The room was partly renovated,but the overall look was poor.One or two of the fittings had been replaced,but the stove was old and shabby,as were some switches,old and unclean.Toilet kept running.Windows poorly fitting and catches old and worn.For what it was it was very much overpriced .Will certainly not go there again.

I suggest that prospective guests check the current status of the guest carpark before booking. It's currently (February 2013) being completely renovated with diggers, scrapers, trucks and dust (we totally understand the need for this work to be done) with no access to the site and guests vehicles having to be left about 300m away around the corner in a... More

A great motel along the Papanui Road 'motel strip'. Very clean and comfortable, and by the looks of it recently renovated. Friendly and informative hosts. We had a unit at the back which was great - no road noise at all. Highly recommended.

We just keep coming back! Great location and the Hosts Bridget and Brian very helpfull and make you feel welcomed.. Love the new decor,the owners keep updating the place which is very nice. Worth the money!

Dear Bridget and Brian, (2013) On two occasions over the last 2 months I have stayed at your motel and wish to thank you both very much for being the perfect hoists at all times even though you were facing many big repairs problems to the units and infrastructure. I can highly recommend to anyone that I know or people... More

On the plus side, The Diplomat is in an excellent location, the rooms were spacious and decor was quite nice. The kitchen was well stocked and had decent coffee cups (not the small things you usually get!) and was very clean. On the negative, the walls were paper thin and we were kept awake all hours by the group in... More

Older style one level unit so they are spacious !.......excellent for a long stay ! We found the units comfortable and warm . Separate kitchen, great if you like to cook. Laundry facility available. Location can't get much better, Merivale Mall just a stroll (with supermarket,) a cafe literally next door, bus stop at the door , restaurants a great... More

Re painted large rooms with double and single bed. Separate kitchen, bathrooms and toilet which means plenty of space for a long stay. Units are quiet and very little road noise heard. A better than basic typical NZ motel which suited us just fine. Friendly and helpful management.

We agree with other reviews - very handy position only a few minutes walk from Merivale centre, helpful service, comfy bed and at a reasonable tarrif. Although well maintained, the motel is due for total renovation to bring it into this century.