Lemon Tree Lodge

We had the Poppy Flower room and it was just right for two. The ocean view from the front deck was gorgeous, and there were chairs to sit in and enjoy it. Inside, the room was beautiful, with a good coffee machine and a large modern bathroom. I wish we'd stayed longer.

From the terrace of this lovely apartment on the hill, we watched dolphins playing in the bay below. It was beautifully furnished with a lot of care, and the location was wonderful. We only regretted not booking a few more days. Simply perfect.

The only real positives at Lemon Tree Lodge in Kaikōura were the gorgeous view from the top room and being close to shops and restaurants. Getting up there meant carrying our bags up a narrow staircase. Service was nonexistent. We paid top-dollar, four-star prices and got what felt like a dressed-up B&B or youth hostel. The mattress and pillows were horrible. There was a kettle in the room, but to make coffee ourselves we had to heat water and go downstairs to the tiny kitchenette. I wouldn't give it half a star.

We still had a good time here. The hotel is in a great spot with a breathtaking sea view, and the small rooms are functional. The internet connection was horrendous, though, and breakfast felt a bit lazy. There's no proper reception, so in theory you might not meet the managers at all during a stay of several days.