Palmerston North can now boast to having the best accommodation hosts in the country, despite the owners only taking over the business four years ago.

Shadzz Motel owners Peter and Roselle Gouwland took out the AA Supreme Host of the Year award at the Motel Association Conference this month.

The award was judged by reviews on AA's website and a mystery customer, with the couple netting a 94 per cent rating in judging.

Mrs Gouwland said they never imagined they'd win an award so soon after getting into the hotel business.

She said they decided to get into the motel trade to ''make a mark'' on people.

''We love people, which is why we did it.

''We want to be involved with people and exceed their needs.''

Being welcoming to regulars was one of the ways they kept people coming back, she said.

''A lot have been staying here for years, even before we were here.

''I welcome them and it's like saying hi to an old friend again.''

Mr Gouwland was quick to share the success with other motels and hotels in the city.

''We found motels in Palmerston North very helpful to each other,'' he said.

''Even though we're in competition, we're helping each other out.

''That's what helps the customers as well.''

The couple entered into the accommodation trade in Palmerston North about four years ago.

They came to the city from Auckland, where the other two finalists for the award are based.

The business employs four housekeeping staff, which the business could not do without, Mrs Gouwland said.

Being in the accommodation business meant always having to be ''on the tips of your toes'', she said.

''You just don't know what's going to happen.''

- © Fairfax NZ News