About us
Bev and Roy Gower - Your hosts
Bev and Roy have been dairy farming in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty for many years and retain their interest in all things rural which makes operating Sarnia Park in the heart of the Waikato such a pleasure. Roy is an avid rugby follower and continues to enjoy his involvement with cattle. At the moment there are 18 polled Angus cross heifers and 8 head of various other ages and breeds of cattle on the few acres of land at Sarnia Park. Bev worked at Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) in the area of technology in education for 24 years and enjoys the daily contact with people. They are committed to ensuring the comfort and enjoyment of the guests at Sarnia Park.
Lisa Martin - Housekeeper
Lisa began working at Sarnia Park as a casual staff member in October, 2009. She moved to the permanent position of housekeeper in February, 2011. Lisa is a valuable member of our team and a welcome member of the team. When she is not working she enjoys planning activities so she can spend quality time with her daughter, Sophie.Julian Acraman - Sous Chef
Julian joins the team at Sarnia Park as Sous Chef and is proving to be a life saver for Carlos who now enjoys days off on a more regular basis.Sebastien Lemercier - Maitre d'
Sebastien has worked in every department in the hospitality industry, from kitchen-hand to chef, valet to receptionist, barman, sommelier and restaurant manager ......
His broad experience has been developed within premium establishments in France, UK, USA, Australia and finally New Zealand. With an eye for detail Sebastien is a professional with a friendly approach to service.
Lisa Neems - Garden Manager
Lisa is our new Garden Manager and we warmly welcome her to the team at Sarnia Park. Ben, her placid golden labrador, spends time in the garden with her and enjoys a swim in the lake on occasions.
Carlos Martinez - Executive Chef
Food has always played a big part in Carlos’s life.
His culinary versatility is evident from the influences he has had from his time growing up in Mexico City & working in restaurants in New York City, New Orleans & Miami Beach. He has been privileged to have worked under the direction of celebrity chefs such as Bobby Flay, Mario Batali & Emeril Lagasse. Carlos has lived in New Zealand for the last ten years and has developed his own style of New Zealand cuisine incorporating season inspired ingredients
