Lake Matheson Motel

This motel was a last resort during the holidays, as most other places were fully booked. It still had availability throughout our stay. The room was very basic. Parking right in front is convenient, and the shower pressure and hot water were good. Unfortunately, cleanliness was poor. The floor was dirty, the bed extremely soft and uncomfortable, and there was a noticeable smell, so airing the room was necessary. The laundry area requires coins and your own detergent and looked rundown. Reception is mostly self check-in, with keys left in envelopes, and we didn’t see any staff during our three-day stay. Overall, the place has a strange and slightly awkward atmosphere. The location is the main advantage, with easy walking access to the town center, restaurants, and a small supermarket. We overpaid due to holiday pricing. At a lower price, it might be acceptable for a short overnight stay. Good location, but don’t expect comfort or cleanliness.

+: Cheap. +: Quiet location away from main road but a short walk from village centre +: Clean, though carpet was a little stained. -: Access could be easier. Reception unmanned. Eventually worked out that the bell key was what was described as the # key. -: Very small kitchenette and limited worktop. -: Very thin walls -: No ventilation fans in kitchen or bathroom, condensation would be an issue in colder weather, but we were also wary of leaving windows open without bug screens. -: Really bad idea to have a wet room with a nice powerful shower, but short curtain and a flat floor that doesn't drain. It's an old building and it's difficult to see how owners could fix some of these issues without rebuilding. So it's priced appropriately for those on a budget.

Overpriced at $209 Motel #2 I'm not a snob but I have basic cleanliness standards especially when paying for it and this motel did not meet anywhere near the standard. Very impersonal as self check in and office only open 10-1 so you don't see anyone unless you have a problem, so could not even raise the issues personally (unless an emergency) Electronic door lock difficult to activate. Smelt musty when we opened the door. Carpet was not cleaned well (many dusty and food particles on it). Bed cover did not fit bed properly, Surface of tv cabinet and bedside cabinets very dusty walls thin (could hear neighbour's talking) Wallpaper peeling off wall behind kitchen sink. Dirt in drawer where cutlery and crockery are. Shower cubicle not cleaned properly (multiple marks on outside of glass), had to use a hair tie to tie shower head in a usable position so it would stay in place. Mouldy round bathroom windows), As you will see in pictures when the door was locked there was still a significant gap and when shut tight there remained a gap. No insect screens so could not have door/windows open. Water in shower affected by other traps going on in room. Only enough tea and coffee for 2 cups (meaning 1 cup each). Laundry sign unable to be seen due to overgrowth of plants which also occluded the pathway. Online compendium offers torches in rooms (there was none) and contact option via text ( but no cellphone number made available) Exterior gardens very untidy. Very quiet location and a quick walk to the township. I would not stay here again as with all these issues makes you feel like all they want is the money and not to have to deal with you. This is not the kiwi way. I am kiwi born and bred and we welcome people to our country. Even on a budget it is overpriced

Stayed here for a night while cycling the Tour Aotearoa. Arrived early, in a rainstorm, and they were able to accommodate me, which I really appreciated! The room I stayed in was modern, clean, good shower. Everything I could ask for. The towel rail even had space to hang up all my wet cycling gear. :) My only complaint is that the keypad to unlock the room was unintuitive, it wasn't clear what to do. (I was cold and wet which probably didn't help.) I'd happily stay here again. :)

This motel is situated down a quiet road just outside of Fox Glacier. The rooms are clean & comfortable. Would have given 4 stars except it was basically self serve, we had instructions left on reception wall with a pin code to enter room.

The room was simple but clean and well equipped. I checked in late so I did not get to meet the front desk staff. However the staff was kind enough to leave the check in instructions in an envelop for me. The environment around this hotel was serene and very close to nature and it certainly offered me a sharp contrast to the bustling urban city life that I came from. .

Under the sink smelt musty, we had no tea or coffee provided, no fry pan provided only a single pot. Clean and tidy when we arrived and we had Netflix and prime so that’s a plus. The room was outdated but comfortable.

Convenient location to stay for a night before the glacier hike the next day. Love their password lock, making it easy. All kitchen utensils and bathroom amenities are provided.

Absolutely spotless and clean with new, modern furnishings. Easy check-in and only one block away from the main road w/numerous eateries. Loved our stay...best of all the places we stayed during our 3-week stay in NZ.

Amazing accommodations!! After a long bus ride we were met with a warm welcome by Heather and Mike. Our room was very clean with all the necessities. We enjoyed our evening meal with a view of Mt. Cook, just outside our room. As a surprise bonus, Mike was kind enough to drive us to an overlook to see Fox Glacier. Staff were friendly, happy and so accommodating. I definitely recommend and will stay at no other place on our next trip.