Willis Wellington Hotel

The hotel is primarily recognized for its central location, offering easy access to key city attractions, and its complimentary buffet breakfast, which many guests consider a significant highlight, often praising its variety and quality. This makes it an excellent choice for sightseers and business travelers who value convenience and a good start to their day without needing to venture far. Its affordability also appeals to budget-conscious travelers and groups looking for practical accommodation that provides good value. While the hotel's age is frequently noted, guests consistently appreciate its overall value for money given its prime position. To enhance your stay, it is highly recommended to pre-book parking due to limited on-site availability, and guests should manage their expectations regarding the hotel's older decor and amenities, as it is not a modern property.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests have mixed feedback regarding the hotel's facilities. The Wi-Fi connectivity is a common point of contention, with many reporting it to be spotty, slow, or prone to disconnecting, while others found it adequate. The gym is generally described as sufficient for basic workouts. A recurring issue is the scarcity of power outlets in rooms, particularly near beds, which can be inconvenient for charging devices. Rooms typically include a TV, a fridge, and a fan, though some guests noted issues with the TV signal or the fan's effectiveness in hot conditions. Heaters are provided, but their efficiency can vary. The lifts are functional, but some guests expressed concern about the lack of security card access. Overall, the amenities are considered basic, reflecting the hotel's older nature.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is varied. Many guests found their rooms to be clean and tidy, with comfortable beds and fresh linen, ensuring a restful sleep. However, a significant number of reviews highlight that rooms are dated and show signs of wear, with some mentioning mould on windows, in bathrooms, or on shower curtains. Issues such as stained carpets, dusty surfaces, and flaking paintwork are also reported. Noise levels can be a concern, with guests frequently noting street noise, especially from traffic, and sounds from adjacent rooms or hallways due to thin walls. Bathrooms are often described as dated, with many featuring a shower over bath setup that some guests find inconvenient, and complaints about low water pressure and a lack of ventilation. Some windows are sealed or difficult to open, contributing to rooms feeling hot and stuffy, especially without air conditioning.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast service is a standout feature for many guests, frequently praised for its quality and inclusion in the room rate. The buffet offers a good variety of options, including cooked items like bacon, eggs, and hash browns, alongside continental choices, making it a convenient and satisfying start to the day. Guests often highlight the value this adds to their stay, especially given the hotel's overall pricing. However, some recent reviews express disappointment that the restaurant has occasionally been closed for breakfast, or that the buffet no longer includes certain items like fresh fruit, or that the coffee machine quality was poor. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the breakfast generally receives positive remarks for its convenience and offerings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently lauded as one of its strongest assets, placing guests within easy walking distance of popular areas like Cuba Street, the CBD, and the waterfront. This makes it highly convenient for exploring the city's attractions, dining, and shopping. Proximity to public transport options, such as bus stops, further enhances accessibility. However, parking is a significant and frequently discussed issue. While on-site parking is available, it is limited, comes with an additional fee, and often requires pre-booking due to high demand. Many guests reported the car park being full upon arrival, forcing them to seek expensive off-site parking, leading to frustration and inconvenience, especially for those arriving late or with heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. Guests frequently commend their professional and attentive service, noting their willingness to assist with requests, provide local recommendations, and ensure a smooth experience from arrival to departure. The quick check-in process is often highlighted as efficient and welcoming, setting a positive tone for the stay. Many reviews specifically mention staff going above and beyond, contributing significantly to a positive stay by addressing concerns promptly. However, there are isolated instances of negative feedback, with some guests reporting unhelpful or rude interactions, particularly concerning issues like parking disputes or specific room problems. Despite these few exceptions, the overwhelming sentiment is that the staff are a major asset, providing accommodating and supportive service that enhances the overall guest experience.

Additional Information
A notable and frequently mentioned point is the hotel's status as an earthquake-prone building, with a visible notice at the entrance, which caused concern for some guests. While the hotel is undergoing renovation plans to address its dated appearance, this process is ongoing, and guests should be aware that some areas may still appear worn. Parking, when available, often requires a security deposit or pre-payment, and guests have reported issues with unexpected charges or difficulties securing a spot. There have also been instances of refund issues related to parking or perceived room damage, which some guests found challenging to resolve directly with the hotel. Furthermore, some rooms lack basic information like a room manual or readily available drinking water, and guests have noted the precarious placement of TVs or doors that swing abruptly, posing potential minor inconveniences.