Meet The Team

Jayesh Bala

Born and raised in Rotorua with 20 years hospitality experience across New Zealand and Australia.

A strong desire to return home and the opportunity to work in one of New Zealand’s exciting regions was just too good to pass up. Jayesh and his young family are excited to be in Taranaki and enjoy the diverse and fun lifestyle that is offers.

Jayesh has the pleasure leading an energetic and passionate team of hospitality professionals that are committed to delivering exceptional guests experiences.

DDI: 06 769 9723
gm@novotelnewplymouth.com

Mariska Botha

Born and raised in South Africa, Mariska immigrated to New Zealand in 2015 and has lived in Taranaki ever since.

With over 20 years’ hospitality experience gained from various roles and a passion for the industry and its people, Mariska is here to support our HOD’s and take care of all things Human Resources related.

DDI: 06 769 9720
bsm@novotelnewplymouth.com

Jesslyn Tan

Jess is originally from Malaysia and moved to New Zealand 5 years ago. She started her housekeeping journey during her university days, working part time at a local motel.

She joined the Novotel family over three years ago and immediately showed professionalism, drive and ambition. Quickly working her way to a supervisor role, and now taking the lead as head housekeeper. Making the hotel sparkling clean is one of her specialties.

DDI: 06 769 9728
hk@novotelnewplymouth.com

Shailaja Bhandari

Shailaja is originally from India, with over 9 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, working with international brands such as the Marriott, Hyatt and Millennium hotels.

Shailaja joined the Novotel back in 2019, whilst completing her master’s at the Pacific International Hotel Management School, here in Taranaki. Working her way from a casual food and beverage attendant, to quickly becoming service manager and now leading our fantastic team as the food and beverage manager.

Shailaja loves new Plymouth. She lives here with her two children and husband and has happily settled into the New Plymouth lifestyle.

DDI: 06 769 9722
restaurant@novotelnewplymouth.com

Richard Ponder

The main man behind our incredible kitchen team! You may recognise this face, but don’t be mistaken, it’s not his twin Freddie Ponder. Originally from the UK, this is where Richard first found his passion for food and started his career as a chef, he then travelled to France, New Zealand and Australia to experience a different culinary journey, but soon found his way back to New Plymouth, where he and his kiwi wife live with their adorable five children!

Some would ask, how does a man with a wife, five children and a whole kitchen to look after get any spare time, to which Richard would answer ‘it’s easy’ whilst heading to the beach for a surf! That’s why the team here at Novotel love him! Don’t forget its Richard not Freddie

DDI: 06 769 9727
execchef@novotelnewplymouth.com

Sarah Toon

Originally from the UK, Sarah joined the Novotel team after moving to Taranaki with her husband back in 2019. Sarah has an extensive background in hospitality, with over 17 years’ experience in the industry. From managing restaurants & bars, planning & managing events, right through to recruitment. She then found her passion of marketing hospitality businesses.

After a recent move back to Christchurch, Sarah currently works remotely for the Novotel, although regularly coming back to visit all the wonderful things Taranaki has to offer and touch base with the awesome team! Celebrating over 6 years with the Novotel!

DDI: 06 769 9579
marketing@novotelnewplymouth.com

Alana Buckthought

Born and raised right here in New Plymouth, Taranaki, Alana joined the Novotel team in September this year, bringing a strong background in administration and valuable experience as a business owner. She believes event management is more than just a job, it’s something she truly loves. For Alana, there’s nothing more rewarding than bringing people together, creating experiences that leave a lasting impression, and seeing the joy that comes from a well-planned event.

Outside of work, Alana enjoys spending time with her three-year-old, and when she’s not in mum mode, you’ll find her throwing weights around at CrossFit or tearing up the track in her stockcar at speedway.

DDI: 06 769 9726
events@novotelnewplymouth.com

Josh Cleaver

Born in Taranaki, Josh brings a wealth of diverse experience to his role as Sales Manager. His career spans a wide range of positions, many of which naturally connect back to hospitality, customer service, and community engagement. That foundation has shaped his passion for genuine connection, personalised service, and creating meaningful experiences for every guest or client he works with.

With a strong focus on understanding what customers truly need, he is committed to building lasting partnerships and elevating the experience of those choosing Novotel New Plymouth. Deeply tied to the Taranaki community, Josh is proud to represent a region he knows and loves, and to champion local relationships that help the hotel continue to thrive.

DDI: 06 769 9579 (EXT. 703)
sales@novotelnewplymouth.com