Anchorage Motel

You can walk straight across the road to the beach and cycle path, and I love that we can bring our dog too. The owners are always so friendly and helpful, and the units are spotless whenever we stay. The beds are great, which really matters with my dodgy back. Those retro concrete units bring back such good memories. Highly recommend!

Our unit was quiet, even though it was the second one in from the road. Everything was clean and tidy, and we enjoyed the stay and the staff and owners. The decor was as described. The interior felt a little tired, but it didn't bother us. We'd stay again just as it is.

The location is great, but this was the worst greeting I've ever had from accommodation hosts, and I won't stay here again. I'd booked for four adults and one child, five people in total, and my brother-in-law was travelling with us too. After we checked in, the male owner looked at our car, pointed at each of us and counted to six, then made racial comments about Asians. I knew there was a misunderstanding, so I explained that my brother-in-law would be fishing at night and had booked a campsite. I showed the camping gear, then showed his booking. His wife checked it and said she trusted me. I told them this had nothing to do with being Asian, and there was nothing wrong with being Asian. It was our first time in this lovely town, and my brother-in-law has the right to travel and visit us. The male owner threatened that he had cameras everywhere and could kick us out at two in the morning. He also used his hand to tell me to shut up, then told his wife I would never shut up. I don't think they count every guest with their finger like that each time. The room wasn't clean either: the bedside tables were dusty, as shown in the photos. The owners stayed upstairs from our room, and we all woke before daylight because the old building carried a lot of noise. For clarity, I also posted a screenshot of my brother-in-law's booking, which had been made five hours before we checked in.

The ocean is just across the road, and Whitianga is an amazing town. Kay was a delight as our host, and I felt more comfortable here than in many plush motels. The bed was lovely and there wasn't a speck of dust. The kitchen had everything we needed, and when we asked for more milk or anything extra, it arrived promptly. Kay also signed us into a great club a short walk away. The people there were so friendly and down to earth, and we had the most fun night. The hosts have put an unbelievable amount of effort into bringing this place back from a bad state. I won't forget this little holiday. You don't need five stars to feel this kind of warmth. We've made lovely memories, and I wish we could have stayed longer. Thank you so much.