QT Hotels and Resorts New Zealand are celebrating three new accolades from Hospitality New Zealand’s prestigious Hospitality Awards for Excellence 2023.
Doron Whaite, General Manager of QT Auckland, was awarded ‘Leader of the Year, accommodation,’ which honours dedication and celebrates those who contribute to and inspire confidence in the industry. Boasting an impressive 15-year career in hospitality, Whaite has led QT Auckland since its opening in 2020. Claiming its home of quirky luxury in Viaduct Harbour, QT Auckland has become a highly regarded, award-winning hotel. Doron’s leadership also extends to QT’s award-winning signature venues, Esther and Rooftop at QT.
Whaite’s continued passion and commitment to developing staff into new roles and responsibilities within the group, and his relentless commitment to improving hotel culture warrant him as a deserving recipient of this title. Whaite endeavours to motivate his team, and despite challenges in the industry, to date has managed to achieve budget with a fully staffed hotel.
In the past year, Whaite has shared his leadership strengths with the wider hospitality industry. Taking on an Area General Manager role at EVT, Rydges Formosa is under his leadership, and he was instrumental in the product development of the recently opened, Lylo. Doron consulted on the food and beverage program and continues to support mentoring current and future leaders. Whaite has also recently joined the Hospitality New Zealand Auckland Executive Committee, highlighting his ongoing commitment to the industry.
Whaite said that it was a real honour to be the recipient of this award, but it was a team effort at the end of the day.
“I would not have achieved this without an incredible team and the support we have at EVT, so it’s a shared win,” said Whaite.
QT Auckland’s Esther Restaurant was awarded ‘Best Restaurant in an Accommodation Venue’ at last night’s event. Led by renowned chef, Sean Connolly, Culinary Food and Beverage Director at QT Auckland and Executive Chef James Laird. Laird was also awarded Highly Commended in the Chef of the Year category. Adding another award to QT’s stable, QT Queenstown won the Best Hotel award. Led by General Manager Jeremy Black, location, unbeatable views, and top service set QT Queenstown as a deserving recipient of this award.
EVT Hotels and Resorts General Manager for New Zealand Operations, Simon White, said that it was humbling to receive so many accolades.
“The QT Hotel teams here in New Zealand work exceptionally hard to bring the QT brand to life, and this recognition for their dedication to excellence in the industry despite the challenges we have all faced is outstanding.”
