The motel was probably built in the 1970s, and the current owners, Allie and Tom, have refurbished the units with fresh decor, colours and furniture to give a contemporary feel. Our bed was very comfortable, and everything was scrupulously clean and well maintained. When we arrived just after Christmas, our unit even had a small Christmas tree and table decorations, which was a lovely touch 🙂 The motel is built on part of the old Ngaere Gardens, and includes extensive gardens and grounds, including a small woodland and a couple of lakes. At night, fairy lights in the Enchanted Woods glow around the barbecue area, which is equipped with a chest of rugs for chilly evenings. All the units have a view of Mt Taranaki, there is an exercise area for dogs, and plenty of room for small people to run around and let off steam. The grounds and setting make it one of the most attractive motels we’ve stayed in, and it is an ideal place to stop and relax for a few days. We had a mishap while we were there, when my husband cut his foot badly and needed stitches at Hawera Hospital. Allie and Tom couldn’t have been more helpful, and we can vouch for the first aid box! Thank you both for your care and for your hospitality.
There are still some 70s touches, such as the rather basic bathroom (although it had everything we needed, and was spotlessly clean) and the bar catches on the windows in the bedroom and bathroom. However, Allie and Tom have not been there long and appear to have worked miracles since their arrival. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and these are small quibbles.

Deirdre (NZ)