury. The resort is led by General Manager Ethan Heng, whose extensive hospitality expertise has been integral to the property’s transformation.
Clare Davies, Managing Director of Capstone Hotel Management, said the resort’s multimillion-dollar makeover is matched by an equally exceptional guest experience.
“Coronet Ridge Resort is a truly extraordinary property, and we are privileged to be entrusted with its management. Our team is dedicated to delivering an experience that reflects the ambition and vision of New Bay Group, where every guest feels the magic of this remarkable location from the moment they arrive,” said Clare Davies.
The resort’s amenities include a conference space for up to 30 people, a Roman-inspired day spa, outdoor hot tubs, a premium fitness centre, squash courts, and an exclusive private cinema for relaxed entertainment.
Elevation Bar & Restaurant showcases panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin, the Remarkables, and the Shotover River alongside a seasonally inspired menu from Executive Chef Dominic Dsouza. Guests can enjoy everything from alfresco terrace dining and open kitchen theatrics to après-ski and winter evenings by the Library Bar fireplace.
Coronet Ridge Resort sits just 10 minutes from Queenstown town centre and 15 minutes from Queenstown Airport and is one of the closest properties to the world-renowned Coronet Peak Ski Area, just 13 minutes away.
