Al's place is lovely. It's that great location between Franz Joesph Glacier and Hokitika. Al also goes above and beyond by supplying a huge breakfast spread for you. At the time of year we went (late November) there was a big influx of sandflies; its a West Coast thing you can't avoid. Al has done a good job putting magnetic fly screens on the windows. My advice is keep the doors closed and check the screens are attached on the windows and you will enjoy a bug free stay.