New Owners for Queenstown private hotel, The Dairy

1 April, 2011

New Owners for Queenstown private hotel, The Dairy

Matt Diack and Paul Cook are the new owners of The Dairy, a private luxury hotel business in Queenstown, New Zealand, taking over from previous owners Claire and Andrew Brinsley and Susannah and John Martin.

Matt has worked as assistant manager at the boutique property for the past 12 months while Paul has been employed just down the road at the M Gallery Hotel St Moritz. Originally from Dunedin, both Matt and Paul have worked in the hospitality industry for many years. Matt is a qualified chef, most recently working as Executive Chef at Glenfalloch Restaurants in Dunedin while Paul has worked for several large hotel chains including Hilton and Accor.

Matt and Paul are excited about taking over the property.

“We’ve been looking for a suitable property for the past three years or so,” said Mr Diack. “We know the property very well as I have been working here for the past 12 months and we’re looking forward to the challenges ahead. It’s just the perfect place and we’re anticipating a very smooth transition.”

The unique personal service The Dairy is known for will not change according to the new owners.

“Any changes we make will improve the property. It’s a beautiful place, a small property and it’s all about delivering a luxurious personal service. The Dairy has a strong international reputation as a quiet and peaceful yet centrally located property that is just a delight to stay in. It has so much character and is so close to the centre of town – people just love it.”

Claire Brinsley said the sale of the business meant the past owners could move into new opportunities.

“It’s the end of an era for us,” said Ms Brinsley. “But it’s going into good hands. Over the past seven-and-a-half years, in conjunction with Elspeth Zemla, our manager, we have developed the property and are immensely proud of what we have achieved. The Dairy now has a wonderful reputation. We have had fantastic support from the New Zealand travel industry and I am sure that this will continue under the new ownership.”

Originally a 1920’s general store, the Brecon Street building was restored and established as The Dairy Guesthouse in 1997. It was fully upgraded in 2004 to become a renowned haven specialising in excellent service, generous breakfasts and afternoon teas and supremely comfortable rooms.

Ms Brinsley acknowledged the commitment and skill of General Manager Elspeth Zemla who has been an integral part of the business.

“Elspeth has been with us since we started. She has been described as ‘the beating heart of The Dairy’ and we’d like to thank her for her service and attention to detail that she has always applied to great effect.”

Ms Zemla is not continuing in her role but says she has loved every minute of working at The Dairy.

“It’s a wonderful property. The level of guest contact is very high and I’ve met some marvellous people. The business is in good shape for the future, with strong forward bookings.”

Matt and Paul take over the property from today, April 1.

ENDS

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