Harbour Hotel Christchurch in Christchurch

We had a lovely lunch, our first visit, an early Mother's Day present. We were very well looked after and are thinking of coming back for Christmas!

Stayed here for a mid-week treat in February. While the weather was mostly miserable, the welcome wasn't, mainly thanks to Olivia on check-in: a genuine smile and hello is an excellent upgrade! We'd gone for a 'snug' room. Small, yes, but larger than our bedroom at home. It could have had less furniture, and the bathroom configuration was a bit clumsy, but lovely toiletries and super-soft bedding and towels. The only irritation was because there were no sockets/chargers for your phones etc beside the bed (you had to unplug the lamp). Lovely in-room G&T service; a nice touch. The gardens/views are exceptional, and I have no doubt this place is buzzing in the summer. We had lunch at the Jetty on one occasion; five-star and absolutely excellent! Breakfast twice at Upper Deck; faultless. And drinks at the Upper Deck too (the tattooed barman is a real credit to the place and someone who clearly knows his stuff). All in all, the staff really made this trip extra special and worth every penny; we wouldn't hesitate booking up a return visit. Friendly, funny (in a good way) and professional; you couldn't wish for a more decent bunch of staff. The only negative part of the stay was down to the spa; very tired (upholstered sofas/cushions in a wet area wasn't ever a good idea) and unwelcoming. Pool/jacuzzi were probably a degree or two cooler than they should have been, but even cooler was the 'welcome' from the staff who clearly didn't want to be there.