Business Central July 2026

26 | Humphries Developments: Stables Motel | | | | | | Domestic | Commercial | Industrial Home Ventilation | Heat Pumps 021 25 66 376 mike@trydanelectrical.co.nz PO Box 9042, Palmerston North www.trydanelectrical.co.nz REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT A boost for Bulls Positioned prominently off State Highway 1 behind Te Matapihi-Bulls Community Centre in Criterion Street, the development is already being seen as a practical boost for the township. T T Karen Phelps Bulls has officially welcomed a new addition to its accommodation offering with The Stables Motel now open and operating after its recent launch just prior to King’s Birthday Weekend. Positioned prominently off State Highway 1 behind Te Matapihi-Bulls Community Centre in Criterion Street, the development is already being seen as a practical boost for the township and a signal of confidence in its future, says Paul Humphries from Humphries Developments Ltd. “Well-positioned on the main route between Wellington and Auckland, the motel is expected to play an important role in encouraging travellers to stop, explore and spend time locally,” says Paul. “Its location makes it an easy overnight option for road users, while also positioning Bulls as a base for visitors exploring the wider Rangitīkei and Manawatū regions,” he says. The project is locally owned, bringing together a group with strong ties to the district. The development has been led by Cath Terry and Paul Humphries, with the motel owned in partnership with John and Angela Turkington, along with Hew and Roger Dalrymple and their families. Together, the group has focused on adding to the town’s accommodation offering, adding further choices for visitors and helping keep more people in town for longer, benefiting local business along the way. Designed by pak design and managed on the development side by Humphries Developments, the build was delivered by Humphries Construction teams led by Brad Webb and Drew Roydhouse. Like many regional projects, Paul says it came with its share of challenges, but the focus remained on delivering a durable, well-considered facility that fits the needs of modern travellers. The Stables offers 15 studio-style units with flexible configurations, including interconnecting one-bedroom options suited to families and groups. Twin-share layouts also cater for travelling companions wanting separate sleeping spaces as well as affordability and convenience. Motorhome and campervan travellers are also catered for with fully serviced parking spaces, shared kitchen facilities, BBQ area, guest laundry, bathrooms, effluent disposal and reliable WiFi. “The aim is to provide a stopover that is both functional and comfortable, encouraging longer stays in the district,” says Cath. Attention has also been given to comfort, with features such as Smart TVs, USB charging points, air-conditioning, quality bedding and locally inspired touches, including woollen products. A pillow menu adds a small but notable level of personalisation for guests, says Cath. Accessibility has been built into the design from the outset, with fully inclusive units offering practical layouts, caregiver beds and ease-of-movement features that support independent travel for a wider range of guests. Sustainability has also been well- considered, including solar energy systems, water-saving technology, energy-efficient appliances and a preference for materials sourced locally and from around New Zealand where possible. Day-to-day operations are now in the hands of Steve and Jackie Clark, who Cath says bring local knowledge and a grounded approach to hospitality with a focus on welcoming guests in a straightforward and personable way.

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