A fully consented development site and turn-key operation of a future luxury motel has gone up for sale in the heart of Taupō’s thriving visitor scene.

The more than 970sqm freehold land-holding on Kaimanawa Street is within a short walk of the town centre. It is set to give rise to a 26-room, two-storey motel plus manager’s accommodation unit under existing Taupō District Council consents.

With high-quality, efficient modular construction by specialists TLC Modular, the facility combining modern design with high-end finishes is due for completion by autumn 2025.

TLC has built a reputation for quality, compliance and reliability and is at the leading edge of modular construction nationally. Its projects include the completed Carnmore Hotel in Christchurch, the ongoing build of over 180 apartments in Northcote, Auckland, and future construction of a new Auckland Holiday Inn.

The freehold property and turn-key motel operation at 99 Kaimanawa Street, Taupō, are being marketed for sale by Deadline Private Treaty closing on Friday 6 December (unless sold prior), through Wayne Keene, Steve Pett and Lucy Baxter of Bayleys Real Estate.

The property is being offered with a staged settlement option, allowing buyers flexibility in managing their investment.

“This is a unique opportunity to secure a new turn-key 26-room accommodation facility in one of New Zealand’s top visitor destinations,” said Keene, who is Bayleys’ national director for hotels, tourism and leisure sales.

“New Zealand’s international visitor arrivals continue to increase back towards pre-Covid highs. Taupō remains one of the country's favoured destinations, with strengths including the corporate and ever-increasing Free Independent Traveller market.

“The town’s accommodation providers performed exceptionally well in the latest Hotel Data New Zealand figures, surpassing some major cities in revenue per available room and average daily rate. This makes it an appealing option for savvy investors.

“As the OCR continues to trend downward, confidence in tourism investment is on the rise. We’re seeing increased interest from offshore investors eager to relocate funds, signalling a vibrant future for our tourism sector,” said Keene.

Pett said Taupō’s year-round tourism, fuelled by striking natural landscapes and an array of outdoor activities, made it an attractive place for a new hospitality venture.

“The proposed motel’s location benefits from year-round tourism driven by outdoor activities, iconic attractions, and proximity to Taupō’s CBD. With strong demand for premium accommodation in the region, this project stands as a promising investment in the thriving Taupō market.

“The new motel will cater to both local and international tourists seeking luxury accommodation in this vibrant holiday hotspot.

“The proposed design features a sleek, modern aesthetic aimed at providing a luxurious guest experience at a self-rated four-star level.

“Modular construction offers the advantage of faster build times, minimising disruption, delays and costs, and ensuring quicker delivery for new developments,” said Pett

The Kaimanawa Street site forms part of the Spa Road Mixed Use Environment zone under Taupō’s district plan.

Baxter said this precinct had evolved in recent years from a mostly residential area into a lively blend of housing, light industrial, commercial and community activities.

“The Kaimanawa Street site is next door to a fine dining restaurant, and within a 15-minute walk of all the cafes, restaurants, bars and shops of the vibrant town centre. Positioned just off the corner of Spa Road, a main arterial route, a future motel here will be less than five minutes’ drive from State Highway 1 north and south bound.

“Its proximity to several iconic tourist attractions makes it a prime location for future motel guests. Lake Taupō, Huka Falls, AJ Hackett Bungy and the Taupō Events Centre are all within close reach.

“Positioned in the heart of the North Island, Taupō is a hub for a wider adventure playground famed for activities like fishing, jet-boating, and mountain biking, as well as golfing and geothermal sightseeing. Nearby Tongariro National Park offers world-class skiing and hiking, making Taupō a top holiday destination for all seasons,” Baxter said.