Holly Homestead B&B

This gorgeous, 1926 built home is an incredibly beautiful and well decorated property with spacious grounds, perfect for relaxing and disconnecting. Upon arrival, Bernie will likely meet you at your vehicle and help you bring your luggage to your room. Settle in and then allow her to guide you around the house, the shared common areas, kitchen and dining room are lovely opportunities to socialise with other guests. With a cold or hot drink in hand, meet your neighbours and let Bernie provide you with map and menus of local eateries. Whether you are a first time visitor or returning traveller, Bernie offers very helpful suggestions so take this time to ask any burning questions. We stayed in Room 2 and also had a sneak peak of Room 3 before it was occupied. The cleanliness of these rooms is second to none, every reflective surface shone brightly. Breakfast was meticulously prepared by Bernie the night before and cooked by Gerard. Sitting at the large dining table, admire the polish utensils with mesmerising views of Franz Josef. As you enjoy a continental breakfast with fresh fruit and yoghurt, peep the odd clock on the wall and make discussion with fellow travellers as Gerard takes your cooked food order. No better start to the day. I cannot speak any higher of our stay at Holly Homestead, my partner and I cannot wait to revisit and enjoy another homemade shortbread biscuit.

We had a wonderful one-night stay at Holly Homestead but wish we had stayed longer! It was fabulous in every respect. We had a complete suite, lounge, bedroom and large modern bathroom with both tub and shower. The bed/pillows were very comfortable and the lounge area was spacious with large windows on two sides giving fabulous views of the mountains. We had a choice of cooked breakfast as well as the usual continental choices. On arrival we were offered tea/coffee with home-baked cookies [that were also available in our room]. We were also given lots of advice about restaurants and things to do locally. We were made extremely welcome and it is one of our favourite memories of our trip.

Just back from our 5 week trip to the south island of New Zealand. As we reflect on our favourite place to stay Holly Hometead comes up on top. Our hosts seemed genuinely happy to have us. They were very gracious and helpful and made us feel relaxed and at home. We really enjoyed our room the common area lounge. Our host greeted us with tea and home baking and the breakfast was the best we had on our entire trip.

Don’t bother visiting the Franz Josef Glacier just come to stay at Holly Homestead. What a magnificent establishment. Bernie and Gerard are meticulous in their attention to detail, warm welcome and sharing their knowledge of the area. From the moment you arrive you feel valued and as if you belong or are returning as a member of the family. Nothing was too much trouble. The room and whole BnB is exactly as described on the website. Tea/coffee and shortbread biscuits available anytime. Breakfast around the large table gives the opportunity to exchange travel stories with other guests. Choice of fruit, cereal, yoghurt followed by a cooked breakfast and cheese/ meats. It is our pleasure to provide an outstanding review which is well deserved. We would rate our stay 10+ stars. Thank you Bernie and Gerard for such a memorable experience.

We had two wonderful days with Bernie & Jarrard. They provided us with everything and looked after us. The breakfast was great (thanks Jarrad) and the home-Baker Cookies from Bernie were delicious. We felt completely comfortable at the Holly Homestead B&B. The center was easily and quickly accessible on foot through the “rainforest”. We enjoyed the sunset from the balcony with a glass of wine - it was perfect. Many thanks Bernie & Jarrad from Susi & Martin

Absolutely terrific experience and definitely made our time in Franz Josef. As other reviews said great room and very nice bathrooms plus yummy breakfast. Hosts answered all of our many questions and made sure we were comfortable including putting on a wood fire during the cold rainy day. If you come to Franz, definitely make this your overnight stop and stay for awhile so enjoyable.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay with Bernie and Gerard. The house has a lot of character and is spotlessly clean. Bed super comfortable and lots of extra touches in the rooms which were bright airy, and very spacious. Bernie is very informative and always on hand to offer information/advice. Breakfast was varied and delicious. The location of this B&B is fab because you get a little woodland walk into town and it is a great location for exploring the glaciers and lake walks. We would highly recommend staying here.

Bernie welcomed us in to her homely b&b and showed us around her lovely home and business. We settled into our comfy yet spacious room and were offered a tray of coffee to sit and relax whilst Bernie gave us her tips on where to dine that evening. We slept so well as the bed was divine, the room so clean and the bathroom a joy. Breakfast was delicious and Bernie was kind enough to serve it to us at 7am as we had an early start on our helicopter trip and hike at Franz Josef Glacier. I had fruit, Museli and yoghurt and Mark had an omelette. Divine toast too. 10 out of 10 for hospitality Bernie. Wishing you all the very best, Alex and Mark, Malvern, UK X

This was a beautiful place. The owners were so accommodating and helpful and so friendly. My room was just lovely. Big spacious bedroom and bathroom. Old Victorian style home with upgrades. The breakfast was great and you had many choices.