Hanmer motor lodge offers growth options
AN ALPINE motor lodge in the thermal capital of the South Island and at the base of the original leg of the New Zealand Cycle Trail has been placed on the market.
Ninety minutes drive from Christchurch, the Hot Springs Motor Lodge in Hanmer Springs is being offered for sale as a going concern.
Bayleys saleswoman Kate Mullins said the lodge could expand its current operation to cyclists and tourists, by tapping into corporate business opportunities.
Key corporate clients provided a reliable income source in the low tourist season.
Mullins said the 8164 square metre property came with 32 units in two accommodation blocks, a reception office, manager’s residence and a conference centre with the ability to cater for 200 people.
It also includes the Five Stags restaurant and bar which the current owners refurbished two years ago modelled on a high country hunting lodge.
Mullins said conference hosting had been identified as a key growth area for the lodge, and there was potential to build additional facilities on a 6685sqm vacant plot next door.
It was also available for purchase along with a three bedroom home.
‘‘The current owners also have a relationship with an outdoor pursuits organisation that runs team building activities for corporate guests.’’
About 520,000 people visit Hanmer Springs each year, a quarter of whom are international tourists.
As well as the hot pools, the area’s other activities include cycling, mountain biking, hiking, skiing and white water rafting and it is close to the 64-kilometre St James Cycle Trail.
The latest Hanmer Springs visitor indicator report found overall tourist numbers to be on the rise and a 7.2 per cent increase in international hotel guests to the region.
Domestic tourism spending in North Canterbury is about $200 million a year and international tourists spend about $90m.
Mullins said interested parties could include an existing hotel or motel chain wanting to add Hanmer Springs to its coverage.