UPFRONT: NEW + NOTEWORTHY

New + Noteworthy

Newly opened places to stay, eat and play at.

The Carlin, Queenstown, NZ

Credit: Simon Larkin

Taking its cue from the luxury boutique hotels of Europe, The Carlin prides itself on offering a highly exclusive, one-of-akind accommodation experience for discerning travellers. Think private chefs, butlers and massages, access to luxury vehicles, arrival by private jet, the largest penthouse suite in Australasia, and huge indoor and outdoor living spaces that take in spectacular snow-capped mountain and lake views. Spanning seven floors, The Carlin has eight suites offering one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom configurations, which can be booked for private events. There is also the option to host a private meeting or event at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant ORO or book out the entire property which can accommodate up to 50 overnight guests.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast

Superbly located in the centre of Maroochydore, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast offers value and convenience for the modern traveller, be it for work or pleasure. Each of the 181 guest rooms and suites have been designed for a relaxed and comfortable stay with thoughtful touches such as study nooks, fast WiFi and the brand’s signature ‘Express Recharge’ which features a pillow menu, blackout blinds and a walk-in power shower. Business travellers will appreciate the flexible workspaces and convenient conference and function facilities, including The Great Room which offers 721 square metres of space. There’s also a ground floor retail space, fitness centre and rooftop swimming pool.

voco Melbourne Central

Housed within the dazzling new ‘380 Melbourne’ skyscraper on Lonsdale Street, voco Melbourne Central has an array of shopping, dining, laneways and attractions right at its doorstep. As Australia’s first newbuild voco Hotel, it is completely original in style and carries all the hallmarks of the brand’s ‘tread lightly’ philosophy. Throughout the property, the cultivated plant life not only looks beautiful but helps keep the building cool, while each one of the 252 rooms has at least one window that opens, reducing the need for airconditioning. Ideal for accommodating business events groups, the hotel boasts 493 square metres of meetings and events space, including boardroom, event space with terrace, and a flexible 3-in-1 meeting space with breakout rooms. Additionally, the Rooftop Pool Terrace and Blacksmith Brasserie & Bar offer interesting spaces for social events, complete with city views.

The Castlereagh by Fassnidge, Sydney

Celebrity chef Colin Fassnidge has taken over the bistro at the City Tattersalls ClubownedThe Castlereagh, marking a new chapter for the historic Sydney CBD venue. Freshly refurbed, the venue welcomes guests into an elegant and relaxed space, decked out with natural timber, forest green walls, lush greenery and a cellar-style wall and cured meat display. There are multiple spaces available for any type of event, whether it’s seated private dining for up to 30 or a cocktail event at the bar for up to 150. The whole venue can also be hired out exclusively. On the menu, you’ll find contemporary yet comforting gastro pub fare that celebrates seasonal ingredients and local farmers and suppliers.