Econo Lodge Wanganui

The room wasn't anything fancy, but it was clean and tidy. Staff and service were excellent, and the restaurant was much better than I expected. The steak was perfect and the restaurant staff were great.

Very central and quiet, and a great place to stay. We booked the motel section, called Econo Lodge, by phone. It was $128 a night for our family of 4. The one-bedroom setup had a queen bed in the bedroom, two single beds in the lounge, a couch, dining table and kitchen with a full oven. The interior is dated, but really clean, and our towels were changed daily.

The courtyard was really nice, and the staff on duty were accommodating. The hotel is near Wanganui Collegiate, though not close enough to walk to the CBD; there is a cafe on the corner. Our room was booked for 3, but there were towels and cups for only two. The decor was dated and the cleaning wasn't up to standard, with a dirty oven and glasses and dust on the skirting boards. There was only one spare pillow, and all the pillows were poor quality. Fold one in half and you can feel your fingers through the other side. In the bathroom there was one tiny soap and a tiny bottle of shampoo. We tried every channel, but the movie channels didn't work, and there was no paper on the doorstep in the morning.

I've stayed here for a couple of years and never had any issues. The units are very spacious, regularly serviced and have ample parking. It's close to amenities like supermarkets and takeaway food, and there's a famous restaurant on the premises. Friendly staff, good for groups too. A great place in Wanganui, highly recommended.