Cutting edge security for Dunedin's premier hotel

A recent security upgrade throughout the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross means safer and more convenient access for guests of Dunedin’s largest hotel. Representing a six-figure investment, the upgrade to new high-tech radio-frequency based security locks is a sign of the confidence New Zealand’s only privately owned hotel group has in the future of the Mainland’s tourism market.

Scenic Hotel Group’s IT Manager Piers Hutchings said upgrading to contactless Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology means guests can now enter the hotel and their rooms with a simple wave of their room card, rather than inserting it into a lock.

“RFID is at the forefront of hotel security internationally right now. As a Group we’re always looking for ways to increase guest satisfaction and improve on the delivery of our services. After hours access was an issue with the old system – having to press a buzzer and wait for a porter on a cold, wet Dunedin night wasn’t ideal. Now guests can enter the building any time day or night.”

Mr Hutchings says the card security system also extends to the elevators in the 170-plus room hotel. “The cards are encoded to ensure that guests are only able to access the floors they’re entitled to. It means that right from the front door to their beds, guests can rest assured that their safety, as well as their comfort, is a key concern for us.”

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is the second hotel in the Scenic Group – the only hotel chain that is 100% New Zealand owned – to upgrade to the contactless entry system. While the system is a must-have for any new premises being built, very few existing hotels in New Zealand have been upgraded. The system allows for future improvements that will eventually let guests check into their rooms via their mobile devices rather than through the front desk of the hotel.

Levco Agencies, the company providing the technology is a New Zealand owned family business with over 35 years experience providing the best personalised support and service to the hotel industry. Scenic Hotel Group is committed to supporting New Zealand business by insisting on using NZ products and services wherever possible throughout the hotel chain.