EVT Hotels & Resorts has announced a significant expansion of its award-winning QT brand in Queenstown, with plans to transform the current Rydges Lakeside Queenstown into an expanded QT Queenstown with prime lakefront views.
The refurbishment will convert the existing 152-room Rydges property and integrate it into the neighbouring QT Queenstown, resulting in a combined 221-room hotel. The majority of rooms will include guest balconies overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
Bold design meets adventure-focused luxury
The reimagined property will deliver the signature QT experience – striking design, top-tier hospitality, vibrant dining and state-of-the-art event spaces. The new QT facilities are being tailored to meet the needs of wellness travellers and adventure seekers, with a modern gym, pool and storage areas for ski, snowboard and hiking gear.
EVT Director – Commercial, Mathew Duff, said: “Guests will step into something truly special – QT’s signature design, breathtaking views and thoughtfully curated spaces.”
Strong Queenstown market drives investment
Queenstown remains one of the strongest performing hotel markets in the EVT portfolio, making the lakefront property a prime candidate for this strategic upgrade. The project also paves the way for new opportunities for the Rydges brand elsewhere in the local market.
The existing 69-room QT Queenstown will remain operational throughout the refurbishment. The new QT rooms will open in stages from 2026, with the full project expected to be completed by mid-2027.
