Ika Nui Taupo

The location and atmosphere were great, quiet and central, but the accommodation was disappointing for our family of five. There were only two regular teabags for all of us, and when we went to reception for more at 7 pm, nobody was there. The lounge curtain was torn, the bathroom basin drained very slowly, and there was no remote for the bedroom TV. The fold-out couch was uncomfortable, and the bed sloped so much toward the foot that our heads ended up lower than our feet. When we turned around, we kept losing our pillows. For what we paid, we expected better accommodation and service.

Our room, number 17, stayed quiet even during the holiday season. We were here for two months, and the rooms were tidy and comfortable. The staff were amazing, friendly, and helpful. It’s centrally located, within easy walking distance of town and the main attractions. We were sorry to leave and will definitely stay again.

The lake views were great, and shops were within walking distance. Everything was clean and comfortable, so I’d probably stay again. The receptionist was a bit grumpy, though, and they were stingy with tea bags. There was just one in the room. When I went to reception for more, it was shut, there were none at the tea and coffee station, and nobody answered after I rang the number and left a message. I ended up going to PaknSave to buy some. They advertise reception as open 24/7, which is technically true, but a receptionist is only there around check-in and check-out. If you drink tea, bring your own bags.

The location was good, but that doesn’t excuse the misleading advertising. We booked because of the pool, spa, and games room, only to find one pool and one spa for the whole motel, both with time limits. The games room was dirty and useless: no net, ball, or table tennis bats, and the pool table leaned while the cues were terrible. Our room was dusty, and there was no soap in the shower. Reception hours were very restricted. We paid $400 a night for two nights and felt ripped off. When we complained, the owners said, “the cleaners are human!” and “we can find a solution.” That wasn’t good enough. Worst motel we’ve stayed in. It was worth $150 a night at most, and there are plenty of better motels in Taupo. They may even be breaking the consumer guarantees act.