New lease of life for station house

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 593, 4 July 1995, Page 5 (Supplement)

New lease of life for station house

Last Friday saw the opening of the Station Lodge, a new venture offering high-quality, low-cost accommodation at Ohakune' s Junction. Originally built in 1907, there is some debate as to the original occupant of the house. As it was one of the biggest Railways-owned houses in the area, it is likely to have been either the Station Master or the District Engineer. New owners Mike and Judy have had a hectic last six months doing the necessary work to change the station house from a private home to a lodge capable of sleeping 20 people. "The house had to be repiled, the internal layout

changed, the original floors have been sanded and polished, and an inefficient open fire has been replaced by a large Kent fire," says Mike. "We've tried to retain the character of the original building, while bearing in mind the needs of the guests." The finished result looks fantastic, with polished floorboards throughout, and an excellent paint-job adding to the atmosphere of the turn-of-the-century building. Although the $15 per night tariff is likely to be popular with backpackers, early bookings are showing a trend towards larger groups like social clubs. "These groups want low prices, but are also looking for a higher standard than the average backpacker-type of

accommodation." "Our guests certainly won't be pining for the comforts of home, as the lodge is equipped with all the modem conveniences such as microwave, television, dishwasher, drying room, and laundry facilities."

Mike and Judy have already recei ved enquiries from overseas, and believe this is a reflection of Ohakune' s need for good-quality budget accommodation. With bookings already heavy , they are thoroughly looking forward to their first winter in operation.