Jim Bolger opens Skotel extension

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 8, 22 July 1986, Page 11

Jim Bolger opens Skotel extension

One hundred guests attended the official opening of the Ruapehu Skotel extension recently. The opening ceremony was performed by King Country MP and I.eader of the Opposition, Mr Jim Bolger. who then dined at the Skotel with the invited guests. In his speech. Mr Bolger said that to achieve tourist growth. the country required top attractions. promotion and facilities. "New Zealand has the attractions. promotion is being improved and today we welcome this new addition to New Zealand V tourists facilities," he said. The building of an extension to the Skotel was an expression of confidence in the industry. Mr Bolger added. The Skotel's three Auckland directors deputv mayor of Auckland, Mr John s Strevens. architect Mr Mike Brett and accountant Mr Bruce Chambers, were present at Friday evening's function. The original Skotel buildings were commenced in

1964 on Tongariro National Park leasehold land. The complex has been extended during the intervening years. The current extension programme was built in two stages, the foundations for

part of the building in 1983 and the remainder from mid 1985 to March 1986. The completed complex consists of 48 bedrooms, a staff wing and five selfcontained chalets, together

with restaurant, bar and two lounges. The complex overlooks the Chateau Tongariro and the surrounding Whakapapa village with extensive views overthe surrounding park land and the three volcanoes Ruapehu. Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Special features incorporated in the design include patios for most rooms. a bathroom that converts to a personal clothes drying room. guest laundry. high level mezzanine lounge with views over the mountain. spa pools, games rooms. gymnasium. ski hire and service centre. Chalets are well appointed with carports. Being in the Tongariro National Park. the building has been designed to be environmentally acceptable by blending with the natural landscape. This will be further enhanced next summer when the planting j programme and the building I surrounds are completed. The total cost of the extensions to the buildings, furnishing and equipment is j $2.6 million. |