Mangakino Hotel primed for expanded tourism
A hotel, bar and restaurant for sale in lakeside Mangakino boasts prime access to one the country’s most popular cycle tracks, say brokers.
The Mangakino Hotel’s land, buildings and business — offering potential buyers a steady income and the chance for future development — are for sale by expression of interest, says Bayleys sales agent Gary Harwood.
The property — at 55 Rangatira Drive — is an easy drive from Taupo, Rotorua and Hamilton. It occupies a 4059sq m freehold site and overlooks Lake Maraetai, with Pureora Forest Park providing the backdrop, says Harwood.
“The hotel is at the start of one of New Zealand’s most popular cycle tracks – the Waikato River Trail. Mountain bike trails have in recent years become a lucrative market and the hotel is well- placed to cater to the increasing numbers of domestic and international tourists looking for an authentic outdoors experience.”
In addition to operating as a pub, Mangakino Hotel offers a range of accommodation options.
The extensive one- storey complex was used by government ministers during the construction of the nearby Whakamaru Dam and was an important part of the community. It was recently refurbished and includes a large main bar area, a garden bar, restaurant, kitchen, and nine accommodation units with a booking office.
Harwood says the business is a virtual "turn- key" operation and numerous opportunities exist for the hotel to grow its revenue streams.
“There is potential to turn the garden bar and restaurant into a great dining venue or hot spot for wedding receptions,” he says.
“The hotel's picturesque setting, expansive views of Lake Maraetai and proximity to Taupo, Rotorua and Hamilton present buyers with an opportunity to invest in an area that could rise in value.
“With a little imagination, an astute owner could turn Mangakino into a destination for foodies and Sunday drivers.”
Harwood says Mangakino became a hive of activity in the summer, attracting water- sport enthusiasts, mountain bikers and hikers.
“The area has become increasingly popular with holidaymakers and adventure tourists and boasts the types of recreational activities that would suit lifestylers,” he says.
The Mangakino/ Whakamaru cycleway is part of the 100km- long Waikato River Trails, along the banks of the Waikato River and encompasses native bush, dramatic geological rock formations, historical landmarks and the tourist favourite Mangakino Swing Bridge.
“The opening of the trail has seen visitor numbers to the area grow dramatically, increasing demand for service businesses including accom- modation,” Harwood says.
Mangakino Hotel is situated on the doorstep of the trail and would be an ideal choice for visitors seeking somewhere to stay or grab a bite to eat after a long day of cycling.
A recent report by the Government’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment noted the huge economic benefits which cycle trails such as Mangakino/ Whakamaru cycleway have delivered to provincial New Zealand.
The report highlighted that respondents visiting cycle trail regions “only or mainly because of the cycle trails” spent an average of between $ 131 and $ 176 per person per day – with 20 per cent of participating businesses involved with the routes indicating they had expanded since the opening of the cycle trail in their region. Citing the report, Harwood says: “More than a third of business survey participants indicated they had seen an increase in the number of customers served by their business, with flow- on effects in business income/ turnover and business expenditure, but also in profit.”