And bad? The interior design is a questionable combination of pea soup green and floral. And don't expect to be able to lounge around in a robe, because there aren't any.
What's in the neighbourhood? New Plymouth is pretty small, so plenty, really. The beach, the main drag - Devon St, and Pukekura Park are all within walking distance.
Toiletries: Novotel brand.
Food and drink: I had a room service breakfast of muesli, toast and filter coffee. They forgot to add spreads for the toast and there was a screwed up piece of cling wrap on the tray, but it was 6.30am, and everything actually tasted fine. If you dine in the restaurant you can sit under the ombu tree, but I had dinner fresh from my mate Steve Anker's garden in Inglewood.
The bed: Delightful, large and comfortable, with many pillows. And if you are a fusspot, they'll even bring you more pillows! I chose goose down.
Bathroom: Fancy - with a heated square on the full-wall mirror so it didn't fog up. No bath.
Free wi-fi? Yes.
Noise: Quiet for me. I think someone may have banged on the wall when I was watching Jerry Maguire on TV though.
Room service: On time. Though I'm sure I asked for a Herald, which wasn't delivered.
Value for money: A good, reliable, reasonably priced Accor hotel.
Exercise facilities: There was a gym and a sauna, which I did not investigate, because that's not how I roll.
Contact: novotel.com
Perfect for: If you can afford it, it's a great place to stay in New Plymouth for a business trip - especially if you have a car, as parking is free.
