After a fairly long & scenic drive from Auckland we were pleased to pull into this lovely place. Check in was smooth & very friendly. We had booked a studio room & were told we'd been upgraded to a 2 bed apartment (I thought this only ever happened to "other people"). We were shown to our room & given some milk for a well needed cuppa. The apartment was gorgeous, nice kitchen area & lounge/dining, which had an awesome view over the pool to the beautiful bay. 2 seperate bedrooms, both with tv. Bathroom was lovely & big. Everything was spotlessly clean. Reception gave us heaps of info about tours, eating out etc. They provided discount vouchers to a few of the restaurants. There is a restaurant right next door which does breakfast onwards. We dined there 1 night & used a free drink voucher from the motel.
Reading a previous review I agree about the smoking. I actually am a smoker, but only smoked on the balcony if our neighbours windows were closed, otherwise I went for a walk around the gardens or over to the beach. I would not have minded a designated smoking area, as long as it isn't just shoved into a corner.
We travelled as a couple but this place would be perfect for families too.

We stayed here for 2 nights in Feb 2013 on our honeymoon, our room was massive (we got 2 bedrooms!) the view of the sea was stunning. Aileen was very friendly and helpful throughout our stay. We booked our jet skiiing activities through the motel which was helpful. There are some lovely resturants we went to including the Waterfront, and The Pier (amazing location over the sea!) Fantastic spot for exploring the Bay of Islands.

We arrived in Paihia with no bookings and were glad we found the Anchorage motel
The rooms were modern, friendly management, top location with each room having water views
would recommend this to anyone visiting the Bay of Islands

We arrived late,tired and hungry Aileen signed us in quickly gave directions for food and drinks and we were away. Couldn't believe how close to everything. Opposite beach and easy walk everywhere else. Aileen booked us into tours and gave us discount cards for restaurants all very good service. Would liked to have stayed longer than our 3 days but had to get away. We were finding Auckland booked out but Aileen found accom. near the airport where the hosts deliver you to the overseas terminal anytime day or night. Again great service. Loved Paihia would go back for longer relaxed stay anytime. Agree with Keith M on the smoking issue but rooms great and service friendly. Thanks Aileen.