Johnston Apartments - Award-winning building, Your unforgettable stay

Comfortable and warm

Needed another comfortable chair for the four of us. Noisy.

Everything was perfect. This property exceeded our expectations

Great building and close to everything. Very spacious.

The stairs were hard to get the suitcases up but a kind tradie near by carried them up.

Location

Noise. Owners need to double-glaze.

Close to town centre & recently renovated.

Our apartment needed blinds in the living area. Building still being fitted out so it was a bit noisy in the morning but they have nearly finished.

The kitchen, layout and location.

The apartment has no parking. The stairs are very steep and there is only one bathroom. There also is no soundproofing - you can hear the people in the other apartments, cars passing and people walking past the apartment on the street and dogs barking, Maybe curtains could help - with the noise.

Being a heritage building, I completely understand why the original sills had to be kept, but the windows/ noise level did not match the rest of the buildings high spec design. (Frequent waking from vehicles and pedestrians overnight). The apartment had good circulation and aircon, so those windows don’t really need to open. A secondary noise proof double glazing on the interior would be in keeping with the heritage exterior and allow so much better sleeping.

Location was good. Nicely furnished. And clean other than the sink plug still had some food in it.

Kitchen sink plug still had food in it. Spaces were very big. I feel if they were smaller it would be a bit more cosy. Bathroom too big. Needed more bathrooms for the amount of rooms.

Beautiful home

The location was unbeatable, lots of cafes and bars close by, as well as Saturday markets on Taupo Quay, and Woolworths. The decor and fit out of the apartment is lovely, and it is so spacious. The staff were really attentive and communication was prompt.

The beds were incredibly hard, I woke up every morning with a sore back and hips. There is no dedicated parking space for the apartment, so trying to find a park any time of the day was difficult. We knew this before we got there, it was communicated clearly by staff, that’s not the issue: it just detracted from our stay on a practical level, especially spending this much on the room. Only having one bathroom is problematic, given it is a 3 bedroom apartment. Luckily we were a family of 4, but if you were travelling with colleagues or friends, then having only one toilet and shower will definitely be an issue, not just about privacy but with time management. At this price point, two bathrooms are a minimum standard.

location was great. Cafe nearby.

no issues

The location was excellent . The space in the property was superb

We could not operate the stove top in the penthouse . More seating in the family room area would of been great

The main entrance door opened to the outside was a little awkward when juggling luggage .wish there was a lift to get to the penthouse especially when travelling with a 16mth old and a gate to close off access to the stairs for young children. Also wished one of the bedroom had a king size bed.

Location was perfect. Apartment had everything we needed.

It was a little noisy on a night but the provided ear plugs helped.

The location is in the heart of Wanganui. It's on the river, close to excellent restaurants and within walking distance of so many interesting experiences like the Sarjeant Gallery, the paddle steamer and Saturday market.

The steps up to the apartment were very steep and the treads quite narrow. Anyone with mobility issues couldn't manage the access. This wasn't a problem for me but with a very heavy bag in tow, an interesting exercise

Modern, location, style and comfort

Windows are not double glazed for the bedrooms which means you can hear the traffic big time as well as the Main Street clock. The bed was too hard. The blinds don’t shut out the light. There is no opening to the apartments ie the window s and would be nice to enjoy the river side of the apartment by stepping out of some sort of balcony. Would love a bath, the washer/ dryer hard to operate and doesn’t dry clothes properly. There was no washing powder with having to buy a box. Not sure if this is a complimentary thing or not. I love this place, just a-few things that bothered me this stay to really feel value for money. And you are paying top dollar.

It is a beautiful apartment. Spacious and awesome location.

THE STAIRS....killers!

The location, the space and layout of the apartment and the New York/Whanganui vibe!

Just a couple of small glitches with the door. And we thought, for the money it would have been nice to have a small range of herbal teas.

Location and the apartment was comfortable

Shower poor drainage, overflowing, contacted number but no response

Loved the close proximity to the city. Loved the luxe feel and attention to detail.

Location was great

The huge double flight of stairs were scary. One needed to be very careful coming down. The only issue we had was there could have been additional lighting over the bathroom/ makeup mirror.

Very handy to downtown. Funky/spacious design/fitout

Can you please send through a GST invoice for the stay please

Very spacious, nice decor, fantastic location and good parking. Good communication from apartment manager. Overall a fantastic place to stay- far nicer than the other options available.

The front bedroom was noisy on Friday night due to the bar across the road, but ear plugs were supplied. Would have been nice to have the toilet in a separate room from the shower.

We stayed in the City View apartment. Both are up two flights of stairs, with entry through an external keypad door at the side of this historic building. Entry instructions were clear, provided only that you read them in full, including for internal items (e.g. spotlight switches). You need to be ok with the stairs, but for me (a fit 80 year old), they were not a problem. The location is excellent - the historical precinct of the city, with numerous restaurants nearby. Also a large supermarket open to 9pm. (Full kitchen, dining table for 5). Within a short walk of information centre, tram museum, riverboat museum and the two operating riverboats, the remarkable Quartz ceramics museum, and the stunning Sarjeant Gallery and the separate museum. The apartment has every facility. There is some street noise on Friday night outside but not a problem. Comfortable beds and well heated throughout.

The location was excellent The apartment was spacious and well equipped and clean Heating was excellent Plenty of milk supplied Great response to my request to have the kitchen tap fixed Excellent service from your booking person

1. The stairs - I wasnt aware that there was such a large number of steep stairs to reach the apartment - at 72 this would have been a consideration for me dragging a bag up there. 2. Despite reasonably good directions the apartment entry was hard to find - more visible signage needed 3 No light above the bedroom mirror 4. No blinds in the main room - one looks a straight across the street to other people eating their dinner - the street lights are also very bright and shine right through to the back bedroom 5. No milk frother for the coffee machine 6. Beds not particularly well made - need to ask for better standard from your cleaners

Very stylish and excellent location. Everything I needed and very clean. Comfortable bed.

The spotlights in the bedrooms that could be dimmed but not turned off- I didn’t sleep well because of them.

The location was great, easy access and extremely easy to get in with codes etc. Rooms were beautiful and lovely look out etc.

We did have a small prob with the spotlights in the bedrooms we could not seem to turn them off so it was hard to sleep with lights on. Otherwise no other issues.

The views and space

The heat pump doesn’t heat the place efficiently

The apartment is stunning - an old building has been beautifully refurbished with some of the older features. Location, hosts, cleanliness - can’t be beaten. We will absolutely be staying again.

Beautiful spacious refurbished apartment in a great location. Really good cafe downstairs too. I left something behind by accident and they were in touch immediately to let me know and arrange return. Thanks so much!

The rear bedroom is definitely quieter

Stunning Property! Refurbish done extremely well. Spacious with an office that was handy for our online meetings we had to take during this bereavement trip.

Parking was a little difficult - had to often park in minutes parking spaces on town side of building because parks behind were all taken especially at night. Then keep moving cars during day. Three - four business vehicles alone occupied most of parks who may have all been in one apartment or just randomly there nearby same time as us.

Absolutely fabulous, clean and well equipped apartment with everything we needed for a comfortable stay.

Nothing. It was perfect.

Stunning

Noisy traffic …. Boy racers irritating Not enough sofa type seats to settle for evening .

Spacious and comfortable and easy access to the CBD Teas was amazing with her information and kept us informed at all times as to access and parking Excellent Service 😀

This place is stunning! The location is perfect, and was central to everything in Whanganui. The architectural build was amazing, and it definitely brought a New York feel to our stay.

The property was great there wasnt anything I didnt like about it, but it could’ve had a few things like a broom or vacuum, a potato masher, and maybe bigger pots. It would’ve been awesome if it was disability-friendly too, especially for our elderly family member. My 60-year-old mother had a hard time getting up the stairs. Overall was great.

location was good

we found the stairs hard but we are in our 70is. we had trouble getting in as who we booked with didn't give us a code

Wry nice location and a very friendly supporting host. Was wrong with travel dates and the host manage to make changes with booking.com, who is a Hassel on short notice. Thanks again

Good location easy walk to cafes and restaurants.

Not great for getting luggage to room. Wouldn’t suit anyone elderly.

No hooks in bathroom. No shelf on shower. No mirrors in bedrooms. One bathroom containing the one toilet, will not be acceptable for more than a couple as guests. A couple of side tables in the lounge would be helpful. Main brm bedside lamps useless. The two flights of internal access stairs are high risk. Front door should open inwards and have a canopy for weather protection.

Location and Tess was very helpful

This is an apartment for friends who know each other well as it is not soundproof and ideally there should be a second loo not in the bathroon

The loft apartment in a turn of the century brick warehouse has won awards for their sympathetic renovation, and its an airy light space by the river and in a district with quirky cafes and galleries. Perfect location for exploring this vibrant wee city.

Not a dislike, but be aware there is not a lift and two steep flights of stairs. Worth the climb, but not for somebody with limited mobility/ability to carry luggage.

A pleasant 3 Bedroom apartment in a nice town. Whanganui was in a convenient location between Taupo & Wellington for our travels. The host was easy to get in contact & was very friendly to interact with when I had questions.

We had a hassle with the hot water in the shower. The host explained that the hot water was on the cold water side. The shower leaks a bit and the shower drain cannot handle the water flow. The apartment was very pleasant besides the shower.

We did not have b/f location was good

Had no rack for drying the washing - The stairs were difficult with luggage Parking was not the easiest

The property was in an amazing location, great spaces and had everything we needed.

Nothing!

It's a huge, stunning apartment, exactly as photographed. The location is perfect for walking to most of the places we wanted to visit. I would stay here again.

There are two flights of stairs to reach the unit with no elevator option, there is so much street noise that they left earplugs in the room (these solved it for sleeping), and there was a note from the host telling us to contact them if we needed anything, but they didn't give us any way to do so.

The apartment was very spacious, with good furnishing and in a fantastic location

I think more towels could have been supplied. One towel per guest for 3 days is not enough And there was not a bottle opener !!

We had a 3 night stay at the Waterfront apartment. The building is lovely, the location is brilliant, the views great and Tess, the host (not the owner), was very helpful and kind. However, we think a bit of constructive feedback is appropriate... At the price we paid (NZ$ 1645) for three nights for this three bedroom apartment, one would expect at least an extra toilet... Or even en suites... There was only one bathroom. The beds in two of the 3 rooms are sadly way too narrow. Double beds in this type of accommodation is not good enough. Also, in our opinion (sorry, we are architects and creative people), we think the planning and interior design don't take any advantage of the real potential of this beautiful space. Like, there is far too much floor space that could have been utilised more elegantly & efficiently. And who will use the little dark, uninviting, corner space as an office? The furniture is another issue... there should be at least a decent chair in each bedroom, and the living area needs another comfortable armchair or two. A few minor, but important, details: The quality of the toilet paper should be better. There should be a proper size ice tray, or 2, in the freezer. The kitchen knives need sharpening! It would be nice to have a coffee plunger. This is advertised as "award winning and luxurious accommodation", alas it is sad to have to make the above comments as well as noting that all of the joinery and cabinetry "appears" to be "Mitre10 quality". This lovely old building deserves better, especially after all the work that has gone in to preserving it. The interior should be top notch quality as well. FYI: The shower door leaks and water washes over the floor. Obviously not healthy for the building. The door seal of the front door kept falling off.

Incredible location, so much space and very comfortable

Lovely apartment in a great location. Fabulous wine bar beneath the building, fantastic restaurants and great coffee a few steps out the door. The welcome chocolate was very welcome.

It was Friday night so there was a bit of noise in the front street facing bedroom. There were earplugs provided but we didn’t use/need them.

Fab location and a groovy look. Just about there in facilities. Loads of space. Tasteful decor. Nice design.spacious rooms. Helpful in apartment communication.

One bathroom and one ac unit makes it difficult with multiple people. Some signage externally would help in locating the entrance. We didn't receive the check-in communication, so it made the whole arrival challenging. Adding one or two small things would make it an international standard (eg. Feather or natural pillows, a rubbish bin in the bathroom. Shower dome isn't cool.

Gorgeous apartment, up two flights of steps, right in the heart of Wanganui. The place was bathed in beautiful light. Good sized kitchen with almost everything you might need. The location was spot on - walking distance to the supermarket, the main road was right out the front, and the river was right out the back. The Saturday markets were just around the corner, and there was plenty of free parking.

Friday night was busy and rowdy out on the road - it was clearly the place to be. Everything was settled and peaceful on Saturday and Sunday.

Location was great close to shops and restaurants and the river. Modern and comfortable fitout with fully functioning kitchen and lots of space! Like the NY style loft vibe. Great communication from the host.

Parking can be a little challenging. Only one toilet and shower - all in one room.

I loved the open space. The window light. The comfy bedrooms.. kitchen The location. The town was one of my favorites and I’ve been traveling for 5 weeks. One my best stays so that should say a lot! I’ll be back👍

The shower could have been better for the size of bathroom

No breakfast...

The beds were hard, there was only one bathroom for 3 bedrooms, it opened to the living area, it was poorly planned

The location is magic. Beautiful property.

Unfortunately the mattress in the bedroom next to the lounge was hard and uncomfortable.

Beautiful place, great location, fantastic facilities

Loved how spacious and beautiful this property was.

Held up getting in. Late notification of door codes. Got answer phone twice before getting a reply

This place was simply amazing in the heart of Whanganui city and river views absolute luxury for a very reasonable price perfect for a holiday where you are keen to stay in to entertain.

Nothing

exceptionally well set up apartment, we had the penthouse and it was spacious, modern, very clean. Beautiful bathrooms and kitchens, deck would be incredible on a summers day. I have not found any place to stay in Wanganui to this standard

There is only stair access to the top floor, we knew this in advance so only took a very light weekend bag,the last set of stairs in the apartment turn and are narrow and steep. Would be a challenge after a couple of drinks or for young child/elderly frail person. the main entry door key pad was difficult to activate, this could just be a battery issue though.

Difficulty if finding the door , and access

Fantastic location, spacious and clean

Needed earplugs for front bedroom with traffic noise. Not good for elderly folk as two flights of steps up.

Host was very friendly on arrival however I arrived too early ops Stellar is across the road for meals or a night out Markets downstairs on a Saturday morning Very clean and comfortable beds! Free parking even better and chocolate was complimentary on arrival yum! Overall no downfall would not recommend to anyone with a disability however because of the stairs

Brilliant location, walking distance to all we required. Great view, spacious, lovely decore,trendy. Great for 3 couples. Huge bathroom and laundry. Card and welcome was a nice touch. Very well thought out kitchen and information guide Loved my bedroom view over the bridge. Even though it was cold I didnt want to close the curtains.

We felt there could have been another sofa and chair, double what was there. If 3 couples stayed then there wouldn't have been enough seating in the lounge. There was room for another toilet/bathroom but was not put in in the refurbishment. Not to give a bad review but an observation.

It was very unique. With a Great location We all had a Fabulous time

Not enough lighting in the bathroom ( 4 ladies who do makeup) .

Such a Beautiful apartment With everything you could Want , for a wonderful stay. Right by the River

The location simply cannot be beaten. At the centre of everything. E.g., a 2-minute walk to the Durie Hill Tunnel, a 1-minute walk to the info centre, a 1-minute walk to the Saturday markets, Tram barn, etc. The manager was very accommodating. The Cityview apartment is extremely spacious (it even has a separate study), so it's easy to relax in. Modern, clean.

I'm going to be very picky but it may help the owner make the apartment even better. The bathroom mirror is set too far from the front of the vanity unit, but my wife was able to apply makeup using the bedroom mirror. Also, the sofa should face the TV, but we didn't want to start shifting furniture around. There was only one cloth in the kitchen, so you have the choice of a dish cloth or tea towel, not both.