Sol Kerzner finalises Hayman Island management agreement

South African hotel baron Sol Kerzner has entered into an agreement with Malaysian-backed company Mulpha Australia to assume management of one of Australia's most prized luxury Island resorts - Hayman Island.  

Under the deal announced today between Mulpha and Mr Kerzner's international hotel group, Kerzner International, the iconic resort will undergo a multi-million dollar renovation and be re-launched as One&Only Hayman Island in April 2014 - the first of its kind in Australia.

Mulpha will maintain full ownership of the island and the resort.

Mulpha executive chairman Seng Huang Lee described the partnership as the start of a "new era for the resort under their One&Only brand”.  

Kerzner International’s One&Only brand - located in the Bahamas, Mexico, Mauritius, the Maldives, South Africa and Dubai - is considered to be one of the finest luxury resort properties in the world and known for its "blow away the customer" experience.

Mr Kerzner was not available for immediate comment but sources told Property Observer he is due to arrive in Australia later this month for a three day visit.

Kerzner International chief executive Alan Leibman said Hayman was the perfect destination for the first One&Only brand in Australia and “I know the resort will be well received by our many loyal One&Only guests, as well as guests that have been enjoying Hayman for years."

“My personal commitment is to make One&Only Hayman Island a must stay for the well-travelled to explore the wonders of this magnificent destination.”

DBI Design, in partnership with the Kerzner International Development Team, has been engaged for the interior design and landscape architecture for the resort’s rebirth.

In a glimpse of what is to come, the new Hayman rooms and Hayman suites, featuring ocean and lagoon views, will be introduced with reimagined interiors and amenities and the iconic pool will be renewed. A variety of world-class cuisines overseen by internationally acclaimed chefs will also be introduced, along with a One&Only Health Spa.

As part of the ongoing development and investment programme, Mulpha will continue a staged rollout of the ultra- luxury Hayman Private Residences and Hayman Marina Residences offering private ownership opportunities for select clients and guests.