Tim Chainey

Review of O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat,...

My partner and I stayed at O'Reilly's for two nigh...

My partner and I stayed at O'Reilly's for two nights (the two night autumn package) and were both really excited for a mini break away. My partner also works at a zoo so was also looking forward to the wildlife activities and being out in nature.

Unfortunately we were disappointed with our stay, and even considered leaving on our second night. Both animal activities (encounter plus show) were cancelled due to a sick bird requiring assistance, which is understandable although back-up staff might be valuable. We did take up the offer of doing the glow warm tour instead (no extra charge). Our other activity, the sunset tour, also didn't happen as we were told to meet at 6pm by several staff, however at 6.15, after waiting for 30min, we asked reception and were told it had left at 5.30pm (with 7 of the 20 guests). Staff, including the manager, were unclear as to what had happened. We were left feeling deflated, having paid for items in our package and missing out on what we had come here for. Later in the evening we were offered 1x complimentary three course meal, however declined this as this meant paying another $65 (plus beverages) when we could have purchased two meals and drinks at the bar for a lot less. We informed staff that we would eat at the bar instead and the waitor stated that he would remove this from our bill still, respecting the offer. When we paid at the end of our stay it had not been removed, and took a whole of explaining again to have this removed.

More wildlife activities would be great, and extras added to the packages as what we paid for was a lot for what we got. Everything up here also costs a lot - which was another downer after missing out on other activities.

On the positive, the walks were great, including the Tree Top walk and morning bird walk. The buffet breakfast was also good and the bar staff and food were fantastic (shout out to the NZ staff who were very welcoming and friendly).

While we won't be returning, I hope improvements can be made as it really is a great opportunity for those wanting a break away.