10 September 2012
Blanket Bay Voted New Zealand’s No. 1 Luxury Lodge
Blanket Bay at Dusk
Blanket Bay continues to retain its international ranking as New Zealand’s top lodge with prestigious USA-based
Hideaways International naming Blanket Bay the Number 1 lodge in New Zealand, and Number 6 in the world, within its
annual 2012 Readers Survey.
“There is no better testament to a lodge’s consistent standards than travellers themselves voting a property at the top
of their list. We are frequently voted amongst the world’s best, and such continued recognition is vital in maintaining
our premier reputation as region’s best alpine escape – a reputation that our dedicated staff constantly strive for,”
said Philip Jenkins, Blanket Bay’s longstanding General Manager.
This year Blanket Bay was also named Best Overseas Boutique Property, Villa or Lodge within the Gold List compiled by
the readers of Australia’s Luxury Travel magazine. In 2011 Blanket Bay won the HM Award for Best New Zealand Lodge and
additionally was named one of the best 10 hotel views in the world by influential Forbes.com. Condé Nast Traveler’s 2010
Gold List ranked Blanket Bay as the second-highest scoring property in the world.
“Sure it’s our superlative facilities and incredible location that attracts discerning travellers, but in fact what sets
Blanket Bay apart is our team’s ceaseless search for excellence. Just last month Kate Florence, one of our young chefs,
claimed the prestigious New Zealand Commis Chef of the Year title for 2012, the third time it has gone to Blanket Bay,”
said Mr Jenkins. “Needless to say Blanket Bay’s extraordinary cuisine is a much-cherished feature of any guest’s stay.
“With prolonged economic turmoil engulfing traditional long haul markets, these frequent awards endorse Blanket Bay’s
continued reputation as one of New Zealand’s finest tourism products and ensures our continued market share out of the
dwindling European and North American markets.
“Australians however now represent a much higher percentage of our guests as increased Australian recognition for the
property, a strong Australian dollar and easy Queenstown access from east coast Australia makes an exclusive alpine
escape at Blanket Bay even more attractive.”
ends