Leviathan Heritage Hotel Dunedin

Having someone at reception around the clock made a real difference. On our first night, a window wouldn’t lock again after we opened it. Since our room was by the fire escape, that felt like a security problem. The clerk moved us to another room where the issue wasn’t there and couldn’t happen, so we weren’t left worrying about it. That first room was basic, as expected for a backpacker place, but had enough facilities and a really nice shower. The bunks felt sturdy, even for a heavy person. There’s a small, slightly tucked-away kitchen downstairs with a big fridge and what seemed like plenty of utensils and dishes, plus a high chair. Upstairs, a sitting room has lovely armchairs and a book nook. Our replacement room was roomy, with a desk where I could set up my computer and write comfortably. Sound insulation between rooms seemed good; we didn’t hear anything from the others. The building is old, with creaky floors and elevators to match, but it still feels solid. Housekeeping were polite and understanding when we didn’t have a “Do Not Disturb” sign, and found us one. The guest washer and dryer each cost 2x$2 per cycle. There was an iron, but it didn’t work for us. We told the staff, and hopefully they’ll sort it out.

The old building has plenty of charm, and the church view is calming. Our room was clean, though the sheets weren’t quite white and I had to wash the bathtub before using it. The customer service spoiled the stay. I called before booking to ask about parking and was told there was a monitored space, which was great. I couldn’t get to my next question, whether there was a kitchen, because the woman hung up. The information book mentions one, so I planned to cook on our second night. But access seemed to be for dorm guests only. At 198 dollars a night, I thought I could use it too, since nothing said otherwise. The manager let me finish cooking my pasta, but remarked on it and told me I had to leave the hotel before 10 a.m. While I was still in the kitchen, a woman staying in the dorms insisted on turning the lights off and gave me hostile looks. I don’t recommend the hotel. Skip the suite and choose the cheaper option.

The hostel itself is very basic, but the bedrooms and bathrooms were clean. There wasn’t any dish soap in the kitchen. The front desk staff were kind and accommodating, apart from one woman. She was very cruel and threatened to report my car for being in the parking lot. After I’d paid, she interrogated me about which of the other staff had let me park there. It seemed obvious to me that she also wanted to stir up trouble with her coworkers, so I wouldn’t say more and left. That encounter left me feeling unsettled and unwell for the rest of my time in Dunedin.

The city location is really convenient, and free parking is included, so it’s great value. Our renovated room had comfortable beds, a nice bathroom, and a hot shower with strong pressure. Reception were very helpful. I’d stay again.