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QT Hotels and Resorts has announced Doron Whaite as General Manager for the highly-anticipated QT Auckland, scheduled to open mid-year. Boasting a 15-year career in hospitality, Whaite’s extensive industry experience will ensure the successful launch and ongoing commercial achievements of QT’s newest property in New Zealand. 

Whaite has been a key member of the QT senior management team for the past three years, contributing to the QT product offering, brand and culture. Most recently, he’s been driving hotel strategy and operations at QT Sydney, after successfully developing QT Perth’s Rooftop Bar and the celebrated Santini Bar & Grill, which was crowned Best New Restaurant by the 2018 Western Australia Good Food Guide, and one year on, secured the title of Restaurant of the Year at the 2019 awards.

Prior to joining the Event Hospitality and Entertainment family, Whaite nurtured his love for the energy and vibrancy of hospitality, establishing his career across premium hotels, cocktail lounges and restaurants throughout Australia – with extensive experience in venue openings.

Whaite will commence his new role on 16th March, after relocating to New Zealand.

Energised by the new challenge, he has an exciting vision for QT Auckland, saying “I want to create a unique hospitality precinct that is loved by New Zealanders and international travellers alike. Beyond its luxurious accommodation offering, the hotel’s design-led public spaces and signature restaurant and rooftop bar will make QT Auckland the ultimate playground for locals.”

Simon White, General Manager Operations New Zealand – EVENT Hotels & Resorts echoes Whaite’s enthusiasm, saying “We’re privileged to draw on Doron’s extensive experience and leadership as the team brings QT’s quirky luxury to life in Auckland. Along with his commercial acumen, he brings a wealth of knowledge when it comes to venue openings, plus hotel and restaurant operations – which will be vital to QT Auckland’s success.”

QT Auckland will open at 4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue in mid-2020, and will be the 10th QT Hotel in the group and QT’s third New Zealand property, joining the hugely successful QT Wellington and QT Queenstown.