1497 days ago

Hanmer Springs desperate for summer staff as shortage leaves operators cutting hours

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

Tourism hotspot Hanmer Springs is calling for a fresh supply of workers over summer, with retail, tourism and hospitality venues all desperately seeking staff.

A housing shortage and transient workers have meant several operators have needed to reduce their hours, despite being fully booked for the upcoming season.

Alan McNabb owns and operates five venues in the village – Monteith’s Brewery, Finn’s Irish Pub, Roasted Bean Cafe, Fire and Ice Restaurant and the Alpine Village Inn.

He said despite last summer setting record visitor numbers in the tiny North Canterbury tourist town, they can’t find return workers.

“It’s horrific. I’ve lost 13 staff over the last three weeks and am about to lose another three chefs. We’ve cut opening hours so we can give the few staff we do have breaks.

“I need at least another 10 to 15 staff to get through this summer, but I have nowhere for them to stay either.” Read more here.

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