We are former Hamilton locals, back in town for a holiday. As Americans by background, I am always a little wary of the road-side motels. In the US, this generally signals a lower quality and standard of service.
But don't let that way of thinking have you miss out on this gem. We considered several Airbnb options nearby, but ended up booking here because it frankly seemed like a better value. I have not been disappointed one bit.
We arrived at Auckland airport around 5:30 am, and made it down to Hamilton by around 9:30 am. Now, of course, that is before even the check-out time of the night before. So, while I wasn't hopeful, we went into reception and explained the situation (that we'd traveled overnight from the US, were exhausted) and asked if we could store our luggage in. To my surprise and relief, the hostess said there was a room like the one we'd booked nearly available. She said to come back in 20 minutes. She gave us the key and had the housekeeper's prepare the room. We did a little shopping at The Base and came back around 11:00 am. The room was ready and we were able to crash out. Super gold star for customer service!
We have a 2-bedroom family suite. There are two full bathrooms (one tub, 2 showers). The beds are incredibly comfortable and the pillows make my head happy to lay down. The kitchen is plenty big enough to have some simple meals in, which we have done. There is a mid-size fridge, a cooktop, a microwave and dishwasher. Oh, and did I mention the spa hot tub on the small private patio? We just pulled up the cover and it was warm and ready to enjoy. Bliss!
For those in the know, the downstairs lounge has a heatpump and both bedrooms have their own as well. This is great for temperature control (as we are here in winter and you know most of NZ does not have great winter warmth and dryness indoors).
We have not utilized this, but you can order ahead breakfast to be made here, for what seems like generally reasonable prices compared with eating out.
The location is near a Countdown grocery store, K-Mart and The Base shopping mall (stores, restaurants, theatres, playground, etc). It is not too far from Hamilton Zoo and is about a 10 minute drive into the CBD, depending on traffic.
We have had a great stay already and will be back in a couple weeks for the tail-end of our travels. I can't wait! read more
