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A merger between Capstone Hotel Management and Marsden Group will create New Zealand’s largest locally owned hotel management platform, as the sector continues to scale in response to growing visitor demand.
The combined group will operate more than 40 properties nationwide, bringing together Capstone’s third-party management capability with Marsden Group’s investment portfolio.
Scaling to compete with international operators
New chief executive Sajad Bassam says the merger positions the group to compete more effectively with international hotel operators expanding into New Zealand.
“As international hotel operators expand into New Zealand, independent platforms need scale to compete effectively,” Sajad says.
“With Capstone, we are creating a stronger, more scalable group that can pursue opportunities with confidence.”
The group’s growth strategy includes acquisitions, management agreements and new development partnerships across both regional and gateway markets.
Strengthening domestic hotel capability
As part of the merger, Capstone Hotels & Resorts Limited will operate within the enlarged group while retaining its brand identity.
Founder Clare Davies will remain involved as chief operating officer and retain an equity stake.
“It’s an exciting milestone for our business. Our focus is on delivering a seamless integration across our systems, people and operating platforms,” Clare says.
The combined platform will oversee approximately 45 properties and more than 2,500 rooms, strengthening national sales capability and operational scale.
Supporting tourism infrastructure
The merger reflects broader consolidation within the accommodation sector, as operators seek to build scale and capability to support increasing visitor numbers.
A stronger domestic hotel management platform is expected to improve the sector’s ability to respond to demand across both regional destinations and major tourism gateways.
The transaction takes effect from April 1, 2026.
