Cook's Lookout Motel

We stayed at Cook’s Look Motel for one night, 20-21 June 2025, and were very disappointed. The room was in unacceptable condition: dusty bedsheets and couch, a strong unpleasant smell, no heating, a loose water tap, and no smoke alarm. When we raised this with the host, we were told the room is usually reserved for guests with pets and hadn't been properly cleaned because the cleaning staff member was off sick. We were also told it had been unoccupied for a while, which had made the condition worse. There were three of us, with bacterial allergies, dermatitis, and asthma, so the room felt extremely unhealthy for us. It was upsetting to discover its condition only after arriving and starting to have allergic reactions. We weren't told about any of this while booking or at check-in, only after we complained. A “No Smoking” sign was displayed only in Chinese. We fully support non-smoking policies, but singling out one language felt targeted and inappropriate. We left feeling misled and disappointed, as if important information had been withheld. Would not recommend.

We got what we came for, and more. The chairs on the deck overlooking Paihia were great, and Cooks Lookout gave us the quiet, peaceful views and relaxing week we wanted at a good price. Over 11 years of traveling NZ, we've stayed in all kinds of places depending on whether we're bringing our dog, looking for a retreat, traveling for business or fishing, or taking a family or group trip. For this week in Paihia, we wanted value, quiet, and a pool, without luxury, pretension, or camping in heat or rain. We brought our little Maltese, our jet ski, a chilly bin, and basic groceries and pantry items. We didn't need to bring bed linens or towels; they were provided and clean. We used the convenient laundry room during the week at $4 a load. The kitchen had the basics, and management could provide anything else we needed on request. The pool was really refreshing and tended to daily, making for wonderful afternoon swims. Cooks Lookout is a rustic retreat for people wanting a relaxing break without the unnecessary extras that come with expensive American chain hotels.

Lovely view and friendly owners, but Paihia town isn't within walking distance. There were lots of mosquitoes and no window screens to keep them out. With the windows shut to block insects and no air conditioning, it got very hot. It's dog friendly, which is great for dog owners, though not so great if the dogs next door bark a lot, sometimes for hours.

Norm and Sheila were lovely hosts, always friendly and chatty, and really kind to my son and me. They made us feel welcome the whole time. I stayed three nights over Easter with my seven-year-old. The room was tidy and clean, with a very comfortable bed, modern bathroom, and the usual kitchen basics: fridge, microwave, toaster, jug, utensils, and more. The pool was huge and beautifully looked after, there was a great trampoline for kids, and the views were exceptional. It was tranquil, with amazing bright stars at night. The beach is a short drive away, and there are supermarkets and restaurants nearby. I would've liked a hairdryer, though I'm sure Sheila would have found me one if I'd asked. Be polite to your hosts and they'll bend over backwards for you. Highly recommend.