5 Sterne Hotels Hawke's Bay

"The property promotes itself as a five-star hotel with exceptional attention to detail and impeccable service. In practice, the experience felt more in line with a comfortable mid-range stay rather than true luxury. The building has a certain historic character, but it is also clear that its best years are behind it. While the essentials are in place—such as functioning air conditioning and basic in-room amenities—those expecting premium touches typically associated with high-end hotels may find them lacking. One notable issue was the room layout: in some cases, rooms are separated from the hallway by a window covered only by a curtain. This allows significant light to enter at night, making proper rest difficult. Additionally, the bathroom ventilation system is quite dated and noticeably loud. Another point worth mentioning is the absence of breakfast, which many travelers would reasonably expect at this category level. Overall, while the hotel provides what is needed for a short overnight stay, the five-star designation does not seem fully justified. A three-star classification would be a more accurate reflection of the experience. Future guests may wish to keep expectations measured and not be guided solely by the term “luxury,” as the offering does not align with that standard. Personally, I would consider alternative accommodations on a return visit."