Hospitality Experience

Development & Execution of a Long-term Strategy for Hamilton Airport Hotel & Conference Centre

To assist Waikato Regional Airport Limited with the development and execution of a long-term strategy for the company’s land holding with a Hotel and Conference Centre.

Project Scope

Horwath HTL was engaged to:

inform WRAL of the issues and options in relation to the hotel’s ownership, competitive market position and future trading, following the end of the existing lease
give advice about the future operating structure and best market positioning of the hotel
conduct a search and selection process for a hotel operator and brand
lead the contract negotiations on behalf of the owners
advise on an upgrade strategy for the facilities
assist with the asset management of the hotel during the repositioning, rebranding and ongoing operation

Supported by our analysis and advice, WRAL have acquired full ownership of the hotel business and real estate. The hotel has been repositioned from a below average three-star accommodation facility to a recognised four-star branded hotel with quality facilities and management. The hotel now supports and runs alongside the airport facilities, creating operating synergies and a greatly improved operating performance.