The Ōkato — Hotel in North Island

What a fantastic find. This wonderful old (150 years) hotel was a real treasure. The rooms which are all upstairs, have recently been renovated and are spacious, very comfortable and sympathetically appointed to the age of the hotel. Comfy beds! The |downstairs renovations are again, done in keeping with the age of the hotel. Lots of wonderful photos and memorabilia. Dinner was outstanding and by far the best meal we had all eaten in ages, anywhere. We had left the dinner choice to the chef and we were so glad we did. Slow cooked beef cheek, frenched lamb cutlets, served with local asparagus, roasted potatoes with capers, baked pumpkin, smooshed peas and |all the appropriate jus, gremolata, mint sauce etc that just made it perfect. Followed by Italian chocolate dessert and home-made coconut icecream. Perfect, perfect. We had bruch in the morning with an interesting selection of foods, not run of the mill at all. But, if you just wanted toast, then that was no problem. Renovations are continuing to the exterior and it will be brilliant when all completed, soon. Don't go past this place. Alisha is an amazing host and she could not have done more to make our stay so memorable. Even Mt Taranaki stood in her glory for us...

Wow what a fabulous find! The Okato was everything I had hoped for. A gorgeous old hotel with a fascinating history, recently upgraded and renovated, with tastefully decorated and detailed rooms, great clean bathroom, quality linen and a very comfortable cosy bed. Though the establishment is on the main road, there’s very little overnight traffic and I slept very well. I awoke hopeful there might be a view and was blown away to see Mt Taranaki from my bed!! Breakfast was fresh and tasty scrambled eggs and good coffee. And I loaded up on the fresh house made baking to takeaway for family snacks.. including VERY good cheese scones (I had one two days later toasted and it was still delicious and fresh), plus yummy chocolate brownies and Amazing chocolate chip cookies with surprise ingredients of walnuts.., sooo good!! If the facilities and fare was all it was about I’d be back… but it was also great value and the proprietors and staff were super friendly and helpful with local information and conversation. I can’t wait to explore more of Taranaki from this...

We had a great short stay at The Okato for our wedding anniversary! We didn’t want to leave our dog in a kennel so we booked the hotel after seeing a friend with a dog had stayed there, and it didn’t disappoint! They aren’t just dog tolerant but dog friendly - the staff were super helpful and welcoming and gave our dog loads of attention which she loved. We booked one of the smaller rooms by mistake but it was still just fine for what we needed, although we’d love to go back and stay in one of the bigger rooms next time. The food was also incredible - the only downside was the cafe didn’t open until 10am but we understood given the location! Such a unique and fun place to stay, highly recommend to anyone with a dog or even just wanting to stay somewhere that’s welcoming and relaxed. The owner was so lovely and welcoming, you could tell she’s put her heart and soul into...