Wairakei Biggest Tourist Hotel Money-earner

Taupo Times, Volume XIV, Issue 46, 15 June 1965, Page 5

Wairakei Biggest Tourist Hotel Money-earner

The Wairakei Hotel has overtaken the Hermitage as the biggest money-earaer of the Tourist Hotel Corporation.

As a result of a new 40bed wing, its operating profit in the year ended September 30, 1964, rose to £41,121 from £26,181 the previous year. This is nearly £7000 more profit than the Hermitage and ip £15,000 more than that earned by the Waitomo Hotel. In its annual report, presented to Parliament, the corporation says that in planning capltal development for the Wairakei Hotel, provislon will be made for future expansion and upgrading two older wings. The Waitomo Hotel maintained its operating profit last year at £25,578 compared with £25,843 in 1963 — in spite of increased costs of operation. The corporation 's report says the hotel is still the most convenient for caves visitors, although an increasing number of privately owned motels in the near vicinity are providing an excellent alternative. Profit from the Chateau showed a slight increase from £4204 to £5379. "Of all the hotels in the chain, the Chatean is the most vulnerable to the vagaries of the weather," says the report. Spring, summer, and autumn patronage has to be specifically promoted and efforts to attract visitors, tour parties and conferences are having satisfactory results. "The winter months or high season can be marred by too little or too much snow. This year (1964-65) unprecedented snows interfered with access to, and facilities on, the mountain."

It adds that the direotors feel other areas and services on Rnapehn should be enopnraged because existing facilities are already strained. The Tokaanu Hotel showed a £3974 increase in profit to £9414. This is attributed to good standard meals, spotless accommodation, well - groomed grounds, thermal facilities, and courteous service. "The directors are mindful of likely hydro development in the area and have made preliminary snbmi^sions to the Government to meet fnture requirements."