Waterfront luxury opens in 2007

Auckland's newest five-star waterfront hotel is almost finished on a Viaduct Harbour corner site.

But the new hotel, expected to challenge the Hilton Hotel on Princes Wharf, will not open until next year.

Melview Developments' Nigel McKenna is building the 184-room Lighter Quay Hotel near the corner of Viaduct Harbour Ave and Halsey St.

The hotel covers the block from Lighter Basin to Halsey St, south of a lock surrounded by a group of apartment blocks which McKenna is finishing. He has developed the entire 1.6ha leasehold site owned by Viaduct Harbour Holdings. The hotel's lobby will overlook the waterways.

"All rooms will be large, architecturally designed and generously fitted out with top-quality fabrics and decor," Melview said. "Health spa and fitness centre, waterside restaurant, business centre and lounge bar will be within easy reach from the water-framed pontoon-style reception."

An operator for the hotel has yet to be announced.

In Wellington, Melview is working on the new Holiday Inn. This $65 million, 238-room hotel is due to open later this year.