IHG Hotels in New Zealand to adopt GST-inclusive pricing

In a move sure to please consumers, IHG’s hotels in New Zealand are to apply GST-inclusive pricing to all published and contracted rates from 16 September 2006.

According to InterContinental Hotels Group Area Director of Sales and Marketing for New Zealand, Brett Armitage, the move will result in more transparent pricing at all of the group's hotels in New Zealand.

“Our guests have always paid GST upon checking out of our hotels. Under this new system, the Government tax is included in the quoted price at the point of reservation,” Mr Armitage said.

“It is in the interests of all hotel guests that the full cost of their stay is made clear upon booking. We are keen to see all hotels in New Zealand adopt GST-inclusive pricing to not only increase consumer confidence in the sector, but also ensure a level playing field within the industry.

“In no way does the adoption of inclusive pricing represent an increase in our public and contracted rates. We have begun communicating the change to our existing clients, wholesalers, business travel agents and other partners, and so far the feedback has been supportive.”

Upon taking effect, the revised pricing structure will be visible through all booking channels that carry the group’s New Zealand hotels. InterContinental Hotels Group is also working with approved third party distributors to ensure the changes are reflected.

“Currently, there is no consistency in hotel accommodation pricing in New Zealand. We hope that by being among the first major hotel companies in the country to adopt GST-inclusive pricing, it will bring other operators closer to following suit,” Mr Armitage added.

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