We were booked to stay at a another of the group hotels but received the opportunity to stay at Te Waonui Forest Retreat. What a lovely surprise. Amazing check in experience with friendly staff member and on to a luxurious, well appointed room. Clean and comfortable in a lovely tranquil setting but allowing easy access to the surrounds.
Right off the main road, this hotel feels like an oasis smack bang in the middle of the rainforest. You wouldn't know there's a highway nearby, honest! The room was spacious and comfortable, well outfitted with a bath and beautifully high pressured shower! I had a relaxing massage at the spa, and although I was unable to have the deep tissue massage I wanted, it was great and I was on cloud 9 when it was over. The restaurant served a brilliant dinner, the beef fillet was amazing! I had breakfast both mornings, and the only reason this review isn't getting a full 5 stars is because I felt the first breakfast (a la carte) was really lacking. I had the waffles and was.. not impressed. I've never been disappointed by bacon until then, either! Half of it tasted like charcoal and the other half like chewy water. The second day's breakfast, buffet style, was really great, however. Without fault the staff at Te Waonui were polite and attentive, despite this being the last month of its operation for an unknown period of time. They must be worried for the futures, but it didn't show. Bravo to them all, thank you, and best of luck for the future. …
We had booked into the Scenic Circle Franz Josef for a weekend getaway and were surprised to find upon arrival that we had been moved to Te Waonui Forest Retreat. We were a bit taken aback as the hotel website had accepted our booking for the Scenic Circle and there was no mention of it not being available. However, our experience at Te Wainui ended up being wonderful! The hotel and our room were spotless, elegantly furnished and comfortable. The breakfast buffet was excellent. But most importantly was the customer service, starting with Joy and Sunil ( sp?), and including every staff person we encountered during our stay. Across the board they were helpful and pleasant and a pleasure to deal with. We will definitely choose Te Waonui on future vsits to Franz Josef Glacier!
Stayed 2 nights with bed & breakfast package. Location in bush is fantastic. Our room welcoming and comfortable, all the amenities you’d hope for. Dining room lovely space amongst the trees, food was excellent, service also very good. Spa services also excellent and reasonably priced for a resort. More than happy to return.
Of course a trip to Westland may coincide with lots of rain but it was actually rather calming to be in the lovely rooms of Te Waonui Forest retreat set right in the forest, listening to and watching the rain. It’s a great hotel with very welcoming and helpful staff; the lounge with signature fireplace serves excellent cocktails; good food too in the restaurant. An excellent therapist too, so I took advantage of the indoor option to enjoy a wonderful facial.
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