We booked this stay luckily via the AA website and it looks pleasant enough.
When we booked we knew it was out of the way hence the name but it would have taken some time to walk in to town over two hills and a bay.

To be fair the hotel does have some nice views but it ends there. When we drove up we had our doubts, but we checked in with a pleasant enough lady who showed us to our room. Once she had gone my wife started to cry so we left to find somewhere else before breaking the good news. The reason was the state of the place; don’t get me wrong it was clean. It was just left over from 1972 or something, everything was tired and old. The balcony was shared with no privacy and all we could hear was a baby crying through one wall and the host checking another couple in through the other wall. There is a child’s playground for those with kids and some nice open space to. This was not for us.

We checked with the local isite who booked us into another hotel which was more suited for us. Upon returning we were told that no refund could be given as it was a busy weekend. This is in direct violation of their cancellation policy. So we left and cancelled via the AA website, paid the fees and got some of our money back.

This property may be for some people but it was definitely not for us and I can’t advise people strongly enough not to go there. Others will no doubt disagree but that’s their right to do so.

This motel is set up on the hill above Paihia. The setting is great and the rooms all look out onto the water. Ours had a large bedroom with double bed and additional single. We also had a very big lounge/kitchen with patio doors out onto a deck on which you can sit and enjoy the view. The decor is a little in need of upgrading but it didn't spoil our experience. Unfortunately when we were there it was stormy so we couldn't get out on the water. Would love to go back on a good day!