Travellers heading to New Zealand now have even more inspiring places to stay, as BWH Hotels continues to build momentum across the country with a wave of new openings through its partnership with Wellington-based U Hotel Group.

From the lakes and parks of Rotorua to the lively streets of Wellington — and now to the coastal charm of Paraparaumu Beach and the countryside appeal of Masterton — the growing portfolio is introducing character-filled accommodation in destinations travellers love, all backed by the trusted quality of the Best Western brands.

Several U Hotel Group properties have already opened within the BWH Hotels portfolio, marking a key phase in the brand's New Zealand expansion. In October 2025, Urban Lounge Sleepery Rotorua, SureStay Collection by Best Western, and U Residence Wellington, BW Signature Collection officially welcomed guests. This was followed by the opening of U Boutique Hotel Wellington, SureStay Collection by Best Western in December 2025, further strengthening the group's presence in the capital.

The momentum continued into the new year, with U Studios Paraparaumu Beach, SureStay Collection by Best Western, and U Studios Masterton, SureStay Collection by Best Western, both opening in January 2026, expanding the portfolio into popular coastal and countryside destinations.

“This wave of openings reflects our focus on creating memorable stays in destinations travellers genuinely want to explore,” said Rod Munro, Managing Director of BWH Hotels Australasia. “New Zealand is a key market for us, and through our partnership with U Hotel Group, we are introducing hotels that combine strong local character with the comfort, quality and consistency guests expect from the Best Western brands.”

Urban Lounge Sleepery Rotorua offers a relaxed and contemporary base in the heart of the city, ideal for travellers keen to explore Rotorua's parks, cafés, cultural attractions and nearby natural scenery. Designed with comfort and connection in mind, the hotel provides an easy-going stay suited to both short breaks and longer visits.

In Wellington, U Residence Wellington, BW Signature Collection delivers an intimate apartment-style experience in the city's entertainment and cultural precinct. Ideal for travellers seeking a home-from-home stay, the property sits close to the waterfront, dining spots, museums and theatres. Nearby, U Boutique Hotel Wellington adds a European-inspired flair, offering stylish and approachable accommodation that balances personality with comfort.

Suresh Subramaniam, CEO and Owner of U Hotel Group, said the group's philosophy sits at the heart of every stay. “Everything we do is centred around the guest — it's all about U,” he said. “Each of our hotels reflects its location and community, while delivering warm, personal service that makes people feel genuinely welcome. Partnering with BWH Hotels allows us to share this ethos with travellers from around the world, while staying true to who we are.”

With these latest openings now live, BWH Hotels and U Hotel Group have further strengthened the Best Western presence across New Zealand, offering travellers a growing collection of distinctive, well-located hotels that make discovering the country even more rewarding.