Auckland Airport's BEST Kept Secret: Harbour View Motel!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans on Auckland Airport's "BEST Kept Secret" – the Harbour View Motel! And let's be real, "secret" is a bit of a stretch when you're plastered all over the travel websites, but hey, marketing! Anyway, I’m diving deep, warts and all, because a real review isn't all sunshine and rainbows, right?
First Impressions & Accessibility - The Not-So-Secret Entrance
Okay, so first things first, getting there is a breeze, especially if you’re doing an airport transfer because, you know, jet lag. The Airport transfer is key. Forget wrestling with car rentals or battling the Auckland traffic. Boom. Done. Accessibility is pretty damn good too, which is a major win. They actually have facilities for disabled guests, which is more than some places bother with. The elevator is a game-changer if you're not keen on stairs. And the whole place has a decent layout for those who might have mobility issues. I actually saw a family with a stroller navigate the place with zero issues. Big thumbs up. CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property made me feel more secure, which is always appreciated.
Rooms, Comfort & Glorious Wi-Fi (Thank You, Technology Gods!)
Right, the rooms. Let's talk Air conditioning. Crucial in Auckland, especially in the summer when you're melting. The Wi-Fi [free]? Phenomenal. I’m talking reliable, stream-without-buffering kind of Wi-Fi. Actually, let me take a moment to REALLY appreciate Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, because seriously, there’s nothing worse than paying for dodgy internet when you just want to watch Netflix (or, you know, work…). And that Internet access – wireless is a blessing, I had to finish a project, and i had to finish it from the bed, so that's a win for me. Oh, and they have Internet access – LAN access too, for those who are old-school, like, really old. The room itself? Comfortable. Clean. Had everything I needed, even a Coffee/tea maker so I could get my fix without leaving the room. The Free bottled water was a nice touch, too. Big shout-out to the Blackout curtains, because sometimes, a girl just needs to sleep in. And thank god for the Air conditioning in public area as well, it's hot in New Zealand!
Cleanliness & Safety - The Sanitizing Squad!
Okay, this is where Harbour View truly shines, especially in this post-pandemic world. They're taking Cleanliness and safety seriously. The amount of hand sanitizer available is impressive, I mean, i felt safer there than in my own home! I saw Hand sanitizer dispensers everywhere, and the staff are clearly trained in this protocol. They use Anti-viral cleaning products (phew!), and they do Daily disinfection in common areas. The fact they do Rooms sanitized between stays actually made me feel really good and the Room sanitization opt-out available is excellent as well. Plus, the fact that they have First aid kit and a Doctor/nurse on call is great for the peace of mind, so I can be a little less paranoid. They even have Individually-wrapped food options for extra safety. I mean, they're practically nuking everything, which is probably a good thing, haha.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking - Fueling the Adventure
Right, food. Let's be honest, I'm a sucker for a good feed. The Restaurants are alright, nothing Michelin-star, but totally serviceable. They have Breakfast [buffet] and that is a solid win to be honest, and the Breakfast takeaway service is great if you are in rush. It's not just the buffet, i mean the Asian breakfast is something to talk about, really! The fact that they have a Coffee shop and Poolside bar is another plus. The fact that the staff can provide an Alternative meal arrangement and give Essential condiments is amazing for the picky eaters, and I am one of them. I'd give the Room service [24-hour] a solid B+. The Desserts in restaurant were a high point, so that's a win in my book.
Services & Conveniences - Beyond the Basics
Okay, this is where Harbour View goes the extra mile. They have a Concierge, who were super helpful. And a Cash withdrawal, which is handy. Daily housekeeping? Check! Dry cleaning and Laundry service? Double check! They even have a Convenience store, so you can grab snacks and essentials without venturing far, and a gift/souvenir shop, so you can grab some last-minute gifts. I'm thinking that the On-site event hosting would be great too, for businesses or people wanting to be out of the city.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax - That's the million dollar question
Okay, this is where the "secret" might get a little thin. They have a Swimming pool [outdoor], which is lovely on a sunny day, and a Sauna, but the Spa is…well, let's just say it's not the Four Seasons. The Fitness center is there, but it's not exactly a state-of-the-art gym, though i loved it anyway. They have Massage, but book in advance because they fill up fast, and the Pool with view is actually pretty special too. So, while it's not a destination spa, there are definitely ways to unwind.
The Almost-Imperfections: Honesty is the Best Policy
Right, time for some real talk. There's no place perfect, right? The rooms, while clean, could use a little updating here and there. The restaurant, while convenient, isn't exactly a culinary adventure. I think the biggest issue that made me laugh were the cough TV channels, but hey, who watches TV these days? One thing that really caught my eye was the fact that the Non-smoking rooms are really well set in place. One day i was walking around and I'm sure I smelled something burning. The staff was on point!
My Emotional Reaction - The Verdict is In
Do I recommend Harbour View Motel? Absolutely. It's not perfect, but it's a damn good choice, especially if you're flying in or out of Auckland. It's convenient, comfortable, and safe. And for the price? It's a steal. I felt safe. I felt relaxed. I could get my work done with super fast internet. Basically, it's a no-brainer for a short stay.
Quirky Observations and Random Ramblings
Okay, so I saw this guy wearing three layers of clothes at the pool, and he didn't even go in the water. Weird, but hey, you do you. And the staff? Super friendly, even with my incessant questions about the Wi-Fi password. One of them genuinely seemed to care whether I was having a good time. Which, in this day and age, is a win.
Now, for the Marketing Blitz!
Harbour View Motel: Your Auckland Airport Oasis – Comfort, Convenience, and Killer Wi-Fi!
Tired of airport hotels that feel like sterile boxes? Craving a comfortable, convenient, and surprisingly affordable stay before or after your Auckland adventure? Then ditch the generic and discover Harbour View Motel – Auckland’s BEST Kept Secret!
Here's Why You NEED to Book NOW:
- Forget the Traffic, Embrace the Ease: FREE Airport transfer gets you to your comfortable room in minutes! No stress, no hassle.
- Stay Connected (and Entertained): Lightning-fast, FREE Wi-Fi in ALL Rooms! Stream your favorite shows, catch up on work, or just browse the web without buffering.
- Relax and Recharge: Take a dip in our sparkling outdoor pool, sweat it out at the Fitness center, or simply unwind in your spacious, well-appointed room.
- Cleanliness You Can Trust: We're serious about safety! With enhanced cleaning protocols, anti-viral products, and attentive staff, your well-being is our top priority.
- Fuel Your Adventure: Enjoy convenient dining options, including a delicious buffet breakfast to kickstart your day, and a poolside bar for those relaxing sunset drinks.
- Accessibility for Everyone: We welcome guests of all abilities. From accessible rooms to easy access throughout the property, we're committed to providing a comfortable and inclusive stay.
- Secret Bonus: The Price! Harbour View Motel offers exceptional value for money, so you can enjoy a fantastic stay without breaking the bank.
Stop scrolling! Stop searching! Book your stay at Harbour View Motel today and experience the Auckland Airport's BEST Kept Secret! You'll be glad you did.
Click Here to Book Your Escape! [Insert Booking Link Here]
Bavarian Forest Paradise: 5-Star Escape for 4 near Spiegelau!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to delve into my Auckland adventure, a symphony of triumphs, near-disasters, and questionable food choices, all unfolding at the illustrious (and slightly beige) Airport Harbour View Motel. This isn't your polished travel brochure, this is the real, messy, slightly-hungover deal.
Day 1: Arrival and Awkward Beginnings (aka "Where Did My Adaptor Go?!")
7:00 AM (Approx.): Alarm blares. Honestly, is there a worse sound than the pre-dawn chorus of a cheap hotel alarm? Nope. Scramble to hit snooze. Multiple times. (I blame Jet Lag, it's always Jet Lag's fault).
7:30 AM: Finally, drag myself out of bed. Briefly consider skipping breakfast. Then remember the promise of delicious (and free!) continental offerings. Conquered, I stumble towards the breakfast area.
7:45 AM: Breakfast. It was… well, it was there. Cereal that had seen better days, some sad-looking fruit. But, hey, free coffee! Coffee is life. Commence caffeine intake.
8:30 AM: The dreaded (and often ignored) unpacking. Find the suitcase chaos from the flight I just took. Try to find the adapter, and realize I forgot to pack it. Panic briefly; my phone is my lifeline to civilization! This is immediately followed by a sigh as I realize the same thing happens on every single trip.
10:00 AM: Embark on the first Auckland adventure, trying to locate an electrical adaptor. I have to get this right, otherwise the entire trip is ruined.
- 10:15 AM: Walking through the airport, my luggage in tow, I spot a shop.
- 10:30 AM: I go in a shop. The shop is great, and gives me confidence. The lady in the shop tries to explain everything but I'm too hyped to notice.
- 11:00 AM: I find the adaptor.
12:00 PM: Airport Harbour View Motel Check-in. Oh, the beige walls of the Airport Harbour View! It's not exactly the Ritz, but the bed looks comfy enough, and the air conditioning works. (Thank heavens!) Unpack. Realize I've packed way too many shoes. Again. Seriously, what am I even doing with five pairs of sandals?!
1:00 PM: Lunch. Found a greasy spoon down the road. Ordered a burger. Regret the burger almost immediately. My stomach will never forgive me.
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Getting acquainted with the area. Basically wandering around the neighbourhood the motel is in, looking for a grocery store (gotta stock up on snacks, people!). The Auckland sun hits hard.
- 4:00 PM: The supermarket is found, and I'm in heaven!
6:00 PM: Back at the motel. Exhausted. Consider attempting to watch some TV, but the remote looks like it's seen better decades. Give up.
7:00 PM: Dinner. Another culinary adventure! This time, a microwaveable meal purchased at the supermarket. Taste: "Meh."
8:00 PM: Crawl into bed. Fall asleep approximately immediately. Jet lag wins, round one.
Day 2: Ferry Tales and Fishy Business (aka "That Seagull is Audacious!")
- 7:30 AM: Wake up. The sun is shining! (This time of year, that's a miracle). Actually, I might have gotten a decent night's sleep. Yay, sleep!
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. Repeat of Day 1. Same sad fruit. Same life-affirming coffee.
- 9:00 AM: Head into the City! This is a BIG DAY! Catching a bus to downtown Auckland and attempting to navigate the ferry to Waiheke Island. Wish me luck!
- 10:00 AM: Bus to Downtown. The bus is pretty easy – so far, so good!
- 10:30 AM: I get distracted by a person. He's singing, with a guitar. The bus is better than expected!
- 11:00 AM: Ferry to Waiheke Island. OMG, the views from the ferry are unreal! The water is impossibly blue, and the harbour is bustling with boats. I'm definitely going to fall in love with this city!
- 12:00 PM: Waiheke Island! Lunch at a cafe overlooking the ocean. Fish and chips. The chips are delicious! A seagull tries to steal a chip from my hand. Cheeky little blighter! I win, though. Seagull: 0, Me: 1
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore Waiheke. Wander around. Visit a vineyard, sample some wine (a bit). Take far too many photos of the scenery. Feel a ridiculous surge of happiness. This is what travel is all about!
- 4:30 PM: Ferry back to Auckland. The ride back is peaceful. Reflect on the day. Feel relaxed, and grateful.
- 5:30 PM: Back at the city.
- 6:00 PM: Head back to the airport motel. Dinner is at a nice restaurant. The food is great!
- 9:00 PM: Bedtime. Jet lag is starting to creep in again. So tired. So happy.
Day 3: Mount Eden and Muddy Feet (aka "I REALLY Should Have Worn Hiking Boots")
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. Decide to be "adventurous" and try the scrambled eggs. Regret decision.
- 9:00 AM: Uber to Mount Eden. That volcano thingy! Excited to see the view.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Mount Eden. The climb is steeper than I anticipated. I'm not sure I'm dressed for the occasion.
- 10:00 AM: The view from the top. Incredible! Auckland spread out before me, stunning! Take a million more photos.
- 11:00 AM: Attempt to walk around the crater rim. Slippery. And a mudslide… and some more slipping. Somehow, manage to make it back down the hill. My shoes are ruined, my trousers are stained. I'm a mess. But I'm also laughing.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch. Found a cafe in the area. Ordered the safest thing on the menu - a sandwich.
- 1:00 PM: Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
- 4:00 PM: Head back.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. The food is ok at my motel. Get ready for another day tomorrow!
- 9:00 PM: Bedtime. I can barely move, but it's been an amazing day.
Day 4: Departure and Reflections (aka "Until Next Time, Auckland…")
- 7:00 AM: Wake up. The good news: I'm still alive. The bad news: packing.
- 7:30 AM: Breakfast. Same routine. Sigh heavily.
- 8:30 AM: Pack. Re-evaluate the shoes. Vow to pack lighter next time. (Spoiler alert: I won't).
- 9:00 AM: Check out of the Airport Harbour View Motel.
- 10:00 AM: Head to the airport.
- 12:00 PM: Board the flight.
- On the plane: Reflect on the trip. Auckland, you beautiful, chaotic city! The harbour, the wine, the views, the seagulls… it was all amazing. The silly mishaps, the clumsy adventures, everything was perfect. (Even the beige walls of the motel).
- Later: Back home! Start planning the next trip!
This, my friends, is the unvarnished truth of my Auckland adventure. It wasn't perfect, it wasn't always pretty, but it was undeniably mine. And that, I think, is what travel is all about. Now, where's that travel adaptor? And when am I going back?!
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Harbour View Motel: The Good, the Bad, and the Honestly, Sometimes Baffling
So, Harbour View Motel... WHAT'S the Deal? Is it Actually a 'Best Kept Secret'?
Okay, fine, I'll admit it. I've stayed at the Harbour View Motel. More than once. And yes, the "best-kept secret" thing... it kinda, sorta, *maybe* holds some water. Look, it's not the Ritz. Think more... well, think of it as that well-worn pair of jeans you can't quite throw away. It's got character. And by "character," I mean slightly wonky plumbing. But! The view? Oh, the *view*. When the sun hits it just right, and that Auckland harbour just SHIMMERS... You might just forgive the ancient air conditioning.
Okay, View Sold! But... the Rooms? Spill the Beans. Are they Clean?
Clean-ish. Let's just say they're... *lived-in*. I once found a stray button by the bed. Still, the staff are *generally* pretty good at keeping things tidy. You might find a stray crumb or two – consider it a bonus snack from a previous guest! But seriously, are they dirty? No. Are they pristine? Also, no. Think of it like this: It's a perfectly acceptable place to lay your weary head after a long flight, even if you DO develop a sudden fascination with the age of the bedside lamp.
Breakfast? Is there breakfast? Because after a 24-hour flight, I'm going to need all the carbs.
Breakfast... ah, the Breakfast saga. Officially? Yes, *Continental* breakfast is included. In practice? It's... variable. Sometimes it’s a passable spread of toast, cereal, and the promise of coffee. Other times, it’s a lonely box of Cornflakes and a slightly dubious-looking apple. Once, I swear, I saw the same croissant for three days. But hey, at that price point, you might just want to BYO a muesli bar or two. There's a decent cafe (Black Coffee) down the road anyway.
Location, Location, Location! Is it Convenient for Auckland Airport?
Nailed it! That's the main selling point. It's close. Really close. Like, you can practically smell the jet fuel. Or at least, you MIGHT be able to hear the planes. It's PERFECT for a quick stopover or an early flight when you're absolutely shattered. Honestly, that's why I keep going back. I once arrived at 2 am after a truly horrific flight, stumbled out of the taxi, and was in my room in five minutes flat. Pure bliss.
What About the Noise? Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (but mostly Planes)?
Okay, let's address the elephant in the (slightly threadbare) room. Yes, you will hear planes. It's an airport hotel. It's not a tranquil retreat. The noise is... *there*. But honestly, it's not as bad as you might think. After a while, you just tune it out. I've learned to identify different aircraft by their sound! (Don't ask me which ones, I'm not an expert...) Plus, if you're exhausted, the white noise might even put you to sleep. Just bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper. Seriously. Bring them.
Okay, let's talk about the *Vibes*. Is it a friendly place?
"Friendly" is a good word for the staff. The people at Harbour View are fine, mostly. They're not trying to win any awards for customer service, but they're generally helpful and efficient. They've seen it all, I think. And, honestly, they are a bit... real. You know? Not overly polished. Which, after a long journey and a heap of stress, can sometimes feel like a massive relief. I once lost a bag. And, actually, the woman at reception went above and beyond in helping me find it. She even looked under a few beds!
Wi-Fi? Essential in this modern age! Is it any good?
Ah, Wi-Fi. That's where things get... interesting. It's there. Sometimes. And by 'sometimes,' I mean you might get a fleeting glimpse of internet connectivity. Don't expect to stream anything. Forget about uploading massive files. Basically, plan to catch up on emails and maybe scroll through some social media. Pray for a strong signal. Or... Embrace the digital detox. Read a book! (I'm starting to sound like the hotel marketing copy now!)
Parking? Got a car, need to park it. Is it safe?
Free parking! That's a plus. It is... well, it's a parking lot. It's visible, and I've never had any issues with my car. So, consider it a win.
So... Overall, Would You Recommend It? Be Honest!
Okay, deep breath. It depends. If you're looking for luxury, look elsewhere. If you're expecting perfection, keep scrolling. But if you need a convenient, affordable, and - dare I say - characterful stopover near Auckland Airport, then yes. Yes, I recommend it. I've stayed there during times of immense travel stress, and honestly? It's the perfect place to crash. It's the kind of place that feels like home, even if the home is a little... quirky. Just manage your expectations and pack some earplugs. And maybe a strong coffee for the morning.
But Seriously, What's the *Weirdest* Thing That's Ever Happened to You There? Spill!
Oh, the *weirdest* thing? Okay, here goes... One time, I was in the shower. A perfectly unremarkable, albeit slightly tired, shower. And then… *the water went completely brown*. Not a trickle, not a little discolouration. We're talking the colour of, well, let's just say "earthy." I shriekTop Places To Stay
