7You reviews Queenstown’s brand-new Avani hotel, a lakeside destination with social spaces, sleek rooms and a wellness spa

There are plenty of hotels in Queenstown, but the newly opened Avani is trying to do things a little differently.

The hotel opened in September as Avani’s first Queenstown property and its New Zealand flagship, joining Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences as the brand’s second New Zealand property.

The former Oaks Shores Resort has been transformed from serviced apartments into a full-service hotel, with a focus on creating a more social, lifestyle-oriented experience.

I spent three nights there to see what it was actually like, and one thing that quickly became clear is that Avani isn’t trying to make every hotel feel the same.

Instead, the brand says its properties are designed around what people actually do in each destination.

In Queenstown , that means skiing, hiking, eating, drinking, relaxing and spending plenty of time outdoors.

My room was spacious, comfortable and had what you’d probably hope for when staying in Queenstown, a spectacular view of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains.

I found myself sitting by the window more than expected, because the rooms have an understated alpine feel rather than going all-in on the traditional chalet aesthetic.

There are also larger apartment-style options with kitchens and more space, which could be useful for longer stays or families.

And for those willing to spend a little more, some rooms come with their own private spa.

Yes, you can sit in your own hot tub while looking out at the mountains — which feels like a very Queenstown thing to do.

Wellness is another major focus, and the hotel has an AvaniSpa offering massages and treatments , as well as a gym and sauna.

I had a massage during my stay and it was genuinely one of the highlights.

After a day exploring Queenstown, having somewhere to properly switch off feels like a luxury worth having, offering private spas attached to some of the higher-end rooms to take the idea even further.