Masterton Motor Lodge offers prime location

Masterton Lodge is at 250 High St, Solway, in the southern part of Masterton. Photo / Supplied

A four star-rated motor lodge, which is poised to expand its conference and functions business, is for sale as a going concern business within leased premises in Masterton.

The Masterton Motor Lodge, at 250 High St, Solway, combines 21 rooms and suites, a restaurant and conference venue. It also has a swimming pool, grass tennis court, volleyball area and children's playground - all set out in the 2.5ha park-like grounds. The business has an asking price of $445,000.

"Masterton Motor Lodge offers a resort-style retreat for families and visitors, and is the perfect venue for conferences and weddings," says Belinda Wotton, of ABC Business Sales.

"Under current ownership, conference bookings are gained through repeat business and referral.

"So a dedicated marketing campaign could increase this side of the business while the picturesque gardens make it an ideal location for outdoor weddings."

She points out the business sale is for the leasehold only.

"The lease period is 25 years and 32 days from July 7, 2000. The landlord granted an extension to the lease to March 31, 2030."

Wotton says Wellington-based businesses use the conference facilities year-round while the restaurant-and-bar opens for dinner six nights a week and for lunch by arrangement.

"The lodge is in a prime location. It's just three minutes' drive from Masterton's town centre. And being next door to the well-known Copthorne Resort Solway Park means it often picks up bookings from the 'spill-over', when the Copthorne is fully booked with conference guests."

Wotton says the lodge also appeals as a weekend getaway, from which guests can explore the Wairarapa's wineries, swimming spots, walkways, cycle tracks, horse treks, summer concerts, race meetings, and food and wine festivals.

The lodge is a member of the Asure Group, which is the country's largest motel chain, and the rest of its bookings are made through the owners' website, booking.com, Expedia/Wotif and Agoda.

"The owner has increased the lodge's presence through social media and constantly updates information," Wotton says. "As a result, it is currently tracking number one in Masterton on booking.com. There is also a blackboard on the roadside near the entrance to the lodge, which the owner has found the most effective form of advertising."

Accommodation comprises nine studios, four Villa Attics (for families), two executive suites, and two units with two bedrooms and four with one. The main reception building houses an additional commercial kitchen and dry store, and the three-bedroom managers' flat.

"Unlike standard motels that open to a concrete forecourt, all of the units open to manicured lawns and beautiful gardens. And the restaurant-and-bar extends to a courtyard with outdoor seating, barbecue and fireplace. The owner has relied on repeat business and referrals but there's a huge opportunity to increase sales by actively marketing the restaurant and conference facilities."