DAVID and Carol Digby owners of Eastern Taranaki Experience decided they wanted to branch out and expand their business.
Because the business is already going from strength to strength in the summer months the couple decided on a plan to enhance the business during winter their quieter season.
The couple decided to open a 'flashpackers' an upmarket accommodation lodge for backpackers and tourists.
The business venture would compliment what they already offered and take it to the next level by offering exclusive packages with accommodation available.
Eastern Taranaki Experience is now into its seventh season and the Digby's are looking forward to the extra level of service they can now provide.
One package the couple are currently working on includes airport transfers, accommodation, transport and a tour.
The couple have named their accommodation business the Stratford Heritage Lodge.
The name was chosen for several reasons to honour the heritage of the mountain, the town, Shakespeare, the house and of course the couple's heritage trail.
The lodge was originally the Sisters of the Mission Convent and the couple bought the property after it was on the market for only two hours.
"We knew the convent was perfect for what we wanted to do everything just seemed to fall into place," said Carol.
The lodge will cater for 10-12 people, as well as having private living quarters for the Digby's.
The lodge features seven rooms (two queens, two twins and three singles), a lounge, kitchen and laundry.
The Chapel has been converted into the lounge, with the beautiful stained glass windows a prominent feature of the room.
The lounge has been named 'Bernadette's Lounge' in honour of Sister Bernadette O'Neill (the last sister living in the convent) and the mission.
Old photos and a few items will be displayed throughout the house to celebrate its history.
Currently the couple are in the middle of upgrading the businesses website to feature the lodge and their summer tours.
The lodge will be opened on Wednesday, October 29, 2008 exactly 30 years after the convent was reopened in 1978.
The couple invite the community to have a wander around and look at the improvements made to the convent. The lodge will be open to the public for drinks and nibbles from 11am-2pm.
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