“It’s often in times of adversity that the true spirit of Ubuntu shines through.”

These were the words of African Sky Hotels and Resorts Director, Michael Hagemann, during the Newcastle Inn’s grand reopening on Thursday, July 16.

A hot, sunny Sunday afternoon in November 2025 seemed like just another ordinary summer’s day for the hotel’s guests, staff and management.

They had no idea that a catastrophic flood would soon bring operations in the ground level rooms to a complete halt for the next eight months.

Flood leaves hotel under water

General Manager Johan Pieterse recalled realising something was seriously wrong when water began seeping into the kitchen.

Within minutes, it spread to the bar, restaurant and reception area. Just 45 minutes later, the entire ground floor was under water, leaving 81 hotel rooms completely flooded.

Guests were quickly reassured that they were safe and were relocated to rooms on the upper floor.

A temporary bar was set up in the hotel’s boardroom, ensuring that guests could still enjoy a comfortable stay despite the disruption.

Hotel staff immediately rolled up their sleeves and worked tirelessly for several days after the flood, doing everything they could to save furniture, sweep out the water and clear away debris.

Majuba Lodge stepped in to assist by hosting conferences on behalf of the Newcastle Inn, while Fathima Seedat of New Bali Bed and Breakfast arranged for local shops to open so that brooms, mops and other emergency cleaning supplies could be purchased to assist with the clean-up.

“We really couldn’t have done this without the incredible support we received from our staff, friends, family members and the broader community. They were all just amazing,” said Pieterse.

Hotel returns stronger after rebuild

Despite the traumatic events, the Newcastle Inn wasted no time in rebuilding.

Working with a dedicated team of project managers and contractors, the hotel was repaired, restored and renovated, offering guests an even better experience than before.

Pieterse said the rooms, bar, restaurant and reception areas have been upgraded with new carpets, fresh coats of paint, new furniture, new bedding and linen, as well as improved amenities, including bar fridges and brand-new smart TVs, providing guests with a more comfortable and functional stay.

A grand reopening

To mark the official grand reopening on Thursday, the hotel welcomed project managers, contractors, government officials, guests, staff, management and corporate clients to celebrate the occasion.

Guests enjoyed light refreshments in the newly renovated ‘Gaslight Bar’ before being taken on a guided tour of the refurbished rooms and facilities.

Hagemann thanked everyone who had supported the hotel during and after the disaster.

“Your generosity, compassion and willingness to help during such a challenging time truly embody the spirit of Ubuntu. We are incredibly fortunate to be part of a community that stands together when it matters most,” he concluded.

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