Rating: 4.1 ★ (304 ratings)
Albatross Motel offers a welcoming retreat overlooking the tranquil Ahuriri Estuary Reserve in Napier's Westshore district, providing a picturesque setting for a relaxing stay. Guests can enjoy the magnificent Hawke's Bay sunsets from balconies and benefit from being just a short stroll from Westshore Beach, known as one of Napier's safest swimming spots. This establishment provides a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a distinctive choice in the area.
The motel features 35 fully equipped units, ranging from studios to spacious one and two-bedroom family units, some offering kitchenettes for added convenience. Guests will find modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi throughout, over 50 Sky television channels, and private off-street parking for each unit. Recreational facilities include a seasonal outdoor saltwater swimming pool, a relaxing spa pool, and barbecue amenities available upon request, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
This accommodation suits a diverse range of visitors, from families seeking beach getaways to individuals travelling for work, with corporate rates and truck and trailer parking also offered. Its prime location is ideal for those looking to explore local attractions, including nearby wineries, boutique shopping, and McLean Park Cricket Ground. With its focus on comfort and a friendly team, the motel provides an appealing base for experiencing Hawke's Bay.
Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
+64 6 835 5991 | https://www.albatrossmotel.co.nz/
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When we raised this with management, we were extremely disappointed by how it was handled. The manager refused a full refund and initially offered only a small partial refund, despite the seriousness of bed bugs and the precautions guests must take afterward to avoid bringing them home.
During the discussion, the manager said “not again” when we mentioned bed bugs, and it later became clear that there had been previous bed bug issues in this same room, yet guests were still being placed there. This seriously undermined our confidence that the issue was being taken seriously.
We were made to feel like we were overreacting, and the conversation became heated and unprofessional. No apology was offered at any point. The manager also claimed that because the bed bug was discovered on checkout day, it wasn’t an issue on previous nights — which shows a concerning lack of understanding of how bed bugs work.
After a prolonged and stressful dispute, we received a partial refund ($400 of $600), but this felt more like a fight than a resolution. We would not be leaving this review if we had confidence that the situation was being handled responsibly, but based on our experience, we do not.
I’m sharing this so future guests can make an informed decision. I’m expecting Glen to respond unkindly to this review - but as discussed in our conversation this review should be expected.