If you want a quieter place 10 minutes from the city, or are here for work/leisure on the north side of Auckland, definitely give Joanne and Don's place a go. It is better than advertised and definitely worth it. I found it close enough to go into the city for food, or they have a full kitchen if you feel like cooking up a storm. I can't say enough of Don and Joanne's hospitality - very genuine, warm and welcoming. That goes hand in hand with communication - even though mine was a last minute booking, with some last minute hiccoughs on my end (later than expected arrival), I was able to get confirmation from them almost instantly. I will be staying here again, if available, when I come back to Auckland. Thanks guys!