When travelling another country it’s often a challenge to categorize the style, standard and cost of accommodation. New Zealand accommodation has a number of rating systems, such as Qualmark, Tripadvisor and other booking websites. But, do these always give a clear representation. I can’t count the number of times I’ve come across rave reviews for an accommodation only to be disappointed by either its’ location, facilities or service attitude. So how do we obtain a true picture of what is available for the tariff and style we seek?
How to evaluate hotel ratings in New Zealand:
When selecting accommodation in New Zealand, ask yourself what kind of experience you prefer? Do you want to stay with local hosts and experience the character of the country or be self-sufficient in a cottage, motel or apartment. Maybe a hotel with 24 hours access to reception services is your style.
You may prefer accommodation offering the ultimate discretion and privacy of exclusive occupancy with security personnel and private chefs (these properties are in a separate category of their own).
Many travellers will most likely use Google or Tripadvisor to get a general sense of the accommodation options in a specific region or city. Reviews and ratings should be viewed as guidelines only. They should not be the key decision maker. We all go for “trusted brands” but those are not necessary the best options.
“You always get what you pay for” – this is an old saying and still very true. The tricky part these days is that “5 star” ratings are used for many different varieties of accommodation. With the New Zealand Qualmark rating system, we have “5 star” camping grounds, motel, hotels, hosted B&B’s and luxury lodges (and more categories). But who would compare a 5-star motel with a 5-star luxury lodge or retreat!
Tripadvisor comments from fellow travellers can be a helpful tool, but I am skeptical of a system that allows anonymity from its’ reviewers, only. Surely full transparency should be mandatory for all parties.
How to understand hotel ratings in New Zealand:
– First, trust your source – either publications (usually reliable), friends (but not always) and professional travel experts who regularly visit New Zealand or live there.
– Get to grips with understanding the categories on offer for New Zealand accommodation.
– Don’t select the least costly room type on offer. This so often causes disappointment on arrival.
– Don’t expect a true 5-star experience for a couple of hundred dollars – you won’t get it!
The one and only 100% guarantee you have of getting exactly what you want is to visit a property before booking and this is highly impractical for most travellers. So do the research first by reading publications and talking to people ‘in the know’. That way, you’ll have a better chance of getting the best New Zealand accommodation to suit you.
Happy Travelling!