6 | Makeover for busy Taupō hotel Recent infrastructure improvements have enhanced Taupō’s appeal as a tourism destination. Lake Haven - Taupō Hotel Refurbishment T T Karen Phelps “We are boutique, and are offering something different to the market.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT A million-dollar-plus renovation project is nearing completion in the heart of Taupō, with the Lake Haven boutique hotel preparing to open its doors in November following a comprehensive two-year transformation of a 1957 building. Commercial investor Murray Jones, who purchased the Tongariro Street property six years ago, has overseen the complete gutting and reimagining of the former backpacker accommodation into 30 high-end apartments that he believes will set new standards for the tourism hotspot. “We’ve created the most compliant accommodation place in Taupō,” says Murray. “Everything is up to the latest building code. We’ve put double Gib on every wall, installed fire-rated windows, and implemented the latest fire-rating systems throughout.” The project has exceeded original budgets by $1million, but Murray believes the investment reflects the quality of finish that distinguishes Lake Haven from other accommodation options in the region. “It’s a very modern offering for Taupo, very distinct,” he explains. “We are boutique, and are offering something different to the market. It’s quite an accomplishment to complete it.” The Lake Haven business is owned by Murray and three other investors. The 850sqm hotel occupies the second storey of the building, which spans both Tongariro St and Tūwharetoa St in Taupō’s main hospitality district. Each of the 30 rooms measures approximately 25sqm and features contemporary décor, fully marble-tiled bathroom, a 65-inch television and writing desk. “Every room has ensuites, tea and coffee making facilities and king beds. Some rooms have beds that can be split into two singles,” says Murray. “Some of our larger rooms offer both double and single bed configurations and several provide either lake views or overlook the Tongariro Domain.”\ The hotel’s modern approach extends to its operations, with no traditional front desk. Instead guests will book and pay online before using state-of-the-art kiosks to access their rooms via pin codes. The hotel benefits from lift access and rear car parking. Murray, who has been investing in Taupō for three decades and now calls it home, sees the project as part of the town’s broader transformation into a premier North Island destination. “It’s the Queenstown of the North Island,” he says. “It’s a really nice place. It’s like waking up every day in a holiday resort.” Murray says because Lake Haven is right in the heart of Taupo’s hospitality area and extremely close to the lake, people simply have to walk out the door to enjoy all the town offers. Murray’s investment in the area extends beyond Lake Haven. He previously developed the Rebel Sport and Supercheap Auto complex with eight apartments, and built what is now ProDrive Golf, demonstrating his longterm commitment to the region’s commercial development. He says recent infrastructure improvements have enhanced Taupō’s appeal as a tourism destination. The council has refurbished main streets and increased car parking capacity, while nearby hydroelectric power stations and a solar farm have brought additional economic activity to the area. “The central location in the North Island means you’re not far from anything.” Proud to be associated with Lake Haven Grant Fisher Phone 027 492 6895 TE KUITI 07 878 5169 TAUPO 07 378 8545 OTOROHANGA 07 873 6385 LEADERS IN THE INDUSTRY PROUDLY SUPPORTING LAKE HAVEN actionelectrical.co.nz Do you need design & architectural solutions? LSA offers a complimentary one-hour on-site consultation for locals. Call us on 021 264 8559 to secure a booking “Totally Dependable” Proud to support Lake Haven - Taupo Residential | Commercial | Maintenance & Servicing Central Heating | Waste Water Treatment Laser Plumbing Taupo 3/41 Runanga Street, Taupo taupo@laserplumbing.co.nz www.taupo.laserplumbing.co.nz 07 377 3023
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