We are finalizing our plans for our trip to the South Island in November. We will be staying in Te Anau for 2 nights prior to embarking on the Milford Track, and one night afterwards. We will then head to Queenstown for 3 nights.

In Te Anau, we are considering either Radfords Lakeview Motel or Blue Ridge Bed & Breakfast. Radfords has the advantage of location--across from the lake, near the DoC office and walking distance to downtown. Blue Ridge is about 5 minutes from downtown and is $40 more (USD) a night. It looks a little cozier, though.

In Queenstown, we're considering Coronation Lodge or Birchall House Bed and Breakfast. Coronation looks to be more centrally located and is slightly less expensive. Birchall looks to have lovely views, although there are no pictures of the rooms. The idea of staying at a bed and breakfast with hosts appeals to us.

We're considering splurging on one night at Shotover Lodge (our first night in Queenstown) after roughing it for 4 nights on the Milford Track. It would be $226 USD. Has anyone stayed here, and if so, is it worth it?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Radford's Motel is a good choice. 4 star plus grading (5 is top). and absolute lakefront.
There are only three lakefront properties in Te Anau. Radfords lakefront Motel, Campbell AutoLodge, and Lakeside Motel.
Whether you choose motel or B&B is a personal preference. If you want to interact with the host you should choose Home-Stay. Not all B&B's do this, though many do. Some are more like a motel with breakfast thrown in (not literally

A good homestay in Te Anau is Kepler Cottage, should find it on Google.

In Queenstown, try "Outrigger at the Beacon". Fabulous property, absolute lakefront, and just a short walk to town centre. part of the Outrigger group.

If you haven't already booked you had better get your act together. November is very busy in the southern lakes, and if you wait much longer you will be scrabbling for the scraps no one else wants.

Happy Hunting.

About Shotover Lodge, you might want to check with

<b>http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g255122-d318391-r3842777-Shotover_Lodge-Queenstown_South_Island.html</b>

and: <b>http://www.frommers.com/destinations/queenstown/H49122.html</b>

Do you really want to move after one night?

Your post brought back so many happy memories! I was in New Zealand this time last year and after touring the island, Queenstown was my favorite city.

We stayed at the Novotel Gardens which is right on the bay, in fact, our room opened to a patio that provided an excellent view of the water. The price is a little high over $150 USD/night, but it was so worth it. It's close to downtown and we could walk everywhere.

Here's the website - http://www.accorhotels.co.nz/hotdeals/detail.asp?id=863

Enjoy yourself! New Zealand is a gorgeous country!

Greetings Jonesey

We stayed just out of town 2 years ago at the Herritage House. It was very comfortable, had an excellent staff. The atmosphere was a combination of country with an Embassy Suites feel. We sent them an email enquiry about 8 months in advance of our stay and were quoted a discounted rate.

They have bus service into town, but we choose to walk as the leaves were turning and it was quite magical.

When we get the opportunity to return, we will stay there again.

Cheers

I stayed at the Lakfront Lodge, Te Anau last September - is a truly charming property with beautiful rooms - wile it doesnt directly face the lake, Te Anau is a very small town so everything is a stone's throw away. I think Rydges had the best location in Queenstown amongst the luxury hotels.