Kowhai & Colonial Motel

We had a wonderful stay. The room had good amenities, the showers were nice and hot, and it was convenient to park right outside. The motel is very close to all the shops.

We were glad to leave and won’t be coming back. We’d specifically asked for a quiet room, but got one right by the road, with all sorts of dodgy stuff going on until the early hours. There was no hot water in the shower for the first 24 hours. One afternoon we came back to find ants all over the floor and walls and throughout our food. We’re clean, tidy people, so it wasn’t our fault. The spa that was “included with our room” wasn’t even filled and ready, which was disappointing since we’d been looking forward to it.

Travelling to Rotorua four times a year to see family, I used to book the big, popular high-rise hotels. I don’t anymore. Life brings enough challenges without arriving at a motel and wondering what you’ve booked yourself into. This was my first trip without my husband, and I felt alone, worried about safety, and dreaded the emotional strain. Instead, I’ve had an amazing experience. This is now my number one place to stay in Rotorua. You have to experience it yourself. I’ve made new memories and felt safe and loved.

The friendly staff were happy to help whenever I asked, but I still wouldn’t recommend staying here unless it was a last resort. The rooms are very old, the location is noisy, and parking is terrible. I had the worst night’s sleep I can remember because the mattresses felt lumpy and I could feel where they joined. The lighting is outdated and needs an upgrade, and I couldn’t watch TV.