Theo and his wife are very cordial and accommodating hosts. Even when I needed to make last-minutes changes to my reservation, it was no problem at all. The breakfasts that Theo put together suited me perfectly, and the morning conversations about New Zealand and world travel were quite enjoyable. The SHikurangi StayPlace is in what was once a sort of retirement home, set in woodsy surroundings just above the Whanganui river, and just a short drive to downtown. The room where I stayed was quiet, large and had a nice view across the adjacent neighborhood in the direction of the Whanganui River. I can highly recommend the Hikurangi StayPlace as a fairly-priced, pleasant and convenient place to stay.