BOP accommodation provider on a winning streak

Following their recent win at the 2016 Westpac Tauranga Business Awards, Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers recently added another accolade to its collection at the prestigious TNT Golden Backpack Awards for Australasian tourism operators.  

The Bay of Plenty lodgings won the Best Accommodation – New Zealand section at the annual event, held at the Skypoint on the Gold Coast, which was attended by more than 200 guests. 

The awards showcase the best in the adventure and backpacking sector across Australasia. After businesses and organisations are nominated, the awards are open for public voting and the winners are announced. 

This is the second time that owners Sarah Meadows and Matt Young have won the category, taking Best Accommodation in 2014 and making the finals in 2015. They were also TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award winners last year. 

Sarah says it was an honour to be nominated alongside prestigious backpacking organisations such as Base Backpackers Queenstown and YHA New Zealand.  
“These awards are the original and most established awards dedicated to those in the independent travel sector and rewarding companies which work the hardest to make backpacking around Australia and New Zealand that extra bit special. 
“Backpackers now know the Bay is the best place to come to in New Zealand for you to have the best work-life balance, and we have worked hard to provide a network of contacts and support to help our visitors. We supply up to 180 workers to agencies, packhouses, orchards – even mums and dads wanting short-term help, such as babysitting or painting the fence. 
“Thanks to everyone who supported us and put in their vote. We’re honoured to take the top spot and it’s a privilege to help make the Bay of Plenty a destination that visitors rave about.” 

Tourism Bay of Plenty Head of Marketing Kath Low congratulates Sarah and Matt on their achievement and acknowledges their ongoing contribution to the tourism industry in the region.  
“We couldn’t be a thriving, attractive destination without operators who are confident in their knowledge of the region and passionate about what they do.  
“Sarah and Matt are a testament to this, constantly providing outstanding service to every single person that walks through their doors, and we thank them for their hard work and dedication.” 

Kath adds that the regional tourism organisation is always looking to engage and support their industry, and encourages new and existing businesses to make contact. 
 “We know we are only as good as the people who are at the forefront of our industry and we want to ensure we are supporting the businesses and operators who make our tourism industry tick. 
“Please feel free to make contact with myself or any of the team if you would like us to pay a visit, or if you seek guidance or direction in any way.”