Enjoy a suite life at Acacia Cliffs Lodge

Acacia Cliffs Lodge occupies an elevated bush and garden setting at 1/133 Mapara Rd. Photo / Supplied

With breathtaking views of both Lake Taupo and the Kaimanawa Ranges, Taupo's well-regarded Acacia Cliffs Lodge is now for sale.

The plush accommodation provider at 1/133 Mapara Rd, Acacia Bay, is being marketed as a freehold going concern — one comprising land, building and business — through Christopher Brown & Associates Ltd agent Darcy Snowden.

Acacia Cliffs Lodge was built in 2008; designed with floor-to-ceiling doubled-glazed windows to showcase its panorama setting, says Snowden.

"In order to combine a mix of views with superb privacy, the owners choose the present well-elevated 7967sq m site within a bush and garden setting. The location captures all-day sun and protects from the prevailing winds. Also, by keeping to a boutique scale — with just four contemporary suites — the owners have been able to provide an intimate environment for guests. Each suite has its own outdoor furnished deck, a generously sized tiled ensuite with underfloor heating and super-king beds."

The accommodation is constructed over three-levels, three of the four guest suites having lake views, while the fourth — with a garden setting — is the only suite suitable for three guests.

Snowden says the layout comprises three suites on ground level. The next level is the fourth suite, guest's lounge, formal dining and breakfast area, library and an indoor/outdoor entertainment area flowing out onto a deck. The top level is the owner/managers accommodation with two bedrooms, office and bathroom.

There is also a large, separate four-car garage which serves several uses, including as a commercial laundry, he says.

Lodge views include Lake Taupo and the Kaimanawa Ranges. Photo / Supplied

"When setting out to build this luxury lodge the owners had a clear business plan; the aim being both to delight guests the first time around, as well as encouraging repeat business," says Snowden. "Firstly, they chose a popular tourist destination, with Taupo and its year-round activities proving ideal. Secondly they found a property with the previously-mentioned stunning views yet which had complete privacy. And thirdly, they formed close associations with leading national and international inbound and wholesale travel agencies, professional fishing guides, Tourism New Zealand and Destination Great Lake Taupo.

"This last agency regularly uses the lodge when showcasing the region to international media."

He points out that the owners constructed an excellent website, ensuring guests were well informed ahead of booking.

"Lodges tend to attract high-end cliental prepared to pay for privacy and service, and having only four suites helps to enable this business deliver the service levels required."

Snowden says the business is founded upon the foundation of New Zealand's reputation for a clean green environment.

"This is certainly something this Bay of Plenty region lives up to, with its fly fishing, international golf courses, Wairakei and Kinloch each within a 10-15 minute drive; the World Heritage Tongariro National Park and White Island."

He notes that the owners only run Acacia Cliffs Lodge for part of the year.

"They choose to operate it to suit their lifestyle, because with only four suites there's considerably less work than running a motel. Bookings are made in advance through their agents, or the internet, so the owners know when guests are arriving and there are no 'walk-ins'.

"Tariffs are higher than for than a motel, while overheads are much lower. Yet the operation is as profitable as a motel of a similar value and skills required to run it are similar to those required to run a motel. All these factors combine to allow an easy life — the owners can use additional free time during the day to plan ahead for the summer season," says Snowden.

"On the other hand, a new owner may choose to operate things differently, for example, opening year-round or employing a manager."