First built at the turn of the century, one of many in the town that catered to miners and travellers.

It was one of the finest hostelries in town.

Built by Mr E. Morgan, it had 75 rooms and was called originally the New Central Hotel.

With a declining population the Central lost even more trade, but once again a tragedy brought it temporary relief. When the influenza epidemic hit Waihi after the First World War the hotel became a hospital. Patients who recovered may have appreciated their elegant surroundings but all too many were taken down that curved staircase in coffins.

Not long after the epidemic it was decided to move the hotel to Rotorua where it would be suitable for tourist accommodation.

Mr Joe Ashby, who still lives in Waihi, was the man who carted the sections of the hotel to the Waihi station in his horse-drawn wagon. It was taken to pieces board by board, and every nail taken out as well. A Waihi builder, Mr N. Rowe, supervised the operation.

The timber and fittings were taken to Rotorua by rail and it is believed that the original builder, Mr Morgan, was again employed to reassemble it.

The structure remained almost unchanged and when finished was named the Prince’s Gate Hotel to complement the gates at the domain.

Today, if one looks carefully, the joins can be seen but the twice-built hotel is as solid as ever.

In Waihi children’s playground at the corner of Kenny St and Barry Rd marks the site where the hotel stood a lifetime ago.