DON’T TINKER WITH HISTORY
Central Otago value: Having integrity
Mark and Nikki believe the integrity of their business is best demonstrated by the openness and honesty of their staff, who all come from the Waipiata township and surrounds.
When asked about the area, we have to be honest and not stretch it. If we don’t know an answer, we find out. This area is full of heritage buildings and has a 150-year-old history. We don’t want to play with that. With regard to any developments we undertake, they are in keeping with that. Our buildings blend in, rather than jump out.
A “YES” POLICY
Central Otago value: Making a difference
Central Otago’s environs encourage inspiration and vision. Mark and Nikki are aware of that and the part they play in helping guests get the most from their time in the area.
If a guest asks for something, rather than the first reaction being “No, we can’t do that”, it’s “Yes, we can” or “Let me go and see”. We want everyone that comes through to leave a little more enriched than when they arrived. Making a difference also impacts on our logistics. We consciously recycle all our packaging and work on minimising waste.
A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
Central Otago value: Adding value
Is there a better way? This is key to operating a sustainable, growing business – especially when you are an operator on the high-profile Otago Central Rail Trail and especially in an era where social media soon highlights businesses’ strengths and weaknesses.
I can’t overstate the comfort of our beds. The Hobbit movie crew were our first guests and they all commented on the beds. Another “value add” for us is our extremely popular “Cook your own barbeque” packs. Each pack contains locally-sourced salmon steak or aged Porterhouse beef, salad greens and freshly made BBQ salads with a very tasty ciabatta bun. We do about 1000 barbeque packs a year. People love them.”