Econo Lodge Canterbury Court

The primary appeal of this accommodation lies in its exceptional location, particularly for those attending events at the nearby Wolfbrook Arena, which is often just a short walk away. This makes it an ideal choice for event-goers and short-stay guests who prioritize convenience over luxury. While the property is consistently described as being in a dated condition and many guests reported significant issues with cleanliness, some found the beds comfortable and appreciated the staff helpfulness. It caters well to budget travelers seeking an affordable place to sleep and shower. To ensure a more satisfactory experience, guests are advised to manage their expectations regarding the property's overall condition and consider bringing their own essential supplies, as some amenities may be lacking or not as advertised.

Facilities & Amenities
Feedback on the facilities indicates a significant need for maintenance and upgrades. Many guests reported issues with non-functioning or broken items, including televisions, heaters, and jugs or kettles, with some even noting safety concerns like sparking appliances or taped cords. Basic amenities such as lightbulbs were frequently missing, and curtains or blinds were often found to be broken. The sofas and other furniture were commonly described as worn, lumpy, or even broken, making them unusable. Guests also frequently experienced very low water pressure in the showers, and some even reported a complete lack of hot water. While some units offered free Wi-Fi, its signal was often unreliable. The absence of essential kitchen items like toasters, microwaves (in some units), and sufficient crockery or cutlery was also a common complaint.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The most prevalent concern among guests was the overall cleanliness and room comfort. Many reviews highlighted significant issues, describing rooms as "dirty," "unclean," or having a pervasive "musky smell" or "funky smell." Specific complaints included sticky floors, cobwebs with spiders, black mould in bathrooms and on windows, and stained carpets or bedding. Some guests even found leftover food in appliances or human hair in showers. The bathrooms were frequently noted for their grimy appearance, rust, and moisture issues. While some guests found the beds comfortable and appreciated clean linen, others reported uncomfortable beds with visible stains. Noise levels were occasionally mentioned as a disturbance, and the general state of disrepair, including holes in walls and broken windows, further detracted from the sense of comfort and security.

Dining & Food Quality
Regarding dining options, guests consistently noted a significant lack of provisions. Many reviews explicitly stated that breakfast was not provided, despite some expectations or previous advertisements. A recurring complaint was the absence of basic amenities like milk for hot beverages, and often, there were no coffee or tea supplies available in the rooms. Some guests mentioned having to purchase these items themselves from nearby shops. There were no mentions of on-site restaurants or room service, indicating that the property does not offer these food services. The general consensus was that guests should plan to source all their food and beverage needs externally, as the accommodation provides minimal to no in-room dining or breakfast services.

Location & Accessibility
The location of the property is consistently highlighted as its strongest positive attribute. Guests frequently praised its proximity to Wolfbrook Arena and other nearby stadiums, making it exceptionally convenient for attending concerts and sporting events, often within easy walking distance. Its central location also provides good access to other areas, including Westfield Riccarton and various shops and cafes. The property offers easy access off the road and provides plenty of driving and parking space, with some units even featuring their own carports, which was appreciated by those traveling with vehicles. While the immediate surroundings were sometimes described as unkempt due to overgrown gardens and rubbish, the strategic position for local attractions remained a significant draw for most visitors.

Staff & Service
Feedback on staff and service was mixed, though many guests reported positive interactions. The reception staff, particularly an older lady and cleaners, were frequently described as friendly and helpful, willing to accommodate needs and provide assistance when available. Some guests appreciated the quick response and easy communication when issues were raised, such as being moved to a different unit or having missing items rectified. However, a significant number of reviews noted that the office was often unmanned, leading to difficulties with check-in or obtaining assistance, sometimes requiring phone calls to an off-site manager. There were also instances of perceived poor service, including a lack of willingness to address minor issues like missing milk, and some found the early morning room service attempts disruptive.

Additional Information
Several guests noted that the property appears to be used for emergency accommodation or social housing, which some felt contributed to a less desirable atmosphere and occasional noise disturbances from other residents. The overall maintenance of the grounds was a frequent point of criticism, with descriptions of overgrown grass, weeds, and visible rubbish piles, contrasting sharply with any advertised "best garden" awards. Many reviews also highlighted discrepancies between the advertised features and the reality, specifically mentioning that Sky TV was not available despite being advertised, and that photos on the website were misleading regarding room condition. Concerns about security were also raised due to broken door latches and easily accessible sliding doors. Guests should be aware that the property is generally considered run-down and in significant need of upgrading.