Dolphin Motel

We didn’t know what to expect but overall we were very pleased with our stay at Dolphin Motel. The owner was extremely welcoming and friendly. Parts of Paihia are very hilly, however, this motel is located on the flatter part of the town and it’s only a few minutes walk from the main town centre. Our two bedroom apartment in the new wing was nicely decorated, very clean and comfortable. The bedrooms and bathroom were a good size too.

In both bedrooms, there is only one clothes stand per room for handing a few clothes, no other storage is provided. This is acceptable for a short stay.

Comfortable room in a modern motel. The balcony was nice to sit and enjoy a drink. We liked the location as it was quiet but walking distance to a small grocery store and the wharf where the boats leave from. The bathroom was small but adequate with good hot water. Wifi was good. The kitchenette was basic but enough to make breakfast or a simple meal. There is a coin laundry that guests can use in the afternoon which was very helpful.

No one was at reception when we arrived, but I found our room number on a piece of paper on the door. As a result, we didn't have contact with the staff, unlike other motels where the owners are a wealth of local information. Also, the TV was very complicated so we couldn't get it to work.

I recently had the pleasure of staying at this hotel, and I must say it was a delightful experience. The hotel boasts a fantastic location, conveniently within walking distance to the town, making exploration and access to local attractions incredibly easy. During our stay, we booked three rooms, and we were particularly fortunate to secure two rooms in the new blocks. These rooms were a real highlight as they were impeccably designed and furnished, presenting a contemporary and fresh atmosphere. The modernity and cleanliness of the new rooms added a touch of luxury to our stay, and it was evident that the hotel is committed to providing a high standard of accommodation. The staff were courteous and attentive, contributing to the overall positive impression of the hotel. The amenities offered, combined with the great location and the comfort of the new rooms, made our visit truly enjoyable. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone seeking a pleasant stay with the added benefit of a prime location and modern, well-maintained accommodations.

Almost everything was great - the unit was great (after a bit of furniture moving) as we were there for 5 days. Handy place to be - almost everything was great!

And the big disqualifier - the service was appalling. The room wasn't cleaned when they said it would be, large piles of rubbish, we had to chase down towels, the office was never open so we couldn't even self-help. It really took the edge of a decent place. It feels like the operators are not on site and only occasionally turn up (most have to self check-in). And not their fault - the water smells bad!! It could do with some filters, even knowing that the recent cyclone caused problems.

The room was fresh and nicely decorated, with dining space and cooking facilities which was very helpful. I'm especially grateful for the air-conditioning which in my opinion was a must for the summer Temps we experienced! It made for a very comfortable stay.

We were upstairs (which in itself was fine), the only reason I found it a challenge was due to knee surgery not that long ago. A ground level room would have been easier, but my bad for not asking at the time of booking.

Location near town, stay in the new wing room is good,

Housekeeping is not up to standard. Didn't service the room for one day, not making the beds on the day the room was serviced. There are no luggage racks. Power point in the kitchen is hard to reach so we have to plug the kettle on the bedside table. We are in a double queen room and there is only one bedside table between the two beds so persons sleeping on the outside have no access to use it.

We arrived past check-in time and they left the note at reception which room we should take which was really convenient. Staff was very accommodating as I need to pay and we had to check out early so they re-opened reception. The Superior Studio Room booked was new, the 1BR apartment was not new but still clean and comfortable. There is sufficient parking as well (this was a problem with other accommodation in the area). Good value for money too.

Not a big issue but our group was separated since we booked 2 types of rooms and it was in a different building. I tried contacting them by messaging through Booking.com but I don't think this is monitored so better text or call them if you need anything.

The room was spacious and comfortable. The bathroom was a good size too. The kitchen has a stove, microwave, kettle, fridge, dishware, cutlery and pots and pans. Location is fantastic, not seafront but still only a 5 min walk (or less) to the beach. Not necessarily a negative but something to note: The kitchen is a bit tight. The room is made for 4 people and we had 3 so we had to take it in turns in the kitchen making food because there wasn't enough space. The pictures online also showed a sofa in the room, but there wasn't one. I would happily recommend this accommodation!

I stayed in 1 of the new units upstairs. Some people might get a bit puffy climbing the stairs but it was fine. Unit had a little outlook, it was modern, clean, about 2 minutes to central Paihia, everything worked. Bed was comfortable - be wonderful in sunny weather. The Asian man at reception was very sweet, although he didn't have much English. The key was left in the unit open for me, much easier I think. I love Paihia, so when I go again that's where I'll be staying. Also very reasonable price.

It was very wet weather🤣.

Walking distance to shops, clean, cool, and comfortable.

Bed was too soft and rolled each time I moved, making for a fitful sleep. Not exactly serviced, but they change the towels two days after you arrive. There was a taped on notice to wash and put away the dishes prior to checkout that would have been good to know upfront