Jonathan Robson

Review of Mercure Hotel Auckland

Usually when in Auckland I stay at the Pullman nea...

Usually when in Auckland I stay at the Pullman nearby at the top of the hill, however it was full so stayed at the Grand Mercure for 3 nights in December 2017. First of all the positives, the location is great for the heart of Auckland and the waterfront, the ferry terminal is close by and there is plenty to see and do. Rooms were clean, if a bit poky and the bathroom was modern with a great shower.

The room I stayed in had twin beds which were a bit on the small side, the sheets did not fit properly so by the morning had all come untucked - rather annoying. There was a lot of loud music outside until 4am on the Friday and Saturday nights - not the hotel's fault but worth knowing if you want to get a good nights rest.

The breakfast room on the top floor has great views across the waterfront and city but struggles to cope with the number of people using it, and was woefully understaffed on the Sunday, after being shown to a table it was 25 minutes before it was cleaned and laid up despite asking three times, there were no cups or plates and various food items had run out. The coffee machine is over complicated leading to a huge queue which is frustrating if all one wants is some hot water to make tea.

Perhaps if I had stayed at a quieter time I would have given the hotel four stars but with the experience I had I won't be rushing back.