Edgewater was the winner of the Sleepyhead Commercial Best Hotel at Hospitality New Zealand’s Awards for Excellence, which were held at a gala dinner in Wellington. The judges noted the warm Southern hospitality and genuine interest in guests shown by Edgewater’s staff as key contributing factors in selecting the hotel as the winner, following a nationwide search.
General manager Mike Barton was delighted to win, which he attributed to the hard work of the 75-plus staff at Edgewater.
“We all work together to ensure our guests receive a warm welcome when they stay or visit with us”.
Over the last two years there has been an active programme of refurbishment including all 103 guest rooms, the Wineglass Café, the Pavilion wedding and event venue, lobby areas and a completely new kitchen. Business results have been strong and forward bookings suggest the coming summer will also be extremely busy.
It was the first time Edgewater entered this category in Hospitality New Zealand’s Awards for Excellence. Judging included an on-site visit and an extensive interview to discuss staff recruitment and training, marketing plans and initiatives, operational systems and procedures, community involvement, environmental and sustainable practices and, most importantly, guest satisfaction.
