Our Story
We moved to Cromwell in December 2014 after purchasing Carrick Lodge Motel. We are not new to the Accommodation business as we were the first leasees of the Bella Vista Motel in Te Anau and after selling in 2006 we jumped the ditch and spent 6 years in Australia – Mainly in Mackay Queensland. The call home became too strong and we chose to return. We wanted our Daughter Jaclyn to cement the beauty of NZ firmly in her heart and we are certainly not regretting the decision.
Doug is a Butcher by trade and in Australia he completed an Adult Apprentiship in Civil Construction. His official job titles now at Central Park Apartments are too numerous to list. His love for Motorsport may have had something to do with our decision to move next door to Highlands. He spends many enjoyable hours volunteering at the track giving back to a sport he is so passionate about. He also Pit crews at Speedway and Hard Track. Much less expensive than driving himself so his days off during the season are given happily in lieu of an open cheque book! If he corners you be prepared for enthusiastic car conversations.
Jaclyn adjusted well to living in a business situation but has finally moved out! In Australia she was a regular Bindy Irwin handling all kinds of wriggling creatures much to my horror. She is now studying to be a Vet Nurse via correspondence while employed full time as an Equine Vet Nurse in the Region. She still enjoys playing Rugby, Jujitsu, Snow/Water Skiing and is a competitive Equestrian – any sponsorship enquiries are well received…. She also gives Doug a run for his money on the Highlands Go Carts so a little petrol runs in her veins - inherited from her Father no doubt.
My hospitality initiation began in Te Anau intermitted with a number of years travelling overseas. In Mackay I worked for State and Local Government in Administration, Finance and Compliance positions and these are the strengths I bring to our Business. My passion is a different kind of horse power so I support Jaclyn with her riding. I am also a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations – in other words a Mother and Wife. Thought I had graduated when Jaclyn moved out but now doing a Masters... not a well-paid position but a very rewarding one!
We hope you enjoy your stay with us – if there is anything we can do to make your stay memorable please let us know.
Kind Regards
Marg, Doug and Jaclyn Hay
