Homestays in Otago, New Zealand

We chose this hotel because we expected to enjoy its winery/food. Otherwise, we should have stayed in Queenstown with a lot of restaurants and pubs. As we would arrive in the early evening, we put a note for our hope for experiencing their winery and food (or at least finger foods) when we booked the hotel, and received email that they cannot guarantee but will do their best to serve our need. Since then, no email was sent to us. When we arrived at the hotel around 6 pm, no one was in the information desk, so we had to go to the bistro to find out that they left the key in a safe box without any notice or sending us any email with its password. We had to wait a while for the bistro lady to make a phone call to whom it concerns, which was okay. Worse, we heard that their bistro was reserved for a group event so we could not use the facility at all. We had to drive 15 minutes to a nearby town and bought foods from a supermarket. I think the hotel should have notified us of impossibility of using their bistro/food service due to the group event and we have to prepare for our food. As I checked out, I left a note about the issues, and expected they would send me an email to express their sincere apology. Unfortunately nothing happened so far. Although I liked the room as well as the whole place very much, I think Kinross cottage needs professionalism to run their stay program. It could have been much nicer, memorable stay experience.

I had a truly wonderful stay at this retreat. The place itself is absolutely spectacular — very calming, beautifully maintained, and surrounded by breathtaking views. The deck is stunning, and it was the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The owners were exceptionally friendly and went above and beyond to make me feel welcome and looked after throughout my stay. Their hospitality genuinely stood out. The dogs were lovely and added so much warmth to the experience. Breakfast was excellent, and the variety of teas available was out of this world. As a female solo traveller, I felt completely safe, comfortable, and well cared for, which is something I value highly. The atmosphere is peaceful and nurturing — exactly what you want from a retreat. The only minor downside is that it’s a bit far from the shops (around a one-hour walk). However, this was easily managed as Uber is only a 6-minute drive, and the hosts were also kind enough to offer lifts when possible. Overall, an absolutely stunning place, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful and memorable stay

If you book during office hours, you can use the hot pool and kitchenware for an additional fee. There's a shower room behind the restroom. Please bring your own toiletries like toothbrushes. The bed has an electric blanket, so I slept soundly all night without feeling cold.

A lodge on hill level hence a wonderful view on the other side of the mountain and the Queenstown Skyline. The city centre was also near. Friendly staff. Thanks for the car parking made available! The price including breakfast was a wonderful arrangement! We just love it. It let us be more productive with more time available on our side. Thanks.

The rooms were clean and tidy, and the staff provided excellent service. The breakfast was very good, and the restaurant had a tasteful ambiance. They also offered free hot drinks like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate 24/7. The location was convenient, quite close to Wanaka's attractions.

Amazing stay at Melbourne lodge in Queenstown. The location is superb and the walk to the main downtown area is only 10mins though you will be walking uphill otw back. The room was spacious and well maintained, though take note that you will have to climb some stairs to access certain rooms but it was really a wonderful stay and we highly recommend it :)

Disappointing compared to other hostels in New Zealand I stayed two nights at Pinewood Lodge and, unfortunately, it was one of my least favorite hostels during my trip to New Zealand. The main issue was the lack of facilities for the number of guests. There were only two toilets and two showers for about a dozen people, which often led to waiting times. The kitchen is very small, with little space to store food (practically only the refrigerator) and a rather limited selection of utensils and cooking equipment. The room was also very cold, despite the heating being turned up to maximum, which didn't make for very comfortable nights. The location is decent, but for my part, I'm glad I only stayed two nights. Given my experience in many other hostels in New Zealand, this one is unfortunately not among those I would prioritize recommending.

If you use Google Maps, remember to select the pedestrian path for directions. Otherwise, it may guide you to an abandoned house. The view from the dining room was nice, but we found some short blond hairs on the bed. We weren't too concerned about it, but others might be. The breakfast is quite Western—bread and jam, with milk or yogurt. It's a nice place, suitable for a short nap before takeoff. Nearby Saddle Hill is a great spot for viewing the Southern Lights if the timing is right. You could also ask John for local tips—he might know the best viewing spots. Thanks again to John for his hospitality!

The castle is very big and you can see the sea. It is a very good experience. You can choose your own buffet breakfast. I recommend the Lanark breakfast. Guests staying in the hotel can participate in the castle dinner. It is also great value for money. I will go there again if I have the chance.

Love love love the location! ❤️ 😍 💖 2-3 minutes walk to Queenstown mall which u dont have to worry as there are shops, halal restaurants and 4 Square where u can get ur last min groceries. Also nearby the skyline which one of a MUST GO attraction in Queenstown. Big rooms and suitable for families of 4. Cozy and comfortabl beds. Staff at the reception very friendly and it makes us guests feels welcome all the time!