I chose this aggressive introduction because the 4 star Château is one of those luxury places that keep their rates secret in Accommodation Guides and even on their websites. You will not find the rack rates without searching for hours and making an heroic effort by checking every single day for availability of a certain room type. This is absolutely ridiculous! Why can't they just write: We offer you superior accommodation, and you have to pay a superior price which ranges from $$$ to $$$$. The secrecy does not make a stay cheaper, it just annoys customers. But you can get a report on the superb gardens!!!
The only rates you find easily are the hot deals. Actually there are three available: Premier Rooms at NZ$199 and Deluxe Room Summer Specials at NZ$150, both until 31 March 2007, and Deluxe B&B at NZ$175 until 31 May 2007. All subject to availability... For other options expect more - or a lot more, depending on your wishes.
At least they do not hide the great qualities of their hotel which is located in 2 hectares of wonderful gardens which even contain a vineyard. If you are used to European dream castles you would rather consider this château as a cheap prefabricated new world wannabe castle. But the rooms, from superior rooms to presidential suites, are of best quality, superbly finished, perfectly designed and appointed with luxurious furniture, all with a warm and cosy atmosphere, not at all coolish modern or so.
The amenities for the guests include a nice garden bar, a heated outdoor swimming pool, a BBQ area, an elegant restaurant and café.
Although not right in the city centre the hotel is still a good location for exploring inner Christchurch. The centre is not too far away for walking, this just takes you 15 to 20 minutes. You just have to cross Hagley Park and/or the Botanic Gardens.
It is perfect that they hire bikes as Hagley Park is just across the street, and you can go on very nice and safe rides in this huge city playground. Another attraction across the other road is the Mona Vale Homestead with its wonderful gardens and the Avon River.
Directions:
The hotel is located at the north-west corner of Hagley Park.
From the city centre (Arts Centre, Botanic Garden) drive north along Hagley Park (Rolleston Ave), turn left at bridge and drive around the northern end of the park (Harper Ave, direction: airport), do NOT turn right to the airport (Fendalton Rd), automatic turn to the left, chose right lane, turn second to the right (Kilmarnock St).
Or: Coming from the southern end of the city centre on Tuam St, this leads into Riccarton Rd (hospital) which crosses Hagley Park. At the end of the park turn right at roundabout and next left. Hotel right on the corner.
If you come from the south or the West Coast on Riccarton Road drive straight ahead until you reach Hagley Park, turn left at roundabout and next left again (Kilmarnock St). If you come from Blenheim Rd (parallel road to Riccarton Rd) turn left at Hagley Park, drive straight through next roundabout and turn left.
