We saved the Pier hotel to the last night of our memorable stay in Kaikoura because we heard so much about the dining experience and we were therefore looking forward to finishing on a high. Unfortunately the reality was different! The food was good however, the service was non existent which is not what we expected given the price and... More

It is a cheap place so don't expect high-end comfortable hotel here. Bathrooms are shared, toilet as well. But well kept. Breakfast is absolutely minimalistic. No tv but wifi (not free but affordable) So what's up there ? One of the best place I've stayed in NZ. Simply ! Staff is friendly, view of the Kaikoura bay is absolutely phenomenal,... More

The accommodation is simple but has all necessities. Sitting above the pub it has a nice, country feel. Bed was comfy and area clean. It is the view that really makes this place. A continental breakfast is available in the morning (serve yourself) and to sit on the balcony eating, overlooking the water was amazing. Would stay there over any... More

The restaurant/bar is a great place to have dinner overlooking the ocean. The mussels were excellent. However, the rooms are not recommended. I can imagine that the high price is justified by the seafront location and the historic nature of the hotel. The experience of sleeping in the bare and somewhat grungy room, however, is underwhelming. The hotel is located... More

Visited on a beautiful late autumn day in May. Fantastic staff and very friendly. The location is just about unbeatable in Kaikora as this historic old building is out on a headland of sorts with views back towards the Esplanade. It is a short walk to the seal colony and the excellent cliff top walk around to South Bay. Also... More

The Pier Hotel is an old heritage building with creaky floorboards and doors and tired, worn-out carpet and furnishings. "Scary!" according to our kids! We were unfortunate that we were not able to book an ensuite room for our family of four (due to a leaky ceiling) and ended up in 2 separate rooms where we had to use the... More

What a warm welcome! We arrived late afternoon after a motorbike ride from Picton. Our room(Number 6) was huge and had a small ensuite. $140NZ for the night. Delicious dinner - roast pork special and a pork cobb. Both nicely cooked and served with fresh vegetables and potatoes. The roast pork special ($19.95) included a soft berry pavlova dessert. Breakfast... More

The Pier is a real find, in a quiet location overlooking the seafront, we discovered it by accident and booked early, getting the ensuite room. Lovely old building, basic room but very comfortable and the guest lounge just opposite is a great idea. Friendly and helpful staff and we had an evening meal which was superb. Self service breakfast was... More

I love old hotels! This one was no exception. Old hotels often are not as first class as other accommodations but what they lack in luxury, they make up in interest. Lots of memorabilia on the walls, balconies and verandahs with the most incredible views over the sea right in front across to the high mountains. The food in the... More