A debut worth noticing

When Hotel Indigo – part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio – opened its first New Zealand property in the heart of Auckland, the goal was clear: create a destination that blends local heritage, art and global influences into a seamless guest experience.

With 225 rooms and a central location in the “City of Sails”, the hotel needed a buffet presentation that would not only perform under daily pressure but also reflect the property’s design ethos.

The Craster solution

Working with Craster, Hotel Indigo Auckland selected key pieces from the Flow and Tilt ranges. Walnut tones provided a warm, tactile match to the hotel’s interior palette, mirroring the hotel’s joinery and bar shelving.

The modular nature of Flow and Tilt allows the hotel team to adapt layouts seasonally or daily – whether for a high-volume breakfast service or a more curated VIP spread. Risers and trays create a layered presentation, keeping sightlines clear while drawing the guest’s focus to the food itself.

In the words of the General Manager

Craster has set a new benchmark in buffet presentation, and it’s been a pleasure to see these exceptional pieces in action since opening. The combination of contemporary design and functional excellence complements the experience we strive to offer our guests. Craster’s hardwood products bring a refined, tactile quality that consistently makes a lasting impression. Our team values the durability and craftsmanship, which support the high standard of service we aim to deliver every day.

Matt Simister, General Manager, Hotel Indigo Auckland

Details in Harmony

Bread and pastries are presented on a Walnut 2-Tier Stand, its vertical form echoing the bar’s shelving and adding height without crowding the counter.

Cheeses and charcuterie rest on Flow Cooling Units, their slate-like surfaces paired with copper label holders – a detail that brings both clarity and refinement to the spread.

For cereals, a Walnut Bread Box is seamlessly integrated into the Flow system, a smart repurposing that keeps the look cohesive while maximising functionality.

Every element works within the hotel’s broader visual language. The result is a buffet that feels like a natural extension of the lobby lounge, reinforcing the brand’s identity at every touchpoint.

A benchmark for luxury lifestyle service

Hotel Indigo Auckland’s buffet now reflects the same design principles found throughout the property: intentional, resilient and deeply connected to guest experience. In partnership with Craster, the team has crafted a service environment where every detail matters – and where presentation sets the tone for the entire meal.