Kawarau Falls could open in March

Kawarau Falls receiver KordaMentha says a hotel chain operator will be announced within the next two weeks for the five-star hotel and apartments in stage one of the embattled $1 billion luxury resort, which should be fully operational by March.

When asked if the fate of the development was secure, KordaMentha's Grant Graham told the Otago Daily Times yesterday, "Hell yes.

All the buildings you can see are 99% finished."

Mr Graham said the unnamed operator - widely rumoured to be the Hilton hotel chain - would probably announce a March completion date on December 13.

He said four of five buildings in stage one had been handed over to owners.

Hilton's Australia/Pacific media liaison would not comment on the development when contacted yesterday.

Alongside bars, restaurants and cafes, the project is expected to include other resort-style retailers, including ski shops, beauty salons and galleries.

Last month, resource consents for a general store and wine retail and tasting cellar were granted for the site.

Consent was also given for liquor sales from a restaurant and bar in the building as well as sales from mini bars and room service.