They are relevant Ambassador’s not just RA’s

https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental...itions#general as you’ll see here

interestingly the most relevant part is actually benefit exceptions

35. At InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in French Polynesia (InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa and InterContinental Resort Tahiti), upgrades to the next room categories and a 4pm late check out are not guaranteed for any member that books through a third party website or Tour Operator.

Suggests at every other hotel all the benefits are applicable regardless of how it was booked and these hotels are clearly exempt for these hotels only!

ofcourse the hotel is correct in saying you don’t get the standard IHG benefits like points earning, welcome amenity etc