Pioneer Motel, Palmerston

Pioneer Motel, Palmerston

Pioneer Motel proprietors Annette Rosanowski and Fred Ratahi are never sure where their next bookings will come from. They could be from tourists from the Balkans, England, Ireland, Australia or all parts of New Zealand, company representatives on business or families and friends attending a local wedding.

And among this marvellous mix of guests are many who have become regulars since the couple bought the business in 2006.

‘‘In fact, going over the stats for the past two-and-a-half months, more than 50% have stayed with us before,'' Annette said last week. ‘‘It's pleasing that people trust us and enjoy their stay with us enough to come back.''

The town of Palmerston, just 40 minutes from Dunedin, has been a junction to Central Otago and the South since the goldrush days of the 1860s.

Today, with its cafes, restaurants and shops, it continues to act as a pleasant stopover for people travelling south or inland to Central Otago as well as being a service centre for the local area.

At the Pioneer Motel, the 10 one-bedroom units, which have full kitchen facilities, can be adapted readily to guests' needs. The flexibility and hospitality accorded them by Annette and Fred a sound reason for them to return.

For further information, contact (03) 465-1234 or email pioneermotel.palmy@xtra.co.nz