IHG and Pro-invest Group Reposition Asset as voco Queenstown

IHG and Pro-invest Group to Reposition Queenstown Hotel as voco

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the conversion of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown to voco Queenstown, in partnership with asset owner, developer and manager Pro-invest Group. The move will reposition the centrally located property within IHG’s premium portfolio.

The 227-room hotel, operated by EVT Connect Hospitality, is located in central Queenstown, close to the lakefront and the town’s dining, retail and tourism areas. The conversion reflects a planned evolution of the asset, aligning its location, scale and operating profile with a premium brand positioning.

The property is scheduled to reopen as voco Queenstown later in 2026 following a refurbishment programme. Planned upgrades include enhanced meeting facilities, a new private dining room, additional outdoor dining space, and a restaurant and bar, Mozzarella & Co. These changes are intended to broaden the hotel’s appeal across leisure and corporate segments and support long-term performance.

Matt Tripolone, Managing Director, Australasia & Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said the conversion aligns with IHG’s approach to working with owners to support asset value over time.

“This repositioning aligns the brand, the asset and the location with a long-term outlook,” said Tripolone.

“Working closely with Pro-invest Group and EVT Connect Hospitality allows us to support sustainable returns through brand alignment, commercial capability and efficient execution.”

New Zealand’s hotel sector continues to prioritize asset quality and value creation from existing properties. Within this context, Queenstown continues to attract year-round visitation, supported by its international profile and ongoing demand for well-located accommodation.

Ronald Stephen Barrott FRICS, Founder and Chairman of Pro-invest Group, said the decision reflects confidence in both the property and IHG’s premium platform.

“The hotel has an established operating history in the Queenstown market,” Barrott said.

“Transitioning to voco supports the next phase of the asset’s lifecycle, drawing on IHG’s systems, scale and brand positioning.”

Once reopened, voco Queenstown will be part of IHG’s premium portfolio in New Zealand and integrated into the group’s enterprise platform, including distribution, sales, and the IHG One Rewards programme.