Donegal House Hotel Kaikoura Exterior photoDonegal House Hotel Kaikoura Exterior photoDonegal House Hotel Kaikoura Exterior photo
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From68US$ /night
Check-in
02Jun2026Select date
Check-out
03Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

258 Schoolhouse Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
-
Near Kaikoura Beach
Great
8.5
/10
4.5
4.4
/5

Accommodation

Donegal House offers 27 guest rooms, each with a private ensuite bathroom. Room types vary from small studio rooms to family rooms accommodating two adults and one child. Guests can choose from views facing the stunning mountains and gardens or other configurations that suit their needs.

Dining

The on-site restaurant at Donegal House serves traditional Irish pub fare along with modern dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy dining inside or on the sunny deck area, popular for lunch and summer evenings. A homely Irish bar provides a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits, including Donegal Stout on tap.

Unique Venue

Donegal House features an Irish Stone Cottage, offering a distinctive venue for private events, weddings, and conferences. This fully self-contained space can accommodate up to 120 guests and includes facilities for catering, audio-visual equipment, and a private bar. The tranquil gardens surrounding the cottage provide a beautiful backdrop for any occasion.

Location

Located just minutes from Kaikoura's town center, Donegal House is close to popular attractions like Whale Watch and marine encounters. The hotel is situated amidst 6 acres of gardens, offering a peaceful retreat. Visitors can easily explore local hiking, diving, and whale-watching opportunities from this convenient base.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Donegal House provides family-friendly accommodations, including spacious rooms suitable for children. A well-equipped children's play area adds to the fun for younger guests. Families can enjoy hearty meals together in the dining area, fostering a warm atmosphere.

Highlights

Location: 6 acres of gardens

Accommodation: 27 guest rooms

Dining: traditional Irish pub fare

Unique Venue: Irish Stone Cottage

Family-Friendly: children's play area

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for stunning coastal views.
  • Try the fresh crayfish at Kaikoura Seafood BBQ for a treat.
  • Go whale watching with Whale Watch Kaikoura for a thrill.
  • Explore the Kaikoura Museum to learn about local history.
  • Visit the local farmers' market on Saturday for fresh produce.
View all

Select your room type

Donegal House Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
South Facing Queen Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Garden Facing Queen Room
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Garden view
Shower
Heating
Small Double Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Studio
2 persons
270 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Donegal House Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Free shuttle service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu
  • Children's play area

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Donegal House Kaikōura invites guests to indulge in a delightful dining experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of Mt Fyffe and surrounded by tranquil gardens, the restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere where traditional Irish hospitality meets local charm.

Restaurant #1

Traditional Irish fare
Ambiance
A cozy and family-friendly environment perfect for gathering over hearty meals.
Key Offerings
Highlights include classic Irish dishes served with a local twist, complemented by a selection of refreshing beverages from the bar.
Reservation
Reservations are recommended to ensure a table.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Donegal House Hotel Location

258 Schoolhouse Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
Map view
258 Schoolhouse Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
Restaurants
Donegal House
700 ft
1 Schoolhouse Road
Explore Kaikoura
Local Experiences Near Donegal House
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Kaikoura Beach
35 minutes' walk
Pristine coastline featuring sandy shores and scenic walking trails, perfect for relaxation or beach activities.
Kaikoura Llama Trekking
Kaikoura Llama Trekking
30 minutes' walk
Unique trekking experience with llamas through beautiful landscapes, offering guided tours and stunning views.
Whale Watch Kaikoura
Whale Watch Kaikoura
40 minutes' walk
World-renowned whale watching tours offering sightings of majestic whales in their natural habitat.
Whale Watching
40 minutes' walk
Adventurous boat tours to see migrating whales, thrilling for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Ohau Stream Walk
Ohau Stream Walk
45 minutes' walk
Tranquil walking track alongside a stream showcasing local wildlife and beautiful natural scenery.
Donegal House
Donegal House
3 minutes' walk
Cozy ambiance with hearty meals featuring local ingredients. Vegetarian options available. Reservations advisable.
Kaikoura Seafood BBQ
10 minutes' drive
Casual dining experience offering delicious seafood dishes with ocean views. Famous for its fresh catch of the day.
Kaikoura District Museum
45 minutes' walk
Showcasing local history and culture with engaging exhibits. Family-friendly with regular community events.
The Whaler
10 minutes' drive
Lively pub known for local brews and live music nights, providing a fun atmosphere for social gatherings.
Getting around
City Centre
Kaikoura7 min  ·  2.7 mi
Airports
Kaikoura (KBZ)20 min  ·  8.0 mi
Woodbourne (BHE)202 min  ·  83.5 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
28

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Donegal House Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 758 verified reviews
8.7/10
Great
90%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.7/10
Location
8.8/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.8/10
Guest reviews
based on 758 reviews
8.7/10
based on 1077 reviews
8.5/10
pierre from france
Family with children
garden facing queen room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 05, 2026
8.8/10

a calm stay

attentive staffbeautiful gardenchildren play area
i found the staff to be very attentive. the gardens were beautiful, with a good-sized lake. there was also a children's play area available, should that be needed by guests.
the room was a bit smaller than i expected.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel includes well kept gardens with a lake. i noticed a children's play area and a bistro on site. the setting was attractive.
Service
9/10
the staff provided a friendly reception. they showed me to my room promptly. the service was efficient .
Dining
8/10
the bistro offered meals at reasonable prices. i saw other guests enjoy food at the bistro. it seemed a good option for dinner.
Location
9/10
the hotel is in a quiet location. it is set back from main roads, so i experienced minimal noise. the landscape provides attractive views.
0 Helpful
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Christopher from United Kingdom
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 05, 2026
9.0/10

Idyllic Stay with Irish Charm

extensive selectiongenerous portionfriendly staffcozy pub
The gardens presented a good space for leisurely walks. The bar provided an extensive drink selection, and the food portions were generous at a fair price. I found the staff particularly friendly and efficient. The hotel seemed meticulously designed for a relaxed stay. The open fire and cozy pub created a warm atmosphere.
The wall-mounted heater made the room uncomfortably warm at night. ,it needed some adjustments.
Service
9/10
Staff members were attentive and helpful. The hotel staff assisted with our needs promptly. They were very keen to address any questions and provide assistance. This.
Location
9/10
The site was very carefully planned. The gardens were a genuine pleasure to explore, and the overall setting added to the peaceful atmosphere. This location contributed to a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
0 Helpful
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Riley from Australia
Family with children
South Facing Queen Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 19, 2026
9.0/10

Relaxing Stay with Great Food

friendly staffmanicured gardensmissing screen
The staff were very friendly. The restaurant on the grounds offers great food plus an outdoor seating area. The gardens are manicured. I enjoyed seating outside the room with total garden views.
The room windows lacked fly or insect screens since there was no air conditioning.
Location
9/10
The hotel features a location providing scenic views, contributing to the overall ambience. Its placement allows guests to easily enjoy the surrounding natural beauty .
Facilities
8/10
The hotel includes a restaurant with outdoor seating plus manicured gardens. These features provide spaces for dining and relaxation. Guests can have meals outdoors or spend time amidst the greenery.
Rooms
9/10
The south-facing queen room offers a specific type of accommodation. Seating areas are outside the rooms so guests get garden views. This arrangement creates a visual connection to the surrounding environment.
Dining
10/10
The on-site restaurant provides convenient meal options. The restaurant serves different meals. It offers an opportunity to dine without leaving the hotel.
0 Helpful
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Leo from Ireland
Couple
Garden Facing Queen Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 30, 2025
9.3/10

Amazing Stay and Food!

fabulous groundgreat viewreally good valueceiling cobweb
Grounds are fabulous. I had such great views! Food was fantastic and money value was really good. The gardens are beautiful with room overlooking it, it was like home.
I must close the windows cause bugs attacked me. Cleaning wasn't great with cobwebs on ceiling.
Dining
9/10
I enjoyed a meal in the dining room. Irish stew are delicious and is worth having. There is also a cozy bar that serve beer and meals.
Facilities
10/10
The hotel has beautiful gardens that guests can explore. The gardens are very well kept. Rooms have a deck that opens up to the garden which is a treat!
Location
9/10
The hotel location is great in the country. You are close to the ocean which allows you hear waves. The hotel is located a bit outside the town and is very quiet.
0 Helpful
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jimmy from ireland
Family with children
garden facing queen room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 20, 2025
8.7/10

charming stay near the mountains

fine gardenmountain viewfriendly servicethin walls
the garden was fine. it was well kept. the mountain view from the room was gorgeous. the restaurant was excellent. the food was delicious and the service was friendly, too. the staff even posted my daughter's teddy to our next location when we forgot it.
the walls were a bit thin. i could hear noise from the hallway in the morning. this disrupted my sleep
Location
9/10
the location is just outside the town center. it is easily accessible by car. the hotel's position among beautiful gardens adds to its charm.
Rooms
8/10
the garden facing queen room was comfortable and very clean. the bed was comfy. the room faced the beautiful garden. the room provides ample space for relaxation after a day of activities
Dining
9/10
the restaurant and pub offer a nice dining experience. the food was excellent. i tried a tasty stew. the bar had an irish feel, adding to the unique atmosphere of the place
0 Helpful
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Rowan from United Kingdom
Couple
garden facing queen room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 17, 2025
6/10

underwhelming stay

garden viewpoor soundproofingdisrespectful housekeeping
the garden view from my room was acceptable.
The soundproofing was terrible. I could hear everything happening outside. housekeeping moved my things and left some on the floor. It's frustrating when personal belongings are disrespected. also, the heater was so loud it was hard to sleep properly.
0 Helpful
Leo from Germany
Family with children
South Facing Queen Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:December 04, 2025
9/10
beautiful gardengood foodgreat location
The gardens were beautiful. I enjoyed my time there. The restaurant included historical pictures and the food was good. The location was great and dinner was available at the hotel.
The soundproofing was poor. The housekeeping staff did not respect the arrangement of personal items.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Donegal House
How far is Donegal House from the Kaikoura city centre?
Donegal House is located 5 km from the Kaikoura city centre.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Donegal House?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 10:00.
Is parking available at Donegal House?
Free private parking is available on-site without reservation.
What type of dining options are available at Donegal House?
Donegal House features an on-site restaurant serving traditional Irish cuisine and a terrace bar.
Are there any activities for children at Donegal House?
There is a children's playground available for the enjoyment of younger guests.
Which amenities are included in the rooms at Donegal House?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, fridge, coffee and tea makers, private bathrooms with free toiletries, and hairdryers.
What is the distance from Donegal House to Kaikoura Airport?
Kaikoura Airport is approximately 15 minutes away by car from Donegal House.
Does Donegal House offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
What nearby attractions are accessible from Donegal House?
Notable nearby attractions include Whale Watch Kaikoura (10 minutes drive) and Kaikoura Museum (approximately 15 minutes drive).
How many guest rooms does Donegal House have?
Donegal House features 28 guest rooms.
What type of hotel experience does Donegal House offer?
Donegal House provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on Irish culture and nature-themed experiences.

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