|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
A beloved historic landmark in North Waikato has marked 150 years of continuous hospitality.
On July 13, the hotel brought together former staff, local families, descendants of early settlers, and the wider community for a night of reflection, reconnection, and pride.
The event commemorated the rich history of the hotel: from its beginnings as a country inn to the boutique accommodation and event venue it is today.
Tuakau Hotel director Dee Bond said attendees enjoyed a visual journey through the hotel’s past, a taste of history with a recreated dessert from 1901, and stories that spanned generations.
“This place … it holds so many stories. It’s seen generations walk through its doors — locals, travellers, families, friends.
“This celebration is more than just a milestone — it’s a moment to pause, look around, and appreciate the people who’ve helped carry this place through the decades.”
Director Neil Young said the hotel has lived through world wars, economic crashes, and pandemics, and it’s still standing strong.
“That’s not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about continuity, resilience, and bringing people together through time.”
The 150-year celebration of hospitality was not only a nod to the past but also a celebration of the people — from hardworking team members to loyal locals — who have shaped its legacy.
One of Tuakau’s oldest residents, David Barnes, led the cake-cutting ceremony. He was also custodian of the Tuakau Memorial Hall for over 60 years and is a respected community figure known for his long-standing involvement in countless community initiatives.
He was joined by Rob Collins, the great-grandson of John Collins, who established the first Tuakau Hotel.
Established in 1875, the Tuakau Hotel began as a country inn serving early settlers and travellers passing through the region. Over the decades, it has remained a cornerstone of the town, surviving changes in ownership, the ebb and flow of rural life, and the challenges of a modern hospitality industry.
Today, it continues to offer boutique accommodation, conference spaces, and an on-site bar that reflects the hotel’s friendly, small-town spirit, all while honouring its heritage with a renewed sense of purpose. Tuakau Hotel continues to stand as a symbol of enduring community spirit and country hospitality — one that has evolved with the times while never forgetting its roots.
