Grand Chateau restored to former glory

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 11, Issue 534, 3 May 1994, Page 26 (Supplement)

Grand Chateau restored to former glory

A $3 million refit to restore The Grand Chateau at Whakapapa to its former glory is due for completion by the end of the year. Nestled at the base of Mt Ruapehu in the Tongariro National Park, The Grand Chateau, which was built in 1929, offers old world elegance in a unique mountain setting. The 64-room hotel and adjacent Tavern complex were purchased three years ago by a Singaporean/ Malaysian company, Kah New Zealand Ltd, following a sell-off of assets by the Southem Pacific Hotel Corporation. Since then the new owners have set about upgrading the hotel to international standard in keeping with the traditional mid-19th century Georgian architectural design. A $160,000 refit to the lounge area has already been completed with heavy draps, newly covered traditional sofas and glass chandeliers setting the scene. Original ceiling-to-floor windows in the lounge area command stunning views of Tongariro National Park and Mt. Ngaumhoe. Work is currently underway on a $700,000 revamp of the 64 rooms. The energy factor has not been forgotten. As a result of an energy audit secondary windows are being installed in all guest rooms saving up to $7000 in heating costs. A complete exterior paint of the building in its original blue, brick and ochre colours is nearing completion. The service and administration block is being relocated to a new wing at the back of the hotel which matches the original building design. A half-million dollar upgrade to the lower ground floor of the facility is due to begin in the next few months. This includes a major upgrade of conference facilities with provi-

sion for three conference rooms, a new fitness gym in addition to the existing hot pool and sauna complex, and relocation of the lower ground floor kitchen. A popular mo ve has been relocation of the souvenir shop in the hotel to the historic Laura Fergusson's cottage opposite the hotel. The cottage was built in 1924 and is the oldest remaining building in the

Whakapapa Village. It was originally used as a bunk house and then as staff accommodation. As part of the Chateau complex upgrade it has been restored in cottage style and now houses a craft shop and cafe. Hotel manager Chris Griffin says all the improvements have been carefully undertaken to preserve the character and natural ambience of the Chateau.