Chateau Tongariro: Are there plans for building restoration?
The Minister of Conservation says he is taking advice on the future of Chateau Tongariro.
The iconic building, once a renowned hotel and resort, has been closed since February 2023 after Kah Corporation Ltd did not renew its lease.
A week prior the organisation had signalled its intention to close the Chateau due to significant seismic strengthening required to bring it up to standard.
It also cited the uncertainty in the region since Ruapehu Alpine Lifts went into liquidation.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) had since taken over management of the buildings, but the hotel was not expected to reopen in the near future.
Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka said he was currently taking advice and considering options for the Chateau’s future.
“It is essential that we appropriately identify the best outcome for the area, and so a time frame for decisions cannot yet be confirmed.”
Since taking over in March 2023 DOC had spent $1.67 million on maintenance, consultant costs, operating expenses (such as electricity), insurance and other compliance requirements.
Deputy Director-General organisation support Mike Tully said significant investment would be needed if the Chateau
“We need to consider the options for the building and discuss matters with our treaty partners ...”
Mike Tully
was to reopen as a hotel.
“We need to consider the options for the building and discuss matters with our Treaty partners before consideration of future options for the building.
“This is to ensure we make a wellinformed and considered decision on the future of the Chateau Tongariro.”
He said negotiations with Kah Ltd were ongoing, but due to their sensitive nature he was not able to provide much detail.
“The total repair costs are unknown at this stage.”