Tuakau Hotel Scoops Best New/Redeveloped Hotel
Tuakau Hotel owners, Neil Young and Dee Bond, were overwhelmed when they were named the winners of the Best
New/Redeveloped Accommodation Hotel in this years Hospitality NZ Awards for Excellence, announced in Wellington on
Wednesday.
Dee Bond was overcome with emotion and speechless when the winner’s name, Tuakau Hotel, was read out.
Neil Young said it was testimony to the extreme amount of hard work and effort that had gone into refurbishing this
grand old lady of yesteryear.
Established in 1875 it was no mean feat restoring this hotel to its former glory and the award will be shared with
members of the Tuakau community - suppliers, friends and family that helped make the hotel look more than a million
dollars.
It’s the first time the couple has taken on a project of this magnititude and it’s the first time the pair have been
involved in the hospitality industry.
It’s a credit to our hard working staff and our loyal patrons that watched this tavern turn back into a magnificent
grand hotel.
“We will be sharing the award with all of the community and the award will take pride of place at the bar in the hotel
for all to see.”
Dee Bond and Neil Young said it was four years of blood, sweat and tears and the award accolade goes a long way in
making them realise that the restoration project was totally worth it.
“We will be back next year and will be doing our level best to raise the bar at the awards again,” said Neil.
The Tuakau Hotel boasts beautifully appointed hotel rooms complete with restaurant, bar, gaming room, lounge area and
wholesale liquor outlet.
This award goes a long way in putting Tuakau on the map as a great tourist destination.
“We are proud to support our community with this renovation, providing accommodation for the thriving and growing Tuakau
at the Gateway to Waikato,” said Dee Bond.
ends