This feels like a student halls of residence with rooms arranged in a two bedroom shared unit (or at least that's what we saw). The two bedrooms share a kitchen and bathroom. It's not grand, but it does everything you need it to do. It is an excellent location in easy walking distance of Sky Tower and the Marina. Be aware though that the wifi must be purchased separately. This seemed to come as a shock to a number of people. There is very limited parking, which you have to pay extra for, but be warned it is difficult to get in and out of, but nearby there is a multistorey car park (although more expensive).

Not so much "didn't like" but you should be aware that wifi requires additional on site payment and parking is difficult. You also need a holding deposit which seemed to catch some people out.

The staff is really nice and helpful, they tried to find always a solution, the place also was better than expected, really nice and the room had good size, we were lucky to uave good neighbors, quiet place, perfect for relax.

They don't have wifi for free if you want to have to buy it, which is extremely weird in 2023 but around Oceania is a common practice. The room also have a strong mold smell so it's better to keep the window open as much is possible

Everything. Great value for money. It is NOT a great luxury stay. But anyone that would expect that kind of service for a 47$ private double room is out of his mind. That's one of the best value for money I got in my stay in New Zealand. For that price for two people you would usually only get two beds in a 12 bunk bed, or a really unclean private room. Columbia is clean and nice. Try it, don't be afraid of cheap accomodations ! That's where the real people are. Change your expectations. Dirty elevators won't kill you.

The deposit before taking the room is a bit scary, but totally understanble. They give it back in full in the morning.

The owner is good to talk to and the mart next to the apartment is a life saver. Your stay (like in all shared spaces) depends on your roommates and other people staying in the floor. I was fortunate to get good flatmates who were considerate and also helpful. Location (other than in the evening) is good if you want quick access to Symonds street, Queens Street or K-road. For students coming in and wanting to book the apartment, you will find a video on YouTube by CjS Vlogs on Columbia Apartments. That might be useful before you book.

The apartment is expensive compared to the facilities. There are no housekeeping facilities that are provided, but you can ask for extra sheets and stuff to change. Same is the case with other amenities. The corridors are small. The location in the evening (in general is the case of CBD these days) is not that safe.

The receptionist was very helpful I much appreciated that, was briefed on places around me closest ATMs ect which was very helpful. Me and my son enjoyed our stay and would deffs stay again 😀 so cheap for a shared apartment room.

It has everything you need. Basic and cosy but clean and tidy.

One person serving customers and taking a while 2 others hovering and doing nothing much. We were standing for quite a while waiting Otherwise no complaints here

Would recommend this if you’re on a budget and are planning on basically just sleeping. Good location, comfy bed, nice shower, nice staff, decent view. Good value for money.

Wish there was AC or a better fan. Only blew out air on setting 1 and that wasn’t cool enough. Also wish house keeping wasn’t so loud. Shower and under sink area could be cleaner but they weren’t too bad.

Convenient & had everything we needed at a good price!.

No previous or clear directions how to get inside the locked front door when you first arrive. Luckily someone came out & let us inside. There's renovations going on at front desk, so a bit disorientating when you first arrive.

how close it was to my Partner when coming up to meet her, and how close and easy it was to get to the city

for my body comfort level, the room was a little too warm but that was the only thing as spent most of the day/night out of the room as it was just a single night visit

The location and view from the window was great, and it was fantastic value for money. The room was simple, but clean and tidy. The description of the accomodation was accurate and we knew what we were paying for.

The shared facilities (bathroom / kitchen) were a little bit dirty but not overly so. The stairwell and lift were a little grungy and I might think twice about staying there as a single woman due to feeling potentially unsafe getting from the lobby to the room. However, the rooms were secure and lockable.