Haka House Repositioning

The Haka House Repositioning Project was a comprehensive refurbishment to transform nine former Youth Hostel Association (YHA) facilities into premium hostel accommodation. Managed by Kensway, the project spanned throughout Aotearoa with locations including Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Franz Josef, Mount Cook, Tekapo, Wanaka, and Queenstown. The refurbishment encompassed a total of 430 rooms and 1,203 beds and the 25° bar in Tekapo.

The project aimed to elevate the hostel experience by enhancing the design and amenities of common areas and individual rooms, introducing technological upgrades such as keyless door systems, and optimising room configurations. The renovation also included the procurement of furniture and fixtures from overseas, with an FF&E budget of approximately $5M.

One of the key highlights of the project was the vibrant murals created by talented Māori artists, Charles and Janine Williams. These artworks added a rich cultural touch to the hostels, reflecting the stories and heritage of Aotearoa.

Despite challenges such as remote locations, weather conditions, and the need to reroute existing services, the project was completed successfully. Some hostels remained operational during the refurbishment, while others were closed to ensure safety and efficiency.

The outcome was a series of rejuvenated high-end hostel accommodations. The blend of meticulous planning and dedicated effort resulted in a transformation that not only met but exceeded expectations, revitalising the properties into vibrant, modern spaces.