On-Site Manager

Kaikōura Waterfront Apartments and Beach Motel are seeking a full-time On-Site Manager (Contractor) to run day-to-day operations of our busy waterfront accommodation sites in Kaikōura.

With 27 properties across two prime waterfront locations, this is a hands-on leadership role where you'll manage everything from guest experience to staff, bookings, payments, revenue and compliance.

This is not a standard motel manager position — it's a full-scope operational contract for an ambitious hospitality professional who thrives on autonomy, variety, and delivering 5-star standards.

This is a live-in role, with on-site accommodation provided as part of the position.

Responsibilities

• Manage reception and guest services, including check-in/check-out, collecting and reconciling payments, and ensuring a premium customer experience.
• Oversee reservations and listings across third-party platforms (Airbnb, Expedia, Booking.com, PriceGenie) to maximise occupancy and revenue (REVPAR).
• Monitor and adjust room rates to optimise yield.
• Manage motel website and social media channels with engaging, up-to-date content.
• Provide monthly occupancy, revenue and budget reports to the business owner.
• Hire, train and manage staff to agreed standards, ensuring strong service delivery.
• Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety requirements.
• Liaise with local tours, activities and event organisers to enhance guest experience and drive bookings.
• Manage hire and upkeep of on-site e-scooters and e-bikes.
• Order and stock-take supplies, minimising waste.
• Oversee booking system (Seekom) and respond to all guest enquiries and feedback in a timely manner.
• Step in personally for cleaning, laundry and grounds maintenance when required.
• Ensure appropriate cover during periods of leave (replacement manager to be approved by ownership).

Why join us?

• Full-time contractor role with scope to shape operations and make the role your own.
• Competitive monthly contract fee.
• A varied role where no two days are the same — from revenue management to guest experience.
• The opportunity to live and work in one of New Zealand's most stunning coastal towns.

Ready to take the lead in Kaikōura? Apply now to become the On-Site Manager for Kaikōura Waterfront Apartments and Beach Motel and bring your hospitality expertise to one of New Zealand’s most beautiful seaside locations.

Competencies

• Proven experience managing motels, hotels, or multi-site short-stay accommodation.
• Strong commercial acumen — confident with budgets, reporting and yield management.
• Skilled in online booking platforms, social media and modern property management systems (Seekom experience a plus).
• Leadership experience with the ability to recruit, train and manage staff.
• Hands-on, proactive and solutions-focused — happy to step in wherever needed.
• Excellent communication and guest relations skills with a natural customer-first mindset.
• Ability to work independently, with resilience and flexibility in a fast-paced environment.
• Desirable: current First Aid Certificate, Gas, Hazardous Substances and Chemical Training.

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