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Following an extensive search, Canterbury born and bred Sarah Wiblin has been appointed as the new general manager of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa.
Sarah is looking forward to returning from Auckland to her South Island roots and settling, with her young family, in New Zealand’s alpine spa village.
“It’s going to be a huge lifestyle change but I’m ready for it. This is an amazing opportunity,” says Sarah.
She will replace Graeme Abbot, who has managed the complex for 25 years, increasing annual visitor numbers by 80 per cent, growing turnover from $3 million to $14 million, tripling staff numbers and nearly doubling the number of pools in the award-winning attraction.
Chair of the pools’ management committee Grant Lilly says there’s no doubt Graeme’s are big shoes to fill.
“Following Graeme’s legacy is going to be hard but Sarah’s experience in transforming visitor experiences and managing complex, world-class operations, means she is well-equipped to lead our iconic destination into the future.”
Sarah has been general manager of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron since 2022 and led the organisation through a successful transformation.
“This included delivering the squadron’s America’s Cup offerings, replacing all operating systems, managing its diverse activities and assets while developing and delivering a variety of large-scale events, and inbound and outbound tourism and hospitality experiences,” says Sarah.
Sarah describes herself as a ‘big picture thinker’ and someone who likes to get on with the job while enabling the team around her to grow in their roles.
“I’m looking forward to joining the pools’ team. It’s an amazing organisation which has excellent people behind it who know the business inside and out. Together I am confident we’ll take it to the next level,” she says.
Grant says they were “blown away” by the calibre and volume of applicants for the sought after role.
“The high level of interest reflects the incredible foundation built under Graeme’s leadership, the esteem the attraction is held in and the exciting future ahead of us,” Grant says.
The complex is owned by the Hurunui District Council, and its chief executive Hamish Dobbie is pleased with the appointment.
“With more than 500,000 visitors a year, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is a core economic driver for Hurunui and we’re extremely lucky to have someone with Sarah’s skills and experience take up the helm.”
Sarah will move to Hanmer Springs in March with her husband and four-year-old son who is “very excited” to have the complex’s waterslides right on his doorstep.
“Like most Cantabrians, trips to Hanmer Springs were a core feature of my childhood.
“When I told my Mum I had the job, she dug out an old concession ticket to the pools with three entries left on it. I’ve told her I can’t be seen doing favours for family,” laughs Sarah.
Sarah will officially begin her new role on March 31, 2025. Until then, Graeme will remain at the helm.
“We are nearing the end of an era that’s for sure but it’s great to know that the Management Committee has found someone who is enthusiastic, experienced and excited for the role. I have no doubt Sarah will do a great job,” says Graeme.
