The heartbeat behind easy going lakeside stays at The Camp Lake Hāwea
If you’ve ever arrived at The Camp and instantly felt at ease, chances are you’ve crossed paths—directly or indirectly—with our manager, Simon Jackson. As The Camp Manager, Simon is the steady hand behind our relaxed rhythm: the smile at check-in, the calm in a stormy southerly, and the quiet operator making sure the little details feel effortless.
From sunrise coffees on the lakefront to golden evening light over the mountains, Simon keeps the place humming so guests can do what they came for—switch off, soak up the views, and make memories.
A Leader Shaped By The Outdoors
Simon’s leadership style is simple: people first, details always. He blends a deep respect for the land with years of hands-on managing experience, partnering closely with our owners and teams to deliver the kind of Kiwi holiday people return for year after year.
Whether it’s smoothing the path for a busy check-in, coordinating with housekeeping or maintenance, he’s the thread that ties it all together.
Simon shifted to Wānaka ten years ago with his partner, who comes from a multi-generation farming family in the area. His background is broad and people-focused — he’s been CEO of the YMCA in the Greater Wellington region, a Regional Manager and Regional Sales Manager in the hire equipment industry, and co-owner of the Wānaka Berry Farm and B&B.
Camping has always been part of Simon’s family life, visiting many places with his children when they were young. Now a proud grandad, Simon brings that same sense of family and connection into everything he does at The Camp — creating a welcoming environment where guests, staff, and locals alike feel right at home.
Simon joined The Camp in this year and always looks forward to meeting guests in person during their stay.
What “Great” Looks Like At The Camp
For Simon, great guest experience lives in the small moments:
- A warm welcome after a long drive
- Clear communication before, during, and after your stay
- Sparkling facilities, well-kept grounds, and thoughtful touches
- Flexible, “we’ve got you” problem-solving when plans change
He leads by example—happy to see you and always approachable—so our whole team shows up the same way.
Building A Team That Feels Like Whānau
The Camp runs on people. Simon champions a supportive, can-do crew culture where everyone has a voice and takes pride in their patch—front desk, housekeeping, maintenance, glamping, or the food truck and bar. Regular check-ins, clear priorities, and a bit of humour go a long way in the height of summer.
Caring For This Place We Call Home
Nestled between Lake Hāwea and the mountains, The Camp is part of a working high-country legacy. As a keen fisherman himself, Simon takes kaitiakitanga seriously—minimising waste, caring for the whenua, and keeping the grounds healthy for the next generation of campers, anglers, bikers, and barefoot explorers.
Simon’s Tips For a Perfect Day At The Camp
We asked Simon what his perfect day at The Camp would look like if he were in your shoes:
- Morning: Grab a coffee from The Camp Food Truck & Bar, wander the lakefront, and watch the light roll over the peaks.
- Daytime: Rent a bike from The Hub and explore the lakeside trails or head for a swim when the nor’wester warms things up.
- Afternoon: Settle in with a book under the trees; let the kids roam free on their bikes.
- Evening: Wood-fired pizza nights from The Camp Food Truck & Bar, long chats at golden hour—no rush, no fuss.
- After dark: Stargazing from your campsite or Glamping deck – southern sky magic.
Short & Sweet Q&A with Simon
Most underrated moment at The Camp? Early lake light and a still morning.
Favourite rainy-day move? Board games and a hot drink from The Camp Food Truck & Bar.
Best advice for first-timers? Keep it simple—pack layers, slow down, and let the place do the rest.
Come Say Hello
Whether you’re here for glamping, a classic Kiwi bach-style cottage, a family camping mission, or a lakeside holiday home, Simon and the team are ready to welcome you.
Book your stay at The Camp Lake Hāwea and experience the easy, genuine hospitality Simon is known for.
Got a question before you arrive? Get in touch—we’re happy to help you plan the perfect lakeside escape.