We had a wonderful stay here. The hotel could possibly do with a little modernisation or some refresh, but overall it has s lot of character and we enjoyed the experience. A fantastic location however, as Waitomo has loads of interesting places to visit and has beautiful scenery with those little hills everywhere.
Staying at this hotel was like being in a time capsule, from the decor to the service (except with lots of power sockets!). The hotel is not renovated in a retro style, it is the original which made my experience perfect. Even though everything is old, is it clean.
We had the seafood platter at the restaurant which was fresh and delicious. The dining room was beautiful retro which just added to the experience. There are very few hotels like this so enjoy it whilst you can!
Fascinating place. Reputed to be the most haunted hotel in NZ. Staff were few and far between but they worked very hard and were very pleasant. Food was excellent. Definitely worth a visit but bear in mind the place needs complete re-refurbishment. An historic building that should be restored.
Beautiful antique hotel. It is old with a lot of character, yet very clean. The Hotel needs a bit of tender loving care. Overall we were happy with our stay. And we didn't see or hear any ghosts as the hotel is notorious for
I love this hotel. I have stayed many times and love coming back. Yes its tired and outdated a bit but that is all part of the charm. If you expect a lovely old place like this to look like a modern hotel in the middle of Waitomo you are dreaming and this is not for you. Go to Hamilton. If you want to experience a bit of old world charm... you got it here. Love it
The reviews that I read before staying here were mixed with most of the negative comments about the hotel being run down. While I agree that the hotel is a bit run down, I found this to actually add to the hotel's charm. You feel like you're staying at a hotel where you're favorite murder mystery novel was set. The bed was comfy and clean. The views are wonderful. The staff was very friendly and helpful. And finally the breakfast was more than adequate. I wouldn't want to stay here more than two nights... But on the whole I would recommend if you're staying the night to see the glowworm caves.
Stayed at the Waitomo Hotel for the first time since 1969. The hotel is a beautiful old building. It does need a bit of updating but it was clean and our room was very well setup. Sue was on her own the night we were there. She did an amazing job as Receptionist, tended the bar, took our order in the dining and serve our meal. She was extremely pleasant and took time to chat even though she was rushed. Then next morning at seven o'clock she was back at the reception and organizing the breakfast. I would recommend the hotel to anyone who wants a lovely old hotel with great food and a wonderful continental breakfast.
Spent 3 nights here over the long weekend and loved it! What an amazing building, with a rich and unique history. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our stay was exemplary, and their knowledge of the building and surrounding area was fantastic. Food at the restaurant was fast and delicious - I highly recommend the Eggs Benedict!
The rooms were light and airy with plenty of sun, and the decor fit the setting perfectly. However, it still had the modern gadgets such as the flat screen TV to watch the All Blacks on at 4am!
If you are ever in the area - make sure you stay here. An interesting and iconic piece of New Zealand history.
A characteristic building in a stunning setting - who could ask for more?
Yes, the wall paper and decor are dated but the individual rooms are freshly painted with modern bathrooms, a firm mattress and soft pillows. Best of all was the electric heater and the warm bed pad on a chilly evening. Staff is friendly and considerate even though perform several jobs. (Front desk staff may also serve you dinner.) Plenty of parking available in quiet surroundings.
We had the best stay, rooms were very clean.
We have been left a bit perplexed with a photo I had taken of my sister as we arrived. She is standing in the top window, It looks like we can see the face of a little boy standing next to her, we are very open to it being a reflection or just the haze in the old window, but it is still interesting to see.
We didn't see or hear anything spooky while were were there though, was only after that someone spotted the face in the photo.
Also had a beautiful breakfast and the kids were not charged for the continental breakfast.
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