Bianco off Queen

The room was in rough shape, with worn, stained carpet that needs replacing and a bathroom that needs attention. The lock was difficult to open, and the lift didn’t work properly. Reception made us feel unwelcome and offered little help. It was also noisy enough outside that sleeping at night was hard. The person who serviced the room was friendly, at least. When we left, we handed over the key card needed to activate the lift, so we had to walk around to the car park in the rain. Parking costs another $25 a day. One of the worst places I’ve stayed, and I wouldn’t return.

The location was great, and the owner or manager did his best to help after another car damaged ours in the car park. He checked the camera footage, which I really appreciated. The streets were noisy, but that’s part of the city’s busy feel, and the price was good for a week’s stay. The hotel could be much better with a little effort and passion. Our room felt tired, with stains on the carpet and furniture, and the hallway smelled a bit. Full service was only every four days. Staff seemed poorly briefed or trained: we got one sachet of dish detergent for four days, then were told they’d run out when we asked for more. We didn’t want to run the dishwasher for just two plates and utensils, especially with the North Island in drought. The bed base had snapped, and we propped it up with an upside-down drawer and a Bible for three days before anyone dealt with it. Some staff were bright and friendly, while others chose a quick lie instead of helping.

The room was clean and the bed comfortable, which were the good points. The price did reflect the shortcomings, but I wish I’d read the reviews before booking. For a self-rated 4-star apartment, it really wasn’t there: there’s no heating or cooling, fixtures are coming off the walls, the plumbing is backed up, and the furnishings look tired. Make sure every window and door is locked before you go out.

We booked a two-bedroom apartment with two large bathrooms about six months ahead, but were given one with just one small bathroom. Nobody told us about the change beforehand, and the beds hadn’t been made as we’d requested twice. When we asked, they said they’d moved us but gave no real explanation. They did apologize, but essentially said that was that. Eventually they offered a $50 refund, supposedly the price difference for two nights. Or was the apartment rented out for much more because it turned out to be concert weekend? Downgrading guests like this is totally unacceptable.