
The launch of the first new-build Formule 1 in New Zealand is part of a major new accommodation and hospitality complex at the airport that also includes fast-food outlets, a bar, and mobile phone store.
The 125 room Formule 1 and the rest of the complex have been developed by Auckland International Airport.The hotel is managed by Accor, New Zealand’s largest hotel group. The Formule 1 Auckland Airport increases Accor’s New Zealand network to 32 hotels.Formule 1 is Accor’s purpose-designed budget brand that is already present in countries across Europe, South America, South Africa and in Australia. The brand is also set for major expansion in Asia.The hotel will provide the ultimate in reliable, contemporary accommodation at the highly affordable rate of NZ$79 a night (for up to two people). There are also double, twin and quadruple share rooms, making the hotel ideal for couples, groups and families. In addition there are five large special-access rooms.The hotel features Formule 1’s new Cocoon concept room. The rooms are more stylish, more restful room with soft colours, rounded edges and soothing lighting, as well as extra storage space. Facilities include flat screen TVs with extra channels, wireless internet and a strong focus on sustainability, the Cocoon Room won Best Interior Design at the European Hotels Design Awards and represents a real metamorphosis for the brand, which was first introduced in 1984. Other in-room facilities include quality bedding with duvets, ensuite bathroom, individual air-conditioning and a work table. Rooms are completely sound-proofed.The Formule 1 offers an inexpensive breakfast buffet, with more substantial meals available during the day from the various outlets in the complex, including the Szimpla Gastro Pub, health food café, and coffee shop. There is parking for up to 70 cars.“The Formule 1 will be the perfect starting point for international visitors wanting to put together all the ingredients for a drive holiday around the country,” said Firoze Wadia, F1 Auckland Airport General Manager.Firoze Wadia: “We still have rooms available throughout the World Cup, and the only minimum stay requirement will be over the final, when we have a two-night minimum booking in place. Standard rates will apply during the World Cup except on game nights, when we will offer rooms at a very reasonable $129 a room during September, and $190 a night over the semi-finals and final. The opening of the Formule 1 in time for the Rugby World Cup will be a great benefit for Auckland, but in the longer term the benefits will be even wider. As the only other hotel on airport land other than the Novotel, we will help establish Auckland Airport as one of the most significant hubs in the Asia Pacific region".