Construction has started on a new Rydges hotel in Tauranga, New Zealand. The project was announced at the AHICE Aotearoa 2026 conference. Once finished, the hotel will sit at 45 The Strand, close to the city’s waterfront promenade. Its location near New Zealand’s largest commercial port is expected to attract every type of traveler.
EVT Hotels and Resorts will run the property under its Rydges brand. The company was chosen after what it described as a competitive selection process, one that looked at its history of managing hotels and connecting them to local communities. This will be the eighth Rydges hotel in New Zealand once it opens.
What the Hotel Will Offer
The new-build resort will have 158 rooms. Plans also include a restaurant and bar as a centerpiece feature. Beyond guest rooms, the hotel will offer conference and exhibition space designed for events of different sizes. In theater-style seating, the venue could hold up to 322 delegates, making it an option for meetings, conferences, and other gatherings in the region.
Tauranga has been growing quickly in recent years, and demand for accommodation and event space has grown with it. The city’s port status adds another layer of steady traffic beyond typical tourism.
Company Comments and Looking Ahead
Peter Hill, Director of Development at EVT Hotels and Resorts, spoke about the start of construction. He called it a meaningful step forward for both the project and the city of Tauranga. He said, “We’re looking forward to bringing the Rydges brand to the city and creating a hotel that delivers strong commercial outcomes while reflecting the character, energy, and spirit of the local community.”
Hill pointed to Tauranga’s growth as a factor behind the investment. He described it as one of New Zealand’s most active growth markets right now. According to Hill, the hotel is meant to help meet rising demand for accommodation, conferencing, and hospitality services in the area as the city continues to expand.
No opening date has been shared yet, and further details on design or amenities may follow as construction moves along. For now, the announcement marks the official start of building work on the site.
