We really enjoyed our stay at Penelope’s. She was a kind and friendly hostess who went the extra mile to help us when our rented car broke down. The private, self-contained accommodation was perfect for us. The bed was very comfortable, the shower was great, and the towel rack warmer was a bonus. Westmere is a lovely community with cafes, bars, restaurants and shops all within walking distance, and there is a direct bus close by that will take you downtown. We wanted to stay there on our return trip to Auckland but left it too late to book – our loss.