Akaroa Criterion Motel

4.5 star property
Eco-certified motel in Akaroa with free parking

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Akaroa Criterion Motel

Studio Top Floor | View from room
Studio Mid Floor Sea View | View from room
Studio Top Floor | View from room
Studio, Sea View, Ground Floor | View from room
Studio Top Floor | Front of property

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Housekeeping
  • Room service
  • Breakfast available
  • Laundry
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
75 Rue Jolie, Akaroa, 7520
  • Akaroa Museum
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Akaroa Wharf
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Akaroa Lighthouse
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Christchurch (CHC-Christchurch Intl.)
    ‪66 min drive‬

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Room options

Studio Mid Floor

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Studio Top Floor

  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Studio

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Studio Mid Floor Sea View

  • Partial ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Studio, Sea View, Ground Floor

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Akaroa

Akaroa Criterion Motel places you next to Akaroa Museum and within a 5-minute walk of Artisans Gallery. Each of the 12 rooms at this 4.5-star motel includes a balcony, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

What's nearby

  • Pohatu Penguin Habitat - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Akaroa Museum - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Linton The Giant House - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Akaroa Wharf - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Akaroa Lighthouse - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles

Getting around

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) - 66 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Akaroa Fish & Chips - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪L'Escargot Rouge - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪The Trading Rooms - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Ma Maison - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪The Common - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Akaroa Criterion Motel

Eco-certified motel in Akaroa with free parking
At Akaroa Criterion Motel, guests have access to free WiFi in public areas, a library, and a terrace. Free parking is included with your stay. Front-desk staff can assist with tours/tickets and luggage storage. Additional amenities include laundry facilities and barbecue grills.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 45-inch flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include balconies, refrigerators, and microwaves.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Awards and affiliations

Eco-Certified Property
This property participates in Qualmark Sustainable Tourism Business Award, a program that measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural-heritage, the local economy.

Languages

English

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Daily continental breakfast available 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: NZD 16 for adults and NZD 16 for children

Things to do

  • Library

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • 1 building
  • 3 floors
  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 45-inch flat-screen TV with digital channels

Food and drink

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Limited room service
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2.5 percent for credit card payments
The front desk is open daily from 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), key retrieval

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for continental breakfast: approximately NZD 16 for adults and NZD 16 for children
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 2.5 percent

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

National rating

For the benefit of our customers, we have provided a rating based on our rating system.

Property is also known as

Akaroa Criterion
Akaroa Criterion Motel
Akaroa Motel
Criterion Akaroa
Criterion Motel
Criterion Motel Akaroa
Motel Akaroa
Akaroa Criterion Hotel Christchurch
Akaroa Criterion Motel Motel
Akaroa Criterion Motel Akaroa
Akaroa Criterion Motel Motel Akaroa

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Akaroa Criterion Motel?

Akaroa Criterion Motel offers free cancellation on select room rates. For additional details, review the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Akaroa Criterion Motel?

As of May 2, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Akaroa Criterion Motel on May 12, 2025 start from $95.5, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What can I see around Akaroa Criterion Motel?

This motel is located in Akaroa, just steps from Akaroa Museum and Artisans Gallery, and within a short walk of Akaroa Wharf. You'll also find Akaroa Lighthouse and St Patrick's Catholic Church less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at Akaroa Criterion Motel?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel.

Does Akaroa Criterion Motel feature a casino?

No, Akaroa Criterion Motel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Akaroa Criterion Motel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this motel.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Akaroa Criterion Motel?

Couples staying at this motel will appreciate amenities like a terrace and a library plus some guestrooms include sea views.

Does Akaroa Criterion Motel have a hot tub?

No, this motel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Akaroa Criterion Motel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Akaroa Criterion Motel offers continental breakfast each morning for a surcharge though there is no restaurant.

Will Akaroa Criterion Motel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Akaroa Criterion Motel.

Does Akaroa Criterion Motel have connecting rooms?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Are there rooms with balconies at Akaroa Criterion Motel?

Yes, every guestroom at Akaroa Criterion Motel comes with a balcony with some featuring sea views.

Akaroa Criterion Motel Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 430 out of 566 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 125 out of 566 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 10 out of 566 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 566 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 566 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Michael

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dereck

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great central spot, very spacious. Third floor has great view over the harbour
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Dale

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly would stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Jose

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was just within reach and central town
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Karla

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sae

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Akira

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Lovely, helpful, friendly staff. Beautiful view. Lovely large room. Great bed. Close to restaurants, cafes and supermarket. overall excellent stay
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

J

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Really nice Motel.Large room comfortable and clean.Friendly and helpful staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jim

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Lovely view from our balcony (top floor). East parking. Comfortable room. No kitchen but we knew that and it wasn't a problem for us. Very happy stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Lovely motel - great location, views of the waterfront with restaurants and shops on the doorstep. Very well maintained and clean property as well.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I always love staying at Criterian Motel, Akaroa. Always a great welcome. Staff are friendly and accommdating. Beds are so comfortable. Amenities are clean. Akaroa is a wonderful place to spend a few days relaxing or enjoying the many activities on offer. Highly recommend.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This accommodation was beautiful with lovely views and very quiet. Very spacious and relaxing. Everything you could need.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Rachel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Good

Good large room central location
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chantal

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Stunning View

Wow! The hotel exceeded my expectations. Excellent location, gorgeous harbour view, very clean. Our room was spacious, well furnished and quality toiletries provided. I was glad to have booked the 3rd floor sea view, the double doors opened up to a fabulous balcony overlooking the Lyttelton harbour. Absolutely stunning.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a top floor room and hence a great view of the water. Note there are no lifts so need to be able to carry your luggage up the stairs. Parking was very easy and central location to everything in the town. Room was large, well equipped and very clean. A very comfortable bed!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

sandra

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was walkable distance to the shopping area & Restaurants etc. Fantastic views. Good off road parking. Very clean &, compfy bed.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Overnight stay

Short overnight stay. Lovely area. Great choice of restaurants nearby.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rod

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The criterion motel is perfectly located adjacent to restaurants supermarket and the bay The rooms are large comfortable with large bathrooms. Best friends are on the top floor with the Seaview cross the bay into the mountains There is no lift but Felicity the only organise to have your bags taken up and down for you. In fact the staff part of the attraction of this hotel always willing and anxious to be assistance.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

Charmaine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quiet and comfortable
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alex

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quiet setting with cafés and grocery shop close by. Easy walk to the main area of Akaroa. Nice view of the sea from our room. Large, comfortable room with everything we needed for our stay. Will stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024