I hope this review leaves me enough room to tell the truth about this place. A visit to Dunedin (or even New Zealand) should absolutely include a stay at the Aramoana Castle. This is the type of place you just can't find anywhere... Trust me, you're about to book a place that will one day be a tourist attraction all on its own. A true mystical fairytale world, yet really close to the beach, penguins, and a short trip to the city. Is it creepy? Yes, and it's meant to be! Be a big kid and step into your stay with excitement and adventure. For the price I couldn't imagine a better value. After arriving with easy checkin instructions I drove to Dunedin to explore and have dinner. When I came back Margaret was very welcoming and I was fascinated by the story of this unique gem. I told her because I stay in so many Airbnb units (30+ as of this post) I always do a short video or fly my drone over the unit for pictures and my blog... Well that conversation led into us recording a short movie together with 8 small 5 minute clips! It blew up my Facebook with likes and shares like the next American Horror Story series! Ask when you get there, I'm sure she's happy to share.
Other important things to note:
Enjoy a bath? This place has two bathtubs, one that's in the main bathroom and one in the garden.
Don't leave without putting a written down wish in the wishing well!
If you don't wish to drive into Dunedin for dinner during your stay, there's a great restaurant / bar about 10 minutes away.
I had no insect bites or problems during my stay (in the sound island and especially the west coast this was a constant problem but somehow in this specific area there were no problems).
A simple breakfast and coffee was provided. Maybe more but I'm just not a breakfast person.
Wifi was good, which was great because many other places in the country had limited or really frustrating wifi and I found it better than expected here, including uploading all those fun videos!
I saw another review right before me related to cleaning and water concerns but honestly I think the place just creeped them out because I didn't have any problems and the bed was very comfortable, I found the place clean, and water was never an issue. This is truly a very special place to please everyone so don't I wouldn't be concerned.