Historic West Coast gem for sale

One of the West Coast’s most well-known lakeside hotels – Hotel Lake Brunner – is for sale for the first time in over a decade.

Phillip Barnett and his partner Robyn Verstappen are preparing to pass the baton on the landmark Moana property, which they’ve lovingly restored and operated since 2013.

Michael Lough, Investment Sales Broker at Colliers Christchurch, is the sole agent for the hotel, which he describes as an exceptionally rare business less than three hours drive from Christchurch with stunning lake and mountain views.

Located at 34 Ahau Street in Moana, the freehold going concern encompasses 20 accommodation units and the Kingfisher Restaurant and Bar. It sits on an elevated 8,115sq m site with sweeping views across Lake Brunner.

The business generates strong income while offering significant future potential.

“Our demand has exceeded pre-Covid, with many of the summer months being fully booked,” Barnett says.

That’s not a one-off situation. Demand to stay in Lake Brunner has become greater than what is available, which presents excellent opportunities for expansion.

The sale documents include concept plans for additional motel units and apartments.

“This hotel has played a central role in the rural farming community since it was built nearly 100 years ago,” says Barnett, who previously served two terms as chair of Tourism West Coast.

“We’ve enjoyed restoring it to its former grandeur, but now it’s time for someone else to grow the business to the next stage,” he says of their 12 years of passionate stewardship.

The property represents the largest commercial block in Moana, a sought-after tourism destination on the northern shore of Lake Brunner – the West Coast’s largest lake.

Its position beside the TranzAlpine railway, voted one of the world’s top 10 train trips by National Geographic, provides a steady stream of visitors who enjoy the lake’s pristine environment and brown trout fishing.

Lake Brunner draws visitors to its warm waters for aquatic pursuits – it’s not a snow-fed lake so the temperature was 24 degrees Celsius in December.

Moana is a popular holiday location for Christchurch residents and international tourists and attracts locals with the only pub in the vicinity.

“The elevated site, world-class views, and development potential make it an outstanding opportunity for the right buyer,” Lough says.

“This is the only lakeside commercial-zoned land in Moana which offers scale and the opportunity for a mixed-use development.”

Barnett’s background in New Zealand’s visitor market – including growing rental company Europcar to 14 offices nationwide – has informed his approach to hospitality.

“Hotels are ultimately about systems and people,” he says. “Our guests are served in a pristine environment by people who genuinely care. That’s what makes the experience special.”

The West Coast tourism sector is experiencing robust growth, with New Zealand visitor numbers up 9 per cent in October from a year earlier. This confidence is reflected in rising property values throughout the region, particularly around Lake Brunner.

Barnett says buying the hotel is not just about purchasing a business. It will suit people who are community minded and passionate about the environment, as the hotel is an employer and sponsors the local school and community events.

“The hotel is a strong economic driver for Moana, with 90 per cent of its revenue flowing into the local economy through wages and purchases.”

Hotel Lake Brunner is being offered for sale by deadline private treaty, with offers due by 4pm on 4 March.

- Supplied by Colliers