I first met Helen at a MANZ Regional Seminar where she was one of the guest speakers. I was impressed with Helen's professional manner and realised that we needed her expert advice as new moteliers. Following in depth discussions covering our guest market, the standard of refurbishment required, budget allocation, time frames etc. We were presented with "the programme". It was like Christmas - so exciting! Improvements soon began to take shape and people started to take notice.
Every week now we receive compliments about our motel. We sincerely believe that Helen has saved us thousands of dollars long term. Helen's attention to detail cannot be faulted, and her great sense of humour makes every visit a treat. Today we would not dream of investing any money toward refurbishment without first consulting with Helen.

Keith and Brony Wiggins
Cherry Grove Motel
Havelock North
Qualmark rated: 3 Star Plus.

We have worked with Helen twice over the past 6 years on two major contracts, one Motel Retro Fit and another brand new development.
She has the ability to relieve you of an enormous amount of the stress related to these types of developments, while gently swaying you away from your comfort zones to try new ideas. It has proven to be a very successful business decision dealing with Helen.
No delays, good quality products, accurate delivery targets and all carried out with a lovely patient smile.

Wayne and Jacqui Rowe
Nelson, New Zealand

My wife and myself purchased the lease of a 31 unit motel in 2003. This motel had not had any major work done since it was built in 1986 and was very tired. It had also been in receivership. The complex was not Qualmark rated. In our opinion the rating was 3 star. We had met with Helen previously, but had not had the opportunity to use her services. When we purchased we invited Helen to our property to assess what could be done. We started at the reception. Over the next three years we progressively upgraded the complete complex. Within 12 months Qualmark gave us a 3.5 star. The second year we got a 4 star. The third year was a very comfortable 4 star. Helen designed and sourced all the major items. She gave us colours, materials and trends that would make the customer appreciate a good motel. We managed the project hiring tradesman and sourcing all materials. (paint etc) As lessees getting the right price was important for us. As the business improved we became more involved with the business leaving the majority of the work to Helen and tradesmen. Working with Helen has been SUPER great. She has given this business a good a good kick. And she has given us, as lessees a sound business that we can be proud of. We have now been here 3.5 years and intend to stay for some years to come. We would recommend Helen’s work to anyone in the Motel industry who needs assistance with refurbishing or fitting out from new. Helen understands the motel industry and has our industry at heart. She is also excellent to work with and understands the level of spends desired to be cost effective. We are happy to talk to anyone who is contemplating a refurbishment.
The end result is www.aspenmanor.co.nz (We could not have done it by ourselves.)

June and Joe Bannister
Hamilton

We engaged Helen Whittaker to undertake a major restructure of our property. Helen's advice was instrumental to the success of our motel. She provided strategic advice on the identity, positioning, and refit, as well as overseeing the project from design and procurement through to delivery. We're delighted with the results and positive feedback from our customers is further testament to Helen's expertise.
Helen is simply outstanding. She undertakes a project as if it were own and is completely committed to excellence at every stage. She is incredibly creative, with a sound business head and appreciation for detail, which makes her a joy to work with. We will certainly work with Helen again and wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to others.

Graham Foster
Bentley ' s Motor Inn
Palmerston North

Our 15 unit motel desperately needed upgrading. Helen’s enthusiasm and direction gave us the confidence to embark on a staged refurbishment that incorporated everything to the colour of our down pipes, signage, cards, furniture, etc. She has unified everything in a way we could afford, and continues to assist and support us all the way. No matter how big or small, we would recommend you involve Helen from day one.

Jeff & Lola Ogg
Amble Inn Motel,
Masterton

In 2004 we purchased the lease on a motel property that was yet to be built. We were told from an experienced motelier that Helen Whittaker would be the best person to contact to help us create our modern luxury lodge.

Helen was contracted to purchase all the chattels for our new lodge. From our first phone call our experiences with Helen exceeded our expectations. As we were new to motels Helen’s knowledge of the industry was invaluable to us. She went out of her way time and time again to help us through the challenging times ahead.

Helen really cared about us and the success of our business. She did so many things over and above what she needed to. There is no doubt that without her eye for perfection our motel would not be the luxurious, modern establishment we have today.

Thank you Helen for your friendship and for giving us the best start we could ever imagine to our journey in the motel industry.

Brent & Stephanie Haami
Directors
Arena Lodge
Palmerston North