Gold accreditation awarded to Ashford Motor Lodge
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Ashford Motor Lodge in Christchurch has proudly been awarded Gold Accreditation from Qualmark, recognising its ongoing commitment to quality, sustainability, and guest care.
The Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award is the highest possible rating from Qualmark, Tourism New Zealand’s official quality assurance organisation. It signals to visitors that Ashford Motor Lodge is a trusted, high-quality place to stay that provides excellent service while operating with care for its people, the environment, and the wider community.
This is a special milestone for Ashford Motor Lodge, one of only two ILT-operated motels outside Invercargill offering pet-friendly accommodation, the other being Cable Court Motel.
ILT Chief Executive Chris Ramsay said the recognition is well deserved.
“Shelley and her team have worked hard to ensure the motel runs to a consistently high standard, and that focus shows in the experience guests have at Ashford. It’s an achievement the whole team can be proud of.”
The independent Qualmark review assessed all aspects of the motel’s operations, including health and safety, business systems, culture, and environmental practices. The assessors noted the practical steps being taken to reduce environmental impact and enhance guest experiences.
Ashford Motor Lodge Manager, Shelley Jenkins said the result reflected the entire team’s shared effort.
“This accreditation recognises the high standards our team works hard to uphold each day,” she said. “We’re focused on operating efficiently and ensuring every guest enjoys a consistently high level of comfort and service.”
Ramsay said that having both Ashford Motor Lodge and The Langlands Hotel achieve Gold Accreditation demonstrates ILT’s commitment to consistent hospitality standards across all its accommodation.
“This shows that ILT has the expertise, systems, and people in place to deliver quality outcomes across our properties. Gold Accreditation isn’t coincidental, it’s the result of years of investment, training, and a culture that values excellence.”