Just checking in to note that this B&B has not been open for years. It's currently used as a location for an American Study Abroad program (CCSP New Zealand). Yesterday it was extensively damaged by an earthquake. So if you can't contact this lodging, that's why.
We loved our 2 night stay at the Old Convent B&B and wished that our itinerary were more flexible so that we could have stayed there for longer. Whilst the facilities were a bit vintage in places (don't stay here if you want to live in luxury) we felt that they were part of the charm & character of the place. The breakfast was a generous buffet and an evening meal was available too (though we didn't try this). The owner was very helpful - allowing us to use the phone to check whether the whale watching trip we were booked on was going ahead. There is a computer which can be used for internet access - but no wireless internet connection. This was one of the most peaceful places that we stayed in New Zealand - it was great just relaxing in our room catching up on some holiday reading and drinking tea (there is a lovely garden around the house from which there was plenty of bird song to be heard). Each room is has its own history - ours was apparently the Priest's robing room and was a decent size with a huge & comfortable bed. There is also a large guest lounge (the old chapel) which has games, magazines and tea/coffee/biscuits available in it. There's a resident sheep who sits tethered in the garden looking pretty pleased with life! :o) As well as a small shop selling, amongst other things, chocolate nuns. We spent much of the remaining part of our holiday wishing that we could return.…
We enjoyed our stay at the Old Convent. Simple and charming inn with very helpful staff. Rooms are clean but quite small. Walls are thin, but that seemed part of the charm. Breakfasts were good.
We reserved our stay months in advance. We arrived at 1800 and were told there was only one room left. When we expressed dismay at the room we were told in so many words 'Too Bad.' The property appears to be in disrepair, the accomodation threadbare and pathetically sparse. We've spent months on the South Island and this place was very bad, top it off with a bad attitude at the front desk.
What a delightful place! From the first moment we entered this100-year old convent, we were mesmerized. A gorgeous building, steeped in history and charm, almost as charming as the owners. Our rooms (a two-bedroom suite) was spacious with understated elegance. I visited with three small children (aged 3, 4, and 6) in two, and the owners were more than accommodating. They showed us around the extensive grounds. My girls loved petting the pet sheep in the garden, and climbing the old nut and fruit trees, strolling around the extensive garden filled with beautiful old roses, swimming in the lovely pool, nibbling on delicious chocolate made on the premises, and eating delicious and nutritious home-cooked dinners. We would definitely stay again -- thank you Judith et al. for a wonderful holiday!!…
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