Did a touring holiday over 1 week for 3 adults so booked 2-bed units in Rotorua, Taupo and Napier. Prices paid per night were;
Rotorua The Silver Fern motel NZ$260/night
Taupo Beechtree Motel NZ$255/night
Napier Harbour View Motor Lodge NZ$225/night
All motels were good, but it is interesting that the Harbour View Motel in Napier was by far and away the best (and cheapest), while the Beechtree Motel in Taupo was the worst.
When I booked the Harbour View, I was worried that this would be very sub-standard. However, reality couldn't have been further from my fears. The 2-bed unit we had was massive and the view was out of this world. The decor is getting a little dated and I do hope the motel has plans to modernise. The location is out of this world - every unit gets a view across the bay, there is a beach and walkway just out the back, and loads of shops and eateries within 5 minutes walk. The motel is well off the main road into Napier so you will not be disturbed by traffic noise.
The lounge and kitchen area is huge. You get a full size fridge and hob/oven - no tiny kitchenette here. You also get a large flat screen TV in the master bedroom. The second bedroom had both a double and single bed so the unit can comfortably sleep 5. There is loads of drawer and storage space.
So apart from the dated decor, the only other gripes I had was a somewhat weak shower and another easy chair should be provided in the lounge. But everything else was great. So if you have made a booking at this motel, you have nothing to fear.
