布蘭凱特灣飯店

First and foremost: amazing property in terms of location and upkeep, however - check-in felt quite soulless and lacking, housekeeping were overly present and spread out which I felt like I couldn't escape at times when just trying to relax around the property. Overall I honestly did enjoy the setting and location just not the staff which obviously play a huge part in the stay no matter the property. So therefore, it's hard in this case to look past that aspect. I understand that every individual undoubtedly works hard and I'm sure try's their best. But my encounters, interactions, and observations of staff were sadly just not good during my stay. Especially with Damien Brown who I believed let down and disappointed at such an otherwise prestigious and enjoyable property.

This was the last lodge we stayed in on our two week tour of the South Island. We had previously just visited The Bay of Many Coves, The Lindis and Mahu Whenua, so had both been really spoiled and had our expectations ratcheted up. No fear - Blanket Bay did not disappoint, held its head up and in various respects poked it out of the top of the sunroof! The lodge is stunning. Think Old world charm with lots of reclaimed wood (I recommend flicking through the book on the history of the lodge in the sitting room). Our room - the smallest you can get - was lovely and more than large enough. The food was truly outstanding and the service was at another level. People you’d never met knew your name and what your food foibles were and everyone was both attentive and interesting. The Lodge has a number of chefs, which meant that even though we had 5 course dinners, they did not take 3 hours like at other lodges. I’m happy to linger, but by the time you’re on your 40th or so meal over a two week holiday, this was somewhat of a blessing. We only got to spend two days at Blanket Bay, but did get to hike for a couple of hours up the Routeburn Track. If you’re up to it, this is well worth it. The scenery is stunning. Due to jet lag, I’m typing this in the middle of the night having just got back to the UK. It is bringing a warm feeling of lovely memories that I will cherish. I don’t know when we’ll be back in the South Island, but I’m sure no trip will be complete without a stay at this fabulous lodge.

This is one of the worst hotel I have stayed at. Room is awkwardly designed and old. First of all it does not deserve the Relais & Chateaux brand. The rooms look drab and the design is bad. After I saw the room, I was generally terrified with the decor , it’s so depressing like a ******* House .The water pressure very weak and it was not draining property. Moreover it was splashing all over the place. The bathroom overall looked worn. The hotel is very poorly maintained. All rooms smell stale and look very old. Definitely this hotel is over priced given its infrustructure and service. Everywhere is so dirty, from lobby's rugs to room's chaires/sofa, you can find stains everywhere. I am not sure if the towels are clean to be honest. The bathroom amenities are very cheap , they brought them from supermarket, guess ….It does not feel like a luxury hotel and I have stayed at many of them. Luxury was certainly nowhere to be found. But the worst part is the service!! and this is what luxury hotels are all about.. SERVICE! Check- In was very bad, her name is Deb from reception( if she will greet & meet you - immediately run !!!!!) We did have the personal impression, that there is very poor management at this hotel, as we could not really recognize any service standard in behavior of the staff. It seemed to be so, that all decisions and actions were made based on the current emotional condition and personal understanding of service, and not on any instruction or standard. Deb didn’t allow us even to reach our room considering how we were tired after trip , immediately she started to sell us the old fashion sweaters and telling us in a very rude way the rules of their hotels : breakfast, lunch , dinner are all on a fixed time , if u will come a bit late , your problem , no one will serve u any food !!! After she started to sell us very expensive excursions and when we asked some other ideas where we can get a bit cheaper not for 2500$ - she became mad and rude with us ! The reason for this behavior is that, when she realized she could not sell us the expensive trips she got upset and lost interest in providing any help. This really was the worst experience of my life. An experience such as this can competent ruin a vacation like it did for us. I guarantee you guys there are a million better places to stay in Glenorchy for half the price. ( ex. The Headwaters Eco Lodge ). I would advise management to pass Matakauri Lodge , The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs how all staff are amazing & professionals!!!! Start to train your staff how to meet and greet your guests!!