30 | Stunning properties at resort Staysouth’s collection includes penthouse apartments on the doorstep of town, hillside chalet-style villas with breathtaking views, and lakefront townhouses on Wakatipu’s shoreline. Staysouth T T Alexia Anderson REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Luxury accommodation provider Staysouth has transformed Queenstown’s hospitality scene, giving visitors a chance to relax among state-of-the-art apartments and villas. Staysouth has around 50 properties under its brand today, but like many great business stories, it started small, with just one apartment. The original apartment was owned by Andy Salek, who made the purchase to accommodate guests back in 2006, but the global financial crisis soon followed and the appointed management company at that time did not perform with the apartment remaining vacant for six months. Pre the days of Airbnb and other aggregator sites and determined to turn things around, Andy established a website, soon after bookings flowed, resulting in a journey that is testament to entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. His success caught the attention of neighbouring property owners, who sought his expertise, and now Staysouth has a team of 20 staff and a growing portfolio of stunning properties in and around central Queenstown. Staysouth’s collection includes penthouse apartments on the doorstep of town, hillside chalet-style villas with breathtaking views, and lakefront townhouses on Wakatipu’s shoreline. Each of those properties have positioned Staysouth as Queenstown’s specialists in holiday rentals and property management, bringing together luxury apartments and discerning holidaymakers, creating one beautiful holiday experience after another. Whether it’s an annual family ski retreat, an intimate getaway for two, an adventure weekend, or a relaxing escape near wine country, Staysouth offers an extensive selection of accommodation options to suit any Queenstown holiday. The organisation now has upwards of 7000 nights booked per year and a team of long-established staff helping ensure the smooth running of the properties, guest experiences and owner expectations. Andy, who is also a long time heli-ski guide, said a great team is paramount to the business’ success. We work very hard at all aspects of team building in order to ensure longevity of service. In a town like Queenstown this is not always easy. As he puts it, it’s not just the place and the properties that make Staysouth stand out – it’s the people and the service, “we strive for excellence”. Staysouth prides itself on strong communication with clients while remaining invisible, allowing guests to relax the moment they unlock the door. “But, if they need us we are there in a flash.” Staysouth also offers a concierge service, offering unparalleled knowledge, local expertise and up-to-date insider tips. “You name it - we can either recommend it, book it, or simply talk you through it,” he said. As long-term locals active in all aspects of tourism, the team’s experience and knowledge ensure each client’s time in Queenstown is uniquely tailored to them. Staysouth’s clientele is diverse, with about 60% from Australia, 25% from New Zealand and the remainder often visiting from the USA, UK, China and the rest of the world. However, quieter periods are busy for the team, as they use this time to perform maintenance and repairs on each property to ensure they remain in top condition. In essence, Staysouth has not just redefined luxury hospitality in Queenstown, but has crafted an unforgettable experience where every detail resonates with excellence and care. From its humble beginnings with a single apartment to a thriving portfolio, Staysouth exemplifies the impact of vision, dedication, and impeccable service in the luxury accommodation industry. 0210515200 admin@brookes.co.nz brookes.co.nz KEEP YOUR OPERATIONS RUNNING SMOOTHLY WITH BROOKES GAS WHEN WAS YOUR GAS APPLIANCES LAST SERVICED? Gas Servicing • Repairs • Safety 0800 729 969 0800 SAY NOW 027 221 5862 Carpet Cleaning and Stain Removal Specialists • Carpet Cleaning • Stain Removal • Lounge Suites • Vehicle Upholstery • Odour Removal • Lounge Suite Protection • Mattresses • Flood Work • Non-Slip Products • Tile & Grout Craig and Shona McCorkindale Covering Central Otago & Southland Call Matthew Thomas: 03 442 8686 Email: matthewthomas@mtchill.com
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