Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square

The buffet breakfast had a good range, including breads, cheeses, cereal and fresh fruit, and it was nicely presented. The staff were welcoming, and the dining room had a pleasant atmosphere. My only disappointment was the live egg station. Nobody was there when I arrived, and even with no queue, a simple omelette took more than 15 minutes. That interrupted an otherwise smooth breakfast. Overall, it was a good meal, but the egg station needs better management.

The staff were helpful and friendly, and breakfast was tasty with a good spread. The location is convenient too, opposite the Cathedral and within walking distance of town. The rooms were clean, but quite dated and due for an upgrade. The bathroom layout is a little odd, with the vanity outside, and the amenities are very basic.

Attn: GM of Novotel Our coach from Queestown broke down, so we emailed to ask the hotel not to give our room away. We never got a reply, which caused us unnecessary stress. After arriving 13 hours late, cold and exhausted, we felt humiliated and ridiculed by Duty Manager Monish. At check-in, my husband asked about welcome drinks because we’re platinum and gold card members. Monish said they were in the app. When my husband showed him the app wasn’t working, he replied that it wasn’t his problem because he hadn’t made the app. That’s what a DUTY MANAGER said to us. I asked for an extra card to keep the power on, but he claimed there should already be one instead of giving us a card. After 13 hours of travel, our devices were low on battery and we needed to charge them while we went to dinner. There was no card in the slot. We were too tired to go back up just to put one in and then head out again, and most restaurants were closing. I felt he must have been enjoying making us feel played. He made other small insults too, until I had to remind him I’m a platinum card member and we’ve been Accor plus members for over 20 years, so we’re no green horns. Honestly, this was the worst duty manager. I think he has an attitude problem, and if a platinum member is treated like this, I hate to think what happens to ordinary members or the staff who work under him. Jenny at the front desk was the opposite, always smiling, very nice and helpful. Maybe she should be the duty manager. The rooms were nice and the location was great. Renard Family Rm 1311

The welcome felt personal from the start. Staff greeted me with genuine smiles, made an effort to remember my name and said hello whenever I came through the foyer. They were attentive and ready to help with directions or anything else I needed. The room was comfortable, clean and had the amenities I needed, with a cozy feel. We all left with lovely memories and felt well looked after. I’d highly recommend this hotel for its friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.