The Hanmer Springs Information Centre and Giftshop

words and images supplied by Shane Adcock

Recently Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa (HSTPS) decided to change the way it operates the Hurunui iSITE Information Centre.

The Information Centre will cease to be a member of the national iSITE network and will become the Hanmer Springs Information Centre & Giftshop.

The information centre currently operates as part of the HSTPS organisation and provides information services (DOC, weather, walking and biking info, accommodation options, etc), as well as a retail offering.

The change has been made in response to the iSITE network’s new strategy, which is about to be implemented. HSTPS believe that the new strategy does not fully consider the range of Information Centre ownership and operating models around the country.

The iSITE network’s strategy has several very centralised, mandated aspects that HSTPS feel do not fit with their operation, including point of sale and booking systems, customer satisfaction monitoring and NZ-made retail products.

There are further potential developments through the iSITE network that HSTPS have concerns about, including a central digital booking channel, universal uniforms and centralised commission arrangements.

Whilst the Information Centre will no longer be part of the official iSITE network, it will continue to provide information services, including:

• Information on free and commercial activities and accommodation in Hanmer Springs

• Information on free and commercial activities and accommodation in the Hurunui and the surrounding regions

• DOC information

• Updates such as the weather, track conditions, road closures, library opening times, etc.

There will be a small cost involved in changing the logo and signage, however this is offset by no longer needing to pay an iSITE membership fee.

Next time you are in Hanmer, pop in and check out our Information Centre and Giftshop. We look forward to seeing you!