Founded by American philanthropists Debbi and Paul Brainerd, The Headwaters Eco Lodge is New Zealand’s most progressive sustainable eco-lodge, and Paula Buchanan, a highly experienced tourism sales professional, has joined as a Business Development Manager.
With a 28-year career in the Conference and Incentive (MICE) and tourism industry, Buchanan led sales, operations, finance and management positions and will bring those skills and connections to the Headwaters Eco Lodge in Glenorchy.
“The lodge is already starting to gain a reputation as a premium provider of corporate meetings, the perfect ‘get away from it all’ location for leadership retreats or the ultimate incentive destination for the hardest workers and highest achievers,” said Buchanan.
“I’m extremely passionate about New Zealand and what our country offers visitors and business events, so I’m delighted to bring my vast network of people and business connections to build this business at the lodge.”
Buchanan also recently served as the Business Development Manager at Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell, considering herself lucky enough to work for two family-owned companies, The Headwaters and Highlands, which are deeply engaged with their communities and deliver exceptional experiences.
“I love to share the story of a unique product delivered with heart and genuine passion, and I know that when business or leadership groups stay here, they can escape all distractions, be inspired to refocus, nourish minds and bodies and let creativity flow.”
“She knows the industry so deeply and is such a specialist in this area that business leaders will know they can relax and let her and the team deliver a bespoke event at the best level it can be,” said the Headwaters Eco Lodge General Manager John Dick.
“The Headwaters is at a key crossroads in its growth and development in the corporate and business markets, and we couldn’t have hoped for a more experienced person to take on this role.”
The Headwaters’ award-winning eco-lodge features premium luxury eco chalets, meeting rooms with state-of-the-art technology, a beautiful lounge and dining room, and an exceptional garden-to-table food cuisine destination paying homage to locally-grown seasonal produce with Central Otago wines and an outdoor Scheelite Shelter with a roaring open fire and a rustic setting.
