I've been following the PH AKL since its pre opening and finally had a chance to book it a few weeks ago.

I booked a high categroy Harbour View Room with Balcony via Prive. Unfortunately, I have now learnt that Prive upgrade confirmations over a weekend are an issue, because it is usually the Sales Director who is the contact so booking on a Friday for a Monday stay means your TA may not get confirmation.

My TA reached out and had a response of confirmation to the Rooftop Balcony Deluxe Room. I thought about arguing for a suite, however this room seems superior to the Park Suites.

Check In

Upon entering the hotel you are captivated by the local Maori art infused with modern design. While a different aesthetic, it's similar to how the PH VIE blends its Bank of Austria history with it's design.

Despite being during the FIFA WWC, we were checked in quickly. Agent explained all the benefits.

The lobby didn't feel full, perhaps because a FIFA Lounge had been constructed in one the meeting rooms.

Room

While the room is essentially a studio, the Balcony made a significance different to the stay. We left the doors open for most of the time and the Harbour view was gorgeous.

Every aspect of the room felt like it was thoughful and I was surprised that it didn't feel smaller.

'

Service

Service is what really impressed me here. I needed an over the counter medication a few hours before our flight. The Concierge, who I believe may have delgated to another front office worker, walked to one pharmacy and took a photo to confirm if the item was correct. I needed a different size so she, without question, went to another pharamacy and again confirmed via phone.

In a hotel at 100% occupacy with the FIFA Exec in house, I find this outstanding.

Dining

We had dinner at the bar and while the food was great, the cocktails were not. We didn't finish our drinks.

Breakfast was all  a vey high quality with a large buffet spread and A La Carte menu.

The Eggs Benedict and Iced Lattes were great.

Location

The location is far preferable to the Hilton which feels slightly removed. We walked to Skycity and other sights along the waterfront.

Overall

Overall, this is a great addition to PH in Australiasia and reflects NZ's true respect of Maori culture and tradition in into its society.

The hotel feels special and has a feeling of calm despite it being during the WWC and at 100%.

One might argue that a Glob booking Pirve should get a Suite, but given the standard is a Park Suite I was happy with the allocation. If retuning longer, I would book the Harbour View Suite outright.