Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre
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Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre
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Avg. $264 /night, 9/17 - 9/18
$277
per night
$238
per night
$199
per night
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3.0
#20 of 25 hotels in WhangareiLocation
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre is perfectly suited to both business and leisure travellers. All 115 comfortable guest rooms & suites are air-conditioned and offer free unlimited WiFi & 50+ SKY TV channels. Conveniently located opposite the stunning Whangarei Town Basin and a few minutes walk from the city centre and Whangarei’s most tranquil bush walks. The majestic Bay of Islands is less than one hour’s drive from our 4 star hotel. Savour delicious cuisine at the on-site Portobello Restaurant and Anchor Down Lounge Bar. Work out in the fitness centre, swim in the indoor heated pool or relax in the spa. The hotel also caters for conferences and functions of up to 130 guests.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Bar / lounge
Business Centre with Internet Access
Conference facilities
Baggage storage
Parking
Wifi
Hot bath
Indoor pool
Heated pool
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Non-smoking hotel
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Self-serve laundry
Room features
Air conditioning
Desk
Room service
Safe
Coffee / tea maker
Minibar
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Telephone
Iron
Wake-up service / alarm clock
On-demand films
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
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.
HOTEL STYLE
Quiet
Centrally Located
Languages Spoken
English
Location
9 Riverside Drive, Whangarei 0112 New Zealand
Getting there
Good for walkers
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: 84 out of 100
84
15 Restaurants
within 0.5 kilometers
386Reviews0Q+A91Room tips
ReviewsWe perform checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews
I stayed here with my husband and 2 sons in a 'junior suite', it sounds much fancier than it is.
The entry to the wing was a smoking area which was very off putting and the corridor depressing. The room itself was extremely outdated like stepping back to the 80s but in a bad way. No plug for the bath, a giant big long black hair on the hand towel which I cant understand how that could be missed unless it just wasnt changed in the first place.
I booked this hotel for my sons birthday as he wanted to go somewhere with a pool and this place advertised a 'heated pool'. This is not heated, it was freezing so we headed down the road to the public pool instead, very disappointing.
The breakfast was the best part, polite staff and the food was good.
Its such a shame because its in a great location but someone needs to move this hotel into the current decade, take the 'heated pool' sign down, decently clean all areas of the hotel and remove the smoking areas and ashtrays from the entrance to the wings.
The entry to the wing was a smoking area which was very off putting and the corridor depressing. The room itself was extremely outdated like stepping back to the 80s but in a bad way. No plug for the bath, a giant big long black hair on the hand towel which I cant understand how that could be missed unless it just wasnt changed in the first place.
I booked this hotel for my sons birthday as he wanted to go somewhere with a pool and this place advertised a 'heated pool'. This is not heated, it was freezing so we headed down the road to the public pool instead, very disappointing.
The breakfast was the best part, polite staff and the food was good.
Its such a shame because its in a great location but someone needs to move this hotel into the current decade, take the 'heated pool' sign down, decently clean all areas of the hotel and remove the smoking areas and ashtrays from the entrance to the wings.
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Date of stay: September 2020Trip 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.
Booked two nights in a "Superior King" room. The bed had no valance and there was a very obvious dark stain on one side of the base of the bed The bathroom vanity tap, shrieked, when turned on. We had a downstairs room and we could hear other guests walking around in their rooms above us as well as every time they turned on a tap or shower, we could hear the plumbing - this was very disturbing at 6:00 am in the morning. I have stayed in many hotels, in and outside of NZ, and never experienced having to put up with footsteps and thumping from upstairs room. (Not sure what structure separates the two floors). Unfortunately my husband insisted on trying out the restaurant for dinner on our last night. Apart from a rugby team who had a separate function room and buffet food, we were the only people in the restaurant. My "fish of the day" was a bed of plain white rice with a lump of overcooked dried out tuna, topped with overcooked, soggy brocolli and some pieces of bottled ginger. (It was given some type of Asian name). My husband's "roast of the day", was tough pork which was dry and appeared to have been pre-sliced and, like my tuna, could have been warmed up in the microwave. The "roast vegetables" were soggy and also appeared to have been warmed up. Both "dishes" would be the poorest meals we have experienced when eating out. When we checked out the following morning and highlighted our complaint about the "meals", the receptionist reported back the manager advised, 'no one else had complained' and we were given a 30% discount off the cost of the meals. We believed this to be very, very poor customer service and he obviously did not realise no one else complaining could have been due to the fact there had been no other diners. Notwithstanding the fact, obviously our complaint meant very little to the manager with this dismissive feedback as well as leaving it to a young receptionist to impart this message to us. He did not even reflect basic courtesy to discuss our complaint directly with us and use it as an opportunity to use it as honest and constructive feedback to avoid possible future complaints from other 'guests'. We realised our future patronage was not valuable.
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Date of stay: September 2020
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: Book a room upstairs so you do not have to tolerate any noise from above however, you may still...
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.
It’s possible to retain the charm of an old fashioned hotel but Distinction you’ve got it all wrong.
There’s so much to build on. The location is fabulous. The staff are good and all that space!
However, the old shonky decor and tired, worn out fixtures and fittings lend to a depressing experience. Attentions to detail wouldn’t go amiss too. I didn’t feel the room was cleaned to an appropriate standard and the buffet breakfast was drab, unappealing and simply not appropriate for the COVID world. Irrespective of COVID who finds an urn of scrambled eggs that are dried on the outside and watery on the middle appealing?
You’re cashing in on the location guys and you could do so much better with some TLC.
I wouldn’t recommend anyone stay here if it wasn’t for the staff and location.
There’s so much to build on. The location is fabulous. The staff are good and all that space!
However, the old shonky decor and tired, worn out fixtures and fittings lend to a depressing experience. Attentions to detail wouldn’t go amiss too. I didn’t feel the room was cleaned to an appropriate standard and the buffet breakfast was drab, unappealing and simply not appropriate for the COVID world. Irrespective of COVID who finds an urn of scrambled eggs that are dried on the outside and watery on the middle appealing?
You’re cashing in on the location guys and you could do so much better with some TLC.
I wouldn’t recommend anyone stay here if it wasn’t for the staff and location.
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Date of stay: October 2020
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.
Stayed here just the one night on our way north. We had standard queen room, the bed was comfortable but the pillows had been very sloppily covered with slips, only just. Did wonder if the bed had been changed but further inspection appeared ok. The shower surrounds outside needed a good scrub. Inside the shower was clean. We had dinner in the restaurant, we both chose fish and chips, all very nice especially the slaw. We were not told what the fish of the day was nor the roast. We were not asked whether we would like dessert or coffee. Very casual service with only one other couple in the restaurant at the time. We chose to have breakfast in the restaurant the next day for convenience. What a silly decision. We chose full buffet, the scrambled egg was cold and tasteless, as was the bacon but it did have a nice Smokey flavour bonus. The mushrooms were delicious but cold. The bread available for toast was bog standard white, no other offered. We are coffee appreciates and noticed the included coffee was bulk stuff. Noticed that the only other diners had different
mugs and heard a member of staff asking for a long black so asked if they had a proper coffee machine , yes oh joy we ordered 2 long blacks,very nice coffee but we had to pay extra. Definitely would not recommend this breakfast.
mugs and heard a member of staff asking for a long black so asked if they had a proper coffee machine , yes oh joy we ordered 2 long blacks,very nice coffee but we had to pay extra. Definitely would not recommend this breakfast.
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Date of stay: July 2021Trip 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.
Had an evening work event at the location and stayed overnight. I hadn't stayed there for 10+ years and I think the room amenities haven't changed in that time, being somewhat outdated. Bed was a bit tired and lumpy, my colleague in another room woke with a sore back. My room could have done with a good dusting around the room fittings and to sweep the dried grass clippings off the window sill (must be a powerful lawn mower). The breakfast was very 1980`s hotel style. All staff were very friendly and helped as much as they could. We overcatered for our function (also 80`s style food) and we were disappointed that we were not premitted to box it up to give to colleagues not staying overnight, to take with them.
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Date of stay: November 2020Trip type: Travelled on business
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.
Bedding threadbare and pillows lumpy. Towels nice and friendly staff but honestly get some new sheets. Breakfast too expensive for what it is. Room service was good but burger buns very stale lucky I don’t usually eat the bread anyway.
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Travelled on business
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.
Not the one to usually review restaurant’s however, I felt as though this needed to be stated. I was utterly disappointed in the Distinction Whangarei restaurant. We ordered three meals and they all did not met expectations considering the high priced menu. I had a pork belly which tasted and looked like a hangi, the chips with the steak were cold and the ribs were over marinated. Next time I will walk the 5mins to have a decent meal at the Quay.
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Date of stay: February 2020Trip 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.
Hotel has invested & upgraded however not in the public areas where carpet looks distinctly tired. The rooms has new carpet, a huge round mirror and bespoke fittings however the bathroom still has the old tiles and 1980s 45° plastic shower which feels very claustrophobic. No liquid soap & soap cakes are supplied. Complimentary tea & instant coffee but a very bare fridge except for UHT milk pods. TV has usual freeview stations including ABC (Aussie), French TV & DW (German) but no Sky channels. Unfortunately the entry door has 1 inch gap underdoor which allows a lot of noise to intrude. Also no smoke seals or auto closer (non complying under current NZ Building Code but probably OK as built before NZ Building Act 1992 came into force). Party walls also allow a lot of inter-room noise (we left the bathroom fan on to provide some background masking). Aircon/heating is provided by a domestic looking & yellowing hi-bay heat pump which didnt try. Breakfast was standard fare with bacon, scrambled eggs, sausages, cereals, raw juice etc. Espresso is available on request but extra cost eg. $6 for Latte. Plenty of carparking and convenient walking distance to Town Basin.
Concluding, hotel is slowly upgrading but still a lot to do - 3.5 stars
Concluding, hotel is slowly upgrading but still a lot to do - 3.5 stars
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Leave bathroom fan on to mask outside noise.
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.
While we try to make allowances during this difficult time and overlook small things there is only so much that can be.
5 of us booked in 3 rooms one room blood on the bed cover and sheets. Cleaning cloth still in the bathroom sink . Beds in two rooms so old and uncomfortable sleep was impossible .
The blood was noticed late at night so the next morning it was reported to the front desk and rooms were changed to better rooms clean and better beds. This does not take away the initial unpleasantness it that the room was serviced and the bed only half made. We’re the sheets changed ?
5 of us booked in 3 rooms one room blood on the bed cover and sheets. Cleaning cloth still in the bathroom sink . Beds in two rooms so old and uncomfortable sleep was impossible .
The blood was noticed late at night so the next morning it was reported to the front desk and rooms were changed to better rooms clean and better beds. This does not take away the initial unpleasantness it that the room was serviced and the bed only half made. We’re the sheets changed ?
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Date of stay: February 2021
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.
5 of us visited and stayed with 3 rooms. 2 of us had to change rooms at least once in 2 night stays.
my 1st room was not that clean, had a bed so soft if you turned during the night it was possible you would roll out.
I was moved downstairs which was nice as I had a problem with the stairs due to a bad knee but the air con jammed and clacked and banged so had to leave it off and the door handle fell off in my hand when going out. The cockroach behind the toilet was dead so I left him there.
2 friends had dark spots (blood we think) on several pieces of their bedding and again such a soft bed one of them slept on the floor so a room change next day and this room was passable as long as you didnt look 2 closely.
The 3rd lot of our group left with us for breakfast and when we all walked into their room after it had been serviced but I think the cleaners had lain down on the bed for a nap as one pillow had a head imprint in it and the other was all over the place.
Most of the staff were very nice and you could tell they knew the place was below standard. Torn net curtains, very very marked carpet and suspect cleanliness in all 5 of the rooms. Its a shame as its very central and spacious. Rooms very noisy also. Sounds like a herd of elephants racing round upstairs if anyone moves around normally.
The smokers area right outside the main guests entrance seemed to always have the same cig butts, ash and dead bugs laying around each day.
Oh and the advert states "heated " pool. The tiny one was heated but the normal swimming pool was very cold.
The place very badly needs renovation and I know covid has slowed everything but it was very busy so they are still getting the bookings and money in.
Have stayed before years ago but wont be back sorry.
I was moved downstairs which was nice as I had a problem with the stairs due to a bad knee but the air con jammed and clacked and banged so had to leave it off and the door handle fell off in my hand when going out. The cockroach behind the toilet was dead so I left him there.
2 friends had dark spots (blood we think) on several pieces of their bedding and again such a soft bed one of them slept on the floor so a room change next day and this room was passable as long as you didnt look 2 closely.
The 3rd lot of our group left with us for breakfast and when we all walked into their room after it had been serviced but I think the cleaners had lain down on the bed for a nap as one pillow had a head imprint in it and the other was all over the place.
Most of the staff were very nice and you could tell they knew the place was below standard. Torn net curtains, very very marked carpet and suspect cleanliness in all 5 of the rooms. Its a shame as its very central and spacious. Rooms very noisy also. Sounds like a herd of elephants racing round upstairs if anyone moves around normally.
The smokers area right outside the main guests entrance seemed to always have the same cig butts, ash and dead bugs laying around each day.
Oh and the advert states "heated " pool. The tiny one was heated but the normal swimming pool was very cold.
The place very badly needs renovation and I know covid has slowed everything but it was very busy so they are still getting the bookings and money in.
Have stayed before years ago but wont be back sorry.
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Date of stay: February 2021
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: upstairs could be quieter with no one walking on your ceiling as very thin walls etc
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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"Ask for a newly renovated room and if you don’t like noise, away from the front and restaurant and kitchen."Read full review
"upstairs could be quieter with no one walking on your ceiling as very thin walls etc"Read full review
"Book a room upstairs so you do not have to tolerate any noise from above however, you may still have to put up with noisy plumbing."Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
$186 - $238 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
New ZealandNorth IslandNorthland RegionWhangarei
NUMBER OF ROOMS
115
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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Claim Your ListingDISTINCTION WHANGAREI HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE | UPDATED 2024 Reviews & Price Comparison (New Zealand) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre
Which popular attractions are close to Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Nearby attractions include Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery (0.3 km), Claphams Clocks - The National Clock Museum (0.2 km), and Town Basin (0.2 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an indoor pool, free wifi, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Quay, Mokaba Cafe, and Serenity Cafe.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Yes, guests have access to an indoor pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Is Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.8 km away from the centre of Whangarei.
Are any cleaning services offered at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers a business centre, meeting rooms, and a banquet room.
Is Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.