Cambridge, New Zealand - Tuesday 5 August 2025: Cambridge's highly anticipated, high-end boutique accommodation, The Clements Hotel, has opened its doors to guests.

Following a multi-million-dollar transformation of the town's original 1866 beaux-arts Masonic hotel (named after Archibald Clements), the 29-room property brings refined luxury and soulful charm to the Waikato region's growing tourism landscape.

"We're thrilled to open The Clements and lead this exciting opening," says Clare Davies, Managing Director of Capstone Hotel Management.  "We're well positioned to elevate Cambridge's accommodation offering at the premium end of the market, while becoming a destination for exceptional dining, memorable events, and genuine community connection.

"Owners, Gerry Westenberg and Jo Pannell have created something truly special here – their meticulous restoration of this heritage building, inspired by London's prestigious Claridge's, honours the past while embracing the future. We're excited to see The Clements reclaim its rightful place as the social heart of Cambridge,” added Clare.

The boutique hotel features 29 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each designed with timeless elegance, including two accessible rooms. From Deluxe rooms to the luxurious Clements Suite, guests can book modern rooms in the new attic level commanding leafy views, or they can sleep in restored Edwardian rooms with soaring ceilings. Many original architectural features such as stained-glass windows, red brick walls, and the sweeping wooden staircase have been carefully restored.

Anchoring the hotel is Gallery Restaurant, overlooking the gardens and terrace, offering a culinary journey that blends global inspiration with fresh, local produce. The Clements Café & Wine Bar will evolve throughout the day, from morning coffee and pastries to relaxed daytime fare and evening aperitivos.

The Clements also offers a range of flexible event and meeting spaces, including The Frances Rose conference room (36 pax), 10-person boardroom, a 100 sqm events lawn, and several indoor venues ideal for intimate weddings, private events, and corporate gatherings.

Located at 68 Duke Street, Cambridge, The Clements is perfectly positioned near the town's top sporting facilities, eateries, historical sites, and shopping precincts. The hotel is just 15 minutes from Hamilton International Airport and 1.5 hours from Auckland International Airport.

Tucked among landscaped gardens, the former century-old horse stables have been transformed into three interlinked private suites with a charming, luxury cottage aesthetic. The Corner Suite boasts a gas fireplace and private courtyard, while the Clements Suite features a free-standing bathtub, walk-in shower, and a spacious 30sqm terrace for alfresco dining.

Downstairs, the original 150-year-old basement has been reimagined as “1866”, an underground speakeasy bar inspired by Chicago's Prohibition-era haunts. With live music, an intimate stage, and craft cocktails, 1866 promises to become a go-to destination for locals and guests alike.

Adding a local twist to its story, The Cambridge Distillery Co., located at the rear of the hotel, has crafted a bespoke gin for The Clements. The gin is based on a rediscovered 1860s Irish recipe, a fitting tribute to Irish-born Archibald Clements, who built the original hotel in 1866.

Room rates start from $415 for a Deluxe King Room. Upgrade your stay to the Romance Package which includes a bottle of sparkling wine and handcrafted chocolates on arrival, followed by a romantic dinner for two in The Gallery and breakfast. Priced from $800 per night.

For more information and to book, visit clements.co.nz

ENDS

Media Contact: Ginni Post, GP Communications | E. ginni@gpcommunications.pro | P. 022 6344 910

The Clements Hotel is managed by Capstone Hotel Management.

About Capstone Hotel Management

Capstone Hotel Management was founded in 2014 and offers a range of hotel management, distribution, and marketing services from full management to light touch consultation providing expert advice and guidance.

Capstone Hotel Management creates bespoke hotel management solutions and marketing strategies to maximise performance, led by a team of experts whose breadth and depth of international and local experience ensures proven results.

Capstone Hotel Management work with a range of properties from large corporate hotels to luxury lodges and everything in between, located throughout New Zealand. The team understand the challenges and rewards that regional and remote locations can bring to the accommodation sector. For more visit capstonehotels.co.nz