The Rugby World Cup 2011 Accommodation Bank is filling up with most of the major hotel chains now represented in the agreement.
Rugby New Zealand 2011 has confirmed that with the number of rooms locked into the accommodation bank is now nearing the intended target. Accor is the latest hotel group to sign up joining Millennium Hotels, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Heritage Hotels, Grand Chancellor Hotels, Scenic Circle and Duxton Hotels among the major hotel groups which have committed to be part of the Accommodation Bank.
Martin Snedden said RNZ 2011 was delighted with the progress being made on the Accommodation Bank which was a crucial element of maximising the success of the Tournament.
"We recognised very early on that having adequate and appropriate accommodation available for all those involved in the Rugby World Cup and those travellers coming to New Zealand was vital to ensure a good experience for all. We also needed to maximise the accommodation assets in New Zealand and balance the needs of the Tournament - including players, officials and guests - with the requirements of visiting and Kiwi fans. The progress we have made on the accommodation bank gives us confidence we can achieve this."
Mr Snedden said that with most the major hotel groups now represented and a significant inventory of hotel rooms secured, RNZ 2011 was now moving into discussions with the motel sector and also developing further the cruise ship options to expand accommodation opportunities, as is the practice at other major events.
Williment Travel Group have been managing the accommodation bank on behalf of RNZ 2011 and Director Duncan Garvie says the Accommodation Bank has received fantastic support from the major hotel chains nationally as well as significant numbers of independent properties.
"The level of enthusiasm and desire to support the Tournament is high among the sector and there is a real understanding of the Accommodation Bank's role," he said.