Initially we were reasonably happy with the initial impression of the room, although there was a slight fishy smell present (possibly from the wood?), but we opened the windows and that was fine. We did have to book a triple room, as that was the only one available online at the time, this included a "wet bathroom", and seemed to... more

The other reviewers have hit the nail on the head with their reviews of this motel. The chalet accommodation is slap bang on the beach, and has everything you could want for a stay of a day or two. The balcony areas are a huge bonus - we had fantastic weather and were able to eat alfresco listening to the... more

Not close to the town centre, but excellent for the beach. The chalet room was quite sufficient for 2 people, had internet and TV. The cooking facilities were good. The room was clean and comfortable, and we had a lovely balcony area on which to relax and watch the sun set. This was almost the best accommodation we subsequently found... more

We stayed at Shining Star for our last couple of nights before we left New Zealand. We were happy with the stay, and I gave the place four stars primarily in comparison with the rest of the places that we stayed in New Zealand. We had a Spa Beachfront Chalet which consisted of a downstairs kitchen, living room, and bathroom... more

I camped for a couple of nights at the Shining star. For starters, the camp sites are not very impressive, they're rather small and don't have a wooden table anywhere near them to read/eat on - this place is definitely not catering for campers as their main trade. Secondly, the supposedly equipped kitchen had half the stuff missing. For instance,... more

This was probably the best overall accommadation we stayed at in our 3 1/2 week trip to NZ. We had one of the 2 storey chalets by the beach for 3 nights. Extremely well thought out,well equipped,roomy and with great outlook. Would definately book again--only for longer more

I will not repeat all of the positive comments made by contributors in 2009. I agree with them all, Shining Star is an excellent place to stay. It is a good mile or so out of town, but that was not a problem for us. I can confirm that the Chalets are comfortable, waterproof and capable of withstanding a howling... more

I have stayed at the Shining Star on several occasions when I have taken visitors to Hokitika. Everyone has been quite pleased with the comfort, cleanliness and décor of the chalets. All of the chalets are different. There are three types of chalets facing the ocean. The first type are the one Bedroom apartments (numbers 16, 17 and 18) which... more

Stayed here for 1 night as a half way point when driving from Abel Tasman to Franz Josef and didnt want to leave. Stayed in a double bedded cabin which was of a high standard. Looked out to goats and other animals which live in middle of the circle of chalets. Such a nice setting. Went to see glow worms... more