Absolutely recommended for a stay in Franz Josef, especially if you try to stay away from the crowds - even if the town clearly was not back at its peak yet.
Richard's and Mel's place is just a few minutes walk away but so private that it feels like no one else is around. Apart from the helicopters, which can be heard everywhere in Franz, the only "noise" we had was kea calls or the local possum jumping on the deck in the evening.
The place is huge and immediately invites you to prepare your own meals in the big kitchen area, rather than eating out. Loved the bathroom with a full window looking into the bush..