The Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel descritpion

The Grand Hotel is located in the center of Wanganui, across from Cooks Gardens Sporting Complex. It offers free parking.
All of the comfortable rooms include modern facilities. Internet is available.
A continental breakfast is included. There are 2 restaurants which are open daily, serving international cuisine.
Durie Hill Tower, Virginia Lake Gardens and Sargents Art Gallery are all easily accessible.

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Facilities of The Grand Hotel

Pets ：Pets are not allowed.

Activities ：Golf Course (within 2 miles) | Pool Table | Game Room

Food & Drink ：Restaurant | Bar | Breakfast in the Room

Internet ：Wired internet is available in public areas and costs NZD 5 per hour.

Parking ：Free!Free public parking is available on site (reservation is not needed).

General ：Safe | Non-smoking Rooms | Elevator | All Spaces Non-Smoking (public and private)

Reviews for The Grand Hotel

Review 1：Would have liked to have stayed in the old part but we were put in the newer extension.

Review 2：Quirky stop off on our way north. Great old building with loads of history and the complimentary breakfast was a bonus!

Review 3：My Boxing Day bacon & eggs breakfast was left on another table for some time. Waitress quite happy to re-heat it for me.

Review 4：Comfortable bed. Very clean bathroom. Super hot shower. Refrigerator. Very efficient Christmas Night male waiter in Breakers Restaurant.

Review 5：Central location. The "homliness" of an older property which had been well maintained. Value of money, with the complimentary breakfast, adequate for travellers (return to Auckland in our case)

Review 6：No air conditioning. Bathroom really small.

Review 7：Hotel was older but had charm. Room was a pretty good size. Patio and fridge. Owner sat and chatted with us at breakfast. Continental breakfast adequate. Bed comfortable.

Review 8：We liked the friendly staff and the beautiful building.The price was very reasonable, we could not fault anything.We always stay here when we visit Whanganui.

Review 9：The room looked like it was put together by amateur builders. No cover on a power outlet and the wall outlet for the TV antenna was hanging out. The shelf for the drinking glasses looked like it was about to fall off the wall. Both towel rails in the bathroom were fixed upside down. The reading lights over the beds were to low to sit underneath when on the bed.

Review 10：A very central location for me.

Review 11：No complaints whatsoever .

Review 12：All the staff had a moment or two in their busy life,to be pleasant and made me feel right at home so to speak. My room was ver clean and comfy and nice and quiet.

Review 13：Clean and nice room. The hotel has two parts - the historic one and a newer annex in the back. I guess staying in the historic part is the better experience, but also directly on the street.

Review 14：Convenient location, value for money. Impressive entrance area, unique telephone to contact the front desk. A grand interior, well furnished. Pleasant and helpful staff. Good whitebait fritters.

Review 15：There was only hot chocolate in the room, no tea, coffee or decaf.

Review 16：Great at breakfast when there was no decaf coffee that they made me one specially at no cost.

Review 17：Any negativity we passed to Management at the time and where possible within their power it was remedied immediately

Review 18：All staff were friendly helpful and obliging. We received the floor requested

Review 19：Cheap furnishings

Review 20：This is very much an old "character" property in the heart of Wanganui. The old photos along the hallways and in the bar gave it an almost museum like feeling. My room was pretty basic and though comfortable, not much had been invested in the furnishings. The bar on the main level offers very nice comfort food menu. Food arrived quickly and was tasty.

Review 21：Nothing really, but maybe the breakfast area could be improved on.

Review 22：Loved the all the old pictures that adorned the walls, giving the feeling of having stepped back in time.

Review 23：The great atmosphere of the public rooms does not flow through to the bar and Breakers Restaurant, with the latter being large & soulless. The inclusive Continental breakfast is adequate but underwhelming - the coffee is instant!

Review 24：The hotel harks back to a grander time when staying in a central city hotel was an occasion. The Grand has a great atmosphere and the public rooms are beautifully restored. The staff are friendly and helpful and the beds comfortable.

Review 25：Room heating was poor needs a better heater,Shower was only hot at top extreme of tap. Difficult to adjust, bad fittings for electric blankets. Door to shower room was difficult to open from inside. WiFi kept going out. By Sunday it was completely out. Impossible to use.

Review 26：Cleanliness

Review 27：No free gifts. Terribly uncomfortable pillows maybe if they had more it might of made a difference. No microwave.

Review 28：Central n close to everything. Free breakfast.

Review 29：The continental breakfast which was just museli and rice bubbles, and toast was very disappointing, I feel a little ripped off with that as everywhere else at least has scrambled eggs and bacon at the least

Review 30：Our short stay. I could have stayed longer, because it was so comfortable and extremely well situated.

Review 31：Everything....best accommodation I have had in Wanganui, other than staying with my family. My cousin from Auckland stays here every time he comes down to Wanganui, whether for business or family.

Review 32：The multi power box blew and smelled really bad of a electrical smell when I plugged the kettle into it and the TV reception was very average

Review 33：Good clean room, clean lining, good view

Review 34：The pillows were like rocks and there was only a column heater which hardly heated the room.

Review 35：The room looked recently renovated with a nice bathroom and big tv

Review 36：There was no Hot Water in the morning so we had a Cold Shower. The manager didnt seem to bothered when we complained about it. The continental breakfast was appalling, we were very disapointed with the whole experience.

Review 37：Handy Location

Review 38：Room service meal from the Irish Bar was sub-standard perhaps I made the wrong choice from the menu. Will give it another go next time I stay

Review 39：Locality and room amenities were what I required

Review 40：We were left with the impression that many of the decorations would be better suited in a museum, not in a hotel.

Review 41：Staff pleasant and helpful, but in a very dated facility.

Review 42：Could have done with more soundproofing in the walls when the refurbished. Also fridge wasn't plugged in and cord wasn't long enough to plug in.

Review 43：Location was great very clean with great showers.

Review 44：Nothing

Review 45：Liked this hotel very much the room it was comfortable, the restaurants were handy, the staff we came into contact with were helpful and accommodating many thanks it made for an enjoyable stay.

Review 46：Neville is a host with the most. He made us feel very much at home in his lovely clean hotel and always took the time, even when he was busy to stop and have a few words with us. Meals were excellent and very reasonably priced. Just can't fault anything.

Review 47：Breakers Restaurant Food very average. Breakfast included but below standard. Terrible coffee - only instant provided and very poor range of breakfast.

Review 48：Location, clean

Review 49：The owner was friendly and approachable, The staff accommodated our every wish. Couldnt have been happier. Great position very handy to everything. Would recommend highly.

Review 50：Shower over bath had unacceptably week pressure and was virtually useless. Would probably rule it out for future stays. Included "continental" breakfast not up to standard.

Review 51：Great location and despite being in the middle of town was very quiet

Review 52：Doesn't apply!!!!

Review 53：Could not fault the staff.Nothing is too much trouble. We truly felt welcomed. The food was excellent....lots to choose from..good value and tasty. We will return!!

Review 54：Lift not working. A struggle for me to get luggage to my room due to a physical issue.

Review 55：Lovely old hotel with options on eating areas, comfortable room and free use of laundry facilities.

Review 56：Unimpressed with protocols and safety issues around midnight evacuation due to fire alarm. No roll call to check everyone was out and no explanation of what was happening. A warden (the proprietor) not dressed in hi-vis attire or safety helmet.

Review 57：Old fashioned style of building and decor

Review 58：Asked for ground floor ideally or 1st floor as cannot do stairs. Their lift was broken but still we were put on 2nd floor. Manager reluctantly carried our light bags but complained he had a bad back.

Review 59：Central location.

Review 60：We loved the beautiful heritage building, the history on the walls including sport and that we were well looked after. We also got a great nights sleep. Thank you!

Review 61：I really enjoyed my stay at the historic and wonderful Grand Hotel. Fabulous decor, charming staff and a heart-warming experience, right down to music on the grand piano on Sunday morning in the main lounge. It was sparkling clean and great value for money (including a continental breakfast), very central and full of character. It was fun to pop into the Irish Pub for a Pims and fish and chips. Amazingly preserved and restored building. I will definitely stay there again.

Review 62：I didn't like that they gave away our room even though we had booked in before the second occupant who lied and said he had been there for hours! Lucky we didn't leave our stuff in the room before going out for dinner. I didn't like how we couldn't use the tea/coffee because there were no spoons available and i did not like the fact that we had to get water from the bathroom to use in a jug for our tea or coffee EEWWWW! Oh and i certainly did not like the fact that guests had monopolized the entrance standing around at the door smoking making it hard for guests to enter or exit especially without getting a good dose of cigarette smoke. A suggestion would be to bracket off an end corner of the building out on the footpath, down the way a bit with tables, chairs and railing to give smokers a proper place to be that doesn't stop guests from entering or exiting the establishment or getting a dose of second hand smoke.

Review 63：I liked that the receptionist dealt with our mucked up booking efficiently when someone gave away our room despite us already checking into it prior to the second party turning up as well as paying for it. I liked the fact that he upgraded us for free to a much better room and apologized for the inconvenience.

Review 64：very poor to non existent wifi, you had to sit downstairs to get reception. Some of the staff are really grumpy and miserable. Although the owner was a star a real character, nice chap who was very helpful, pity his staff don't take a left out of his book.

Review 65：great location to explore the town

Review 66：Only sorry we could not stay longer. If we go back to New Zealand, the Grand Hotel will be our destination and place to spend several days.

Review 67：The location was excellent. The food at the adjoining cafe was delicious. A very restful and quiet evening of sleep. The next morning stroll presented us with a museum that gave us an excellent understanding of the history of the islands. Recommend highly.

Review 68：Our attached room at the back wasn't planned out very well. Very bad lighting & lack of power points. The one next to the bed didn't work. No bathroom toiletries. One of the more grander rooms would've been better for sure.

Review 69：Great classic old hotel & Irish pub with lots of old historic features

Review 70：Did experience some road noise.

Review 71：Wood paneling walls and historic feel throughout. Has attached Irish bar for drink & food. Owners forwarded on some articles which we left behind with no problem.

Review 72：Just that breakfast could have been of a higher standard. Fresh fruit and yoghurts would have made it great instead of mediocre.

Review 73：Brought my 90 year old Mum to her birth town for nostalgic road trip. The Grand was perfectly placed for all our excursions ... she walked me off my feet!

Review 74：The bed wasnt overly comfortable but ok for a short stay and I would of liked another mirror.

Review 75：I like the location so close to shops and plentiful parking. Staff were happy to help.

Review 76：Very obliging staff and excellent facilities close to town centre. Also found the hotel very quiet considering its location and the busy weekend I stayed.

Review 77：Just a small quibble.... the refurbishing paint job in our room needs attention.

Review 78：The decor was fresh and clean, the beds were comfortable, the included breakfast was adequate for our needs. Reasonably priced lunch/dinner meals are readily available in house if required. The stay was good value for a reasonable price.

Review 79：It started bad at check-in. Hotel clerk wasn't all there. Room was dirty with ants crawling all over bathroom, mildew in the shower, etc. Thankfully we arrived at 9:45pm and had to leave by 6:15am.

Review 80：Love old architecture. This hotel could be a dream if renovated. Convenient location after long travel day to hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing next day.

Review 81：Hotel was venue for café evening, one of the events for the Opera week at Wanganui. A full house for the café evening and staff coped brilliantly. Courses deftly served between arias. Cheerful helpful staff. Location of hotel could not be bettered and appreciated that hotel had its own parking.

Review 82：I was a bit disappointed that our room itself was so characterless and looked like any other hotel room. Also I thought the 'Breakers' surf bar and dining area was a bit soulless and definitely out of context, considering the building it's housed in.

Review 83：The entrance way and central areas of the Hotel have great character and charm. The outer facade is in lovely condition and looks very appealing. Our room was clean with an intriguing view over rooftops.

Review 84：The breakfast, served in a surfer's bar (clearly aimed at under 20s) took an average stay and sunk it to a low level. Self-service, cheap cereals, tinned fruit, sliced bread in a bag and instant coffee next to a kettle...

Review 85：The entrance is fabulous and the staff were friendly and helpful. The rooms were tired but very well equipped and spacious. The location is perfect, right in the heart of town.

Review 86：Altered plans at last minute, found an excellent room price for the Grand and had a 1 night stay. Breakfast average but given the price no complaints.

Review 87：Lacked facilities for disabled e.g. step to access shower and distance from accommodation to breakfast space.

Review 88：A reminder of what older and historic hotels can be returned to former glory.

Review 89：A bit of Saturday night noise coming from outside - but really, what else do you expect from a centre of town hotel? Our booking had been mixed up, but a room was found for us. I suggest emailing to ensure your booking is correctly recorded if you are travelling in busy season.

Review 90：Location is great, near shops and cafes. Room was clean and comfortable. The lobby area, stairways and corridors have terrific old hanging pictures. Modern facilities, with an old world feel about.

Review 91：Service was excellent, better than we have experienced in much more expensive places on our tour of The North Island of New Zealand. management was really good. Will come back again next trip Moira and Desmond Groves UK

Review 92：The breakfast that was included was a disgrace and misadvertised. First of all it needs to be listed as a continental breakfast. Secondly people need to be warned that it consists of instant coffee, tubs of margarine and peanutbutter with knives stuck in them and loaves of bread in their bags. Something I would expect at a campsite and certainly not a hotel. We went elsewhere for breakfast. The wall sockets for the fridge and jug did not work. We had the worst nachos we have ever had (ordered from the bar in the late evening). We cannot believe the manager served them and when we complained he simply shrugged his shoulders. We would like our $11 back please. There was no microwave in our room.

Review 93：The lady at the front desk volunteered an apology for giving us a second rate room and offered us a discount. The bar was open late. The room was very quiet and we slept well.

Review 94：Lack of power points in our room. Bed a little too firm for our taste.

Review 95：Great value, room with attached bathroom for $99 including breakfast. We were attending an important celebration being held next door and associated dinner later on site. On site parking. No street noise to disturb. Old world grandure.

Review 96：The hotel has oodles of charm and character. It doesn't pretend or intend to compete with modern ceramic & plastic hotels. The staff were very friendly and helpful. It was very good value for money and perfect for a weekend in Whanganui.

Review 97：The person on reception was a bit rigid. No smiley face and a general lack of warmth. Also eating lunch at the reception desk?

Review 98：Every thing about the Hotel was good. Nice position, easy parking, Large room, very comfortable bed. Every thing I required was there. The Hotel is a Lovely piece of Wanganui history.

Review 99：Had to buy a coffee for breakfast - but to be honest the excellent value for money 'b & b' price reflected that.. certainly wouldn't put me off going back!

Review 100：Lovely room

Review 101：Have only praise.

Review 102：Excellent price, $ 15 less than I expected to pay.Breakers Bar handy for basic eating. Room/bathroom very clean. Easy walk to Opera House, museum, shops.

Review 103：The decor was a little outdated around the hotel but it's offensive. There needs to be a light in the shower as it was very dark!

Review 104：Great laundry room - was able to wash and dry my clothes finally!

Review 105：Nothing to say here. I like the whole experience.

Review 106：I loved the venue. The history of the building, and Wanganui. The staff in all the departments were very welcoming, happy and friendly. The service was amazing!! I would definitely stay here again when I'm next in Wanganui.

Review 107：Vanity basin in bathroom. Needed a swivel tap. Impossible to fill electric jug under tap.Had to fill with cups!! Toilet seat low quality. Creaked crazily!!

Review 108：Central location. Staff made you welcome and feel special. Staff friendly and prepared to chat. Loved the Irish Bar-Fri night best with guy on guitar/mouth organ. Very quiet for good nights sleep.

Review 109：The bathroom could do with a small ledge above the sink as there was no place to put any toiletry bags

Review 110：It's great having the games area in the Breakers Cafe. Very family friendly. Loved the log fire too!

Review 111：1. No regular powerpoint in the bathroom by mirror for hairdryer or hair straightner. 2. Guy at reception needs to be more like the owner and lady in Breakers - friendly, smiling, inviting. 3. Hooks in ironing room to hang clothes while ironing.

Review 112：Room was lovely, comfortable and warm. Would definitely stay there again and recommend to others.

Review 113：Nothing.

Review 114：The central location and amenities that are close at hand. The rooms are very cosy and have all that is required, and most of all are good value for money - continental breakfast included. It is our second visit, and there will be a third.

Review 115：No negatives at all. A very good place to stay.

Review 116：Friendly, helpful staff, excellent atmoshpere, a very good place to stay

Review 117：Great hotel friendly staff good location

Review 118：Excellent accomodation, friendly and competent staff. The best Kilkenny at the bar!

Review 119：Everyone was very friendly. The hotel had character

Review 120：Our room smelt like fish, even the towels, and I have mentioned this to the reception staff

Review 121：Gorgeous old hotel very friendly staff, great value.

Review 122：Very good.hotel,clean,friendly staff,good atmosphere.

Review 123：Excellent location and very friendly staff. Our meal was great.

Review 124：Very lovely staff and nice simple motel :)

Review 125：Old soft beds. Lift not working.

Review 126：Location.

Review 127：great location, centrally located for walking the town. Quiet rooms with modern bathroom

Review 128：Neville the owner was good company