Hanmer Springs Retreat

We were making our way to Nelson, and this was a perfect location for us, so close to the hot spring pools. The room was very clean and tidy, and it was cool when we arrived on a hot day. Check-in was friendly and easy, and the shower pressure was great. With a restaurant on site, we didn’t have to go elsewhere to find food. We could have a few beers and walk back to the room. We’ll definitely be back.

The restaurant on site is open often, serves delicious meals, has great servings, and is well priced. Definitely try it. The staff were friendly and helpful, and our generous, comfortable room had lots of thoughtful extras. We enjoyed the selection of TV channels, parking was easy, and it was definitely worth a stay.

My Japanese student and her friend were surprised and disappointed by the service they received at Hanmer Retreat over Labour Weekend. They had chosen it online for a relaxing two-day holiday and arrived by Hanmer Express shuttle bus at 11am on Friday. They walked over to ask if the hotel could hold their small bags, but Reception was empty and nobody answered when they called the phone number. So they left on foot and returned at check-in time. When they checked out at 10am on Saturday, they asked if their bags could be kept until early afternoon. The woman at Reception said that wasn’t possible. I find the customer service unacceptable. If our country wants to welcome visitors, I’d suggest hiring staff with a welcoming attitude who are willing to go the extra mile. Otherwise, people won’t recommend the business.

The room and location were good, and the room was spacious with a soft, comfortable bed. Customer service was OK, but not friendly. The breakfast was horrible, with nothing warm, and the guy at the breakfast restaurant was almost rude and not friendly at all. That breakfast and service ruined the stay for us, so we’re never coming back. We paid over $1000 for 7 of us, and it just wasn’t worth it.