Stayed here as part of a planned trip around north island. Was really looking forward to a 5* stay as our other previous hotels had been sadly lacking. Despite stating it is a 5* it clearly isn’t. Firstly there was no concierge we had to manoeuvre a very full trolley ourselves. Once in the room there are no drawers to store items of underwear or such like (we had to used the desk) and very little storage in the wardrobe. Air conditioning is very noisy so disturbing at night when wanting to sleep Chocolate hour was a joke it’s a chocolate fountain some children’s jelly like snakes bits of fruit and cake Restaurant is staffed by mainly untrained youths who have no clue what do do - the chefs telling waiting staff where the tables were located. Service is extremely slow and food sits on the pass whist waiting staff walk past. Our 2nd experience in there (because of the weather) we were told that the bar snack menu was not for the restaurant (it was pointed out that previous night we had been given that plus the room service and the dinner menu and told we could have food from any one her reply was that was a mistake then proceeded to give us the snack menu) she was very unprofessional and lazy disappearing on many occasions that said so did the staff. Room has a desk and chair) but not an office chair) so doesn’t fit under the desk. Toilet roll continually comes off the holder because the lip on the end is not big enough very annoying. There is no ‘easy’ chair to relax in Numerous unnecessary cushions on the bed. Parking is $30 per day but they fail to inform people you can park at the rear of the hotel for free! Not sure about you but I have stayed in many real 5* hotels and this is nowhere near them in respect of service or amenities.

Checked in fine, decor was nice and room had a good city view. We were out at the museum so missed Chocolate Hour but a quick call to reception and a kind staff member offered to make up us a tasting plate which my child really appreciated. Downsides: very noisy aircon, sauna wasn't working and kids space wasn't open even though the sign said it would be unoperational for 2 days prior to our stay. The remote control in our room was so dirty and gross, l went to get some antiseptic wipes from the gym area, but their dispenser had run out, so I bought some at the supermarket! In the context of Covid I would have expected better cleaning of high touch areas in the room and other areas of the hotel, and certainly in a 5 star hotel it's these details that should be taken care of as part of daily checks and quality control.

Great mascarpone truffle fries at the bar Can’t get enough of this bat and their wine list. This place is great and that’s what I wanted to say but they make me keep writing. Haha 300200200200 charachyets. Yuk. Don’t like their silly rules. Shepahers reataurant is awe full and this place is great.

Our room had a lovely view and ample space for us and our 5 year old. The swimming pool was good and we enjoyed chocolate hour. The customer service was excellent. There is a steep hill to walk up to the hotel but we didn’t find it difficult to walk, however, others may.

Lovely welcome! Lovely room though a little small it was comfortable - great bed excellent shower! The chocolate hour in the lobby was fun and lovely that it is free! Breakfast was good but it would be better with more choice - a cooked breakfast is great but I would appreciate vegetables with my eggs and bacon ( love a salad!) - maybe an omelette with cheese and greens ?The service in the hotel was above average. Would definately return.