Aroha Matthews has been appointed General Manager of Kingsgate Hotel Paihia, a move that brings her Millennium Hotels and Resorts journey full circle. She first joined the organisation in June 2021 as Operations Manager at Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands, only a stone’s throw away from the hotels she will now be leading.

Growing Through the Portfolio

During her first year and a half, Matthews stepped into the Acting General Manager role, demonstrating the capability and people-focused leadership style she has since become known for. In December 2022, she moved into a Relief General Manager role, travelling across the country to support a wide range of hotels, leading diverse teams, strengthening operations, and delivering hands-on project support wherever it was needed.

Most recently, she spent two successful years as General Manager of Copthorne Hotel Greymouth, where she played a key role in building a strong, engaged team, elevating the hotel’s profile, and driving creative initiatives that attracted both travellers and locals to the restaurant and hotel.

Closer to Home

Matthews is known for her practical, hands-on approach, strong organisational skills, resourcefulness, and commitment to achieving targets. She thrives on developing people, fostering positive culture, and delivering consistent guest experiences.

The move to Paihia also brings her closer to her roots and whanau, and her deep knowledge of the Bay of Islands and Northland community will be an asset as she leads the Kingsgate Hotel Paihia team into its next chapter.