Whittaker shared his plans for the property, stating, “We’re excited to renovate the lodge and transform it into a cozy tavern. Its prime location within a national park offers great potential for a successful venture.” However, he did not specify a timeline for the renovation process.
The sale price, well below the RV, was attributed to the lodge’s current condition and the seller’s eagerness to sell. Bayleys listing agent Kate Mullins, who represented the property alongside Ben Deans, emphasized the need for extensive renovations, describing the property as “not for the faint of heart.”
Originally built in the 1960s by Swiss ski instructor Hans Bohny and his wife Patricia, The Chalet boasts a rich history within the village. The lodge, which features a dining room, commercial kitchen, bar, and 13 guest rooms, had been vacant for years and required significant restoration work.
Despite its challenges, The Chalet garnered interest from buyers across New Zealand before being sold in late month. The European-inspired property, situated on SH73, holds a special place in the community’s heritage.
Once a thriving coffee shop established by the Bohnys, the lodge evolved into a popular destination with a pub and accommodation facilities. After three decades of successful operation, the property changed hands in the 1990s, marking the end of an era for The Chalet.
