Te Waonui Forest Retreat
From
$333
/ night
Select dates to see prices and availability
From
$333
/ night
About this property
Luxury hotel with spa services, fine dining, and free valet parking in Franz Josef Glacier, near Waiho Hot Tubs and Glacier Hot Pools.
Location
With a stay at Te Waonui Forest Retreat in Franz Josef Glacier, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Glacier Hot Pools and Westcoast Wildlife Centre. This 5-star hotel is 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from Our Lady of the Alps and 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from St James Anglican Church.
Parking
Restaurant
Room Service
High-speed Internet
Concierge
Valet Parking
Location
3 Wallace Street,Franz Josef Glacier 7886,Westland,NZ, Franz Josef Glacier, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand
Room options
Deluxe 2 Queen Beds
Deluxe Room King
Deluxe Room, 2 Queen Beds
Deluxe Accessible Room
Double Room Deluxe One Bed
Double Room Deluxe 2 Beds
Deluxe Room
Double Room Deluxe Easy Access
Double Room Deluxe Easy Access One Bed
Guest reviews of Te Waonui Forest Retreat
8.8
Fabulous
Based on 79 verified reviews
Who stays here?
Business
2%
Couple
67%
Family
16%
Group
10%
Solo
3%
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
At Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef, travelers praise the serene rainforest setting, walkable location, friendly service, and comfortable rooms with views, and many enjoy the included five-course dinner and breakfast.
Facilities
Cleanliness
Rooms
Service
Location
Dining
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What guests think
At Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef, travelers praise the serene rainforest setting, walkable location, friendly service, and comfortable rooms with views, and many enjoy the included five-course dinner and breakfast.
However, several reviews describe high prices and say the experience is not truly five‑star. Food feedback is strong overall but mixed: breakfast quality can vary, menus may repeat over multi‑night stays, and some dishes or drinks were unavailable or overcooked. Rooms are usually quiet with lush views, though a few note small or dark spaces, thin walls, or limited bedside power. Expect a peaceful, nature‑focused stay with warm service and on‑site dining.
Facilities
Cleanliness
Rooms
Service
Location
Dining
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
Self‑serve laundry and an on‑site day spa are appreciated, and parking is available though sometimes tight. Reviews also note no gym and closed pools, and the spa can book out.
Related guest reviews
8
Dawn
Dec 30, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Definitely NOT a 5 star hotel! The receptions and bell staff were lovely and the glass of Kiwi juice offered very refreshing. Our room was fine, 2 queen beds however the walls are paper thin and we experienced a constant slamming of doors and children shouting well into the evening. In the bar the staff seemed nonplussed when we asked for Gin & Tonic (also cucumber in Tanqueray??) They presented the bill with every drink even though they had our room number. Nothing is offered with the drinks and when I asked for some nuts I was told they were $5. I said ok and yet they still didn't materialise until I asked again! The meal was nice 5 courses, 2 of which are prechosen (soup and sorbet) the other 3 courses can be chosen from a choice of 3 or 4 items. Again the food was delivered with a speed and disinterest that would not be acceptable in a 5 star hotel. Breakfast is a self service buffet. Overall its a nice hotel but 4 stars at best!
Definitely NOT a 5 star hotel! The receptions and bell staff were lovely and the glass of Kiwi juice offered very refreshing. Our room was fine, 2 queen beds however the walls are paper thin and we experienced a constant slamming of doors and children shouting well into the evening. In the bar the staff seemed nonplussed when we asked for Gin & Tonic (also cucumber in Tanqueray??) They presented the bill with every drink even though they had our room number. Nothing is offered with the drinks and when I asked for some nuts I was told they were $5. I said ok and yet they still didn't materialise until I asked again! The meal was nice 5 courses, 2 of which are prechosen (soup and sorbet) the other 3 courses can be chosen from a choice of 3 or 4 items. Again the food was delivered with a speed and disinterest that would not be acceptable in a 5 star hotel. Breakfast is a self service buffet. Overall its a nice hotel but 4 stars at best!
10
Connie
Oct 26, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Room is cosy with rain forest view, easy parking , staff were friendly.
Room is cosy with rain forest view, easy parking , staff were friendly.
10
Lara
Jan 3, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff were amazing, very friendly and welcoming. Kiwi juice and hot towels on arrival was so appreciated. Buffet breakfast was great. Chocolates and water to our room was a nice touch. There are washing machines and dryers for guests to use.
Staff were amazing, very friendly and welcoming. Kiwi juice and hot towels on arrival was so appreciated. Buffet breakfast was great. Chocolates and water to our room was a nice touch. There are washing machines and dryers for guests to use.
8
Julie
Dec 31, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice deluxe room and amenities. Friendly staff. Parking a bit tight.
Nice deluxe room and amenities. Friendly staff. Parking a bit tight.
10
Long
Dec 27, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
We had an excellent experience! Loved the facilities and the food at the restaurant was delicious!
We had an excellent experience! Loved the facilities and the food at the restaurant was delicious!
10
Dee
Jan 4, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Enjoyable and relaxing stay in this large but quiet resort. Staff very friendly and meals nice. Day spa had good services and not as pricey as some hotels. Easy walk to the township.
Enjoyable and relaxing stay in this large but quiet resort. Staff very friendly and meals nice. Day spa had good services and not as pricey as some hotels. Easy walk to the township.
4
Rod
Jan 1, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The dinners weren't great - for example rock hard cheese and some inedible dishes, the staff at the food hall's customer service was inconsistent. No gym, pool or fitness centre. Plus the spa was full booked with a massive waiting list. Bit odd as it was a 3 star place at best. Some nice people on main reception but there are some real challenges in this hotel.
The dinners weren't great - for example rock hard cheese and some inedible dishes, the staff at the food hall's customer service was inconsistent. No gym, pool or fitness centre. Plus the spa was full booked with a massive waiting list. Bit odd as it was a 3 star place at best. Some nice people on main reception but there are some real challenges in this hotel.
10
Wahanui
Aug 14, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Short stay overnight but we were both very happy with the staff, our room and facilities
Short stay overnight but we were both very happy with the staff, our room and facilities
10
Linda
Oct 23, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff was sooo friendly and helpful. Rooms have a whole wall of floor to ceiling windows to enjoy incredible views. Wonderful breakfast buffet. Great being able to do our laundry in self serve laundry room. When the road was suddenly closed to Queenstown due to weather damage, we turned back around and stayed here again! Love it!
Staff was sooo friendly and helpful. Rooms have a whole wall of floor to ceiling windows to enjoy incredible views. Wonderful breakfast buffet. Great being able to do our laundry in self serve laundry room. When the road was suddenly closed to Queenstown due to weather damage, we turned back around and stayed here again! Love it!
10
Catherine
Mar 23, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Great food, rooms were nice, and the location was very convenient. I wish the pools had been reopened.
Great food, rooms were nice, and the location was very convenient. I wish the pools had been reopened.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Rooms and bathrooms are generally very clean, with some noting spotless standards. A few mention musty smells in certain ground‑floor rooms.
Related guest reviews
6
Kirsa
Jan 23, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Freundliches Personal und angenehmes Ambiente. Leider roch unser erstes Zimmer im Erdgeschoss unangenehm feucht nach nassem Keller. Wir haben dann auf ein anderes Zimmer bestanden. Angeblich war das schwierig zu organisieren. Aber nach ca. 30 Min. bekamen wir ein wohlriechendes Zimmer im Obergeschoss. Danach wurde auch zugegeben, dass diverse Zimmer im Erdgeschoss modrig riechen. Das Hotel müsste grundsaniert werden. Das Essen war mittelmäßig.
Freundliches Personal und angenehmes Ambiente. Leider roch unser erstes Zimmer im Erdgeschoss unangenehm feucht nach nassem Keller. Wir haben dann auf ein anderes Zimmer bestanden. Angeblich war das schwierig zu organisieren. Aber nach ca. 30 Min. bekamen wir ein wohlriechendes Zimmer im Obergeschoss. Danach wurde auch zugegeben, dass diverse Zimmer im Erdgeschoss modrig riechen. Das Hotel müsste grundsaniert werden. Das Essen war mittelmäßig.
10
kristen
Apr 30, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Spacious, clean, beautiful. Courteous staff. Excellent food (dinner was included). Convenient to hiking and other activities. Will definitely come back.
Spacious, clean, beautiful. Courteous staff. Excellent food (dinner was included). Convenient to hiking and other activities. Will definitely come back.
10
Shanene
Nov 14, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
The rainforest retreat was very special and beautifully presented. Staff were very welcoming and friendly. The hot towel and kiwi juice in arrival after a long drive was heavenly. The rooms look over the rainforest and feel secluded. Rooms are quiet, big and clean. Bathroom was spotless with great shower and separate bath. We were lucky enough to have the 5 course dinner and was not disappointed…highly recommend. The buffet brekkie was great too with lots of different options.
The rainforest retreat was very special and beautifully presented. Staff were very welcoming and friendly. The hot towel and kiwi juice in arrival after a long drive was heavenly. The rooms look over the rainforest and feel secluded. Rooms are quiet, big and clean. Bathroom was spotless with great shower and separate bath. We were lucky enough to have the 5 course dinner and was not disappointed…highly recommend. The buffet brekkie was great too with lots of different options.
10
Michael
Oct 4, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Brilliant hotel. Comfortable. Clean. Wonderful feeling of calmness being surrounded by trees. Food, amazing!
Brilliant hotel. Comfortable. Clean. Wonderful feeling of calmness being surrounded by trees. Food, amazing!
8
John
Jan 9, 2023
·
Stayed 19,362 nights
Very nice location and staff with a clean room and well thought through. The included dinner and breakfast felt a bit forced and not the expected quality. I would prefer a choice. We were pushed to a 6:00 pm seating for no apparent reason. High price considering the quality overall.
Very nice location and staff with a clean room and well thought through. The included dinner and breakfast felt a bit forced and not the expected quality. I would prefer a choice. We were pushed to a 6:00 pm seating for no apparent reason. High price considering the quality overall.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Rooms are largely spacious and comfortable with rainforest or mountain views and a quiet, private feel. Some found them small or dark, noted thin walls and limited bedside power, and a few mentioned bed comfort issues.
Related guest reviews
8
Dawn
Dec 30, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Definitely NOT a 5 star hotel! The receptions and bell staff were lovely and the glass of Kiwi juice offered very refreshing. Our room was fine, 2 queen beds however the walls are paper thin and we experienced a constant slamming of doors and children shouting well into the evening. In the bar the staff seemed nonplussed when we asked for Gin & Tonic (also cucumber in Tanqueray??) They presented the bill with every drink even though they had our room number. Nothing is offered with the drinks and when I asked for some nuts I was told they were $5. I said ok and yet they still didn't materialise until I asked again! The meal was nice 5 courses, 2 of which are prechosen (soup and sorbet) the other 3 courses can be chosen from a choice of 3 or 4 items. Again the food was delivered with a speed and disinterest that would not be acceptable in a 5 star hotel. Breakfast is a self service buffet. Overall its a nice hotel but 4 stars at best!
Definitely NOT a 5 star hotel! The receptions and bell staff were lovely and the glass of Kiwi juice offered very refreshing. Our room was fine, 2 queen beds however the walls are paper thin and we experienced a constant slamming of doors and children shouting well into the evening. In the bar the staff seemed nonplussed when we asked for Gin & Tonic (also cucumber in Tanqueray??) They presented the bill with every drink even though they had our room number. Nothing is offered with the drinks and when I asked for some nuts I was told they were $5. I said ok and yet they still didn't materialise until I asked again! The meal was nice 5 courses, 2 of which are prechosen (soup and sorbet) the other 3 courses can be chosen from a choice of 3 or 4 items. Again the food was delivered with a speed and disinterest that would not be acceptable in a 5 star hotel. Breakfast is a self service buffet. Overall its a nice hotel but 4 stars at best!
8
James
Mar 17, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Really lovely location. The staff were fantastic. The room was smaller than expected but well appointed. The food on the dinner menu was delicious and the breakfast buffet was generous with good options. A great place to stay in an amazing part of NZ
Really lovely location. The staff were fantastic. The room was smaller than expected but well appointed. The food on the dinner menu was delicious and the breakfast buffet was generous with good options. A great place to stay in an amazing part of NZ
10
Connie
Oct 26, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Room is cosy with rain forest view, easy parking , staff were friendly.
Room is cosy with rain forest view, easy parking , staff were friendly.
10
Jeffrey
Oct 15, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Superb in every way. Staff were exceptional, rooms so comfortable, dining excellent, and the site was very relaxing and close to everything
Superb in every way. Staff were exceptional, rooms so comfortable, dining excellent, and the site was very relaxing and close to everything
10
Jeffrey
Oct 19, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
This was one of the most breathtaking places we have ever stayed! The staff were all amazing and the room was beyond our expectations! Would stay again!
This was one of the most breathtaking places we have ever stayed! The staff were all amazing and the room was beyond our expectations! Would stay again!
10
Linda
Oct 23, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff was sooo friendly and helpful. Rooms have a whole wall of floor to ceiling windows to enjoy incredible views. Wonderful breakfast buffet. Great being able to do our laundry in self serve laundry room. When the road was suddenly closed to Queenstown due to weather damage, we turned back around and stayed here again! Love it!
Staff was sooo friendly and helpful. Rooms have a whole wall of floor to ceiling windows to enjoy incredible views. Wonderful breakfast buffet. Great being able to do our laundry in self serve laundry room. When the road was suddenly closed to Queenstown due to weather damage, we turned back around and stayed here again! Love it!
10
Khristine
Nov 5, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
We loved our stay at Te Waonui. The staff were friendly and engaging immediately making us feel comfortable and welcome. The pre-fixed 5 course dinner was a fantastic deal and the quality of the food was excellent. The rooms are lovely and it is nice to have a pleasant view each morning when awaking. Highly recommend this hotel.
We loved our stay at Te Waonui. The staff were friendly and engaging immediately making us feel comfortable and welcome. The pre-fixed 5 course dinner was a fantastic deal and the quality of the food was excellent. The rooms are lovely and it is nice to have a pleasant view each morning when awaking. Highly recommend this hotel.
8
Nigel
Jan 21, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Small, functional room - very dark. Comfortable bed but lacked bedside power sockets for phone etc. Yes there are rainforest plants ( ferns etc) quite literally outside the window - solid wall of greenery so almost zero sunlight. The included dinner was reasonable enough. There was a choice of 5 main dishes and choice of desserts. Seems to cater mostly for upmarket tour groups, but with a bit more refinement than you would normal expect. Breakfast was also reasonable. Very efficient and welcoming staff.
Small, functional room - very dark. Comfortable bed but lacked bedside power sockets for phone etc. Yes there are rainforest plants ( ferns etc) quite literally outside the window - solid wall of greenery so almost zero sunlight. The included dinner was reasonable enough. There was a choice of 5 main dishes and choice of desserts. Seems to cater mostly for upmarket tour groups, but with a bit more refinement than you would normal expect. Breakfast was also reasonable. Very efficient and welcoming staff.
10
Nir
Oct 4, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Beautiful hotel and great room
Beautiful hotel and great room
10
Fiona
Feb 20, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Rooms are spacious and private. The rainforest on your doorstep is incredible. Town is only a short walk. Most people stay only a night so high level of turn over but great food (dinner and breakfast included), friendly staff.
Rooms are spacious and private. The rainforest on your doorstep is incredible. Town is only a short walk. Most people stay only a night so high level of turn over but great food (dinner and breakfast included), friendly staff.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Service is frequently praised as friendly, welcoming and attentive, with thoughtful touches like welcome drinks and help with logistics. A few guests reported inconsistent or impersonal service in dining or bar areas and pressure on seating times.
Related guest reviews
8
Dawn
Dec 30, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Definitely NOT a 5 star hotel! The receptions and bell staff were lovely and the glass of Kiwi juice offered very refreshing. Our room was fine, 2 queen beds however the walls are paper thin and we experienced a constant slamming of doors and children shouting well into the evening. In the bar the staff seemed nonplussed when we asked for Gin & Tonic (also cucumber in Tanqueray??) They presented the bill with every drink even though they had our room number. Nothing is offered with the drinks and when I asked for some nuts I was told they were $5. I said ok and yet they still didn't materialise until I asked again! The meal was nice 5 courses, 2 of which are prechosen (soup and sorbet) the other 3 courses can be chosen from a choice of 3 or 4 items. Again the food was delivered with a speed and disinterest that would not be acceptable in a 5 star hotel. Breakfast is a self service buffet. Overall its a nice hotel but 4 stars at best!
Definitely NOT a 5 star hotel! The receptions and bell staff were lovely and the glass of Kiwi juice offered very refreshing. Our room was fine, 2 queen beds however the walls are paper thin and we experienced a constant slamming of doors and children shouting well into the evening. In the bar the staff seemed nonplussed when we asked for Gin & Tonic (also cucumber in Tanqueray??) They presented the bill with every drink even though they had our room number. Nothing is offered with the drinks and when I asked for some nuts I was told they were $5. I said ok and yet they still didn't materialise until I asked again! The meal was nice 5 courses, 2 of which are prechosen (soup and sorbet) the other 3 courses can be chosen from a choice of 3 or 4 items. Again the food was delivered with a speed and disinterest that would not be acceptable in a 5 star hotel. Breakfast is a self service buffet. Overall its a nice hotel but 4 stars at best!
10
Lara
Jan 3, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff were amazing, very friendly and welcoming. Kiwi juice and hot towels on arrival was so appreciated. Buffet breakfast was great. Chocolates and water to our room was a nice touch. There are washing machines and dryers for guests to use.
Staff were amazing, very friendly and welcoming. Kiwi juice and hot towels on arrival was so appreciated. Buffet breakfast was great. Chocolates and water to our room was a nice touch. There are washing machines and dryers for guests to use.
10
Jeffrey
Oct 15, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Superb in every way. Staff were exceptional, rooms so comfortable, dining excellent, and the site was very relaxing and close to everything
Superb in every way. Staff were exceptional, rooms so comfortable, dining excellent, and the site was very relaxing and close to everything
4
Rod
Jan 1, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The dinners weren't great - for example rock hard cheese and some inedible dishes, the staff at the food hall's customer service was inconsistent. No gym, pool or fitness centre. Plus the spa was full booked with a massive waiting list. Bit odd as it was a 3 star place at best. Some nice people on main reception but there are some real challenges in this hotel.
The dinners weren't great - for example rock hard cheese and some inedible dishes, the staff at the food hall's customer service was inconsistent. No gym, pool or fitness centre. Plus the spa was full booked with a massive waiting list. Bit odd as it was a 3 star place at best. Some nice people on main reception but there are some real challenges in this hotel.
10
Hayden
Jun 30, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Impeccable service from the moment we arrived, nothing was a problem and made us feel so welcome, would definitely come back.
Impeccable service from the moment we arrived, nothing was a problem and made us feel so welcome, would definitely come back.
10
Linda
Oct 23, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff was sooo friendly and helpful. Rooms have a whole wall of floor to ceiling windows to enjoy incredible views. Wonderful breakfast buffet. Great being able to do our laundry in self serve laundry room. When the road was suddenly closed to Queenstown due to weather damage, we turned back around and stayed here again! Love it!
Staff was sooo friendly and helpful. Rooms have a whole wall of floor to ceiling windows to enjoy incredible views. Wonderful breakfast buffet. Great being able to do our laundry in self serve laundry room. When the road was suddenly closed to Queenstown due to weather damage, we turned back around and stayed here again! Love it!
10
Andrew
Jan 10, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Excellent and very friendly staff. Everyone we interacted with at the hotel was incredibly helpful.
Excellent and very friendly staff. Everyone we interacted with at the hotel was incredibly helpful.
10
Khristine
Nov 5, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
We loved our stay at Te Waonui. The staff were friendly and engaging immediately making us feel comfortable and welcome. The pre-fixed 5 course dinner was a fantastic deal and the quality of the food was excellent. The rooms are lovely and it is nice to have a pleasant view each morning when awaking. Highly recommend this hotel.
We loved our stay at Te Waonui. The staff were friendly and engaging immediately making us feel comfortable and welcome. The pre-fixed 5 course dinner was a fantastic deal and the quality of the food was excellent. The rooms are lovely and it is nice to have a pleasant view each morning when awaking. Highly recommend this hotel.
8
Maria
Sep 5, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
This is a lovely place to stay. Reception staff are excellent. Very pricy meals.
This is a lovely place to stay. Reception staff are excellent. Very pricy meals.
10
Robert
Nov 20, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
I enjoyed my stay here. My room was very comfortable and was surrounded by forest. It was an oasis. Service was excellent. They drove me to the InterCity bus stop upon checkout. Meals are included. There was a good variety at breakfast. Dinner was a five course degustation feast. Since I do not eat cheese, they substituted fruit for the 4th course. Much appreciated.
I enjoyed my stay here. My room was very comfortable and was surrounded by forest. It was an oasis. Service was excellent. They drove me to the InterCity bus stop upon checkout. Meals are included. There was a good variety at breakfast. Dinner was a five course degustation feast. Since I do not eat cheese, they substituted fruit for the 4th course. Much appreciated.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Set amid rainforest with mountain views, the property is quiet yet walkable to Franz Josef’s restaurants, activities and glacier tours. Many found it a convenient base for hikes and local excursions.
Related guest reviews
10
Dan
Aug 23, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great food in the restaurant, room with private bush views. Well located and quiet.
Great food in the restaurant, room with private bush views. Well located and quiet.
10
horacio
Jun 11, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice hotel at Franz Josef Glacier; We travel to Franz Josef town to visit the glacier and happy with hotel. Spacious room, great breakfast, friendly staff and walking distance to restaurants and main locations. Great price-value.
Nice hotel at Franz Josef Glacier; We travel to Franz Josef town to visit the glacier and happy with hotel. Spacious room, great breakfast, friendly staff and walking distance to restaurants and main locations. Great price-value.
10
Daniel
Apr 25, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Fantastic property. Very quiet and secluded (even though it is in the heart of Franz Josef).
Fantastic property. Very quiet and secluded (even though it is in the heart of Franz Josef).
10
Jeffrey
Oct 15, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Superb in every way. Staff were exceptional, rooms so comfortable, dining excellent, and the site was very relaxing and close to everything
Superb in every way. Staff were exceptional, rooms so comfortable, dining excellent, and the site was very relaxing and close to everything
10
Aliya
Sep 3, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Beautiful location surrounded by forestry. Staff were very kind and helpful. Thank you
Beautiful location surrounded by forestry. Staff were very kind and helpful. Thank you
10
Samit
Jul 3, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Good location and relaxing property
Good location and relaxing property
10
Darrin
Nov 4, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
View towards mountains over a forest floor
View towards mountains over a forest floor
10
Renata
Aug 20, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Walkable distance to taverns and local activties
Walkable distance to taverns and local activties
10
John
Jul 8, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
A really fantastic one night stay to take a helicopter flight to the glacier. We wish had more time to stay. Restaurant was great.
A really fantastic one night stay to take a helicopter flight to the glacier. We wish had more time to stay. Restaurant was great.
10
Fiona
Feb 20, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Rooms are spacious and private. The rainforest on your doorstep is incredible. Town is only a short walk. Most people stay only a night so high level of turn over but great food (dinner and breakfast included), friendly staff.
Rooms are spacious and private. The rainforest on your doorstep is incredible. Town is only a short walk. Most people stay only a night so high level of turn over but great food (dinner and breakfast included), friendly staff.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
The on‑site restaurant and included five‑course dinner receive frequent praise, and many enjoy the breakfast buffet. Downsides include high prices, variable breakfast quality, repetitive menus over multi‑night stays, and occasional overcooked dishes or unavailable drinks.
Related guest reviews
10
Coco
Feb 29, 2024
·
This is my favorite hotel during this New Zealand trip. Room is spacious, has a private balcony facing lush green plants. The canopy restaurant provides breakfast buffet and 5 course dinner. We definitely will stay there again.
This is my favorite hotel during this New Zealand trip. Room is spacious, has a private balcony facing lush green plants. The canopy restaurant provides breakfast buffet and 5 course dinner. We definitely will stay there again.
10
Susan
Apr 5, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Beautiful property, excellent service and food - especially the five course supper
Beautiful property, excellent service and food - especially the five course supper
10
Mark
Mar 19, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The restaurant was amazing.
The restaurant was amazing.
10
Morgan
Jan 27, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Just stayed here one night but it was amazing. Service was top notch and the 5 course dinner was awesome. Service by all employees was superb.
Just stayed here one night but it was amazing. Service was top notch and the 5 course dinner was awesome. Service by all employees was superb.
10
Shaye
Jan 18, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Great stay. Some drink items on their menu were unavailable, and our steaks at dinner were overcooked (but still delicious) both nights. Loved the bird noises and rainforest views in the room, daily water and chocolate. Great location for everything!
Great stay. Some drink items on their menu were unavailable, and our steaks at dinner were overcooked (but still delicious) both nights. Loved the bird noises and rainforest views in the room, daily water and chocolate. Great location for everything!
10
Khristine
Nov 5, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
We loved our stay at Te Waonui. The staff were friendly and engaging immediately making us feel comfortable and welcome. The pre-fixed 5 course dinner was a fantastic deal and the quality of the food was excellent. The rooms are lovely and it is nice to have a pleasant view each morning when awaking. Highly recommend this hotel.
We loved our stay at Te Waonui. The staff were friendly and engaging immediately making us feel comfortable and welcome. The pre-fixed 5 course dinner was a fantastic deal and the quality of the food was excellent. The rooms are lovely and it is nice to have a pleasant view each morning when awaking. Highly recommend this hotel.
6
Dennis
Feb 14, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Definitely not a 5 star and overpriced. Still a nice property . The dinner is quite good but the buffet breakfast (for the price) is not. Worst scrambled eggs ever!
Definitely not a 5 star and overpriced. Still a nice property . The dinner is quite good but the buffet breakfast (for the price) is not. Worst scrambled eggs ever!
8
Lisa
Jan 9, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
A beautiful hotel with views of nearby mountains. Rooms tastefully decorated and nightly turn down service left magnificent chocolates. Dinner and breakfast were included in the price for our room. Unfortunately the five course dinner menu was the same for the three nights of our stay. Lovely to sit on the balcony for meals to enjoy the view- don’t forget your repellent, the sand flies are fierce. A lovely place to stay.
A beautiful hotel with views of nearby mountains. Rooms tastefully decorated and nightly turn down service left magnificent chocolates. Dinner and breakfast were included in the price for our room. Unfortunately the five course dinner menu was the same for the three nights of our stay. Lovely to sit on the balcony for meals to enjoy the view- don’t forget your repellent, the sand flies are fierce. A lovely place to stay.
10
Carolyn
Jun 3, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Quiet with with lovely grounds. Restful atmosphere. Excellent restaurant for both dinner and breakfast.
Quiet with with lovely grounds. Restful atmosphere. Excellent restaurant for both dinner and breakfast.
8
Rita
Feb 10, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Viel zu Überrteuret, für das was schlussendlich geboten wird! Für diesen Preis habe ich einiges mehr erwartet. Das Nachtessen war ok, das Rindsfillet und das Schokoladenmousse ausgezeichnet. Auch das Frühstücksbuffet war weit unter dem Niveau was man in so einem Hotel erwarten darf.
Viel zu Überrteuret, für das was schlussendlich geboten wird! Für diesen Preis habe ich einiges mehr erwartet. Das Nachtessen war ok, das Rindsfillet und das Schokoladenmousse ausgezeichnet. Auch das Frühstücksbuffet war weit unter dem Niveau was man in so einem Hotel erwarten darf.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
10
Ajith
Feb 12, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Fabulous hotel. Great helpful staff. Food was excellent.
Fabulous hotel. Great helpful staff. Food was excellent.
Property Policies
Check-in
Check-out
Check-in from 15:00
Before 11:00
FAQs about Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Is parking available at the property?
Yes, free valet parking is available on-site. However, parking is limited.
Is breakfast offered at the hotel?
Yes, breakfast is available, and it is served in the fine-dining restaurant, Canopy Restaurant. The specific type of breakfast and associated costs are not detailed.
What are the standard check-in and check-out times?
Check-in time is from 15:00 to 22:00, and check-out time is at 11:00. Early or late check-in/check-out may be available upon request, but additional charges may apply.
What accessibility features does the property offer for guests with disabilities?
The property features step-free entrances and wheelchair-accessible facilities, including public areas and rooms. Specific details about bathrooms and pool access features are not provided.
Where is the property located in relation to key landmarks?
The hotel is located within a 5-minute walk of Waiho Hot Tubs and Glacier Hot Pools, and is approximately 0.2 miles from Westcoast Wildlife Centre and 0.4 miles from Our Lady of the Alps.
What are the hotel's policies for guests staying with children?
Children are allowed at the property, but specific details regarding the minimum age for children to stay for free are not provided.
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Instant AI responses are based on hotel information
Prices for upcoming dates
October 2026
Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
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November 2026
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Cheaper
Pricier
Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.
Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.
- 2026-10-21: 228.1507387005615USD
- 2026-10-22: 228.55075154113769USD
- 2026-10-23: 229.10838204620362USD
- 2026-10-24: 230.320597701416USD
- 2026-10-25: 230.320597701416USD
- 2026-10-26: 226.11421160430908USD
- 2026-10-27: 224.8992214123535USD
- 2026-10-28: NO DATA
- 2026-10-29: 454.3013104376221USD
- 2026-10-30: 229.10838204620362USD
- 2026-10-31: 225.02018778900145USD
- 2026-11-01: 229.10838204620362USD
- 2026-11-02: NO DATA
- 2026-11-03: 229.10838204620362USD
- 2026-11-04: 229.10838204620362USD
- 2026-11-05: 231.53281335662842USD
- 2026-11-06: 451.39198601440427USD
- 2026-11-07: NO DATA
- 2026-11-08: 230.320597701416USD
- 2026-11-09: 223.9933009121704USD
- 2026-11-10: 451.39198601440427USD
- 2026-11-11: 225.16057592285156USD
- 2026-11-12: 450.3979825360107USD
- 2026-11-13: 225.16057592285156USD
- 2026-11-14: 225.16057592285156USD
- 2026-11-15: 225.5925815698242USD
- 2026-11-16: 345.7055655212402USD
- 2026-11-17: NO DATA
- 2026-11-18: 231.53281335662842USD
- 2026-11-19: 231.53281335662842USD
- 2026-11-20: 631.2790415039062USD
- 2026-11-21: 631.4842887158203USD
- 2026-11-22: 654.595357701416USD
- 2026-11-23: NO DATA
- 2026-11-24: 627.1040830297851USD
- 2026-11-25: 631.4842887158203USD
- 2026-11-26: NO DATA
- 2026-11-27: 629.3112441357422USD
- 2026-11-28: NO DATA
- 2026-11-29: NO DATA
- 2026-11-30: NO DATA
- 2026-12-01: 628.5967837976074USD
- 2026-12-02: 657.0198232653809USD
- 2026-12-03: 655.8075904833984USD
- 2026-12-04: 622.585287520752USD
- 2026-12-05: 628.7801772509765USD
- 2026-12-06: NO DATA
- 2026-12-07: NO DATA
- 2026-12-08: NO DATA
- 2026-12-09: NO DATA
- 2026-12-10: 628.3390601623535USD
- 2026-12-11: 628.5967837976074USD
- 2026-12-12: NO DATA
- 2026-12-13: 628.7801772509765USD
- 2026-12-14: NO DATA
- 2026-12-15: 628.974326315918USD
- 2026-12-16: 628.1725879577637USD
- 2026-12-17: 627.9893315185546USD
- 2026-12-18: NO DATA
- 2026-12-19: 628.7801772509765USD
- 2026-12-20: 628.5967837976074USD
- 2026-12-21: 657.0198232653809USD
Popular amenities
Parking
Restaurant
Room Service
High-speed Internet
Concierge
Valet Parking
Services
Concierge
Tour Desk
Elevator / Lift
24-Hour Reception
Dry Cleaning
Babysitting / Child Services
Safe-Deposit Box
Laundry service
Ticket Service
Self Laundry
Internet
High-speed Internet
General
Room Service
Restaurant
Air Conditioned
Non-Smoking Rooms
Desk
Activities
Garden
Water Activities
Fishing
Parking
Parking
Valet Parking