August 09, 2015
Iconic Rotorua building to become up-market hostel
Rotorua's Ngati Whakaue iwi have formed a partnership with an Australian based company which will see one of the city's oldest and most iconic buildings – the Lakehouse Hotel – transformed into a 250-bed upmaket spa hostel.
The agreement between Ngati-Whakaue's trading arm – Pukeroa Oruawhata – and The Friendly Group, which operates hostels around Australia, Asia and the US, will see the Maori trust retain ownership of the land it took over in 2007 while the new complex will be operated as a joint venture under the Greenhouse brand.
Pukeroa Oruawhata director David Tapsell says a cost for the development has not yet been established but that it is intended to incorporate the building built in 1870 not demolish it.
Friendly group Melbourne based owner Ron Lazarovits says the Lakehouse site, with its incredible views over Lake Rotorua to Mokoia island, its geothermal access, and proximity to the city will make it something truly unique for guests.
Pukeroa Oruawhata bought the Lakehouse Hotel built in 1870 in 2007 and have been since been using it for long-stay accommodation.
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