The Spencer Hotel

This hotel offers a memorable stay, primarily distinguished by its breathtaking views of the harbour, Sky Tower, and Rangitoto, which many guests describe as phenomenal. Beyond the vistas, guests consistently highlight the spacious rooms, prime location in Takapuna, and excellent recreational facilities as key features. The hotel is well-suited for various traveler types, including sightseers eager to explore the area, couples seeking a romantic getaway, families benefiting from the large suites, and business travelers appreciating the convenience and amenities. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for even more expansive views, and be sure to take advantage of the extensive and highly-rated dining options available just a short walk away.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the comprehensive kitchenette or full kitchen facilities available in many rooms, which often include a dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer, making longer stays particularly convenient. The recreational facilities are a significant draw, with a large outdoor pool, spa, gym, and tennis courts consistently receiving positive feedback for being clean and well-equipped. However, feedback on Wi-Fi is mixed, with many guests reporting it as unreliable, slow, or difficult to connect to. The lobby and common areas are frequently described as dated, with some guests noting worn furniture, damaged flooring, and occasional unpleasant smells in these areas and the elevators. While heating and air conditioning are present, some guests experienced issues with their functionality or drafts. A notable concern for some guests is the lack of generators during power outages, which can lead to significant inconvenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness is varied; while many guests find their rooms to be clean and well-maintained, others reported issues such as mold in the bathroom grout, hair on floors, and a general need for more thorough cleaning. The beds receive mixed reviews; many guests find them comfortable and appreciate the quality linens, but some describe them as too firm, old, or causing discomfort. The views from the rooms are almost universally praised, often described as spectacular. Noise levels are generally considered quiet, though some guests noted occasional street noise or internal pipe sounds. The bathroom areas are a frequent point of concern, often described as dated, small, having mold, broken tiles, or needing refurbishment. While spacious rooms are a highlight, some guests found the in-room amenities lacking, specifically mentioning the absence of bedside outlets or USB ports. The overall room condition is often noted as tired and in need of an update. Unpleasant smells in hallways and some rooms were also reported.

Dining & Food Quality
A recurring theme in guest feedback is the absence of on-site restaurant and bar facilities, which many guests found disappointing, noting that these have been closed for an extended period. Consequently, breakfast is not available at the hotel, with guests typically directed to external options. Despite this, the hotel's location is highly praised for its proximity to a wide array of cafes and dining options. Guests consistently highlight the convenience of having numerous highly-rated restaurants and eateries within easy walking distance, ensuring that food and beverage needs are well met outside the hotel premises.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly praised as one of its strongest assets. Guests appreciate being within easy walking distance of Takapuna's vibrant shops, diverse restaurants, and the beautiful beach. Its proximity to cultural venues like the Bruce Mason Theatre is also a significant advantage. Parking receives mixed feedback; while convenient on-site parking is available, many guests found it to be expensive. Some opted for street parking as an alternative, which can be free overnight. The hotel's accessibility is generally good, with easy access to public transport and main motorways, making it convenient for exploring the wider area.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Many guests highlight their professionalism and willingness to assist with various requests. However, the check-in process receives mixed feedback; while some found it easy and quick, others reported issues with unattended reception or slow procedures, particularly for groups. There are frequent comments about the lack of traditional hotel services, such as daily room service or laundry service, with some guests noting that reception can be unattended at times. Despite these service limitations, staff generally make efforts to resolve issues when approached, although sometimes with delays or partial solutions.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the property functions as an aparthotel, with residential units alongside hotel rooms, which some guests noted could contribute to occasional unpleasant smells in common areas. A few guests mentioned an unlisted bond required upon entry, which caused some surprise. The hotel's policy regarding daily room service is also a point of contention, as it is not provided automatically and may incur an additional charge. Some reviews also highlighted a perceived lack of commitment to sustainable practices, such as lights and TVs being left on in rooms prior to guest arrival and the use of single-use, non-recyclable toiletries. Furthermore, the hotel's lack of generators during power outages was a significant concern for some guests, leading to inconvenience and safety worries.