Wanaka, 1 Capell Avenue, Lake Hawea-44.609498,169.253772(Show on Map)
8.4
Very Good
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Checkin - Checkout dates
1 Room2 Guests
Info
Summary of reviews
Hawea Hotel is a standout destination, celebrated primarily for its remarkable lakeside location along the shores of Lake Hawea. The tranquil, picturesque surroundings, including panoramic views of the lake and mountains, offer an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. This convenient yet serene setting also makes it a favored stopover en route to the West Coast or a quiet escape from busier towns.
The hotel’s dining experience is frequently praised with the restaurant receiving high marks for the quality and flavor of its meals. Guests enjoy fresh, beautifully presented dishes, accommodating dietary needs and a lovely atmosphere enhanced by spectacular views. The service is efficient and welcoming, adding to the overall satisfaction of dining there.
Accommodations at Hawea Hotel impress with their spaciousness, comfort and cleanliness. Guests appreciate the comfortable king beds, modern amenities and stunning lake views from many rooms. The recent renovations have refreshed the interiors, although some areas still show signs of wear.
The hotel ranks highly for cleanliness with rooms and communal areas generally well-maintained. While occasional lapses in cleaning standards exist, the overall experience remains positive. Guests also commend the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, who are dedicated to ensuring a pleasant stay.
Families find the Hawea Hotel particularly accommodating with spacious rooms suitable for both small and larger groups. The family-friendly environment, beautiful views and convenient location near Wanaka and local attractions make it an excellent choice for family getaways.
Bed comfort is another highlight with many guests remarking on the superior quality and coziness of the bedding, contributing to a restful sleep.
For romantic getaways and honeymoons, Hawea Hotel offers a magical setting with lovely decor, a romantic ambiance and starry night views that enhance the experience. The hotel's idyllic location and serene atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for couples seeking a romantic retreat.
Despite some mixed feedback on breakfast options and WiFi connectivity, the hotel’s easy parking and convenient proximity to local amenities add to its appeal. Accessibility is generally satisfactory, although a few areas, such as steps up to certain sections, may need improvement.
Overall, Hawea Hotel combines stunning natural beauty, excellent dining, comfortable accommodations and dedicated service to create a memorable and enjoyable stay for its guests.
Categories
Family
Located by Lake Hawea, this hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere and a restaurant with mountain views. It is suitable for families looking for a lakeside experience with water sports and outdoor activities.
Parking
Hawea Hotel has complimentary on-site parking available for visitors. Guests traveling with vehicles can take advantage of the free car park.
Cheap
Offers affordable lodging. Provides very good ratings.
Accessible
The hotel features two accessible rooms with wet area showers, L-shaped grab rails beside the shower and toilet, and a plastic seat for the shower. Accessible toilets are available in the restaurant area, and ramps provide wheelchair access to rooms. The entire unit is wheelchair accessible and located on the ground floor, with accessible parking.
Honeymoon
Romantic
Golf
Sustainability Journey
Small
Room Types
Lake View Family Hotel Room with Mezzanine and Ensuite BathroomFeaturing uninterrupted views of Lake Hawea and the surrounding mountains, this room includes a private balcony, free WiFi, a smart TV with free-to-air channels, electric blankets, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. It has an ensuite bathroom located downstairs, with a shower over bath. The room can be made up with a super-king downstairs and a double and single bed on the upstairs mezzanine.
Lake View Studio Hotel Room with Ensuite BathroomFeaturing uninterrupted views of Lake Hawea and the surrounding mountains, this room includes a private balcony, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV with free-to-air channels, electric blankets, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.
This studio can be made up as a super-king or twin bed configuration. A roll away bed can also be added if required, for an additional charge.
Please note that 2 of these room types are accessible rooms with a walk-in shower and no bath. Please request an accessible room at the time of booking if required.
Standard Lake View Studio Hotel Room with Ensuite BathroomFeaturing uninterrupted views of Lake Hawea and the surrounding mountains, this room includes a private balcony, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV with free-to-air channels, electric blankets, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.
The standard studio room has two double beds and a single bed in one room.
The ensuite bathroom has a shower only and no bath. This room is yet to be refurbished.
Standard Lake View Family Hotel Room with Mezzanine and Ensuite BathroomFeaturing a private balcony, the Standard Lake View Family Rooms have uninterrupted views of Lake Hawea and the surrounding mountains.
Free WiFi, a flat-screen TV with free-to-air channels, electric blankets, hairdryers and tea/coffee making facilities are included. The bathroom features a bath and shower and bathroom amenities are provided.This room is yet to be refurbished.
The room can be made up as a super-king or twin configuration downstairs, with a single bed and 2 double bed configuration upstairs. There is also a sofa bed that can be made up to accommodate a total of 6 guests.
Guest Reviews
8.4
Very Good
Review Summaries
Location
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Hawea, Hawea Hotel boasts an exceptional location that captures the hearts of its guests. With breath-taking panoramic views directly from the rooms and balconies, the hotel offers a tranquil and picturesque retreat. The serene, beautiful scenery of the lakefront, coupled with the gorgeous mountainous backdrop, sets a perfect stage for a peaceful getaway, away from the hustle and bustle yet still within reach of Wanaka's attractions.
The location is consistently praised for its convenience and spectacular vistas, positioning it as an ideal stop en route to the West Coast or as a serene escape from busier towns. Visitors find the onsite restaurant and bar highly convenient, complementing the excellent geographical positioning of the hotel. Whether one seeks to soak in the stunning lake views, go on hikes nearby or simply unwind in a serene setting, Hawea Hotel's prime location proves to be its greatest asset, making it a beloved choice for travelers.
Despite being slightly remote, guests appreciate the easy parking and proximity to local amenities, such as the general store and event spaces. The peaceful, small community feel further enhances the charm of staying at Hawea Hotel, offering a picturesque and restful experience unmatched by busier locales.
Breakfast
Guest reviews of 'Hawea Hotel' reveal mixed feedback regarding breakfast options at the property. Many guests expressed disappointment due to the lack of in-house breakfast services. Several reviews mentioned that the restaurant was not open for breakfast and there were no facilities such as toasters or kitchenette amenities in the rooms to prepare breakfast. Some guests had to travel to neighboring areas like Wanaka or rely on local cafes for their morning meals.
Despite these inconveniences, there were a few positive remarks. Some guests appreciated recommendations provided by the staff for nearby breakfast spots. There were mentions of delicious breakfasts and great coffee when guests were able to find an open restaurant nearby. In response to the lack of breakfast service, some guests found the overall room accommodations satisfactory and noted the availability of hostel facilities to self-cater breakfast. Additionally, positive experiences included enjoying breakfast with beautiful views of the lake and mountains, along with special events such as live broadcasts of sports matches.
Overall, while 'Hawea Hotel' may not currently offer breakfast services onsite, its scenic setting and helpful staff provide some compensation by guiding guests to alternative options nearby.
Dinner
Dining at Hawea Hotel has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response. Guests frequently praise the quality and flavor of the meals, describing the food as fresh, delicious and beautifully presented. The restaurant menu offers great variety, including notable dishes like steaks and fish and is considered reasonably priced with high value for money. The chef's ability to accommodate specific dietary needs has also been appreciated.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is often highlighted as lovely with good ambience and a view that enhances the dining experience. The service is efficient and welcoming, contributing to the overall satisfaction with the dining experience. Diners mention enjoying both lunch and evening meals with some standout mentions for the quality of the steaks and pizza.
Evening meals, in particular, receive high marks for quality with many guests describing them as excellent. A few reviewers suggest that the dinner menu could use more variety, particularly for vegetarians. Despite some isolated concerns about the cost of certain items and occasional slow service, the general consensus is that the restaurant exceeds expectations.
All in all, Hawea Hotel's restaurant is a well-regarded venue that provides high-quality meals and a pleasant dining environment, making it a convenient and desirable option for many guests.
Rooms
The rooms at Hawea Hotel are consistently praised for their spaciousness, comfort and cleanliness. Many rooms offer beautiful views of Lake Hawea, enhancing the stay with a serene and picturesque backdrop. Guests often highlight the comfortable king beds and well-appointed interiors, which include modern amenities and thoughtful layouts suitable for families or groups. The hotel's recent renovations have resulted in fresh, contemporary decor in many rooms, maintaining a clean and modern atmosphere.
Despite the overall positive feedback, some rooms show signs of wear and could benefit from updates, particularly in more dated sections of the hotel. There are occasional complaints about the lack of air conditioning and kitchen facilities, although heaters and extra blankets are readily available. Noise can be an issue in some rooms and a few guests noted minor maintenance issues such as malfunctioning doorknobs or the need for repainting.
Overall, Hawea Hotel offers a mix of well-maintained, comfortable accommodation with stunning lake views, making it a charming and restful destination despite a few areas that could use improvement.
Beds
The beds at Hawea Hotel have garnered consistent praise for their exceptional comfort and quality. Guests frequently described the beds as very comfortable with many noting the superior quality of the king beds. Reviewers highlighted the excellent bedding with some remarking that it was the most comfortable bed they had ever slept in. Comments about warm and clean beds were common, contributing to an overall sense of coziness and relaxation. While there were occasional mentions of beds being too soft and a few isolated complaints about discomfort, the majority of feedback emphasized the superb and comfy nature of the mattresses. The beds were described as well-maintained with top-notch duvets and other bedding essentials. Overall, the Hawea Hotel's beds stand out as a significant highlight, ensuring a restful stay for most of its visitors.
Cleanliness
The cleanliness of Hawea Hotel has repeatedly garnered positive feedback from guests. The rooms are described as clean, tidy, well-appointed and spotless with many reviews praising the fresh and modern feel of the accommodations. Communal areas, showers and the dining area also receive compliments for their maintenance, contributing to an overall impression of a well-kept establishment.
However, some guests reported occasional cleanliness issues, such as dirty fridges, mold in bathrooms and dusty carpets, indicating inconsistencies in the cleaning standards. While the property generally maintains a high standard of cleanliness, these lapses suggest areas for improvement, particularly in shared facilities and older rooms.
Despite these issues, many guests found their rooms to be very clean, comfortable and warmly appointed, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to maintaining a pleasant environment. The positive aspects of cleanliness at Hawea Hotel seem to outweigh the negatives, making it a largely reliable choice for travelers seeking tidy accommodations.
Staff
Hawea Hotel boasts a remarkable team, consistently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the attentive and accommodating nature of the staff, noting that they are quick to respond and provide excellent service in both the reception and dining areas. The team is described as exceptionally polite with members willing to go the extra mile to ensure a welcoming and pleasant stay.
Check-in is often seamless with efficient and pleasant reception staff providing complimentary drink coupons and hassle-free service. Many reviews mention the warmth and hospitality of the front desk staff, emphasizing their willingness to assist with any questions and accommodate late arrivals. The restaurant staff, including the highly commended head chef, delivers exceptional dining experiences, further adding to the hotel's reputable service.
Despite a few instances of staffing challenges and occasional reception delays, the overall sentiment towards the Hawea Hotel staff remains highly positive. The commitment to excellent customer service and making guests feel at home is evident, making it a standout feature of the hotel.
Wi-Fi
Hawea Hotel's WiFi situation has received mixed reviews from its guests with some positive remarks highlighting a good experience. Many guests have praised the WiFi service as being very good or excellent, indicating a quick and reliable connection in certain areas of the hotel. Additionally, free WiFi is offered, ensuring guests can stay connected without extra costs.
However, there are several areas where the WiFi could use improvement. Some guests mentioned that the signal does not reach the hostel section and there were instances of slow or non-existent WiFi, particularly in the rooms. Issues like poor internet connection, WiFi not working or really bad signal were also highlighted, which might affect those expecting seamless connectivity during their stay.
Overall, while Hawea Hotel offers free WiFi with potentially strong service in select areas, the consistency and reach of the WiFi signal seem to vary, making it advisable for prospective guests to manage their expectations regarding internet connectivity.
Parking
The Hawea Hotel is praised for its exceptional parking facilities, offering plenty of free spaces right at the front door of the rooms. Guests appreciate the ease and convenience of parking directly outside their accommodations, whether for cars or even trucks. The parking area is well-lit, spacious and secure, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Off-street parking is available in abundance and the location is both private and well-maintained. The convenience of easily finding a spot, combined with the proximity to local attractions such as the church and nearby eateries, adds to the overall appeal of the hotel. Guests can expect a large, clean and tidy parking area with attentive and friendly staff on hand. Whether looking for a quick stop or a longer stay, the Hawea Hotel ensures a stress-free parking experience.
Family
The Hawea Hotel is an excellent choice for families looking for a comfortable and accommodating stay. Reviews highlight its family-friendly environment with spacious rooms that cater well to both small and larger families. The family rooms, often spread across two floors, are particularly appreciated, offering plenty of space and privacy, especially with upstairs bedrooms that kids seem to adore.
The stunning views of the lake and the option to sit on the balcony add to the charm, making it a delightful setting for families. Common areas are nicely set up for children, although some reviews mentioned that the couch seats could be more comfortable and that the children's menu could use an improvement.
Despite these minor points, the location is praised for its convenience to both Wanaka and local attractions, making it a perfect base for family adventures. Overall, the Hawea Hotel provides great value and a wonderful setting for family getaways.
Accessible
The Hawea Hotel received mixed reviews regarding its accessibility for guests with disabilities. On the positive side, the staff, including the chef and restaurant manager, were noted for being exceptionally helpful and accommodating. The hotel provides easy access to essentials such as a nearby cafe and store, contributing to its convenience. Guests appreciated the fully accessible placement of certain facilities, which made navigation easier, particularly for those using walking frames. The presence of a pleasant deck area also added to the overall appeal. However, some areas, such as steps leading up to the hostel, were mentioned as potentially challenging and in need of improvement. The hotel's accessibility might also vary with the season, being less favorable in winter.
Honeymoon
Hawea Hotel offers an idyllic setting for honeymooners, providing a perfect backdrop for romance and celebration. Guests have praised the hotel's lovely decor and romantic ambiance. The location itself is ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway, featuring beautiful views that enhance the experience. The vistas of the moon and stars are particularly incredible, adding a magical touch to evenings spent at the hotel. For a honeymoon that combines tranquility with stunning natural beauty, Hawea Hotel proves to be an excellent choice.
Romantic
The Hawea Hotel offers a stunning setting for guests to enjoy with many being amazed by the beautiful views across Hawea Lake. The hotel features a romantic restaurant with excellent seating and perfect ambiance, making it an appealing choice for dining. Guests can look forward to facing peaceful and breathtaking lake scenery. Accommodations include privates spaces and roomy balconies, adding to the overall charm. While some felt the rooms lacked a romantic feel, the enchanting views and serene environment largely contribute to a memorable experience.
FAQ
No, Hawea Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Hawea Hotel.
No, Hawea Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Hawea Hotel.
