DOLPHIN MOTEL, Paihia
About the Hotel
Dolphin Motel - Centrally located apartment-style motel with free parking and BBQ area near Paihia wharf
Dolphin Motel receives an 8.5/10 rating from Booking.com for its central location just 100 metres from Paihia wharf and offers apartment-style accommodations including studios, one- and two-bedroom units, and family units. Rooms feature a stovetop, fridge, satellite TV, and many include fully equipped kitchens and ceiling fans; all rooms are non-smoking and air-conditioned with LCD TV and cable channels. A continental breakfast is not available, but each unit provides tea and coffee making facilities. Free unlimited WiFi is available for guests, and the motel offers free onsite parking with accessible parking and street parking options. The property includes an outdoor BBQ area with garden and picnic space, daily housekeeping, and a tour desk that can book local activities such as dolphin-watching cruises and itineraries throughout the country. Laundry facilities, luggage storage, and ironing service are available, and the motel provides family rooms, designated smoking areas, and facilities for disabled guests. Located 100 metres from Paihia Beach and a one-minute walk from Paihia Ex-Servicemen's Club, the motel is within walking distance of shops, cafes, and the passenger ferry to Russell, with attractions like Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Russell Museum nearby. Wheelchair-accessible rooms with grab rails and raised toilets are available, and the motel offers key access and 24-hour security with CCTV. Dolphin Motel provides a convenient base for exploring the Bay of Islands, with easy access to local dining and shopping.
Pros
Staff are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.
The motel is located in a quiet area despite being a short walk from the town centre.
Free parking is available directly outside most rooms.
Rooms in the newer block are modern and well-maintained.
Cons
Room quality can vary between newer and older sections of the motel.
Bathroom storage is limited in some units, with no shelving for toiletries.
Must-do experiences
- Savor a famous fish and chips at the Salt Water Cafe on the beach.
- Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a glimpse into NZ's history.
- Take a scenic ferry ride to Russell for stunning views and charm.
- Explore the hidden gem of Haruru Falls, just a short drive away.
- Don't miss the Paihia Thursday Market for local crafts and fresh produce.
Select your room type
- Standard One-Bedroom Apartment2 persons30 sq. feet2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bedHeatingShowerroom details
- One-Bedroom Apartment4 persons25 sq. feet2 Single bedsHeatingShowerroom details
- Standard Two-Bedroom Apartment4 persons35 sq. feet2 Single bedsHeatingShowerroom details
Prices and availability
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Off-site car park
- VIP check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Sports & Fitness
- Wind surfing
- Diving
- Snorkelling
- Canoeing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Cycling
- Golf course
- Fishing
Guest Parking
- Private parking is possible on site for free.
Services
- Paid shuttle service
- Housekeeping
- Tours/Ticket assistance
Dining
- Picnic area/ Tables
Business
- Fax/Photocopying
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
- Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Garden area
- BBQ facilities
Room features
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Sink
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Bedroom
- Electric blankets
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
Guest reviews