New General Manager at The Hermitage Hotel announced
Friday 28 January 2011, 8:49AM
By The Hermitage Hotel
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A new General Manager has been appointed to The Hermitage Hotel Aoraki Mount Cook. Steve Kirkpatrick takes up the role on February 14 bringing the experience of more than 30 years working in the international hospitality industry.
Australian-born Mr Kirkpatrick is welcomed by John Davies, chairman of Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Village Ltd which owns the iconic New Zealand property.
“Steve has an outstanding track record in developing hotels and resorts across Australia and New Zealand. His experience includes working with several high profile companies in and around Australasia and we are delighted to welcome him to The Hermitage,” said Mr Davies.
Mr Kirkpatrick’s career path has included 12 years with Rydges Hotels & Resorts, 13 years with the Southern Pacific Hotel Corporation (now InterContinental Hotels) and most recently, the development of his own accommodation property in Kaikoura. His industry credentials also include the managing directorship of tourism related companies SDK Holdings Ltd and MY Hospitality Management Group.
Mr Kirkpatrick said he was very much looking forward to living and working in the mountains.
“I’m well acquainted with the Mackenzie region and am used to the challenges and rewards of working in remote destinations - it often means thinking well outside the square,” said Mr Kirkpatrick.
“I have a particular passion for the food and beverage industry and I’m keen to look at product delivery and service standards across the property. The Hermitage epitomises true Kiwi-style hospitality.”
Current Hermitage Hotel General Manager Andrew Cleverley, is leaving the area to take up a role as General Manager, Rydges Hotel, Thredbo, Australia.
From its modest beginnings in 1884 as a 12-bed ‘cob’ building to the 217-room combined hotel, motel and chalet complex of today, The Hermitage Hotel has played a huge part in New Zealand’s pioneering history. It’s been a home away from home for climbers like the late Sir Edmund Hillary, and hosted innumerable guests, dignitaries and celebrities from around the world.