The Bay Motel
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The Bay Motel

9 Dundee Street Halfmoon Bay, Oban, Stewart Island 9818 New Zealand
View from the outside balcony enjoying my morning coffee.
Traveller (74)
Room & Suite (19)
View from Room (28)

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Avg. $233 /night, 2/27 - 2/28
$278
per night
$253
per night
$228
per night

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27 Feb

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Reflects recent average nightly prices reported by our partners, and may not include estimated taxes or fees. Price at checkout may differ.
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About

#1 of 1 motel in Oban
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
The Bay Motel is centrally located and features amazing views over Halfmoon Bay and/or the surrounding native bush. Other features include a fully equipped kitchenette, central heating, electric blankets, comfortable beds plus complimentary tea/coffee along with free WiFi - all designed to make your stay on the Stewart Island as comfortable as possible. We offer a range of rooms - from standard studios with and without spa to one and two bedroom apartments for the whole family. We also have wheelchair friendly units available. Oban township is only a 5 minutes walk away - all restaurants, shops and amenities are within easy walking distance. We offer a courtesy transfer service from the ferry terminal and flight centre. There is also a sheltered courtyard with seating and BBQ - perfect for cooking up that Blue Cod you just caught! We can help you plan your itinerary with some tips on what to do and what to see to make your Stewart Island experience a memorable one!
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Breakfast in the room
Boating
Canoeing
Highchairs available
Pushchairs
Free airport transportation
Street parking
Wifi
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Hiking
Fishing
Walking tours
Free shuttle or taxi services
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
First aid kit
Laundry service
Self-serve laundry
Room features
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Coffee / tea maker
Cable / satellite TV
Electric blanket
Walk-in shower
Sofa
Telephone
Iron
Kitchenette
Microwave
Refrigerator
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Flatscreen TV
Whirlpool bathtub
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Ocean view
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Modern
Family
Languages Spoken
English

Location

9 Dundee Street Halfmoon Bay, Oban, Stewart Island 9818 New Zealand
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 74 out of 100
74
Invercargill Airport
56.2 km
See all flights
Dunedin Airport
192.6 km
See all flights

Reviews
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Detailed Reviews
Kikki wrote a review Jan 2025
Auckland, New Zealand
5.0 of 5 bubbles
It is a great location near the town and has lovely views of the area. Lots of bird life right outside your balcony. The owners were so helpful and provided a shuttle service to airport depot and ferry. Very friendly, helpful service. Laundry is a bit pricey, but so is electricity on the island. Clean, comfortable rooms. Lots of space.
Great BBQ area outside. Looking forward to our next stay there! Best place to stay in Oban by all accounts.
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Date of stay: January 2025
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TakoTako wrote a review Aug 2023
Singapore
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Stayed for two nights. Room is cosy, with 3 heaters (main sleeping area, near the door and in the toilet). Bed also has the heating function. Bed is very comfortable and room is very clean. Will come here again if coming over to the island.

Water pressure is good, and hot water flowed out after abt 5 seconds.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KiwiViajero wrote a review Jan 2024
Wellington, New Zealand
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed here for one night in January 2024.

When we arrived on the ferry there was someone waiting for us to take us in the motel van to the motel and, on the day that we left, they took our bags down to the ferry, which meant that we didn't have to return to the hotel and pick them up ourselves. That was good service.

The motel is located just a few minutes' walk from the ferry terminal, very slightly uphill. Everything in Oban is close, so it's just a few minutes away from the information centre, supermarket, restaurant etc.

Our room was very large for the two of us with a Queen(?) bed, single bed, and a sofa bed. The room had radiators, so that would be good on a winter's day.

We would be happy to stay here again if we return to Stewart Island.
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Date of stay: January 2024
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wilbur61 wrote a review Jan 2022
Dunedin, New Zealand
3.0 of 5 bubbles
We were picked up from the Ferry by the friendly owner. Our room was warm and had a great view. It was only a 5 min walk into “town”.
On arriving we were told that we could not use the spa bath in our unit due to a water shortage, fair enough we thought and he took $20 of the bill each night to compensate.
When he took it us into our room we are then told we should not cook many foods (including bacon) on the elements in the kitchenette because there is no extractor fan and would need to cook on the communal bbq outside instead. We understand that food with string smells like fish should not be cooked, but bacon! Not happy using a communal bbq during a pandemic.
Next there is sign in the bathroom saying don’t use the spa at these certain times ( couldn’t use the spa anyway) then a sign in the lounge saying don’t leave heaters on past a certain number when leaving the room. So many restrictions!
It was a tad disappointing to pay $200 a night for a room with so many restrictions and not properly serviced when advertised as a serviced room.
The unit was supposed to be serviced each day, but this only included changing towels and pulling up the duvet halfway up the bed. The bed was not made nor bathroom sink cleaned. ( see pictures)
A good positioned motel but needs a bit of an improvement in customer service, less restrictions and providing the services advertised.
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Date of stay: January 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandra A wrote a review Dec 2021
Wellington, New Zealand
4.0 of 5 bubbles
The Bay Motel, Half Moon Bay, provided accommodation which lived up to its online claims. The quality and cleanliness of the room, the beds and accessories eg towels, sheets, utensils, were all of a very good standard. The free service offered to and from the ferry was helpful. We would go back again. Cathie and Sandie.
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Date of stay: November 2021
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J Righton wrote a review Apr 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed in the motel for two nights. Close to everything. What I liked most was very close to walking tracks (fuchsia walk and raroa walk) and the observation rock.

We should have let the motel manager know that we were arriving early by the ferry which we did not... He kindly took our luggages and stored them so that we could be free to do things until the check in time. On the day when we were leaving, he took us down to the ferry terminal by the van, and he showed us a bin which we could leave our luggages in. We had a plenty time until the ferry departure so this local knowledge was superve!

We could not access to WIFI at all as the manager warned us in advance. We could just use the data anyway.

Nice sea view from the balcony and cheeky visits from wild Kaka. It was excellent.
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Date of stay: April 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ruinsgal wrote a review Dec 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The Bay Motel provided an excellent experience when I visited Stewart Island in October. The innkeeper picked me up at the ferry in the evening and not only drove me to the hotel but also provided a lot of solid information on what to see and do while on the island. He also drove me back to the morning ferry when I left later in the week.

The room was clean and comfortable; the kitchenette very functional; and the views of the harbor spectacular. In addition, the motel is very close to the trailhead for the Fuchsia Track, an easy and enjoyable way to experience birds and native plants.

I would return to the Bay Motel any time!
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Date of stay: October 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DbacksFn wrote a review Feb 2024
Tucson, Arizona
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed here 3 nights. The hosts met us at the ferry and took our luggage up the hill to the hotel. We chose to walk up but others rode in the van.
Our room was large and comfortable. We got a continental breakfast for an extra charge but we had it in our room. We had a small kitchenette.
My only complaint was not observing our do not disturb sign. We slept odd hours due to a late kiwi walk and we're awakened to have our breakfast delivered for the next day.
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Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dldove wrote a review Jan 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Had a great experience at the Bay Motel over the Christmas holidays. Rhondda and Jeff provided a wonderful customer experience by finding me a room twice during the fully booked holiday period when I hadn't booked in advance, adding Christmas cookies to my room and being helpful and informative with all my questions about the island. The location is a short walk from town and the start of walking tracks and the rooms are very comfortable with great views. Thank you Rhondda and Jeff for a great holiday.
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Date of stay: December 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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LiLa L wrote a review Dec 2024
Munich, Germany
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We spent 3 nights here. We left by plane and were picked up in the village and also taken back to the departure. Everything worked out.
Room had everything you needed,large bathroom with spa bath. We felt very comfortable, Oban is a great little town, Stewart Island worth a visit.
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Automatically translated
Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Parf2014 asked a question Apr 2017
Nelson, New Zealand46 contributions8 helpful votes
Checking availability and room rate for a couple April 19-21. Thanks
Answer from bevisland
Stewart Island4 contributions2 helpful votes
Hi, I am sorry we have no availability for the dates you have requested. Cheers Rhondda Bay Motel
jane I wrote a tip Oct 2022
Wakefield, United Kingdom78 contributions54 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Ask for one that faces the bay front on"
Read full review
Niki H wrote a tip Apr 2022
Palmerston North, New Zealand26 contributions13 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Room at the right-hand end of the balcony would have the best view"
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Climber811936 wrote a tip Feb 2020
Fort Qu'Appelle, Canada65 contributions9 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We had room 6"
Read full review
Millcroft52 wrote a tip Sept 2019
Hamilton, New Zealand23 contributions41 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"All rooms have exceptional views."
Read full review
Aloveoftravel wrote a tip Sept 2019
Beckum, Germany44 contributions18 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The hotel is slightly on the hill. I think the rooms are equal."
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Oban area.
PRICE RANGE
$198 - $231 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
bay motel stewart island, bay hotel stewart island
LOCATION
New ZealandSouth IslandSouthland RegionStewart IslandOban
NUMBER OF ROOMS
12
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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THE BAY MOTEL | UPDATED 2025 Reviews & Price Comparison (Oban, New Zealand) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about The Bay Motel
Which popular attractions are close to The Bay Motel?
Nearby attractions include Beaks And Feathers (0.7 km), Ulva Island (3.1 km), and Rakiura Museum (0.2 km).
What are some of the property amenities at The Bay Motel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free parking, laundry service, and free internet access.
Which room amenities are available at The Bay Motel?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at The Bay Motel?
Guests can enjoy barbeque facilities, complimentary tea, and free instant coffee during their stay.
Is parking available at The Bay Motel?
Yes, free parking and street parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Bay Motel?
Conveniently located restaurants include KaiKart Takeaways, Church Hill Restaurant, and South Sea Hotel dining room and pub.
Does The Bay Motel have an airport shuttle?
Yes, The Bay Motel offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Does The Bay Motel have airport transportation?
Yes, The Bay Motel offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at The Bay Motel?
Yes, laundry service and self serve laundry are offered to guests.
Are there any historical sites close to The Bay Motel?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Bunkhouse Theatre (0.2 km).
Does The Bay Motel have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the harbour view available here.
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