Amazing staff everywhere. Always willing to help. Incredible 5 course meal included with the room rate. Rack of lamb was superb. Turndown service was a nice extra.

Bright lights lighting up the walkways at night not necessary in rainforest. Could do downward pointing ones instead for better ambiance

Great location fantastic dinner / breakfast.

Rooms and restaurant could do with a new face lift soon, especially for the cost you are paying, but over all still fair condition. The air conditioning/heater was loud and you could not change the settings. We had to open the door which was not ideal as it let sandflies in which we knew and took the risk. When we walked in the room smelt musty and damp which was really disappointing for a high end retreat. Also some staff need some extra training for this high end hotel. We experienced some great service from the front desk and on arrival and then some not so great service particularly at our first night at dinner where we were seated and forgotten about. We watched everyone else get served and we hadn’t even been offered table water which left us not consider a return.

The location in the middle of the temperate rainforest and its access to the Franz-Joseph glacier is great. Ample parking. The hotel is beautifully decorated, and you feel connected to nature. The rooms are spacious and very comfortable and well organized. We loved the bird sounds playing in the room and the bathroom. Awesome turndown service at night with glass water bottles & delish chocolates. Great laundry facilities on site. They truly matched the sounds of the real birds outdoors. The staff was absolutely 100% professional, helpful and accommodating. First class! The five course dinners were delicious and we really enjoyed the view tables They reserved for us each evening. We really like the all inclusive aspect of this retreat as you are pretty isolated once you arrive in France Joseph. This is a cozy spot to end up in at the end of the day!

Because it rained our entire stay, except for the first few hours, I would have really appreciated a gym, as well as a Jacuzzi or hot tub. Also, our toilet ran, and we were annoyed by the fact that the bathroom fan would stay on for what seemed like hours, after you left the bathroom. Breakfast was basic, buffet style. Not my favorite, but it was adequate. The à la cart option was not available for some reason on the days we were there.

From the moment we arrived, the service at Te Waonui Forest Retreat exceeded all expectations. The experience was an absolute delight. We were warmly welcomed in the car park, where staff kindly took care of our luggage, and greeted with refreshing kiwi juice upon entering the lobby. Our room was incredibly comfortable, with the heated bathroom floors being a standout feature. On our first night, we indulged in the degustation menu, which was both delicious and filling, and the breakfast buffet did not disappoint. Our stay was exceptional in every way – a perfect 10/10 for service, food, and ambience. And a big thank you for the lovely Manager who offered so much advice on what to do and see in the area.

Great service. They met me at my bus, brought my suitcase straight to my room, while checking in I was provided with a hot towel and a complimentary kiwifruit juice. The room was beautiful, the bath big and comfy. The beautiful bird song that plays on the hotel channel was lovely. Sitting on my wee balcony ferns within reach, the soft rustle of leaves. There are small wee walks into the bush around the hotel for some moments of tranquility. The breakfast buffet was a step above every hotel I have stayed at. As was their phenomenal room service. It was torrential rain the day I left and one of the staff kindly got me to my bus in his personal vehicle as a kindness.

I did get a fright when I came back after tea and my curtains had been closed etc as I'd not had that before at a hotel, though once I realized what it was I thought it a lovely touch.

Liked the nature ethos.Rooms were well appointed. Quality of meats had for dinner very good. Location excellent for what we were doing in Franz Josef. Staff were all very friendly

Some minor irritations- lump down middle of the bed, shower over bath when would prefer a walk in shower, never keen on leaving the restaurant & having to walk outdoors again to get to our room & it was a long way. Finally while I enjoyed dinner both nights, it was the same short menu which meant my meals were nearly identical

Lovely spacious rooms with on suite bathroom. The rooms are exceptionally clean and kept that way throughout our four day stay. We had ample coffee and tea making facilities and even enjoyed a complimentary chocolate treat. The hotel meals had a wide selection which meant my gluten intolerant partner had a good choice of options. The location is a short walk to the high street and walks out from Franz Josef so ideal. All staff were very nice and certainly went out of their way to ensure we’re were happy.

The place would be exceptional if it also had a gym, hot tub or sauna.

This property is a quaint motel on the edge of town. It has an excellent restaurant which was important as few choices in Franz Josef. There are spa facilities which are reasonably priced.

There are no views except of large gardens so be mindful that your room is likely on ground floor or next level with little views. Expensive for type of accommodation but there is little choice in the area for nicer hotels.

Everything! There is nothing not to like and so many things to love. Attention to detail made for an extremely comfortable stay and the staff are outstanding. Particularly awesome were Siwe in the restaurant who is an absolute credit to her employer and Rohan (duty manager) who expertly rearranged and reorganised our day for us when our plans went awry. Beautiful surroundings, beds like clouds and incredibly delicious food.

Quiet and peaceful feel, yet only a short walk from the heart of Franz Josef. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. They offered helpful suggestions for our trip when we told them where we were heading next. The food in the degustation menu was excellent and the service great. The resort is good value for money considering the excellent food offerings are all included.