John McHugh: recognized for a lifetime of service and dedication to the industry and community. Image by Carmen Bird.
Publican John McHugh, owner of the Central Southland Lodge in Winton, has been inducted into the Hospitality New Zealand Hall of Fame in recognition of his contribution to the hospitality industry and to his local community.
In May this year John and his wife Nancy celebrated 25 years at the helm of the local Winton pub.
“Known to the locals and the wider hospitality industry as Chub, John has contributed so much to the industry and his community over the last 25 years,” says Vicki Lee, CEO of Hospitality New Zealand.
“Having entered the industry only a few months ago, it soon became apparent to me that there are some incredible people in our industry and Chub was at the top of that list. After hearing of all of his achievements, the incredible amount of time and support he gave to the industry, the association and his community, he was an obvious and very worthy candidate for the Hall of Fame.”
John was Hospitality New Zealand Southland Branch President for over 20 years and served 11 years on the Hospitality New Zealand National Board. Alongside running his business, he has also been a Local Community Board member for 18 years, the last 15 years as Chair.
John says he was humbled to have received the award. “The hospitality industry has served my wife Nancy and I incredibly well over the years, and when you love the industry and the community you work in, naturally you want to give something back. We see our business as a hub for the community but you have to put the effort in at the grassroots to ensure small rural communities like ours thrive and have a sense of pride.”
“Much has changed over the years, especially with law changes around the sale and supply of alcohol, smoking, drink driving and gaming, to name a few. This has been challenging at times and you have to be prepared to move with the times to survive. Thankfully, we have always has great local people working for us and as a result, 25 years on in the industry, we are still loving it.”
