Aqua Lodge

"Almost had my money stolen by the hostel. They tried taking my deposit $20 for the keys!! After retuning the keys, I was told that they will refund the deposit to my bank account soon, then I will see it the next day... but they didn't....so I wrote texts to Andre, but he ignored it. I got someone who can support this problem, so I called the hostel. Once I told him that I am going to see him with the person, he finally sent it to me. It had been one week to get the money back. Surprisingly, another girl I met in the hostel also hasn't gotten the deposit back yet!! This is a working hostel, he will arrange you a job while your stay. Even though he said I will get a job, I wasn't able to get anything. I understand that it's not much jobs at this season, but he never says he actually doesn't have any jobs... instead, he will just keep giving you application forms. I just paid the fee for nothing (you have to pay weekly, and no refundable) plus I almost had my money taken. What kind of hostel is that?? Imagine they’re doing to every backpackers."

"I stayed here for 6-7 months. Was the best hostel because of people I met but at the same time the worst because of the manager, Craig. Money, money, money. He went in Auckland with his family so he hired someone to manage the lodge, then he fired him and finally, there was nobody. A robbery happened, but still, he was too lazy to come and take care of the two last backpackers or at least do something for the security. But yes, even after 6 months, even after a robbery, you know that when Craig is calling you it's not to ask you if you are ok, but just to pay your rent."

"A great place to stay. Had 1 BDRM unit. Very tidy, clean and well presented. Slept the night away. Beds very comfortable and loved the pillows - best sleep ever. Pool was fab. Booked for one night 2 adults 1 child and was able to have extra child free of charge but did not take up offer. Owner very helpful and easy to talk to. My husband enjoyed onversing with him. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Will definitely return."

"The owner Glen is one of the nicest and caring people we've ever met. We are staying here since 3 and looking forward to more weeks. We're feeling very comfortable in our room and I'm sure everyone who didn't expect a luxury hotel will be happy to. Sometimes it's a bit dirty but that is the fault of the other people who live here and who don't know how to clean up after themselves. That's not the fault of the hostel or the owner. Keep that in mind. By the way it's cleaned every morning. We are really happy here, found a job, with the help of Glen, really fast and I have to say it again: it's so nice knowing such a kind, lovely and caring person like Glen."

"Overall, an excellent experience! Sure, the kitchen was slightly messy (due to the residents), but our room (double en suite) was very clean and we were quite surprised at how affordable it was. Management was polite and informative. There was a single fly in the room that was a bit of a jerk and kept landing on our faces in the morning while we were trying to sleep, as well as one in the bathroom, (but that one mostly kept to itself). I don't see how the hostel could be to blame for a couple of bad apple flies :) Good location, all other guests were very nice, we walked away feeling refreshed and pleasantly surprised."