Kepplestone by the Sea - The Catlins — Hotel in South Island

I booked two nights with my husband, but after a very poor experience during our first evening and overnight, we decided a second night would be so intolerable that we advised politely the very friendly lady owner in the morning that we would like to leave. ||When she heard the list of issues (see below), she understood our dissatisfaction, apologized and immediately made a refund via booking.com. However, her father, or husband (it was not clear) was so infuriated that we were leaving that he followed my husband back to the accommodation, banged on our door, disturbing our breakfast and insisted very rudely that we explain why we were leaving and not paying. My husband told him that the lady had accepted there were serious problems, cancelled via booking.com immediately and the matter had been settled amicably. But this did not satisfy this aggressive individual who became so furious that my husband had to insist he leave our doorway. We left a written summary of the problems to satisfy his request to know why we could not tolerate another night there. But a day later we received a quite outrageous message via booking.com threatening to report us to the police and immigration for leaving without paying and accusing us, quite wrongly, of leaving without paying. It is very important, I feel, that anyone considering staying there knows that the male owner seems to have something of a temper and I certainly felt very threatened and uncomfortable as he confronted us. My husband responded to the message, explaining that the booking had been cancelled via booking.com. We heard nothing more. But it was a worry as we continued our travels in New Zealand. I will now list the issues which prompted our premature departure. The toilet did not flush all night, it was very draughty, we were supplied with a poor heater which we could not operate, the wall between our rooms and the neighbour was so thin we could hear his voice, no instructions for the TV, a very weak shower, the kitchenette worktops/cupboards were shabby DIY efforts, old, smelly sofas which would no pass fire regulations, a worn out, very wobbly chair, a bathroom heater not working, one bedside lamp not working. In short, a very dated, poorly...

Kepplestone by the Sea offers all that you need to be cozy and well looked after during your stay at Surat Bay. Very welcoming and helpful hosts keep a low profile after check in but are readily available to cater to most any need and offer advice on traveling around the greater area. Cottage is generously equipped and stocked with all you need as well as well as some unexpected extras. Farm fresh eggs, and a full liter of milk were among the items provided so that guests might breakfast at their leisure. Bed was comfy and outdoor garden and siting area delightful. Pedestrian access to scenic Surat Bay is a mere 2 minute walk from your doorstep and boasts a long stretch of golden beach with sand as fine in texture as any encountered in the Caribbean or Cook Islands. What an inspiring place to hole up as an artist or writer. This is truly a great venue for New Zealanders as well as international travelers who appreciate the natural tranquil surrounds. Look forward to returning...will bring a...

We stayed in the one bedroom two star cottage which is just along the road from the backpacker lodge owned by the same couple. They also have a caravan selling coffees and icecreams. Cottage was clean and comfortable although the electric fry pan didn’t have an electrical cord to make it work. We’d brought a cold dinner with us so were untroubled. Breakfast was supplied – cereal, fresh fruit, bread and jams. Tea, coffee, toaster, kettle and two ring hot plate were all there. Bed was comfortable and the bathroom and shower all functioned as they should. Small sitting out area at the front. Park at the door. Not in any way a luxurious stay, but quite suitable without roughing it. The beach is lovely and can be easily reached by...