Sojourn Apartment Hotel Riddiford

We were here for three weeks while family was in Wellington Hospital, and the staff were fantastic. We had to extend our stay several times because we didn’t know how long we’d need to be there, and they were very accommodating each time. The rooms were clean, the service was amazing, and we had everything we needed. Thank you to all the staff. I’d stay again if needed. From Jan, Gail and Jane.

The Family Suite worked out just right for us, even though from the photos we expected it to be smaller. Before we arrived, the staff checked our bed preferences and parking, and offered a cot for our son. We were lucky to hear at 10am that the room was already ready for check-in. The hotel was clean and well equipped, with a supermarket within walking distance and a very convenient location. Being across from a major hospital means you may hear sirens, though with the door closed it was completely manageable. Our son even enjoyed seeing a rescue helicopter up close. A comfortable, convenient stay for families.

The staff were extremely pleasant and as helpful as they could be, and the apartments were clean and well serviced. But the Le Grand Two Bedroom Apartment was a poor fit for our group of two couples. We expected the Premier room described for the apartments, but got a ground-floor unit beside check-in facing a busy main road. It was dark, with little natural light in the living area, and the bedroom windows were too high to see out of. There was no double glazing, so traffic noise kept us from sleeping. One bedroom’s fire exit opened straight onto the street, letting in outside light and constant street noise, including people talking. The bathroom was reached through a narrow galley kitchen that felt too tight even for two, let alone four, and there was no cupboard space for provisions. We were in a three-day sporting tournament, so the conditions were unacceptable for our needs. After negotiating the next morning, we moved to two one-bedroom apartments for the rest of the stay, which were much better, but the substantial surcharge was disappointing. I wouldn’t recommend that particular two-bedroom unit. Asking for a room at the rear may help with road noise.

I couldn’t fault the place. My sister was flown from Nelson to Wellington Hospital late at night by air ambulance, and I needed somewhere for two nights. Ronald McDonald House had no availability, but Sojourn was very accommodating. Arriving after midnight for a very late check-in was no problem. The staff were lovely and showed me what I needed, even at that hour. Everyone I saw, including the cleaners, was welcoming and kind. They even brought breakfast to my door, and it was delicious. The beds are comfy, the wifi is good, and the location is top tier. Main bus stops in both directions are right outside, getting in and out was easy, and I saw that guest parking was available too. 10/10 for service, privacy and location. Thanks heaps for an awesome stay, I’d highly recommend it.