We only spent one night here. The unit was clean, large and well equipped. Location is quiet and central with a supermarket just across the road.

We didn't know anything about the Aldan - we picked it based on a listing in Jason's while we planned our trip to the South Island. It was perfect for a quick stop over (or even a bit longer).
We had an room on the upper level (two levels in the motel) suite with kitchen. Our room came with a loft - with a couple additional small beds - accessible by spiral staircase. Another bonus - both the upstairs loft and the downstairs had good-sized windows.
The owners were friendly and helpful - they picked us up from the ferry, held our luggage while we did a bit of last minute wandering, and dropped us by the train station.
The Aldan is directly across the street from a small mall - with grocery, pharmacist, post office, and several shops. No need to drive to pick up a few items.
Picton is worth a short stopover - a variety of shops and restaurants are within walking distance of the Aldan Lodge, the ferry and the train.
We'll definitely stay here again the next time we're in the northern part of the South Island.