New owners for the Ōhope Beach Resort

Aston Palmer

Well known Whakatāne real estate couple Chris Robson and Arlene Davidson are the new owners of the Ōhope Beach Resort business.

The pair stepped into the management role on March 30 and have already hosted two wedding parties, a business group, several golf groups, and evacuees during a recent cyclone.

Both are trained real estate agents and have taken on the venture to give back to their community.

Ms Davidson is managing the day-to-day operations of the resort, while Mr Robson continues his work in real estate.

The resort features 30 apartments, some of which are occupied year-round by permanent residents.

Others are used as holiday homes by their owners and rented out when not in use, with bookings managed by the couple.

As winter approaches, the resort is entering a quieter period, although the new owners say it remains an appealing destination year-round.

Mr Robson and Ms Davidson say their background in real estate has helped prepare them for managing the property, and they are continuing to learn new ways to enhance the experience for both guests and residents. They are also exploring new offerings, including wedding and golf packages. The resort is situated near several courses, including Ōhope Beach Golf Links.

There are two types of accommodation available, two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments and four-bedroom, two-bathroom penthouse apartments, which offer views of both the ocean and the harbour.

All units are fully self-contained, with amenities such as washing machines and dryers, and each apartment reflects the personal touches of its owner through décor, books, and board games.

The penthouse apartments can accommodate up to seven people, while the standard apartments sleep up to four.

Guests have access to a range of facilities, including a tennis court, lap pool, seawater pool, two spa pools, a gym, a sauna, and a shared common area with a small library. The complex is made up of two main towers, Ocean View Tower and Harbour View Tower, and a smaller block.

The beach lies on one side of the resort, with the harbour on the other, giving the towers their names. Secure underground parking is also available.

Located next door is the Port Ōhope General Store and Café.

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