While on my trip around with the six Russians, we went to two lodges which changed ownership and management immediately prior to our visit. We're happy to say that both visits were a great success.
Layonie and Denholm at The Convent in Blenheim were both expatriates in the Middle East for a number of years, regularly holiday at the same level as their clients, and are born entertainers. Their plans for the future include a swimming pool and a spa facility which will leave this facility very well placed indeed. Their multi-cultural background leaves them very well qualified to look after guests from other cultures. They are also well-networked into the area which gives them an excellent platform for activity recommendations.
Jeff and Helena at Maruia River Lodge have also played the expatriate game, are owner-operators, and holiday at the same level as their guests. They have a number of plans at this lodge, but their main challenge will be persuading agents to take their clients to this less-travelled part of the country. I was amazed with how a 2-minute walk from my chalet took me into moss-filled woods which felt very very remote indeed. The food was rather excellent too!
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