Regional hotel awarded best in New Zealand

Wednesday, 12 September 2018

Chateau Marlborough won the title of Best Regional Hotel, beating some tough competition, say managing director Brent Marshall, with general manager Lynley McKinnon.

A first timer at a prestigious awards took out the top spot to be named as New Zealand's best regional hotel.

Chateau Marlborough in Blenheim was named New Zealand's best at an Australasian awards ceremony.

Chateau Marlborough managing director Brent Marshall, right, and fellow director Trevor Marshall, left, accepted the prestigious industry award on behalf of the hotel and staff at the awards dinner from HM group manager Adam Daff.

The hotel saw off competition from more than 13 other regional accommodation providers, shortlisted from a massive 1500 nominations across the country.

Chateau Marlborough general manager Lynley McKinnon said the win was a surprise.

Managing director Brent Marshall, left with general manager Lynley McKinnon outside the award-winning Chateau Marlborough hotel.

* Chateau Marlborough restaurant upgrade to delight locals and tourists alike

* Chateau Marlborough expansion reflects need for more accommodation in Marlborough**

'I was blown away by the win.

'The finalists this year had been of a particularly high standard.

'The award further recognised the hotel's overall performance at a national level,' she said.

The title was bestowed at the HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence gala dinner in the grand ballroom of the Sydney International Convention Centre at the weekend.

The event was a 'who's who' of 'hospitality dignitaries' and had more than 2000 attendees.

The judging panel was made up of 20 leading travel writers and industry leaders from across the Australasian region.

McKinnon said the award recognised the hard work of the hotel team who had done so well to ensure guests had a great time.

'We have fantastic staff,' McKinnon said. 'It really was a team effort.

'It looked at what we've achieved, all facets of the business.'

A 2016 expansion added 36 rooms, a new entrance to the hotel and included renovations to the bar and restaurant areas.

McKinnon was unable to attend the Sydney event due to a prior engagement.

Last year's winner Hilton Lake Taupo and Te Waonui Forest Retreat was awarded highly commended.