Brougham Heights Motel: Your NZ Getaway Awaits (New Plymouth Paradise!)
Brougham Heights Motel: Your NZ Getaway Awaits (New Plymouth Paradise!)
Brougham Heights Motel: My New Plymouth Paradise… Or Was It? (A Very Unfiltered Review)
Alright, buckle up, folks, because I'm about to spill the tea (and maybe some lukewarm instant coffee) on my stay at Brougham Heights Motel: Your NZ Getaway Awaits. New Plymouth Paradise? Well, let's just say it's got its moments. And its… moments. This won't be your typical, sterile hotel review. Consider this more like a confession booth, but for travel experiences.
SEO & Metadata, Because Apparently We Have To:
- Keywords: New Plymouth Accommodation, Taranaki Motel, Accessible Motel, Wheelchair Accessible, New Zealand Travel, Brougham Heights Motel Review, Free Wi-Fi, Swimming Pool New Plymouth, Spa New Plymouth, Family Friendly New Plymouth, New Plymouth Hotels, Best Hotels New Plymouth, New Plymouth Vacation, Pet-Friendly Accommodation, Hotel Review, Honest Hotel Review, Budget Accommodation NZ, Family Vacation NZ, Travel New Zealand
- Meta Description: A brutally honest review of Brougham Heights Motel in New Plymouth, NZ. We cover everything from accessibility and free Wi-Fi to the spa, breakfast, and those questionable "complimentary" tea bags. Read on for the good, the bad, and the hilariously mediocre! Includes details on accessibility, dining, amenities, cleanliness & safety, and more.
- Title: Brougham Heights Motel: My (Un)Filtered New Plymouth Experience - A Review
Accessibility - Bless Their Hearts! (And My Sore Knees):
Okay, let's start with the accessibility. I’m not in a wheelchair myself, but I was traveling with my very arthritic Aunt Mildred (bless her soul). And you know what? Brougham Heights, on the whole, seemed to actually care. They had "Facilities for disabled guests", and "Elevator" which was a godsend! We requested a wheelchair-accessible room and, surprisingly, they delivered. The bathroom had grab bars and a wider door frame. Now, did it feel like the bathroom design was from the 70s? Absolutely. But hey, it worked. The main issue, and this is a common one, was the outside. Getting Mildred from the car to the room felt like climbing Mount Doom. Ramps existed, but the slopes… Let’s just say they were ambitious. Still, points for trying, Brougham Heights. Points for trying.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - A Culinary Adventure… Or a Mild Disappointment?:
Right, the food. This is where things get… interesting. The "A la carte in restaurant" sounds promising, doesn't it? But honestly, unless you count a packet of chips and a stale croissant a meal the reality was pretty thin. The "Breakfast [buffet]" was more like a breakfast bar with the most basic selection. Let's be honest and realistic, I am used to an Asian Breakfast (I'm a huge fan of ramen) and I'm not sure if this place was Asian. If they had an "Asian breakfast"? Well, maybe they had some seaweed snacks and a miso soup, but I'm not so sure… they did have "Western breakfast", and at least the coffee was hot. The "Coffee shop" also was interesting, the coffee wasn't horrible, but I've had better, and the staff didn't even know how to make a latte. If I was to put it into a scale: 1/10. The "Poolside bar" was great, but they didn't have drinks that I asked for. I asked for tea and they didn't have the brand I liked. What can you do? It wasn't bad, but not the best. But the "Snack bar" was helpful since they had snacks. And hey, there was a "Bar"! Happy hour wasn't much to write home about, but a pint of local ale is a pint of local ale, right? "Room service [24-hour]"? Well, I never tried it, it didn't appeal to me.
Cleanliness and Safety - Did They Survive the Pandemic?:
Okay, this is where Brougham Heights actually shined. "Anti-viral cleaning products" were being used, and I really did see people, and the staff, working hard to clean the areas. "Daily disinfection in common areas" was happening. The "Rooms sanitized between stays" seemed to be true. I was seriously impressed. You got the feeling they'd been reading up on the latest health bulletins. Not that I ever felt worried. I did love the "Hand sanitizer", and the "Hand sanitizer" was useful. A+ for that.
Things To Do, AKA Ways to Relax (Or Not):
Let's talk about the good stuff. Or at least, the potentially good stuff. The "Swimming pool [outdoor]" was actually pretty decent. It was clean, the water was a decent temperature, and it had a "Pool with view". The "Gym/fitness" was kinda laughable - more like a closet with a treadmill and some weights. The "Spa" was a highlight! It had a "Sauna," and a steamroom which was a much-needed relief after a long car journey and a day of chasing after Mildred. I spent hours in that sauna. I'd give the "Spa/sauna" an A, it was great. The "Massage" was a little pricey, but worth it. The "Body scrub" and "Body wrap" were tempting but I wasn't sure about them, and I was a little self-conscious to get them.
Rooms - The Good, The Bad, and the Slightly Smelly:
The rooms themselves were… adequate. The "Air conditioning" worked, thank goodness. "Free Wi-Fi" was a lifesaver, and actually fast. "Internet access – wireless" was great and I never had any problems with it. This is essential for people like me who work remotely. But the "Carpeting" had seen better days. The "Closet" provided space, which was useful, but I can't say it was great. I'm not the type of person who needs a lot of space, but I felt claustrophobic. The "Coffee/tea maker" was there, but the "Complimentary tea" was the same generic, bland stuff you get everywhere. The "Desk" was functional, but again, not exactly inspiring. My advice? Bring your own tea bags. The "Extra long bed" was appreciated, especially since I'm tall. The "Mirror" was helpful, and I never had any problems with the rooms. The "Refrigerator" was good. The "Shower" was good. The "Slippers" and "Towels" were good. I made sure to use the free "Wake-up service", but I always woke up before the alarm.
Services & Conveniences - Oh, the Concierge!:
The "Concierge" was actually helpful, though they were a bit overwhelmed at times. "Daily housekeeping" was efficient. I liked the "Laundry service", and the "Ironing service" but I didn't use them. "Car park [free of charge]" was great, which is always a bonus. I think they could also use a concierge to find out the place is accessible, since this is a hotel aimed at relaxation and fun! The "Facilities for disabled guests" did an amazing job.
For the Kids - Ah, The Scream Zone:
There was a "Babysitting service," and the place was "Family/child friendly". I'm not a parent, but from what I observed, families seemed to be having a good time. I didn't really spend so much time around the kids, because I didn't want to be bothered by them. I can't lie, I can't stand kids.
Getting Around - Whee, A Taxi!:
The "Car park [free of charge]" was great. I could never find the "Taxi service".
The Verdict - Back to Bliss… Maybe?
Look, Brougham Heights isn't perfect. It's got its quirks, its slightly questionable breakfast, and its ambitious ramps. But, like I said before, it's got charm in places. And the staff really tried. They were friendly, and helpful. The accessibility was better than I've seen in far more expensive hotels. The spa was amazing. Considering what I've paid, I got a bargain! So, would I go back? Maybe. Especially if I get a hankering for a sauna and a good swim. Just… bring your own tea bags. And maybe a strong sense of humor.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Semimpi Hotel Bali: Your Dream Indonesian Escape Awaits!
Alright, alright, settle in, world! This isn't your polished, sterile travel brochure. This is real life, Brougham Heights Motel edition, New Plymouth, New Zealand. Buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to get messy.
The Brougham Heights Boogie: A New Plymouth Odyssey (or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Parking Lot)
Day 1: Arrival and the Questionable Charm of the Receptionist
- 14:00 - The Great Descent (and the Mystery of the Key): Landed in New Plymouth, feeling all windswept and vaguely important. Found myself wrestling with the rental car – seriously, why do they always feel like they’re plotting my demise? – and eventually limped into Brougham Heights. The receptionist… bless her heart. Let's just say her energy could probably power the entire North Island. She had this look about her, a mix of 'seen-it-all' and 'slightly bewildered' that I've come to know as the Kiwi spirit. Finding the room felt like a treasure hunt. Then, the key! Seriously, did it belong to a castle? It weighs more than my carry-on.
- 15:00 - Room Reconnaissance (and the Dreaded Bedspread): The room. Okay, it’s… functional. Let’s be kind. The bedspread is a crime against design. It’s… well, let’s just say I’m already planning on covering it with my own scarf. The view? Fantastic! Okay, maybe not fantastic. The parking lot is a perfectly average parking lot. But hey, the ocean is vaguely visible, and that's what counts, right?
- 16:00 - Food Quest: Attempt #1 (Burger Bungle): Hunger strikes! So, I, like a fool, attempt to conquer the local burger joint. The burger? Let's say it was… ambitious. The bun disintegrated faster than my hopes for a healthy meal. The fries, however, were epic. Obsession material.
- 17:00 - Regret and Recovery: Coastal Stroll: Post-burger-induced existential crisis. Swallowed down with the sea air, the wind is whipping my hair into a frenzy. The beach is lovely–the people, the weather, the freedom. Found a bench to sit and watch the waves - and the seagulls. One of them gave me a stink eye. They know. They always know.
- 18:00 - Dinner Prep (and the Microwave Monster): Back at the motel. Contemplating my dinner. The kitchenette is… tiny, but it has a microwave. Wish me luck. I'm aiming for simple. Praying for the microwave to be functional.
- 19:00 - Evening News, Early Night: Finally, the telly! Found myself glued to the local news. Seriously, the New Zealand news is the best. So chill. The people are so, so friendly. Am tempted to fall asleep early. The weariness is a beautiful thing.
Day 2: The Taranaki Tango & the Questionable Coffee
07:00 - Alarm Apocalypse and Breakfast Debacle: Woke up, the bedspread stared back at me. My alarm. Why do I set it for 7 AM when I’m on vacation? Decided to venture to the local cafe, hoping for something caffeinated.
08:00 - Coffee Catastrophe: The coffee… well, let’s just say it tasted vaguely of burnt rubber and regret. I should’ve listened to my gut (and my caffeine withdrawal headache). Decided I need my own coffee.
09:00 - Mount Taranaki: The Emerald Giant (Almost): Okay, Mount Taranaki. Gorgeous. Absolutely stunning. (I mean, once I found the road to actually see it). The drive was incredible. Those views! Definitely worth it. Now, maybe the coffee headache is worth it too.
10:00 - Hiking Hijinks (and the Muddy Mishap): Thought I was being all adventurous and hiked a small trail. (Ha! Says me now!) I am not made for muddy trails. I slipped. I landed. My trousers are now a delightful shade of Taranaki brown. I'm blaming the coffee.
12:00 - The Picnic (and the Seagull Siege): Found a lovely spot for a picnic. Until the seagull army descended. Seriously, those birds are relentless. Ate my sandwich in record time.
14:00 - Gallery Gamble: Attempted to visit a gallery. I don't know art. But it was nice. Really nice.
16:00 - Motel Relaxation (and the Quest for Tea): Back at Brougham Heights. The bedspread is still there. Contemplating a cup of tea. The kettle is… a bit temperamental. And I still don't know what the hell is happening in the news.
17:00 - Obsession, Fries Redux: Back to the burger joint! Those epic fries are calling to me. This time, I request the fries.
18:00 - Dinner Debacle: Attempt #2 (Microwave Mayhem): Pasta. Simple, manageable, right? Wrong. The microwave is a monster.
19:00 - Early Night, Again: Exhausted, but in the best possible way. Time to snuggle up and watch the evening news.
Day 3: Departure (and the lingering scent of adventure)
- 08:00 - Farewell Coffee (and the Bedspread's Revenge): Decided to be a hero and make coffee myself! The results were… edible. I’m starting to feel like a local. Packed my bags. Gave the bedspread one last, skeptical look.
- 09:00 - Final Parking Lot Contemplation: One last look at the parking lot. It’s… a memory now.
- 10:00 - The Great Escape: Checked out (said a brief goodbye to the receptionist, who vaguely seemed to recognise me). Time to hit the road. New Plymouth, you weren’t perfect, but you were… interesting. And those fries? I’ll never forget those fries.
- 10:30 - Reflections (and the lingering scent of fish and chips): Driving away, I’m already planning my return. The imperfections? They were part of the charm. The people, the views, even the slightly terrifying bedspread – it all added up to a truly unforgettable experience.
And that, my friends, is the Brougham Heights story. It wasn't glamorous, it wasn't perfect, but it was mine. And I wouldn't have traded it for a suite at the Hilton. Well, maybe I would, for a nice coffee machine. But other than that, it was perfect!
Kyoto Station Luxury: Unbelievable APA Hotel Kyoto-Ekikita Deal!
Brougham Heights Motel: Your NZ Getaway Awaits (New Plymouth Paradise... Maybe?) - FAQs That'll Actually Help (Probably)
Okay, so what's the deal with Brougham Heights? Is it actually *Paradise* as you say?
Alright, let's be honest. "Paradise" might be a *slight* exaggeration. Think "Cozy Kiwi Getaway." It's definitely not the Four Seasons. It's more like… a slightly-above-average motel with a killer view of the mountain. Seriously, the view of Taranaki/Mount Egmont is majestic. If the weather cooperates. (That's a big if in New Plymouth, folks.) One morning I woke up and it was just *there*, this hulking, perfect cone, and I literally gasped. Then the rain rolled in an hour later and swallowed it whole. So, paradise-adjacent, perhaps? Depends on the day, the clouds, and your expectations. Lower them slightly. It's still lovely, mind you!
Rooms: What are they like? Cozy? Cramped? Trapped-in-a-box-with-a-TV-from-1985?
Rooms? Okay, here's the skinny. They're… motels rooms. Clean-ish. Furnishings are, let's say, "practical." Don't expect designer chic. Do expect a bed. A functional bathroom. And, blessedly, a kettle. Kiwi motels *always* have kettles. And instant coffee. God bless instant coffee, seriously, when you’re wrestling with jet lag. The beds, though, are hit or miss. One time, I swore the mattress had springs that were older than I was. The next, perfectly comfy. Just… cross your fingers, and maybe pack a pillow if you're fussy. You'd likely be fine with the beds, but I, as an individual, have a long, and specific list of bed-related grievances. Okay, I’ll stop. The rooms are fine! Functional! Just... don't expect a spa bath. Unless you're *really* lucky and get a deluxe. But don't get your hopes up.
Do they have Wi-Fi? Because, you know, the *internet* is kind of important these days.
Yes, they have Wi-Fi. Praise be! I mean, let's be real, you can't escape the internet. It works. Mostly. Sometimes it's gloriously fast, perfect for streaming. Other times… well, let's just say I've had more success communicating with carrier pigeons. But it's there. And it's free. That's all that matters, right? Free Wi-Fi is a sacred right, okay? It's not perfect, but it's there so you can post those Insta pics of your hike to the summit of Taranaki, even if the summit's covered in fog. See? Problem solved!
Location, location, location! How far are we from, you know, *stuff*?
Location is actually pretty good. It's a short enough drive to the CBD, probably about 5 minutes. You are *very* close to the Coastal Walkway which is an excellent starting point. Some good restaurants easily accessible. It's not like you're stuck in the middle of nowhere. If you want to drive for a while, then you'll get to some nice beaches. It's pretty damn convenient really. I'd rate the location as probably the best thing about Brougham Heights. Unless the view, as mentioned above, is good. Which is a tough call.
Parking situation? Is it a free-for-all or are you fighting for a spot?
Parking? Yeah, it’s fine. Usually. There’s a decent amount of parking, and I’ve never had a *major* problem. Okay, once, I did have to park a bit further away. I mean, I *hate* walking, I truly do, but I survived. Honestly, parking is the least of your worries. It's more of a, "Oh, great, another time I'm going to have to walk" kind of situation. But, generally, it should be fine. Don't overthink the parking. Focus on more important things, like, you know, what you're going to have for dinner.
Can you hear your neighbours? Because thin walls are the bane of my existence.
Ah, the age-old motel question. Yes. You can probably hear your neighbors. It's the nature of the beast, really. Motel walls, they're not exactly soundproofed mansions. Depends on your neighbours, of course. I've had some quiet stays, and I've had… well, let's just say I've learned a lot about the snoring habits of strangers. Pack earplugs. Seriously. Or, you know, just be a considerate neighbour yourself. (I'm looking at you, guy who decided to practice the bagpipes at 3 AM.)
Is there a pool? I mean, you can’t have a proper motel without a pool, right? (Or at least a hot tub?)
No. No pool. No hot tub. Now, look, I *love* a good pool. I really do! Especially after a long day of… well, of anything. A pool would definitely raise the Paradise factor. But alas, no such luck. You can, however, go to the beach. Or take a bath in your… slightly-dated motel room bathroom. Priorities, people. Always priorities.
How's the service? Are the staff friendly?
The staff at Brougham Heights are...fine. They are not going to be winning any awards for customer service. They're not rude, per se. They're just… there. Efficient, practical. You'll get your key, they'll take your money, and that's pretty much that. But don't expect overly friendly banter or extensive local knowledge. I once asked a staff member for a recommendation for a good fish and chips place. I got a blank stare, and a shrug. I was kind of flabbergasted. I mean, New Plymouth is *full* of great fish and chips! But anyway, they didn't tell me, which was fine. It was only a minor bump in the road. Still, the staff are just a little...forgettable. Not good, not bad, just...there. Okay, I'm going to stop being rude now. The staff are okay. Just... set your expectations accordingly.
Alright, final verdict: Would you recommend Brougham Heights?
Okay, here's the deal. Would I recommend Brougham Heights? Yes. *With caveats*. If you're lookingBandung's BEST Studio Apartment? Sudirman Suites Mahogany Tower Awaits!
Post a Comment for "Brougham Heights Motel: Your NZ Getaway Awaits (New Plymouth Paradise!)"