If only their was more Fabulous accommodation like Carrick lodge in New Zealand backpacking would be a breeze. The self contained room is a great size & absolutely spotless I could not find one fault. Most comfy bed ever. You have everything you need from coffee/tea making facilities (they even supply you with proper milk not the UHT crap.. Which as we were recovering from jet lag & love our tea cheered us up immensely!) to sky sports to every kitchen appliance you could possibly need. The location is ideal you are directly across the street from the supermarket, cafe, banks etc. But more importantly the liquor store is right next door. Joan & Rob have thought of all the little luxuries you need when you are away from home but are unable to fit into your rug sack. So far the best motel we have come across. I encourage people to check in to Carrick lodge.

We travel to Cromwell monthly for business and can't say enough about the warm hospitality and excellent accommodation at Carrick Lodge. Rob & Joan go the extra mile to ensure we are well looked after each and every time, and there isn't a better accommodation or more convenient location in Cromwell. The rooms are spacious with up-to-date decor, plenty of windows and great views of the surrounding hills and all the amenities that make a home away from home - fully equipped kitchen, comfortable dining table and chairs, spacious and modern bathroom and very comfortable beds. With Wanaka and Queenstown only 45 mins away, Cromwell is a great central base for corporate travellers, as well as those touring Central Otago for the skifields and the wine country. Carrick Lodge does not disappoint.

We found the Carrick really marvellous. Rob was very hospitable and even lent us a DVD about the history of the flooding of the original town for a dam - very interesting and informative. Our room was self contained, large, comfortable and beautifully furnished - a cut above the usual motel (several cuts actually). We also had an outdoor area with lovely views to snow-capped mountains. The area is very scenic (as is the whole of the SI !) with lots of wine growing and with such lovely accommodation, we were really disappointed that we could only stay one night. Highly recommended.

We were offered excellent off season rates by the friendly staff in reception who gave us an excellent recommendation for a lunch venue (Mt Difficulty Winery). The rooms were very clean and roomy.