Balcony view

Reviews of Absolute Bliss

3.5 out of 5
Absolute Bliss
24 Joyces Road, Paihia, Bay of Islands

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 48 out of 53 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 53 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 53 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 53 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 53 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Frank

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Response from Marilyn on 23 Nov 2023
Dear Frank ,thank for your excellent review of Absolute Bliss where it was my pleasure to have hosted you both .Amazing lovely guests thank you so much .Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Absolutely Beautifully Blissful
We wanted to end our two week holiday in New Zealand with 4 days in Paihia. We chose Absolute Bliss Apartments because they sounded luxurious, and we weren't disappointed. First of all, Marilyn greeted us on arrival and is an absolute gem. She is kind-hearted, helpful, and sincere, making us feel so welcome. The two fully self-contained apartments sit on the side of a hill, providing a magnificent view of Paihia. The apartments are super spacious, and Marilyn keeps them in immaculate condition. The large balconies and outdoor seating allow you to enjoy the view and serenity of the area on a warm night. Being on a hill means accessing the property via a driveway that may at first appear a little challenging, however the oasis that awaits you is well worth the effort. Parking is available at the top, and a beautiful lift allows you to transport luggage up to the second floor. If you choose to walk up and down the driveway each day as we did, it gets easier with each trip and we gained the bonus of getting to know extra leg muscles we hadn't used in years. The main street in town is right in front of the driveway, and you can enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant or at the water's edge within minutes. Thanks to Marilyn sharing her home with us, our memories of this holiday will be something we will always treasure. We can't wait to return.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Response from Marilyn on 9 Nov 2023
Dear Mark and Tricia Thank you so much for your amazing full review of your stay with me at Absolute Bliss which I really appreciate the time and effort to do this .You were amazing lovely guests that I look forward to welcome you back any time .Kindest regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Leslie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We had a wonderful stay in a perfect location. The view was amazing and the location was quiet, yet it was only a few minutes walk to many shops and restaurants.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Response from Marilyn on 2 Dec 2022
Dear Leslie and JerryThank you for gYour wonderful review and I do look forward to welcome you back anytime in the future.Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

David, Louisville, KY

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Beautiful property with views of the bay and within walking distance of everything in Paihia. The owner, Marilyn, was extremely helpful and accommodating. She booked a boat outing for me in advance of my arrival and even picked me up from the bus stop for an early check-in. An excellent experience from start to finish.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020
Response from Marilyn on 8 Mar 2020
Dear David, Thank you for a wonderful review. It was great to meet and host you at Absolute Bliss. It was no problem to go the extra mile to make my guests happy. Kind regards Mariyn

8/10 Good

Keiko

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great location, comfortable B and B
Great location 5 minutes walk to the main wharf where tour boats start and many restaurants. Continental breakfast was excellent. Note that the drive way is very steep with a sharp turn.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020
Response from Marilyn on 12 Feb 2020
Dear Krio Ma y thanks for your great review,glad you enjoyed the breakfast with all my home grown produce. Yes the drive is steep but plenty of parking g and have to be elevated to enjoy those stunning views. Kind regards.Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Gaynor, UK

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Very comfortable apartment and Marilyn very helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020
Response from Marilyn on 12 Feb 2020
Dear Gaynor,thank you for your wonderful review and for choosing Absolute Bliss to stay with your lovely friends.A perfect place to stay in Paihia for either one or two couples travelling. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Johnny, Newcastle, Australia

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Marilyn is an exceptional host. The location of the property is ideal for proximity to the wharf and other attractions. The units are perfect for a couple and are furnished very well. We had a great visit and would stay here again in a heartbeat
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020
Response from Marilyn on 10 Jan 2020
Dear John and Dana , Thank you both so much for a wonderful review of your recent stay and taking the time to write one .It was my pleasure to meet and host you and I am so happy you had a wonderful stay . Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great view, spotless accomodation and very friendly host.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Response from Marilyn on 6 Oct 2019
Many thanks for your wonderful review of your recent stay with us at Absolute Bliss. I am so pleased you did enjoy everything and we look forward to to welcome you back anytime. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Stayed 1 night in May 2019
Response from Marilyn on 22 May 2019
Thank you for staying and posting a great review Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Stayed 1 night in May 2019
Response from Marilyn on 20 May 2019
Thank you so much you were wonderful guests ,am thrilled you loved staying at Absolute Bliss Paihia

10/10 Excellent

Wayne&Mary, Edmonton Canada

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The view, accommodations, and the service was spectacular. Marilyn went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Gourmet breakfast on the deck , booking our day trips and going above and beyond to make us comfortable. My wife and I really enjoyed sharing a glass of wine chatting with Marilyn and her friend Ismay. Highly recommend this property.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2019
Response from Marilyn on 23 Apr 2019
Dear Wayne and Mary, Thank you so much for a wonderful review of your recent stay with me in my Bed and Breakfast room. I love to exceed expectations and you were wonderful lovely guests. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A lovely setting with a view of the water. All the amenities you could wish including a well stocked kitchenette, good coffee, comfortable bed, sofas, tables inside and out. Our host Marilyn was delightful and gave us many good suggestions of places to visit and more.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2019
Response from Marilyn on 5 Mar 2019
ThNk you so ver6 much for your wonderful review of your stay at Absolute Bliss..I did so enjoy meeting and helping you with ideas for your wonderful holiday. Kindest regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful location and view. Owner Marilyn is very helpful in setting up visits to the area. A very relaxing holiday. We stayed a week and could’ve stayed longer
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2019
Response from Marilyn on 5 Mar 2019
Wow ,thank you for being wonderful easy guests who were a delight to have to stay .I am so glad you got to have the time to explore our piece of paradise ,beautiful Bay of Islands . Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The host was extremely helpful. The view was amazing. Would recommend to our friends. Proximity to city and things to do. Enjoyed the area city and if had time, would have stayed longer. Bed could be more comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2019
Response from Marilyn on 27 Feb 2019
Thank you very much for submitting a wonderful review .I did so enjoy meeting and hosting you both ,and I am thrilled it met your needs.The Bed will be reviewed as part of a refurbishment programme. Many thanks Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The owner was extremely accommodating and helpful. Gave good advice and the breakfast was extremely good.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2019
Response from Marilyn on 27 Feb 2019
Thank you so much for your wonderful review of your Bed and Breakfast Experience recently.I do so appreciate your valuable time making a review and you were such delightful guests to have in my home. All the best in the rest of your NZ vacation Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful property with a very helpful owner. Spacious and well appointed room. Driveway is quite steep and requires a bit of getting used to.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018
Response from Marilyn on 18 Dec 2018
Thank you so muc( for your wonderful review of your recent stay with me at Absolute Bliss.Merry Xmas Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A comfortable and well presented apartment just 5 minutes walk from the centre of Paihia. Great views over the bay from the balcony, with seats and a table for breakfast or relaxing in the evening. The owner, Marylin, gave a very warm welcome and is ready to offer advice or assistance for local trips. The drive to the property is very steep, and some may find that difficult to walk. Great location for many Northland attractions and sites.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018
Response from Marilyn on 18 Dec 2018
Thank you for taking the time to write a lovely review of your stay at Absolute Bliss.It was my pleasure to host you and am so glad you enjoyed your stay. All the best kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The Perfect Place
We stayed 5 nights. Marilyn was very welcoming and helpful. We had lost luggage from our flight and Marilyn couldn't have been more supportive in providing assistance until our suitcase finally arrived. The apartment was was perfect for us. Great views, comfortable and easy walking distance to everything.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2018
Response from Marilyn on 12 Dec 2018
Wow many thanks for a wonderful review of your stay at Absolute Bliss last week. It was my pleasure to get to know you and Madaline and try to help with anything that will help you enjoy your stay with me.I do look forward to the day when you may return. Kindest regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Slight misunderstanding as to whether our room was a B&B or an apartment. Once we found out it was in fact a B&B all was great. Marilyn was a lovely host. Nothing was too much trouble for her. Lovely breakfast on the balcony. Very steep driveway
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018
Response from Marilyn on 21 Nov 2018
Hi guests ,thank you for your wonderful review of your recent stay at Absolute Bliss. The Breakfast was an extra as the upgrade was for a self contained apartment ,but so happy 😀 you enjoyed it all.It was my pleasure to meet and host you.thank you. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Vicki, Whangarei

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Home away from home - made to feel welcome-lovely setting
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018
Response from Malyn on 31 Oct 2018
Dear Vicki Thank you for your lovely review of your recent stay with me at Absolute Bliss. My pleasure to host you and I look forwa o welcoming you back anytime Kind regard Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Geraldine, Albany, Auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Comfortable accommodation close to central Paihia
We enjoyed our 3 night stay at Absolute Bliss which included a continental breakfast. Marilyn was very welcoming and provided information about restaurants and activities. She set up breakfast on the balcony, which has an elevated view of Paihia harbor. Absolute Bliss is close to Paihia's shopping and dining precinct, and harbor - an easy 10 minutes walk. We had the Deluxe Loft room on the mezzanine floor. The room included a king bed, ensuite, and a dining nook with a microwave, fridge and kettle. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate was provided. Marilyn gave us Easter eggs on Easter Sunday which added a personal touch to our stay. There is an internal lift which made it easy to carry luggage to the third floor. The car parking is off road and safe. The drive way is very steep, fortunately it is not too long.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018
Response from Marilyn on 10 Apr 2018
Dear Geraldine, Thank for your wonderful review of your stay with me at Easter.I did so enjoy meeting and hosting you both . I appreciate the time to write such a comprehensive review ,as it is so vital for guests looking to book.Hope the rest of your trip was wonderful.kind regards Marilyn

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2018
Response from Marilyn on 27 Feb 2019
Hi thank you so much for your lovely review Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Mai T N

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Lovely Paihia stay
The Hostess did a very fine job for such accommodation type. The only one mark less with comfort was the mattress is on the slight softer side, however its' up to individual, some prefer more firm mattress & others are opposite. The rest of our stay at the property are top notch. Happy to come back when we are in Paihia again
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2017
Response from Marilyn on 14 Mar 2018
Hi Mai T Thank you so much for your wonderful review of Absolute Bliss .i look forward to welcoming you back anytime. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Lives up to its name
Stunning view from our balcony drive was very steep difficult to both walk and drive up but the view from the top was worth it
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2017
Dear Peter, Thank you so much for writing your review. As you say you need to be elevated to get these Wonderful views across to Russell. It was my pleasure to host and welcome you to Absolute Bliss Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Top of the tree..
You get to the accommodation up the steepest drive you may ever have encountered. You then use an elevator to get to the apartment. But it really is worth it. Fantastic view across the bay. Marilyn is a perfect host, friendly and informative. We were on B&B so she left a continental breakfast in our room the previous evening. Comfortable bed. Quiet accommodation. Really recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2017
Dear David, Thank you for posting your wonderful review,and for taking the time to write one.about your stay at Absolute Bliss. The elevator is a bonus and real asset in a place that is elevated to give you those magnificent views. I really enjoyed meeting and hosting you both. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

julie, gold coast australia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
wonderful
this was a wonderful place to stay in a beautiful part of the world. would highly recommend absolute bliss and Marilyn the host was very helpful and informative and a really lovely woman. could have stayed longer and wished we had and hopefully will get back again.
Response from Marilyn on 27 Feb 2019
Wow thank you for your wonderful review.so look forward to when you can return in the future. Kind regards Marilyn

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Good times at Absolute Bliss
Great location and views friendly and helpful with great amenities and space to relax

6/10 Okay

Helen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great location, good size room, nice views. Not as quiet as i hoped as walls/ceilings lack sound proofing so can hear TV/voices in other rooms and from above. Also, although wifi is reliable and free it is limited so no streaming.
Response from Marilyn on 27 Feb 2019
Thank you #o much Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Zachary, Vancouver, BC

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Exceptional Bed and Breakfast
Our stay at absolute bliss was fantastic. Our host was amazing, truly caring if we had a good time and ensured everything was taken care of for us. Honestly a fantastic choice for accommodation and only have fond memories. If you are wanting to go on a local tour she is able to give you a 10% discount so do book through her!
Response from General Manager on 14 Aug 2016
Hello to my lovely guests from Vancouver as I am currently in Spain. Thank you for your wonderful view on Absolute Bliss. I loved being able to host and meet you both and truly value the time you took to write a review. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl, Brisbane

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Blissful stay
Stayed in Platinum apartment for two nights. You could cook up a storm in the well equipped kitchen.We chose to eat out and couldn't resist Alfresco restaurant again on both nights & breakfast the last morning.Shops & restaurants short walk & the view from apartment amazing. So quiet & relaxing.Attention to detail & decor makes for a 5 star stay. Thank you Marilyn
Response from Marilyn on 27 Feb 2019
Wow thank you so much. Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Beryl, Uk

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Luxury with a great view
Marilyn met us with a great smile and welcome,took us up the lift to our apartment which was gorgeous with many luxuries.We talked about what we wanted to do during our stay, we received the most helpful advice, upon which we took and had a fantastic time at all the must see`s.

10/10 Excellent

Sandy, Singapore

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great location and lovely landlady
We stayed 2 nights in the very comfortable B&B room of this lovely lady's house. The drive is steep but that's what gives the wonderful views from the balcony. Easy walk to town for number of restaurants, shops and the various tour and ferry companies and wharf for those ferries. She was able to help book and advise us about things to do. When plans changed and we had to leave earlier than expected on our last morning she provided a breakfast tray the night before for us to do in our room which had fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave. There are also larger apartments with full catering facilities and independent access but this was fine for us.

10/10 Excellent

Bohdan, Adelaide S.Aust.

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Absolute Bliss
Great location re views,restaurants etc. excellent continental breakfast included and owner was most helpful re. tours and culture information.

10/10 Excellent

Chris, Australia - VIC - Melbourne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Outstanding; Service: Remarkable; Cleanliness: Spotless, Pristine;

10/10 Excellent

Ross, Australia - QLD - Brisbane

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

8/10 Good

Greg, New Zealand - Otago

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

10/10 Excellent

Wolfgang, Australia - QLD - Regional QLD

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

10/10 Excellent

Diane, New Zealand - Auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: lovely outlook from deck;

10/10 Excellent

Jaquetta, Australia - NSW - Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: State of the art; Value: Fantastic; Service: Remarkable; Cleanliness: Spotless;

10/10 Excellent

Sharon, New Zealand - Auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Outstanding, Friendly above and beyond; Value: It was Absolute bliss ; Service: Flawless, Loved the chocolates; Cleanliness: Spotless, Awesome; Would go back there next time at Paihia.

10/10 Excellent

Margaret, New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Top of the line; Value: Great deal; Service: Go the extra mile; Cleanliness: Immaculate; Handy to a beautiful place in the Bay of Islands

10/10 Excellent

Willie, New Zealand - Auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Home away from home; Value: Fantastic; Service: Go the extra mile; Cleanliness: Immaculate;

10/10 Excellent

David, New Zealand - Auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Modern; Value: Bargain; Service: Go the extra mile; Cleanliness: Spotless;

10/10 Excellent

Lesley, New Zealand - Auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Top of the line; Value: Great deal; Service: Flawless; Cleanliness: Immaculate;

10/10 Excellent

Alan, Australia - NSW - Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Modern, Above average; Service: Friendly; Cleanliness: Pleasant;

10/10 Excellent

Rose, Australia - NSW - Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Home away from home, Outstanding; Value: Affordable; Service: Professional, Friendly, Courteous; Cleanliness: Spotless, Beautiful; Close to all amentities (shops and restaurants)

10/10 Excellent

PHILLIP, Australia - VIC - Melbourne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Facilities: Brand new; Value: Great deal; Service: Outstanding; Cleanliness: Pristine;

10/10 Excellent

MIRY

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
진짜 최고에요
중심가와 가까운 위치면서 조용한 곳에 있어요. 넘 깨끗하게 관리되어서 쾌적하고 편안하게 지내다 옵니다. 사장님도 너무 좋으시고 친절하세요. 숙박객도 딱 2팀이 끝이라서 정말 프라이빗하고 좋습니다. 강추합니다.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024
Response from Marilyn on 16 Jan 2024
Dear Mirry Thank you fot your wonderful,review of Absolute Bliss. I look forward to welcome you back anytime.Kind regardsMarilyn

10/10 Excellent

MIRY

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
정말 깨끗하고
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024
Response from Marlyn on 16 Jan 2024
Dear Miry Thank you for staying at Absolute Bliss and writing a wonderful review .I look forward to your return on day.Kind regards Marilyn

10/10 Excellent

Ove

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice little accomodation
Hightech located with beautiful views. We were met with great helpfulness and service.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2018
Response from Marilyn on 14 Mar 2018
Hi Ove, It was my pleasure to have you both to stay at Absolute Bliss and thank you for a wonderful review .i look forward to your return one day. Kind regards Marilyn