Anndion Awards

Anndion Lodge Winner of the 2011  Wanganui Incorporated – Hospitality and Tourism Achievement Award

Comments from the judges:

In 2004 Anne and Dion Ngatai bought their first accommodation premises at 143 Anzac Parade.  Since then they have pursued an opportunistic strategy of growth, and a deliberate strategy of excellence.

Now, a mere seven years later, Anndion Lodge provides 4 plus star rating accommodation for 54 guests; conference facilities for 60 ; a restaurant and bar; and, is increasingly sought after as a wedding and special function venue for up to 130 guests.  Quite how they maintained this energy and commitment, at a time when others would have failed, is known only to themselves.

They enjoyed a first holiday last year, and have recently made fulltime appointments to the front of house and restaurant and bar.  Despite this rapid growth they have maintained their core values of relaxation, inclusion, and friendship, being named by Lonely Planet as the pick of accommodation in the area.

Anndion Lodge – Winner of the 2010 Massey University Wanganui Business Awards “Action Coach – Hospitality Award”

Script from Dr James Lockhart:

Anne and Dion have picked up the City’s hospitality award.  Over the last three years Anndion Lodge has been progressively developed to now include a lodge, apartments, conference centre and  hospitality venue.

The tireless devotion of the owners towards their guests, and now customers, and commitment to creating a very well presented venue is faultless.  They fill a much needed position in the market, and provide a style of service with ‘family-like’ familiarity and warmth seldom found in the mainstream.”

Anndion Lodge – Winner of the 2009 Wanganui INC. Wanganui Business Awards
“Wanganui INC. – Leisure and Tourism Award”

Comments from the judges: “Anndion Lodge’s continued growth, which now incorporates conference facilities, has brought new capability to the City with their well defined model of relaxation and inclusion.

Over the last twelve months their premises have nearly doubled in size, reflecting a commitment to growth…”

Winner of the 2008 ABN.AMBRO Craigs Wanganui Business Awards
“Genesis Energy – Innovative Award”

Comments from the judges: “Innovation and technology, coupled with well-trained and dedicated people, is the driving force behind Anndion Lodge. We typically associate innovation with technology, however, this year, the judges were impressed by the range of innovative accommodation solutions being provided by Anndion Lodge.

Within the same premises, travellers and guests can experience everything from Five Star Backpackers to genuine Four Star 1/2 Motelier style accommodation – all with the same central model of relaxation, inclusion and friendship.”