About Us

The Carlin is one-of-a-kind, boutique hotel and a labour of love built by property developer, composer and hospitality industry veteran, Kevin Carlin. Kevin’s eye for new ideas has helped build a reputation for creating quality projects within the South Island of New Zealand as well as Australia.

Kevin first came to Queenstown over 30 years ago when it was still a small lakeside tourist town. Prior to moving, he owned and operated three restaurants in California. As a property developer, he has been behind some of South Island’s most noteworthy projects like the Lakeside Estates and The Waterfront Apartments in Queenstown, and the Styx Mill Country Club in Christchurch. He has also been an integral part of the Radisson Collection Hotel in Queenstown.

After a brief stint in Christchurch and Australia, Kevin realised that his heart lay in Queenstown. The idea of The Carlin was born when he noticed that fellow musicians, celebrities and VIPs visiting the area, had few choices when it came to luxury accommodation in Queenstown. As the city’s first 6-star hotel, our commitment to world-class service and attention to detail ensure that when it comes to luxury, we tick all the boxes.