Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre

Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre

Traveler (66)
Superior King room
Room & Suite (15)
Dining (10)

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Avg. ₱6,528 /night, 2/16 - 2/17
₱7,279
per night
₱6,759
per night
₱6,239
per night

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About

#20 of 25 hotels in Whangarei
4.2 of 5 bubbles
Location
3.2 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
3.2 of 5 bubbles
Value
3.7 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
3.6 of 5 bubbles
Service
3.4 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre is perfectly suited to both business and leisure travellers. All 115 comfortable guest rooms & suites are air-conditioned and offer free unlimited WiFi & 50+ SKY TV channels. Conveniently located opposite the stunning Whangarei Town Basin and a few minutes walk from the city centre and Whangarei’s most tranquil bush walks. The majestic Bay of Islands is less than one hour’s drive from our 4 star hotel. Savour delicious cuisine at the on-site Portobello Restaurant and Anchor Down Lounge Bar. Work out in the fitness centre, swim in the indoor heated pool or relax in the spa. The hotel also caters for conferences and functions of up to 130 guests.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Bar / lounge
Business Center with Internet Access
Conference facilities
Baggage storage
Parking
Wifi
Hot tub
Indoor pool
Heated pool
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Non-smoking hotel
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Self-serve laundry
Room features
Air conditioning
Desk
Room service
Safe
Coffee / tea maker
Minibar
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Telephone
Iron
Wake-up service / alarm clock
On-demand movies
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Quiet
Centrally Located
Languages Spoken
English

Location

9 Riverside Drive, Whangarei 0112 New Zealand
Traveler rating
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  • 122
  • 65
  • 39
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Detailed Reviews
Eddie Y wrote a review Oct 2023
Auckland Central, New Zealand
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Hotel has invested & upgraded however not in the public areas where carpet looks distinctly tired. The rooms has new carpet, a huge round mirror and bespoke fittings however the bathroom still has the old tiles and 1980s 45° plastic shower which feels very claustrophobic. No liquid soap & soap cakes are supplied. Complimentary tea & instant coffee but a very bare fridge except for UHT milk pods. TV has usual freeview stations including ABC (Aussie), French TV & DW (German) but no Sky channels. Unfortunately the entry door has 1 inch gap underdoor which allows a lot of noise to intrude. Also no smoke seals or auto closer (non complying under current NZ Building Code but probably OK as built before NZ Building Act 1992 came into force). Party walls also allow a lot of inter-room noise (we left the bathroom fan on to provide some background masking). Aircon/heating is provided by a domestic looking & yellowing hi-bay heat pump which didnt try. Breakfast was standard fare with bacon, scrambled eggs, sausages, cereals, raw juice etc. Espresso is available on request but extra cost eg. $6 for Latte. Plenty of carparking and convenient walking distance to Town Basin.
Concluding, hotel is slowly upgrading but still a lot to do - 3.5 stars
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Date of stay: September 2023
3.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: Leave bathroom fan on to mask outside noise.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kiwigirl wrote a review Sep 2020
New Zealand
2.0 of 5 bubbles
I stayed here with my husband and 2 sons in a 'junior suite', it sounds much fancier than it is.
The entry to the wing was a smoking area which was very off putting and the corridor depressing. The room itself was extremely outdated like stepping back to the 80s but in a bad way. No plug for the bath, a giant big long black hair on the hand towel which I cant understand how that could be missed unless it just wasnt changed in the first place.
I booked this hotel for my sons birthday as he wanted to go somewhere with a pool and this place advertised a 'heated pool'. This is not heated, it was freezing so we headed down the road to the public pool instead, very disappointing.
The breakfast was the best part, polite staff and the food was good.
Its such a shame because its in a great location but someone needs to move this hotel into the current decade, take the 'heated pool' sign down, decently clean all areas of the hotel and remove the smoking areas and ashtrays from the entrance to the wings.
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Date of stay: September 2020Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PeterN1999 wrote a review Jul 2021
Tauranga, New Zealand
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Stayed here just the one night on our way north. We had standard queen room, the bed was comfortable but the pillows had been very sloppily covered with slips, only just. Did wonder if the bed had been changed but further inspection appeared ok. The shower surrounds outside needed a good scrub. Inside the shower was clean. We had dinner in the restaurant, we both chose fish and chips, all very nice especially the slaw. We were not told what the fish of the day was nor the roast. We were not asked whether we would like dessert or coffee. Very casual service with only one other couple in the restaurant at the time. We chose to have breakfast in the restaurant the next day for convenience. What a silly decision. We chose full buffet, the scrambled egg was cold and tasteless, as was the bacon but it did have a nice Smokey flavour bonus. The mushrooms were delicious but cold. The bread available for toast was bog standard white, no other offered. We are coffee appreciates and noticed the included coffee was bulk stuff. Noticed that the only other diners had different
mugs and heard a member of staff asking for a long black so asked if they had a proper coffee machine , yes oh joy we ordered 2 long blacks,very nice coffee but we had to pay extra. Definitely would not recommend this breakfast.
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Date of stay: July 2021Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cushlab wrote a review Nov 2023
Auckland Central, New Zealand
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Outstanding in every way - staff, cleanliness, breakfast, service. The staff made one feel that nothing was too much trouble. This includes all staff - receptionists, bar staff, cleaners. I will certainly return.
The manager needs to be congratulated on the training and service . Keep up the great work. You should be proud
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sue L wrote a review Aug 2023
Gold Coast, Australia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Attending a function at 2 pm we were delighted our room was ready early. The receptionist was very professional and extremely helpful. Our room had recently been refurbished and it had everything one could wish for. The toiletries were extensive, extra towel’s provided, tea and coffee was more than adequate, crockery and glasses provided choices and above all the room was spotless. A large 51” TV was a bonus, the bed superb, and the small lounge more than adequate. The hotel is very spacious and free parking was provided. We enjoyed excellent food and bar service during our stay with friendly efficient staff. This hotel has a lot to be proud of, we will return.
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Date of stay: August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TeamGoblin wrote a review Jul 2023
Nelson, New Zealand
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Have stayed here before with mixed feelings.
When checking this week I asked what their best price was. Got told it was$189 per night.
During my checkin the receptionist said she would include breakfast instead of a discount.
A couple of days later, upon paying the bill they had charged for the breakfast despite being told it was free.
I questioned the invoice and was told I was wrong and the invoice stood.
Wayne the accounts guy came out and told me I was wrong. He asked me if I would like him to ring the person who checked me in. Yes I replied. He phone the lady and she said she definitely did not say anything of the sort….
I asked Wayne if he was calling me a liar… he replied “ are you calling her a liar?”… “yes I am” was my reply.
Wayne then offered to go halves in the $120 breakfast bill.
Having been in the hospitality industry, trained in hotel management and travelled, I have never experienced such shxxxy service.
Rooms are ok, lack some basic amenities such ironing board, plates, cutlery.
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Matt Barnett wrote a review Oct 2020
Wellington, New Zealand
2.0 of 5 bubbles
It’s possible to retain the charm of an old fashioned hotel but Distinction you’ve got it all wrong.
There’s so much to build on. The location is fabulous. The staff are good and all that space!
However, the old shonky decor and tired, worn out fixtures and fittings lend to a depressing experience. Attentions to detail wouldn’t go amiss too. I didn’t feel the room was cleaned to an appropriate standard and the buffet breakfast was drab, unappealing and simply not appropriate for the COVID world. Irrespective of COVID who finds an urn of scrambled eggs that are dried on the outside and watery on the middle appealing?
You’re cashing in on the location guys and you could do so much better with some TLC.
I wouldn’t recommend anyone stay here if it wasn’t for the staff and location.
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Date of stay: October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marion L wrote a review Sep 2020
New Zealand
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Booked two nights in a "Superior King" room. The bed had no valance and there was a very obvious dark stain on one side of the base of the bed The bathroom vanity tap, shrieked, when turned on. We had a downstairs room and we could hear other guests walking around in their rooms above us as well as every time they turned on a tap or shower, we could hear the plumbing - this was very disturbing at 6:00 am in the morning. I have stayed in many hotels, in and outside of NZ, and never experienced having to put up with footsteps and thumping from upstairs room. (Not sure what structure separates the two floors). Unfortunately my husband insisted on trying out the restaurant for dinner on our last night. Apart from a rugby team who had a separate function room and buffet food, we were the only people in the restaurant. My "fish of the day" was a bed of plain white rice with a lump of overcooked dried out tuna, topped with overcooked, soggy brocolli and some pieces of bottled ginger. (It was given some type of Asian name). My husband's "roast of the day", was tough pork which was dry and appeared to have been pre-sliced and, like my tuna, could have been warmed up in the microwave. The "roast vegetables" were soggy and also appeared to have been warmed up. Both "dishes" would be the poorest meals we have experienced when eating out. When we checked out the following morning and highlighted our complaint about the "meals", the receptionist reported back the manager advised, 'no one else had complained' and we were given a 30% discount off the cost of the meals. We believed this to be very, very poor customer service and he obviously did not realise no one else complaining could have been due to the fact there had been no other diners. Notwithstanding the fact, obviously our complaint meant very little to the manager with this dismissive feedback as well as leaving it to a young receptionist to impart this message to us. He did not even reflect basic courtesy to discuss our complaint directly with us and use it as an opportunity to use it as honest and constructive feedback to avoid possible future complaints from other 'guests'. We realised our future patronage was not valuable.
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Date of stay: September 2020
2.0 of 5 bubblesValue
3.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
2.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: Book a room upstairs so you do not have to tolerate any noise from above however, you may still...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Happiness230400 wrote a review May 2021
Auckland Central, New Zealand
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Bedding threadbare and pillows lumpy. Towels nice and friendly staff but honestly get some new sheets. Breakfast too expensive for what it is. Room service was good but burger buns very stale lucky I don’t usually eat the bread anyway.
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kayno wrote a review Sep 2024
Auckland Central, New Zealand
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed in the superior king room which was recently refurbished with comfy beds and really quiet so had an awesome sleep. Breakfast was included in our deal and it was great. Our dinner was lovely and reasonably priced. The wine with dinner was not overpriced like most hotels. The staff were helpful & friendly. We will definitely stay here again and highly recommend it.
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Date of stay: September 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: Unfortunately no Sky TV but who wants to spend their stay watching TV.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Kayno wrote a tip Sep 2024
Auckland Central, New Zealand196 contributions107 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Unfortunately no Sky TV but who wants to spend their stay watching TV."
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Eddie Y wrote a tip Oct 2023
Auckland Central, New Zealand55 contributions26 helpful votes
3.0 of 5 bubbles
"Leave bathroom fan on to mask outside noise. "
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Mark E wrote a tip Sep 2022
Whitianga, New Zealand803 contributions136 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Ask for a newly renovated room and if you don’t like noise, away from the front and restaurant and kitchen."
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Susieinthebigcity wrote a tip Apr 2021
Auckland Central, New Zealand12 contributions1 helpful vote
1.0 of 5 bubbles
"Honestly don't bother its disappointing"
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sweetpeapb1 wrote a tip Mar 2021
Auckland Central, New Zealand146 contributions44 helpful votes
2.0 of 5 bubbles
"upstairs could be quieter with no one walking on your ceiling as very thin walls etc"
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PRICE RANGE
₱6,297 - ₱7,741 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
New ZealandNorth IslandNorthland RegionWhangarei
NUMBER OF ROOMS
115
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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DISTINCTION WHANGAREI HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE - UPDATED 2024 Reviews & Price Comparison (New Zealand) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre
Which popular attractions are close to Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Nearby attractions include Hundertwasser Art Centre With Wairau Māori Art Gallery (0.3 km), Town Basin (0.2 km), and Claphams Clocks - The National Clock Museum (0.2 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an indoor pool, free wifi, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Quay, Mokaba Cafe, and Aqua Restaurant And Bar.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Yes, guests have access to an indoor pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Is Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.8 km away from the centre of Whangarei.
Are any cleaning services offered at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers a business centre, meeting rooms, and a banquet room.
Is Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific inquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.
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