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Hillside Hotel
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About
#1 of 1 hotels in Taupiri
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Escape the city to fresh air and tranquility. Hillside Hotel is a country retreat and eco-lodge, a Qualmark four star boutique hotel with an enviro-gold rating. Nestled amongst native forest on top of the Taupiri Ranges, Hillside offers panoramic views of iconic New Zealand landscape scenery; every room has a view. On the main tourist route south of Auckland; 1 hour drive from Auckland Airport and just 4 km off the highway makes Hillside Hotel an ideal first stop or last stop in New Zealand; lovely stop point on the way to Hobbiton or Waitomo. Situated on Hillside Station - a large working farm with 300 acres of private native rain forest reserve with easy walking trails right from the hotel grounds. Beautiful photography opportunities from anywhere in the hotel. Free Wi-fi and parking; on-site licensed restaurant (reservations essentia - may close early if no bookings) and cafes nearby. Rooms are very spacious and open direct to the outside. Rooms are connected by covered walkways and stairs sheltered by native bush.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Hot bath
Bar / lounge
Business Centre with Internet Access
Meeting rooms
Non-smoking hotel
Sun terrace
Wifi
Restaurant
Express check-in / check-out
Room features
Room service
Room types
Bridal suite
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
Modern
Business
Location
Hillside Station, Taupiri 3771 New Zealand
Getting there
29 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
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We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
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Detailed Reviews
The Hillside Resort Hotel is high on a hill amongst regenerating native bush near the coalmining town of Huntly. About 4km up an unsealed mountain road, the hotel offers very comfortable suites and deluxe rooms, a spa, bush walks, a first class restaurant, and a panoramic view which is constantly changing. Its no great driving distance from Hamilton and about an hour south of Auckland Airport (the trip took me 70 minutes during extensive roadworks). If you're a tourist looking for something different on the road trip to Rotorua, or you want to be out in the countryside while still close to Auckland, the Hillside has something different to offer you. Although its four levels are joined by stair elevators it is really most suitable for the physically fit. Despite being the only diner on the night I stayed, the food was fresh, well presented, and an enthusiastic but professional waitress made the restaurant seem busy. The hotel has its own web-site and can also be found in Friar's on-line New Zealand guide and the AA listings.
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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.
We got married at Hillside Hotel at the end of February 2006 and can't fault it one bit! The hotel is at the top of a hill with views reaching as far as Auckland airport Northwards and as far as Mount Ruapehu Southwards when the weather's clear. Hotel rooms are 5 star quality. Big comfortable beds, clean and new bathrooms. New chef in the kitchen and really delicious food! If you're planning to be in the area, I can totally recommend booking ahead for a really special night away. The views from every room in the morning is worth it if nothing else!!
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Date of stay: February 2006
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Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
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.
The hotel is situated on the top a hill overlooking the Waikato region. It was very easy to get to, just 3 km off Hwy 1 an hour south of Aukland (most of it unpaved, but well maintained and wide enough for two cars). It was extremely peaceful, unfortunately the weather while we were there did not permit any hiking on the trails around the property. They have a restaurant on site, but it was closed on the Monday we were there. I would note that thirty minutes after making the booking on-line, I received a phone call from the proprietor to warn me and offer to leave utensils in the room. The room was clean and spacious. The owner was very nice. The location would make it an ideal stopover for travelers flying in to Aukland from overseas and renting a car. One can get there easily from the airport, and rest or make easy day trips while recovering from the jet lag.
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Date of stay: August 2016Trip 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.
The stay was a little disappointing really, was glad I got a half price room rate via a deal website as the room was certainly not worth more than the $99 paid. My first impressions were dust everywhere and cheap finish to paintwork, carpet fitting - a cheap diy job rather than professional trades people I think. Bath tiles/surround were stained. Dead flies in bathroom and other people's hair. Full ashtray on the balcony.
Be careful of opening the window in summer - the bush location means flies come in in their hundreds. It's a difficult one to avoid because of the location.
Lovely people running the place but not hoteliers, disorganised is the best word I could use to describe them.
Breakfast; on the first day we both had the full cooked option - it looked pretty but was less than tasty - eggs like rubber - left most of mine. Second day I elected to have porridge which was again tasteless and sounded a lot nicer on paper. Room-service pizza had a soggy base and far too much topping so the chef/s at any time of the day were not the best.
Huge amount of steps which are not detailed on the website which was a struggle for us both being not 100% physically well.
On the plus side you can't fault the location, great views, peace and quiet. Just need to get the attention to detail improved and you could have a lovely hotel here.
Be careful of opening the window in summer - the bush location means flies come in in their hundreds. It's a difficult one to avoid because of the location.
Lovely people running the place but not hoteliers, disorganised is the best word I could use to describe them.
Breakfast; on the first day we both had the full cooked option - it looked pretty but was less than tasty - eggs like rubber - left most of mine. Second day I elected to have porridge which was again tasteless and sounded a lot nicer on paper. Room-service pizza had a soggy base and far too much topping so the chef/s at any time of the day were not the best.
Huge amount of steps which are not detailed on the website which was a struggle for us both being not 100% physically well.
On the plus side you can't fault the location, great views, peace and quiet. Just need to get the attention to detail improved and you could have a lovely hotel here.
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Date of stay: November 2011Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep 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.
We were excited to book a night here, have always wanted to come up & finally got the opportunity. Sadly it was lacking in nearly all areas, & certainly does not meet the criterias described by the hotel or reviewers.
Room was huge & clean, with an electric jug & fridge, checkin was fast - but I think we may have been the last of a hand full of guests only. Otherwise room was drab with extremely budget dated decor & furnishings - in fact there were picture hooks on the walls but no pictures. No headboards on beds, it is winter & wet, yet linen was cold & no electric blanket. Bath Towels provided were tiny (large hand towels) they were very thin & extremely course - nasty on skin. No toilet roll holder, hook for hand towel was broken so had to hang on door handle.
Restaurant: very limited hours & food, we were the only patrons, selection was very ordinary chinese only - definitely no frills! In fact water dispenser was AWOL, no other drinks of any description (alcoholic or non) with the exception of warm tea - self service.
To be sure, it was an experience!
Room was huge & clean, with an electric jug & fridge, checkin was fast - but I think we may have been the last of a hand full of guests only. Otherwise room was drab with extremely budget dated decor & furnishings - in fact there were picture hooks on the walls but no pictures. No headboards on beds, it is winter & wet, yet linen was cold & no electric blanket. Bath Towels provided were tiny (large hand towels) they were very thin & extremely course - nasty on skin. No toilet roll holder, hook for hand towel was broken so had to hang on door handle.
Restaurant: very limited hours & food, we were the only patrons, selection was very ordinary chinese only - definitely no frills! In fact water dispenser was AWOL, no other drinks of any description (alcoholic or non) with the exception of warm tea - self service.
To be sure, it was an experience!
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Date of stay: August 2019Trip 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.
We found this place by accident and were pleased we did. Very comfortable room with great views and good firm bed. We went on the '1/2 hour there' walk (a bit longer for us although the downhill return is quicker) but loved the different views when we 'arrived' - a view of the Waikato you don't easily get. There were also a few enjoyable short walks from the accommodation. Lots of fresh air, cheeky swallows (but not the birdlife we expected), great food and a small but interesting wine list. It was an inspired decision to plan the restaurant so high. Remarkable views! Be prepared to climb steps, the hotel goes up the hill but that helps build thirst and appetite.
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Date of stay: January 2015Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: They will all have great views. Higher up the hill means you are closer to the bar and restaurant
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.
This is a wee gem of a hotel, perched on top of the Huntly hills. Panaramoric views and a breath of fresh air. Plenty of space for farm walks and a hill country climb for the energetic.
I've stayed at the Hillside Resort twice now and really enjoyed the warm hospitality. The restaurant serves up delicious meals, especially the beef! Cooked to perfection. Downtown Huntly is not known for it's accommodation, but if you bypass this gem you will have missed a real piece of NZ.
I've stayed at the Hillside Resort twice now and really enjoyed the warm hospitality. The restaurant serves up delicious meals, especially the beef! Cooked to perfection. Downtown Huntly is not known for it's accommodation, but if you bypass this gem you will have missed a real piece of NZ.
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Date of stay: September 2012Trip type: Travelled on business
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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.
Driven past this place so many times, looked up the hill and thought "I wonder what its like up there". Found out - its brilliant. Fantastic views and a really nice hotel that manages to be luxurious and rustic at the same time. Rustic from all the wood decks, native trees/birds etc and luxurious in food and accommodation. Room was HUGE with two queen size beds, a table for two, a couch, a desk, minibar and two bathrooms - and still room to waltz around without feeling crowded. Restaurant (at top of hill) has best views and a fairly limited menu but what they do have is well cooked and a good portion size. Breakfast the next morning also excellent. Recommend for a quiet romantic getaway.
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Date of stay: March 2012Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
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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.
A fantastic location. Great food, friendly people, farm land and bush. A perfect weekend getaway.
The hotel is great. Not "super-flash", but very comfortable, clean and welcoming.
The views are great and if you want a walk for an hour or two (or three), there is bush and farm to explore. It is as the name suggests, on a hill, so it is not flat walking, but well worth the effort.
It does seem to be a bit of a retreat and the weekend we stayed, there was a group engaged in a lot of meditation in the function room, so although the accommodation was fairly full, my wife and I saw no-one else while out walking, and few guests around the hotel.
It is a very peaceful place (even in a howling gale!), and just what we needed for a short break away from the city.
The restaurant served excellent food and all the staff were so pleasant and helpful.
The room was large and well appointed.
We will certainly be back.
The hotel is great. Not "super-flash", but very comfortable, clean and welcoming.
The views are great and if you want a walk for an hour or two (or three), there is bush and farm to explore. It is as the name suggests, on a hill, so it is not flat walking, but well worth the effort.
It does seem to be a bit of a retreat and the weekend we stayed, there was a group engaged in a lot of meditation in the function room, so although the accommodation was fairly full, my wife and I saw no-one else while out walking, and few guests around the hotel.
It is a very peaceful place (even in a howling gale!), and just what we needed for a short break away from the city.
The restaurant served excellent food and all the staff were so pleasant and helpful.
The room was large and well appointed.
We will certainly be back.
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Date of stay: November 2011Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep 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.
On top of the ranges with superb views, is a classy well appointed hotel.
Everything about the hotel is generous, large well furnished rooms, with great views, restaurant meals that are well flavoured, and good portions.
The perfect peace and quiet, made me stop to listen to the silence, amazing..
We will return again to escape the city.
Everything about the hotel is generous, large well furnished rooms, with great views, restaurant meals that are well flavoured, and good portions.
The perfect peace and quiet, made me stop to listen to the silence, amazing..
We will return again to escape the city.
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Date of stay: November 2011Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: I don't think there is a room without a wonderful view
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.
Kia ora
Rod & I retired from our Hillside Hotel business earlier this year. The new tenants operating the premises did not buy our old business or retain our old staff. They specialize in group stays for Chinese tourists. I believe they offer a buffet breakfast. Now that we are no longer paying business members of TripAdviser we have been unable to update our details or have our listing removed.
Regards
Rosemary Leader
I forgot to mention in the room we had - this may be standard - there was a good bath so its worth taking bubble bath or something from Lush if you want some additional luxury
"the restaurant and conference room is on the top floor (4) so pick a room near that as there are a lot of stairs."Read full review
LOCATION
New ZealandNorth IslandWaikato RegionTaupiri
NUMBER OF ROOMS
25
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Frequently Asked Questions about Hillside Hotel
Which popular attractions are close to Hillside Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Lake Hakanoa Walkway (4.8 km), Hakarimata Kauri Grove (2.5 km), and Lake Puketirini (4.1 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Hillside Hotel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
What food & drink options are available at Hillside Hotel?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant and a lounge during their stay.
What are some restaurants close to Hillside Hotel?
Conveniently located restaurants include Hopin Stopin Cafe, Odd Spoon Cafe, and Curry Delight Indian Restaurant.
Does Hillside Hotel offer any business services?
Yes, guests have access to a business centre and meeting rooms during their stay.
Are there any historical sites close to Hillside Hotel?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Woodlands Estate - Homestead, Gardens, Venue, Cafe (12.5 km).
Does Hillside Hotel have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.