Luxury Resort Plans to Create Major Tourism Asset

Media release January 16th 2008

Luxury Resort Plans to Create Major Tourism Asset for NZ

Canterbury High Country Resort Terrace Downs is to undergo a multi-million dollar development programme which will see it placed as one of the country’s most attractive drawcards for international visitors.

Terrace Downs offers a unique getaway destination just one hour’s drive from Christchurch International Airport. The resort boasts deluxe accommodation, award winning chefs, a championship golf course and stunning views to Mt Hutt all in a pristine alpine high country setting.

New owners, Jonathan Hendriksen and Tim Williams hope the Kiwi owned and operated resort will play an integral role in drawing visitors to the Canterbury region. Their vision for the luxury premises includes the establishment of guest activities including blokarts, archery and an equestrian facility open to the public, which all commence within January, and a new jet boating operation together with clay pigeon shooting from February. A luxury day spa and an ice skating rink for winter holidaymakers will further augment the resort’s tourism potential.

Plans also include a children’s crèche for families staying at the resort or for those wanting to make a day trip and enjoy lunch or a round of golf.

The new management is eager to cater for local patrons as well as international guests and has recently added comedy evenings and jazz nights to its entertainment offering along with a new restaurant, Tilley’s Bar & Brasserie, complementing their Avoca Fine Dining.

The restaurant was named after Edwin Tilley, the original owner of Terrace Downs, who won the working station in a government ballot allocation of farmland to returned WWII Servicemen.

Mr Hendriksen, the resort’s new CEO, says he wants to preserve the rich heritage of the premises at the same time creating a present day luxury experience of international standard.

“Our vision is to create the best resort and getaway destination in New Zealand while protecting the natural features of the area ensuring that all buildings, plantings and development remain compatible with the environment,” he says.

The venue is also available for conferences, private weddings and corporate functions. With the multitude of new activities being added, Terrace Downs makes for a unique corporate incentive travel destination.

“We are tremendously enthusiastic about the potential of the resort and believe with some of the initiatives we are implementing that the property will become one that not only Canterbury but the rest of the country will be proud of,” says Mr Hendriksen.

To represent and market the resort more effectively throughout the country, Terrace Downs has recently established an Auckland office. Jon Doherty, the resort’s new Director of Sales & Marketing, says establishing office space in Auckland will enable Terrace Downs to develop a higher level of engagement with the resort’s Auckland-based channel partners, while also providing enhanced access to a larger pool of potential corporate clients.

For more information please see www.terracedowns.co.nz

ENDS

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