NZ’s best motel is a local affair
To relax and recharge in picturesque Hanmer Springs is a dream experience that guests at award-winning motel The St James awake to every day.
The luxury accommodation provider was recently named ‘‘New Zealand’s Best Motel’’ at the New Zealand Hospitality Awards, the second year running it has claimed the title.
Paul Baigent and his wife Rae opened The St James in 2010 to provide couples with the sort of elegant, easy-going experience they had to come to expect themselves after many years of travel.
The motel, located in a quiet spot just off the village’s main street, is a Qualmark 5-star, goldrated property focused on providing an indulgent retreat to couples wanting to make the most of Hanmer’s spectacular natural environment.
A mix of studios, executive spa studios and one- and twobedroom suites have been architecturally designed using colours and materials in keeping with area’s alpine vistas. All rooms have a balcony or patio, and most have views extending to the mountain ranges that loom nearby.
Every unit also has its own kitchen, underfloor tile heating and air conditioner/heat pump. The hot pools are a short walk away, as is everything else the town has to offer.
Paul says the motel’s back-toback awards result from the staff’s commitment to their motto ‘‘our difference is the detail’’, which has also seen The St James become Tripadvisor’s toprated motel in Hanmer Springs and among country.
‘‘Right from basics like the quality of the clean to the colour scheme in each room, every detail is important. Guests need to know they will get the same
the
top
10
for
the quality experience every they stay,’’ Paul says.
‘‘We came into this business to provide our guests with the experience we expect when we travel, and that’s what’s driven us over the nine years we’ve
time been here. We stay at top hotels just to get new ideas. If we find something better that will improve our guests’ experience, then we do that.
‘‘Wellbeing and wellness are key drivers of tourism now, along with the environment, and that’s what Hanmer does perfectly. We are very well-placed in Hanmer Springs to provide people with those special moments – those relaxing, recharging, Instagram moments.’’
Increasing demand for services that protect and enhance the environment is behind one of The St James’ more recent developments.
The motel now offers guests who stay more than one night the option of skipping a room service and having a tree planted instead. To date, more than 750 trees have been planted this way via the Hanmer Springs Conservation Trust.
With summer always a busy time of year, couples keen for their own ‘‘pure relaxation’’ experience at The St James are advised to book early.
The motel has several package options available, as well as gift vouchers to surprise a loved one this Christmas.
To find out more, call The St James on 03 315 522 520 or visit thestjames.co.nz.