It’s the unexpected surprise of discovering something as rare and exceptional as Nice Hotel that for a moment gives the discoverer a long forgotten sense of wonder - that taste of serendipity and pure pleasure not often felt as an adult. Simply put, this hotel is a joy. A place for seekers of the excellent, the indulgent and the intimate, Nice Hotel is set in an artful atmosphere in the heart of New Plymouth. The very talented owner Terry Parkes has poured his seamless talent into transforming this charming two-storey doctor’s house and surgery into one of the country’s finest boutique hotels and restaurants.
Well locatedfor both business and pleasure the hotel looks out across the historic St Mary’s Church and New Zealand’s leading contemporary Art Museum, the Govett Brewster, both of which reflect back the distinction and character of Nice Hotel itself. Inside, Terry has again displayed his subtle hand, creating stunning luxury in both the Table Restaurant and the Hotel accommodation. As testimony to the Hotels high standards, her luxury suites and fine dining have played host over the years many to many rich, powerful and famous New Zealand guests - from the silver screen to leaders of nations. Comprised of seven luxury individual bedrooms and one suite, all accommodation is well appointed with contemporary art, designer bathrooms, double spa baths or massage shower – comfort and style at it’s best. Traditional armchairs and beds invite you to dream, and, with good work desks, air-conditioning, flat screen television, DVD players and high speed internet access available in all rooms, your private needs are all well catered for.
Moving beyondthe private luxury rooms, you are welcomed into the wonderfully offbeat boutique environment of the old building itself. Original artworks decorate the walls and chandeliers serve to complete the air of glamour and style. The Hotel’s surrounds invite you to prepare for a sumptuous evening’s dining with a gentle stroll to Pukekura Park or the Pukeariki foreshore, returning for cocktails in the library upstairs before you dine. A fabulous evening then awaits you at Table where the food is to be enjoyed and the wine savoured. Voted best restaurant in New Plymouth three years in a row, the Table restaurant feels spacious and airy, its outdoor deck and tropical garden are a welcome and surprising mix to this unique experience. Open 7 days for guests and casual diners, Table restaurant has a private dining room and a range of menus for all occasions. It’s worth talking to Terry about some of his bespoke group luncheons and exquisite luxury wedding arrangements.
Nice Hotel embodiespersonalised service, promising an intimate and indulgent oasis. Whether you wish to simply breathe in the tranquil space or raise your champagne cocktail to the chandelier in celebration, the Nice Hotel will meet your every need and whim. Your only question really is, can you keep a secret?
The Church of St Mary
The Church of St Mary in Taranaki is the oldest stone church in New Zealand and has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for over 150 years. This weekend marks a momentous event as St Mary's offically becomes the World's Newest Cathedral. As the Revd. Bill March said; “Great buildings are outward expressions of the human spirit - it's aspirations, hopes and fears. The ancient caves of Lascaux, the mysterious circle of Stonehenge, the vast pyramids of Giza, Michelangelo's Sisine Chapel ceiling - all speak of the human urge to transcend the mundane and commune with the divine. In the western world, this desire is most comprehensively expressed in the cathedral. St Mary's with the carved stone and the beautiful stained glass windows awes as much as it inspires.”
Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
The Govett-Brewster is New Zealand's premier contemporary art museum and home to the collection of modernist filmmaker and kinetic sculptor Len Lye. With a global vision and special commitment to the Pacific region, the Gallery maintains and develops contemporary art collections as well as presenting a diverse programme of exhibitions and events that extend beyond it's walls and foster the development and interpretation of contemporary art as well as it's audience. Here you will also find a Research Library containing an extensive collection of New Zealand and international art magazines, exhibition catalogues and comprehensive files on New Zealand artists. The Gallery also has a number of unique spaces available for private functions for 10 - 150 people including a 50 seat theatre, adjoining studio and gallery and exhibition spaces. Cocktail evenings, wedding ceremonies, product launches, concerts and performances, guided tours and private lectures have all been successfully help in the Gallery with Cafe Govett-Brewster providing catering.
