No. 9 Hotel

The hotel is widely recognized for its excellent location in Newmarket, making it a convenient base for exploring the area's shopping and dining options. It offers good value for money for those seeking a basic yet functional stay. Guests frequently highlight the comfortable beds and the convenience of in-room kitchenette amenities. This makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers, shoppers, and those attending events or needing a practical spot for short stays. To ensure a smoother experience, guests should be prepared for potential noise from the surrounding area and are advised to inquire about parking availability in advance.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the practical in-room amenities provided, which typically include a fridge, kettle, toaster, and microwave, allowing for basic food preparation. Many rooms also feature a TV with streaming services, though some guests reported occasional issues with its functionality. Free Wi-Fi is available and generally described as having good speed and stability. While some rooms are equipped with air conditioning, others rely on fans, and there are mixed reports regarding their effectiveness and the presence of unusual odors. A shared kitchen is available for guest use, but feedback indicates concerns about its cleanliness and the availability of utensils or working appliances, with some guests noting the presence of pests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness is mixed; while many guests find their rooms clean, others report issues such as dust, mold on windows or in bathrooms, unvacuumed floors, and various unpleasant odors. Rooms are frequently described as compact or small, though some guests find them adequately sized for their needs. The beds consistently receive high praise for being exceptionally comfortable with soft sheets, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. Noise is a significant concern, with frequent mentions of loud street noise and sounds from other guests due to thin walls and windows that may not fully block external sounds. Bathroom issues are also common, including leaking showers, poor drainage leading to water accumulation on the floor, and occasional unpleasant smells. The overall room condition is often described as old or tired, with some reporting minor damage or worn furnishings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in Newmarket, placing guests within easy walking distance of the Westfield shopping mall, numerous other shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is also conveniently located for those wishing to visit local attractions like Mt. Eden and Mt St John, which are within walking distance. The hotel offers good access to public transport, with nearby bus stops and a train station, facilitating travel to the city center and other areas. Access to the motorway is also straightforward. However, parking is a significant point of contention for many guests. There is often limited on-site parking available, which is paid, leading to difficulties in securing a spot. Guests frequently report needing to resort to street parking further away, and some describe the on-site parking area as tight or narrow.

Staff & Service
Guest feedback on staff helpfulness is varied. Many reviews commend the friendly and accommodating staff for their efficiency and willingness to assist with requests. Conversely, a notable number of guests describe staff as unfriendly, unresponsive, or unprofessional, particularly concerning after-hours issues or specific requests like providing towels. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient when staff are present. However, some guests report significant difficulties with after-hours access, including being locked out or experiencing extended waits for assistance. While some guests appreciate daily room service and fresh towels, others note inconsistencies in housekeeping, such as rooms not being vacuumed or tidied during their stay. Some guests feel their concerns are not adequately addressed, particularly regarding room issues or service requests outside standard operating hours.

Additional Information
A recurring theme in guest reviews is the hotel's value for money, often described as offering a basic but functional stay at an affordable rate. Many guests note the hotel's older appearance and suggest it could benefit from renovations or a refresh to update its overall look. Some reviews mention unpleasant odors in the hallways, which can occasionally detract from the overall guest experience. A minor inconvenience noted by a few guests is that only one room key is provided, which can be impractical for multiple occupants. Additionally, some guests have reported issues with TV interference or remote control problems, suggesting potential cross-room signal disruptions.