Reviews of Private Guest Wing - Durie Vale Lodge
46 Durie Vale Road Whanganui, 4500 Whanganui, New Zealand
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Reviewed: 15 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 2 July 2025 · Stayed in June 2025
Verified reviewBreakfast was amazing! Some of the best waffles I've had! The property was beautiful with a lovely outlook - native birds feeding, fish and even a chook! Lots of small thoughtful extras. Highly recommend.
Nothing to mention
Thanks so much for your kind words, Trish. As you no doubt gathered, Lois and I really enjoyed hosting the three of you, particularly so given the extraordinary reason for your visit and the considerable distances you had all come to be here. That was a marvellous thing to do in support of your brother. Go well all of you and please visit us again if you're ever back this way. - alan
Thanks so much for your kind words, Trish. As you no doubt gathered, Lois and I really enjoyed hosting the three of you, particularly so given the extraordinary reason for your visit and the considerable distances you had all come to be he… Show more
Reviewed: 28 June 2025 · Stayed in June 2025
Verified reviewWe had a great stay. Lovely hosts, very comfortable accommodation, delicious breakfast and the spa was fantastic. I would definitely stay again if I am in the area.
So very pleased you and your mum enjoyed your stay in Whanganui. The waffle recipe is on its way to you - enjoy and we would love to see you again should you venture back this way. Cheers, Lois
Reviewed: 20 June 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 14 June 2025 · Stayed in June 2025
Verified reviewThe welcome The garden The accommodation The hosts
I found it hard to find the house number and hard to read the sign. It is dark and dirsnt stand out. A visitor friend had the same problem. 😊
Thanks for staying with us Tio and thanks for your kind review. We're always seeking ways to improve so your comment about making our street number a bit more visible is a great suggestion. Hope to see you again sometime. Stay warm in New Plymouth. Best - alan & Lois
Thanks for staying with us Tio and thanks for your kind review. We're always seeking ways to improve so your comment about making our street number a bit more visible is a great suggestion. Hope to see you again sometime. Stay warm in… Show more
Reviewed: 25 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 22 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewBeautiful space, comfortable with private spa while watching the stars. Amazing hosts that make you feel special.
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Thank you Birthday Girl - lovely to hear you enjoyed yourselves. Please come on back anytime. You’re very welcome. Best - alan & Lois
Reviewed: 15 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewWe were absolutely overwhelmed with the presentation of the property-it was immaculate, and beautifully maintained. Breakfast was exceptional, truly the best we've had. Our Hosts, Alan and Lois, were such lovely people who made us feel incredibly welcome from the moment we arrived. We highly recommend staying here and will definitely return!
Thank you so much Craig for your glowing words. They mean a lot to me and Lois outside of any review value they may have; just knowing that a good time was had here by good people. We, too, enjoyed your stay and enjoyed your company and we'd love to welcome you back anytime. Best wishes from Whangaz' -alan
Thank you so much Craig for your glowing words. They mean a lot to me and Lois outside of any review value they may have; just knowing that a good time was had here by good people. We, too, enjoyed your stay and enjoyed your company and we… Show more
Reviewed: 11 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewDurie Vale Lodge is everything you would want for a quiet get away, and more. It was luxurious, tranquil, and our hosts were exceptional in their attention to detail, making us feel welcome, giving us our privacy and going out of their way to care for us. The private wing was warm and cozy. The bed was very comfortable. The amenities excellent. The native bush garden was delightful and the hot tub under the stars was the cherry on top. But don’t just take my word for it, find out for yourself.
If there is anything to make it better I’m sure the hosts will think of it and make it happen!
So glad you chose to have your birthday celebration in Whanganui and, more so, that you chose our little spot in the valley to rest your heads. It was great meeting you. Please give us an ahoy if you're passing through any time. And, should it be you need a bed for the night (and possibly a hot tub) please remember us. Best wishes - alan
So glad you chose to have your birthday celebration in Whanganui and, more so, that you chose our little spot in the valley to rest your heads. It was great meeting you. Please give us an ahoy if you're passing through any time. And, … Show more
Reviewed: 11 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewThe hosts were very welcoming and on site when we arrived and provided a great outline of the facility. The accommodation was very well appointed and provided a number of wonderful extras.
Hi Lilli - thank you very much for your lovely words. We're delighted you found our Whanganui brand of hospitality special. Lois and I are always looking for ways to improve and noticed your rating of 7.5 for both "comfort" and "value for money". Any suggestions you can provide to us on how we may be able to enhance either would be very gratefully received. Again, many thanks, Lilli. Pleasure hosting you. Best - alan
Hi Lilli - thank you very much for your lovely words. We're delighted you found our Whanganui brand of hospitality special. Lois and I are always looking for ways to improve and noticed your rating of 7.5 for both "comfort" … Show more
Reviewed: 9 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewThe best ! Great location . The hosts went the extra mile . Loves everything
Thanks so much for the feedback, Barb. Glad you enjoyed yourself. Hope we see you again one day. Best - alan
Reviewed: 30 April 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified reviewWow, what a bonus surprise. Guest room (really a small flat/suite) is gorgeous. Alan and Lois are attentive proud hosts. The attention to detail, the homemade petit-fours, just outstanding.
Hi Scott, we are delighted you enjoyed your stay with us and so pleased our guest wing met your needs. Trust you had a safe trip back home and the memories of your bike trek and of Whanganui will have you back in New Zealand again. Best, Lois & Alan
Hi Scott, we are delighted you enjoyed your stay with us and so pleased our guest wing met your needs. Trust you had a safe trip back home and the memories of your bike trek and of Whanganui will have you back in New Zealand again. Best, L… Show more
Reviewed: 27 April 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified reviewWe had a fantastic stay at the lodge. With delightful hosts, immaculately clean and comfortable accomodation together with exceptional attention to detail made our stay wonderful. The tasty nutritious breakfast was the perfect start to every day.
Not applicable
Hey Carl - so pleased you enjoyed yourselves. It was a bit of fun, wasn’t it? Lots of laughs. Trust your trip home was enjoyable. You’ll always be welcome here should you venture into these parts again. Even if you’re not stopping overnight, do pop in for a coffee and a catch up. That would be great. Lois sends her best wishes to you both, as do I. Bye for now- alan
Hey Carl - so pleased you enjoyed yourselves. It was a bit of fun, wasn’t it? Lots of laughs. Trust your trip home was enjoyable. You’ll always be welcome here should you venture into these parts again. Even if you’re not stopping overn… Show more
Reviewed: 17 April 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified review10/10 really doesn’t do this place justice. It’s absolutely perfect in every way. Alan and Lois really have found a slice of paradise. They are also the most wonderful people and fantastic hosts. You will not find better. This guest wing is extremely spacious , clean and comfortable. The beds are like clouds. Alan and Lois go above and beyond to ensure you’ll have everything you need. The breakfast is amazing and we could have chatted all day. Thank you for making our stay so lovely. We’d stay here again in a heartbeat.
Wow, Christopher, what a wonderful review of your time with us. We are so pleased you have such a fond memory of your stay in Whanganui to take home with you. Until next time, go well. Our very best wishes, Lois & Alan
Reviewed: 14 April 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified reviewEverything
Nothing
Thank you Judy. We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay. It was lovely meeting you. Hope to see you again. Take care. Best - alan
Reviewed: 11 April 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified reviewDurie Vale Lodge exceeded our expectations as beautiful accommodation in a peaceful valley, just 5 minutes from the centre of Whanganui. Our rooms were immaculately clean, modern, well-appointed with everything we needed. Our livingroom looked out on tui feeding in the private and peaceful garden. Lois and Alan are warm and welcoming hosts who gave us great tips about local attractions. After a big bike ride beside the Whanganui River, it was bliss to spend a couple of hours that evening in the private outdoor hot tub, staring at the stars above.
Hi Lesley, Thank-you so much for your sparkling review - we are delighted your stay with us ticked all your boxes and it was the 'getaway' you were both looking for. All the very best for your exciting travels in Europe. Hopefully we will see you again and hear all about your biking adventures. Kindest regards, Lois & Alan
Hi Lesley, Thank-you so much for your sparkling review - we are delighted your stay with us ticked all your boxes and it was the 'getaway' you were both looking for. All the very best for your exciting travels in Europe. Hopefully… Show more
Reviewed: 6 April 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified reviewDurie Vale Lodge is a hidden gem with such fantastic hosts that are so welcoming who really take care of you and treat you like a VIP. The private wing is super clean and cozy with luxurious linen and comfortable beds. The backdrop is stunning and you really feel like you are in your own little sanctuary. The attention to detail and the little extras provided make this place stand out. We can't wait to stay here again 😊
It was an absolute pleasure to host you both and we are delighted you enjoyed your stay. We look forward to seeing you again! Best, Lois :-)
Reviewed: 4 April 2025 · Stayed in April 2025
Verified reviewThe lodge is a prime example of how hospitality should be lived. Upon arrival, you receive a warm welcome – a personal touch and with a lovingly prepared aperitif. The hot tub is already heated and invites you to relax. All rooms are furnished with great attention to detail and provide a warm, inviting atmosphere. Added to this is the high standard of cleanliness – you feel at home from the very first moment. The beds are extremely comfortable; we slept wonderfully. The absolute highlight was the breakfast: individually prepared, fresh, plentiful, and simply delicious. A big thank you to Lois and Alan for your wonderful hospitality – we felt right at home and will definitely be back!
Nothing
Hi Ruedi - I am guessing you are probably home by now, and, if so, we hope you had a safe and enjoyable journey. Lois and I were delighted you chose to stay with us at Durie Vale Lodge and were so thrilled to read your comments. Thank you so much. It means a lot to us knowing that what we're doing here is bringing enjoyment to others. Please come back and visit us next time you're in New Zealand. Best wishes - alan
Hi Ruedi - I am guessing you are probably home by now, and, if so, we hope you had a safe and enjoyable journey. Lois and I were delighted you chose to stay with us at Durie Vale Lodge and were so thrilled to read your comments. Thank you… Show more
Reviewed: 2 April 2025 · Stayed in March 2025
Verified reviewLocation was excellent. Lovely quiet setting with fabulous outdoor area and lovely garden. Alan & Lois were amazing hosts who were super friendly with lots of local knowledge. Breakfast was delicious and a real treat. Accommodation was so beautiful with gorgeous furnishings and comfy beds. Hot tub was a bonus. The property and hosts exceeded all expectations. Thank you
Hi Chris - so lovely to read your generous comments. Thank you so much. Lois and I loved hosting you and hearing those fascinating tales you shared from your life journey thus far - both here and overseas - and those of the exciting plans and project ahead. All exhilarating stuff! Our wish is that you go well in every endeavour and our hope is that, should you be back this way, you will visit us again. Best of everything - alan & Lois
Hi Chris - so lovely to read your generous comments. Thank you so much. Lois and I loved hosting you and hearing those fascinating tales you shared from your life journey thus far - both here and overseas - and those of the exciting plans… Show more
Reviewed: 24 March 2025 · Stayed in March 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 23 March 2025 · Stayed in March 2025
Verified reviewThe location was beautiful. Durie Vale Lodge is nestled in amongst lovely NZ native plants and our hosts have obviously a deep love for the environment. Bird life was just outside our bedroom windows. Our hosts could not have been more hospitable; they have created a warm, comfortable and beautiful accommodation. Breakfast was also lovely and healthy. We could not have asked for more and it was definately value for money. Thank you Alan and Lois.
So very pleased you enjoyed your stay with us, Helen. It really was a delight for me and Lois to be your hosts. We'd love to see you back here. All the best for the end of the week. - alan
Reviewed: 13 March 2025 · Stayed in March 2025
Verified reviewFrom the minute we arrived Alan and Lois, our gracious hosts, took the time to show us around their delightful property. Being nature lovers ourselves, we were impressed with the carefully selected plants and the enchanting walkways across a tiny creek. The beautifully furnished private guest quarters looked out to this sanctuary, the bonus being visits by the local Tui and Keraru. We could not have been happier.
Anne thank you so much for your wonderful review - looking forward to seeing you again soon!!
Reviewed: 7 March 2025 · Stayed in March 2025
Verified reviewBeautiful garden and the apartment is clean and very well furnished. Fabulous breakfast with friendly and generous hosts. Location is peaceful and quiet but close to the city. Would happily stay again.
All good.
Catriona thank you for your review. Trust you both enjoyed the rest of your road trip in the North Island. Hope to see you again if you are ever up this way. Best Lois & Alan
Reviewed: 3 March 2025 · Stayed in March 2025
Verified reviewEverything. The house, the spa, the garden, the atmosphere,the bed was very comfortable, the breakfast and most of all the owners who were very friendly took care of all our neccesities. I highly recommend this place. Tova Zur.
Nothing.
Thank you Natan for your kind remarks. Lois and I were so pleased you made Whanganui one of your stopping points and trust that the rest of your journey through the North Island was rewarding. Have safe travels home and we do hope our paths cross again sometime in the future. Stay well and happy. alan
Thank you Natan for your kind remarks. Lois and I were so pleased you made Whanganui one of your stopping points and trust that the rest of your journey through the North Island was rewarding. Have safe travels home and we do hope our pat… Show more
Reviewed: 2 March 2025 · Stayed in March 2025
Verified reviewThe property was well situated close to town but in a tranquil setting. Alan & Lois were wonderful hosts who were super welcoming with tonnes of local knowledge about the spots to see. The whole house was extremely clean and thoughtfully decorated with everything you could need, quality furnishings & great amenities! Thank you!
Only the fact we couldn’t stay longer!
Hi Georgia, So very pleased you enjoyed your stay. We would love to see you back anytime!! Best, Lois & Alan