Distinction Invercargill Hotel

Distinction Invercargill Hotel is a 4.5-star hotel at 3 Esk Street West in central Invercargill. It occupies the former government Menzies Building, which Distinction Hotels Group converted into a hotel that opened in August 2025. Distinction is a New Zealand-owned and operated group, and this hotel belongs to its Gold Collection. The group's owner, Geoff Thomson, was born in Invercargill. The hotel is about 450 metres from the Invercargill Central shopping centre and a few minutes from Bill Richardson Transport World, Classic Motorcycle Mecca, the Civic Theatre and Southland Stadium. It suits corporate travellers, government and project teams, and groups attending events in Southland.

Rooms

The hotel has 150 air-conditioned studios and suites. Room types include studio twin, studio super king, executive twin studio and executive suite, and executive suites have a freestanding bath. Every room includes:

• extra soundproofing and electric blackout curtains
• a kitchenette with fridge, microwave and Nespresso machine
• a washer/dryer and a smart TV
• a walk-in shower with both standard and rain shower heads
• free unlimited WiFi

The washer/dryers and kitchenettes make the rooms practical for longer project stays.

Facilities and dining

Retreat Restaurant & Bar is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The hotel also has private dining rooms for smaller functions and occasions. Guests can use the ground-floor gym free of charge at any hour, and valet and self-parking are available for a fee.

Meetings and events

The hotel does not currently publish details of dedicated conference rooms or capacities. Its advertised event spaces are the private dining rooms, which suit board dinners, small meetings and client entertaining. Planners needing plenary space for larger groups should contact the hotel directly or pair it with another Invercargill venue.

Suitability

Distinction Invercargill Hotel is a strong accommodation option for delegates, board dinners, executive visits and incentive groups travelling to Southland. It also suits event groups attending fixtures such as the Burt Munro Challenge or Southern Field Days, and groups heading on to Stewart Island.