I arrived at the Westin AKL the day after the grand opening, the cab driver didn't even know where the hotel was :-). The hotel is right behind the Vodafone building and accross from the Microsoft/HP building. It's a smaller Westin, size wise with only 172 rooms and with limited # of suites. It feels like a boutique hotel with Asian-influenced ambiance. The standard rooms are pretty large size, comparable to the Paris Westin Jr. Suite; all equiped with plasma TV, small sofa, minibar and mirrored chest.

They are not completely done with the hotel. The Executive Lounge is not yet opened, it will be done in a "couple" days. My room has missing night stands, bed side phone was on the floor. One of the managers was transferred over from the Westin Sydney, so hopefully, the service level will be just as good. He also mentioned about a new SPG property in Queenstown in 2009. Looks like Starwood is expanding in NZ.

I think the property is very nice once they worked out all the kinks. I stayed at both the Hilton and Westin in Auckland, I think the competition will be good for AKL.

PS. Since the Lounge was not open during my stay, I asked for and received complimentary internet in the room.