Magnolia Court motel on Bridge Street has undergone extensive renovation and upgrades as it reopens as a corporate motel for guests, tourists and visiting workers.

With over $250,000 reinvested in the property, owner Ruth Spurway is pleased the motel is returning to its original purpose as a short-term accommodation provider following a difficult experience in emergency housing.

“Over the Covid lockdown we operated as an emergency housing provider to help with the backlog on the housing waiting lists,” she said.

“Unfortunately, during this time there was extensive damage to the property and when the contract came to an end, the motel was virtually stripped bare as tenants moved out.

“My partner and I came to inspect the premises and it was still swarming with people, many of whom were not the original tenants,” she said.

Manager Kourtney Malone has helped oversee the renovation over recent months, coordinating contractors and suppliers as the motel underwent a complete refresh.

The work has included new flooring, painting, furnishings, appliances and landscaping, with many of the units effectively rebuilt. The aim has been to create comfortable, modern accommodation that meets the needs of business travellers, contractors working in the district and visitors exploring the Eastern Bay.

Malone said the response from guests since reopening had been extremely positive, with many commenting on the fresh look and welcoming atmosphere.

“The overwhelming reaction from returning guests has been ‘wow’. There has been a huge amount of work involved, but it is rewarding to see people enjoying the facilities again,” she said.

“We have had one contractor who has been staying for over 20 years and he said the place has never looked so great. We want guests to have a comfortable stay and leave with a good impression of both the motel and Ōpōtiki.”

The completion comes at a time when the district is seeing increasing visitor numbers and major infrastructure and development projects that regularly bring contractors and specialist workers into the area.

Located on Bridge Street, Magnolia Court offers easy access to the town centre, eateries, the Motu Trails, and beaches and outdoor attractions.

Its central location makes it a convenient base for business and leisure travellers.

Spurway said she was grateful to everyone who contributed to the redevelopment and was excited about the future of the business.

“We have invested heavily because we believe in Ōpōtiki and its future.

“It has been wonderful seeing the motel come back to life and return to what it was always intended to be.”