Kaikoura has a gorgeous beach area and this motel is one of the many along the beach. \Spectacular to sit and watch the water - just don't stay in The Clearwater. It's so run down it isn't funny. We have been in motels across both islands for 4 weeks now and this was the worst by far. The shower was rotting away, there was no coffee or tea pot, no hair dryer and they didn't give us milk like ALL the other places have done. It smelled of mold and the plumbing drains and walls are so poor that you hear every thing from the unit beside you as they pee and whatever. And we paid $123 for this dump. We booked on line so couldn't back out when we saw the place.The man who runs the place is very nice but I think he knows he's robbing people asking this kind of money for such a piece of crap. There are many new motels along this strip so wait until you are there and find one you like. Drive past the wharf and aquarium (don't go in - there is nothing in it) and past the trailers selling awful sea food around the corner to the little park. There are seals all over the rocks. Walk out on the flat rocks but watch the tides. They come in and trap you out on the rocks with not way back if you aren't careful. If you want a taste of great crayfish from a trailer, drive a few kms north of town to Nin's Bin.

We booked in for 2 nights at the beginning of Jan, 3 adults & 3 teenagers. We had a 2 bedroom, self contained unit right opposite the beach and made ourselves at home straight away. Terry & Bon, our wonderful hosts couldn't help us enough, they even moved another single bed into the unit so that only 1 had to sleep on the sofa lounge. There was no milk in the fridge but we asked if we could have some and Bon provided a full bottle straight away. They gave us free internet, so that kept the teenagers happy.

The unit was clean, tidy and plenty roomy enough for all of us. It was great value for money and the view was awesome. We enjoyed ourselves that much we changed our plans and booked for another night. It's an easy walk to The Pier Hotel which has beautiful meals. Close to the seal colony & the crayfish & takeaway caravans and it's not too far from town

Yes the Clearwater is dated but it is classic and was very clean and comfortable. If you spend all your time in the room and are nit picky then it's not for you but if you go to Kaikoura to relax, get out and about,see the sights and take in the wonderful view, which is what I do on holiday, then trust me the Clearwater Motel is perfect!!

Thank you Terry & Bon for a lovely 3 days, anything we asked for, you provided and couldn't do enough for us. Will definitely come back and stay!!!

Classic kiwiana .. great location and awesome views .. nice and quiet away from the town but close enough if you want anything .. clean, comfortable and the host is very welcoming and friendly and happy to share useful tips for the area .. and the price is great given the views .. made for a great weekend away .. thanx so much Chrissy :)