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Summary of reviewsIka Nui Taupo, situated directly on the lakefront in the heart of Taupo, is celebrated for its prime location and breathtaking views of Lake Taupo. Guests enjoy the close proximity to the town center, featuring a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and local attractions such as the Hole in One challenge and nearby parks. This ideal positioning allows for leisurely strolls and easy access to entertainment and dining options.
The accommodations, featuring spacious and clean apartments, are highly praised for their comprehensive amenities, including well-equipped kitchens, modern facilities and beautiful lake views. Families and groups particularly value the large living spaces, multiple sleeping options and on-site amenities like the indoor heated pool, games room and free laundry services. The property's quiet and scenic grounds further enhance the tranquil retreat, offering a perfect balance of convenience and natural beauty.
Dining options are conveniently close with plentiful breakfast cafes and restaurants just a short walk away. Although the motel does not provide breakfast, guests appreciate the ease of accessing diverse local dining choices. The in-room tea and coffee-making facilities, along with fully equipped kitchens, encourage self-catering.
The cleanliness and upkeep of Ika Nui Taupo are consistently commended with guests highlighting the spotlessly clean rooms, tidy and well-maintained grounds and modern amenities. The friendly and efficient staff play a significant role in ensuring a comfortable stay, noted for their welcoming, approachable and accommodating nature. Specific mentions of helpful staff members contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere.
While the hotel's Wi-Fi service receives mixed reviews with frequent complaints about weak and unreliable connections, other amenities like the pool facilities are generally well-received. The indoor heated pool, jacuzzi and surrounding gardens are a hit, especially among families, despite occasional issues such as inconsistent water temperatures and maintenance needs.
Guests enjoy the practical and convenient parking facilities, though some find the limited and narrow spaces challenging. The beds receive positive feedback for comfort, despite occasional comments about the softness of mattresses and the condition of sofa beds. Overall, the spacious, clean rooms and additional comforts make for a pleasant stay.
For ski enthusiasts, Ika Nui Taupo's location offers easy access to nearby ski lodges and enjoyable après-ski facilities such as hot pools and a games room.
In summary, Ika Nui Taupo is a highly recommended choice for travelers seeking a convenient, comfortable and scenic stay in Taupo. Despite minor drawbacks, the positive aspects, from location and cleanliness to staff service and family-friendly amenities, make it a favored destination for both short and extended visits. Show more
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Apartment with Free Wi-Fi
This apartment offers free Wi-Fi.
Apartment with Indoor Pool
This apartment property provides access to an indoor swimming pool. It offers a valuable amenity for guests seeking aquatic recreation during their stay.
Apartment near Ski Resorts
Apartment with Swimming Pool
Indoor Pool
Apartment with Parking
4-Star Apartment
Room Types
One-Bedroom ApartmentBoasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned apartment includes 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The well-fitted kitchen has a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. Featuring a terrace with garden views, this apartment also offers a dining area and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 3 beds.
ApartmentBoasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned apartment comes with 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. Meals can be prepared in the kitchen, which features a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. Featuring a terrace with garden views, this apartment also features a dining area and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 3 beds.
Apartment with Lake ViewBoasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned apartment comes with 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. In the well-fitted kitchen, guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. Featuring a terrace with lake views, this apartment also features a dining area and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 3 beds.
Two-Bedroom ApartmentBoasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned apartment features 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with a shower and a hairdryer. Guests can make meals in the kitchen that features a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. Featuring a terrace with garden views, this apartment also features a dining area and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 4 beds.
Deluxe ApartmentFeaturing a private entrance, this air-conditioned apartment is comprised of 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a shower and a hairdryer. In the fully equipped kitchen, guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. Boasting a terrace with garden views, this apartment also offers a dining area and a flat-screen TV. The unit offers 4 beds.
Superior ApartmentFeaturing a private entrance, this air-conditioned apartment is comprised of 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a shower and a hairdryer. Guests can make meals in the kitchen that is fitted with a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. Boasting a terrace with lake views, this apartment also offers a dining area and a flat-screen TV. The unit offers 4 beds.
Triple Room with BalconyThe well-fitted kitchen features a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware. The spacious triple room offers air conditioning, a private entrance, a terrace with lake views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 4 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.6
Very Good
Location
Nestled in the heart of Taupo, "Ika Nui" boasts a prime location that receives consistent praise from its guests. Situated directly on the lakefront, the accommodations offer stunning views and easy access to the serene waters of Lake Taupo. Guests appreciate the close proximity to the town center with a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and local attractions just a short walk away. The location is frequently described as ideal, perfectly positioned for leisurely strolls to the lake, Hole in One challenge and nearby parks.
The spacious apartments, many with terraces and lake views, are noted for their cleanliness and full range of amenities, making it an excellent choice for both short and extended stays. Families find the roomy units particularly appealing, complemented by the warm and helpful staff. The quiet and beautiful grounds add to the overall experience, providing a tranquil retreat while being central to entertainment and dining options.
Whether visiting for a relaxing lakeside break or to explore the vibrant town, Ika Nui's unparalleled location ensures that everything Taupo has to offer is easily accessible, making it a favored choice for travelers seeking convenience and natural beauty.
Breakfast
Ika Nui Taupo is ideally situated, allowing guests easy access to a variety of breakfast cafes just a short walk away. While breakfast is not provided at the motel itself, the local area boasts several excellent options for a morning meal, all just minutes from the accommodation. Visitors appreciate the close proximity to shops and eateries, offering great breakfast choices conveniently nearby. The rooms are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities with staff readily available to replenish supplies upon request. Although self-catering is common among guests, the thoughtful provision of dining chairs and tables enhances the experience. Overall, the emphasis is on the convenience of nearby dining options rather than in-house breakfast services.
Dinner
Ika Nui Taupo offers excellent kitchen facilities, ideal for those who prefer to self-cater during their stay. Guests consistently mentioned that the kitchen was well-equipped with everything needed to cook meals, from a full oven and microwave to comprehensive cooking utensils. The spacious and clean rooms also feature thoughtful touches like fold-away beds, making the space both practical and comfortable.
The hotel's prime location adds to its appeal. It's a short walk from the lakeside and city center with numerous restaurants, bars, shops and parks easily accessible on foot. This convenience allows guests to explore local dining and entertainment options effortlessly.
While the property generally receives high marks for its amenities and value for money, a few guests noted minor issues, such as the lack of a washing machine in their rooms and unclear towel-changing policies. However, these concerns are minimal compared to the overall positive feedback about the well-laid-out, warm and accommodating environment.
Ika Nui Taupo proves to be a fantastic option for both short and extended stays, offering great value and all the facilities needed for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Rooms
Nestled near the serene shores of Lake Taupo, Ika Nui Taupo is widely praised for its spacious, clean and comfortable accommodations. Guests frequently highlight the well-equipped kitchens and modern facilities, which make it an ideal spot for both short and extended stays. Many reviewers enjoy the airy rooms that are often equipped with beautiful lake views, adding an extra dimension to their stay. The location is highly favored, offering convenient access to local shops, restaurants and the lakefront.
Families and groups particularly appreciate the large living spaces and multiple sleeping options with units often featuring separate bedrooms, full kitchens and ample bedding. Visitors mention the convenience of on-site amenities, such as the indoor heated pool, games room and free laundry facilities, which enhance the overall experience.
The property impresses with its cleanliness and well-maintained condition, although there are occasional mentions of minor drawbacks like outdated decor or insufficient lighting. Nevertheless, the general feedback is largely positive with most guests praising the comfort, layout and comprehensive amenities provided in each unit.
Ika Nui Taupo promises an excellent balance of space, convenience and scenic beauty, making it a highly recommended choice for travelers seeking a relaxing and well-facilitated stay in Taupo.
Beds
'Ika Nui Taupo' receives a variety of reviews about its bedding with positive remarks highlighting the comfort and spaciousness of the rooms. Many guests praise the beds, describing them as comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep. The added provision of amenities such as extra pillows and electric blankets also garners appreciation. The units are often noted to be clean and well-equipped, contributing to the overall cozy environment.
However, there are some recurring criticisms. Several reviewers mention that the mattresses are too soft, leading to discomfort for certain guests. Complaints also surface about the quality of sofa beds with mentions of them being sagged or too worn out. The mention of beds being too small or in need of updating is also evident. Some guests note issues with the firmness of the mattresses, either being too hard or too springy, which affected their sleep quality.
Despite these mixed reviews, the overall consensus leans towards a comfortable stay with the positives generally outweighing the negatives. The clean, spacious rooms and additional comforts enhance the experience for many, making 'Ika Nui Taupo' a notable option for travelers seeking a stay in Taupo.
Cleanliness
Ika Nui Taupo is well-regarded for its exceptional cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, making it a top choice for travelers seeking comfortable accommodation. Rooms are consistently described as spotlessly clean, tidy and well-presented, often equipped with modern and comfortable amenities. The spaciousness of the apartments and facilities such as new kitchens and powerful showers are frequently appreciated.
Guests particularly enjoy the property's location, providing great views towards the lake and proximity to restaurants, shopping and the lake shore. The friendly and efficient staff contribute significantly to maintaining the high standards of cleanliness.
Despite a few remarks about dated decor and occasional maintenance issues, the overall feedback highlights superb cleanliness and comfort. The grounds and gardens are also well-kept, adding to the pleasant environment of the accommodation.
Summing up, Ika Nui Taupo stands out for its immaculate rooms and exceptional cleanliness, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for its guests.
Staff
The reviews for Ika Nui Taupo highlight the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the hotel's staff. Across numerous interactions, guests consistently describe the receptionists as welcoming, approachable and polite. The communication with the hosts is praised for being clear and efficient, ensuring smooth check-ins and addressing any concerns promptly. The management team, including specific mentions of individuals like Jacqueline and Bronwyn, are noted for being particularly accommodating and professional. Guests appreciate the personalized service, which includes tips on local outings and thoughtful gestures like room upgrades to meet specific needs.
The staff's accommodating nature extends to various touchpoints within the hotel, contributing to a family-oriented and comfortable atmosphere. Housekeeping and cleaning staff also receive commendations for their friendly demeanor and efficiency. The front desk's vibrant and welcoming service, combined with the overall competence and professionalism of the team, leaves a lasting positive impression on guests.
In essence, the staff at Ika Nui Taupo play a significant role in making guest stays memorable, marked by exceptional service, a warm atmosphere and a welcoming community spirit that many guests are eager to recommend and return to.
Wi-Fi
Guests at Ika Nui Taupo frequently report challenges with the hotel's Wi-Fi service. Despite occasional feedback describing the Wi-Fi as good, smooth and great, the majority of reviews highlight issues such as weak and unreliable connections, especially in rooms distant from reception. Many visitors experienced intermittent connectivity and slow speeds, making it difficult to use streaming services like Netflix or even basic internet tasks. The Wi-Fi often disconnected or failed to work altogether, resulting in a frustrating experience for guests. Consistent complaints about the poor and almost unusable Wi-Fi indicate that this is a recurring problem, detracting from the overall stay at the hotel.
Pool
Ika Nui Taupo offers a range of pool facilities that often delight guests, especially families. The indoor heated pool and jacuzzi receive frequent praise for their functionality and cleanliness with many reviewers highlighting these features as a hit for kids. The complex also includes smaller pools, a plunge pool and a spa, which guests have found enjoyable, although some have noted that the temperature could be better regulated and maintenance could be improved.
While several guests loved the pool complex and its amenities, there is a recurring sentiment that the pool area could use an upgrade. The need for a revamp and more frequent cleaning and maintenance is a common theme. Some problems with pool closures for maintenance or due to COVID-19 restrictions were mentioned, which could be disappointing for visitors.
Despite a few criticisms about the pool's condition and occasional issues such as non-functioning jets and colder water temperatures, the overall impression of the pool facilities is positive. The pool area also includes a spa and games room, making it a versatile spot for both relaxation and fun. The gardens surrounding the pool add to the pleasant environment, enhancing the overall experience for guests who enjoy taking a dip or relaxing in the spa.
In summary, while the pool facilities at Ika Nui Taupo may benefit from some improvements and more consistent upkeep, they are generally seen as a valuable and enjoyable part of the accommodation, particularly for families with children.
Parking
Ika Nui Taupo offers guests a pleasant stay with its well-landscaped gardens and convenient location. However, when it comes to parking, experiences are mixed. Many appreciate the availability of free parking on-site with ample space near reception and some units. Despite this, parking spots tend to be narrow and tight, posing challenges especially for larger vehicles. The limited number of spaces can also make finding a spot difficult at times and there is no designated parking for each room. Some guests found navigating from the parking area to their rooms with luggage a bit cumbersome. Although a bit crowded, the parking situation is manageable for those with smaller cars. Overall, while the parking at Ika Nui Taupo could be improved, it remains an acceptable trade-off for the hotel's good location and appealing amenities.
Ski
Located conveniently close to the main ski lodge areas, Ika Nui Taupo offers an ideal base for skiing enthusiasts. Guests have praised the great location and generous room sizes, appreciating the proximity to skiing facilities. While the views of Mount Ruapehu are breathtaking, the property itself does not provide direct ski access or skiing opportunities. However, visitors have enjoyed their time on the slopes, finding the setup perfect for unwinding after a day at the ski fields. Families, including teenagers, also found enjoyment in the hot pools and games room after a day of outdoor activities. Despite the occasional challenge, such as being caught in snow during the drive or having to navigate the booking system, the overall experience seems to be positive with the location being a significant highlight for those looking to hit the slopes.
Indoor Pool
At 'Ika Nui Taupo', guests frequently highlight the indoor pool and spa facilities as key amenities contributing to an enjoyable stay. The indoor heated pool is especially popular, offering a warm reprieve, although some visitors noted that it could be a bit warmer and that the jets were occasionally non-functional. Despite these minor issues, the pool remains a well-used feature, particularly enjoyed by children, making it an excellent option for families.
Additional perks such as the sauna and hot tubs are appreciated, though likewise some guests experienced issues with the hot tub jets. The facility also provides a game room and a BBQ area, alongside practical amenities like a laundry room and ample parking, enhancing the overall convenience and satisfaction for guests.
The presence of multiple pool areas, including a plunge pool and outdoor options, ensures varied experiences for visitors. Despite the relatively small size of the indoor pool and jacuzzi, their cleanliness and the overall pleasant atmosphere make them stand out.
When traveling with kids, the heated indoor pool, spa and well-maintained facilities offer delightful opportunities for relaxation and entertainment, solidifying 'Ika Nui Taupo' as an appealing destination for families.
Yes, Ika Nui Taupo has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Indoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Ika Nui Taupo.
No, Ika Nui Taupo doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Ika Nui Taupo.