Museum Art Hotel reopens as QT Museum Wellington after $12 million makeover

Art galore at QT Museum Wellington.

Under threat of demolition to make way for the Museum of New Zealand in 1993, owner Chris Parkin moved Wellington's Museum Art Hotel across the road on rails. It happened in two stages, the structure arrived in virtually perfect nick and Parkin and the hotel became much loved local icons.

Over the years, Parkin expanded the property and made it an eccentric highlight of the capital, stuffing it full of his colourful and eclectic art collection. The property attracted many celebrity guests.

If it was going to change hands, perhaps it's fitting that one of the most colourful and eccentric of hotel brands has taken it over, especially as that brand, QT Hotels & Resorts, has an ethos of having its properties embody the unique culture of their location.

The on-site acclaimed Hippopotamus Restaurant & Bar at QT.

After a $12-million makeover, Parkin's baby is now QT Museum Wellington. Parkin is remaining on as an ambassador for the property – he has an apartment there – and the art will remain for at least three years.

The refurbished public spaces and soon-to-be-completed hotel rooms have been created by architect and designer Shelley Indyk as a bold backdrop to the collection.

QT managing director David Seargeant says the refurb and rebranding evolves and builds on the hotel's unique character … "while ensuring the quirky character of the QT brand features strongly".

And Parkin says he is delighted with the result. "The QT brand aligns so well with my original vision and philosophy for the hotel. It's heartening to see the legacy the Museum Art Hotel has built evolve with the stunning QT makeover and now rightfully aligned with the new name QT Museum Wellington."

The on-site acclaimed Hippopotamus Restaurant & Bar will continue to serve a French-inspired menu under the direction of executive chef Laurent Loudeac and midyear, it will be joined by Japanese-Korean bar and restaurant, Hot Sauce.

Rooms from $249. See qthotelsandresorts.com