The owners of Otahuna Lodge have assured the public that the historic building will emerge better than ever once work is completed to repair damage caused by the devastating earthquake that rocked Christchurch early on Saturday morning.

The 7.1 magnitude quake was the strongest to hit New Zealand since 1931 and destroyed many local roads, homes and buildings. Owner Hall Cannon said he regretted that Otahuna Lodgewould close until November 15.

“While the gardens are still in good form, we have also been forced to cancel our annual Daffodil Day this month because of safety factors,” he said.

Mr Cannon and Miles Refo had only in 2007 completed an exhaustive restoration project on the 1895 private homestead, before reopening it as a lodge and gaining status as a distinctive member of Relais & Châteaux.

“We have been deeply heartened by the tremendous outpouring of support during this difficult time,” owner Hall Cannon said yesterday. “Most importantly, we and our team are all safe. All guests in-house at the time of the earthquake have also been evacuated safely and re-accommodated elsewhere. 

“We are very relieved this heritage building remains standing and retains its architectural integrity. There has however been damage that will require extensive restorative works to be carried out over the coming months, including restoring the chimneys, roof cavities and internal plastering.

“We have been working around the clock to assess the extent of the damage and have already mobilised tradespeople from around New Zealand.  When works are completed Otahuna will re-emerge even better than before.”

Mr Cannon said the entire team at the Lodge would remain in place during the closure period to help restore the property and make it suitable for guests upon reopening.

“We are accepting forward bookings but in the meantime we are working with our peer properties throughout NZ to re-accommodate guests,” he said.