The sudden death of hotel owner Lyn Watson last September had meant the old pub was empty for more than six months and the plans for the new "village-style" accommodation were before the Rangitikei District Council, he said.
"We're not looking at a complicated resource consent or anything like that. It's all very straightforward.''
To date, the land around the hotel had been cleared and the new chalet-type huts, once foundation approval was granted, will be built amidst lawns and gardens.
"It will look good and will be attractive. It's on the main highway, so we must make it look really great."
Local builders were waiting on the word to start building.
"And they will start immediately. They'll be real quick too. So you'll see it all up and happening next month."
Dave's plans were to lease out the old bar area of the pub, which he said would be a fantastic small business for someone.
"And all the locals would be thrilled to have the old bar back in action. It's always very popular here."
Nearly 40 shearers would move in at the height of the main shearing season, which starts around the end of October, he said.
"There's a mountain of shearing here from Taihape through to Hunterville. It gets very busy. We've got some huge contracts this season."
And as well as Kiwi shearers, there was always an overseas contingent from Britain, Spain and France, he said.
Dave's own experience over 20 years has been throughout Europe as well as New Zealand.
His love, will always be the Rangitikei region, he said.
"I couldn't leave here, it's beautiful country and the greatest place to live."
He said right now it was the calm before the storm.
"I'm having a wee break at home before it all kicks off.''
As well as his overseas shearers there were young guns coming up from Nelson and Tuatapere in the South Island and experienced guys from throughout the North Island.
"I reckon we're in for a good season.''
