The award for outstanding customer service and hospitality was presented to Mercury Bay Holiday Park managers Helena and Craig Stratford on 25 June at the Holiday Accommodation Parks Association of New Zealand (HAPNZ) Conference in Blenheim.
AA Tourism Publishing general manager Moira Penman said it was the little things that can make a huge different to a guest’s experience that won Mercury Bay Holiday Park the top award.
She said: “jump-starting cars, lending spades to dig soak holes at the famous Hot Water Beach, booking boat trips and restaurants, recommending things to see and do, charging mobile phones and changing tyres are just a few of the things their guests have said they have appreciated.
“Here is a team of just two that is proud to have the opportunity every day to be ambassadors for their town, industry and New Zealand. It was this simple belief the judges felt embodied the philosophy of the AA Traveller Spirit of Hospitality Award.”
The judging panel was made up of representatives from the AA and AA Traveller, Qualmark, HAPNZ and Inside Tourism.
HAPNZ chief executive Fergus Brown said the AA Traveller Spirit of Hospitality Award was recognised by HAPNZ members as the premium award. “This award emphasises the importance of world class customer service and acknowledges those who are providing their guests with an exceptional experience,” he said.
The other four finalists for this year’s AA Traveller Spirit of Hospitality Award were All Seasons Holiday Park in Rotorua, Aspiring Holiday Park & Motels in Wanaka, Bowentown Beach Holiday Park at Waihi Beach, and Mawley Holiday Park in Masterton.
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