Bella Vista's Blog

As New Zealand becomes more accustomed to a future that will be dominated by electric powered vehicles (EV), Don & Sharon Macmillan at Bella Vista Whangarei have taken note and installed the first electric charging point of any Whangarei accommodation provider.

The Government’s target of 64,000 Electric Vehicles by 2021 will mean growth in EV usage across all travel sectors including Private, Corporate and Leisure travllers. Furthermore, it is understood a number of leading New Zealand car-rental companies are now considering introducing EV's into their fleets. Those vehicles will need accommodation providers who are able to offer, at the minimum, an overnight charging station.

"It was a little bit of a no-brainer" said Mrs Macmillan. "There was very little hassle involved and we are now able to offer charging facilities for two EV's every night." "Health and safety legislation has effectively ensured, and quite rightly, that you couldn't take shortcuts to offer this service"

Mrs Macmillan commented that whilst take-up has been limited to date, they wanted to stay ahead of the game and future-proof their business. "Our corporate booking agents in Auckland and Wellington are already asking if we have EV stations, so it is only a matter of time" When asked about the cost to her customers, Mrs Macmillan said "We'll be applying a nominal amount on top of our room rate to ensure any overnight charging covers our cost. It's primarily about service and added value for our customers."
 

Whangarei Bella Vista is a Qualmark endorsed four star plus rated motel. The property offers 18 superior units, is conveniently situated close to the CBD and the main Auckland-Northland highway and caters to every type of traveller needing an overnight break in Whangarei and to those using the town as a base to explore other local destinations.

Bella Vista General Manager Rob Burnell said he was delighted that Bella Vista Whangarei have taken this step. “Bella Vista Accommodation Nationwide will be extending the provision of overnight EV charging across its network of 27 motels in the coming year. We’ve been encouraging our business owners to think ahead in all areas of their business to ensure they are meeting the needs of an ever evolving market place”

For further information contact Bella Vista Whangarei on 09 438 6990