The Portage

We didn’t get off to a good start as wasn’t aware the road to hotel is shut until 2023. Drove all the way out there on a windy road only to realise we had to drive back and get water taxi there instead. When we called the portage they said they weren’t able to contact me as Agoda does not share any of my info with the hotel! The manager handled it well and reimbursed us for the water taxis ($100 for 2 people return) but only after asking. They also kindly gave us a ride to Punga cove and back as that was our plan (but of course we had to leave car in Picton so we could get water taxi) We stayed in a tui room which had a lovely view of the water. No air con so the room was very hot all day and night. Bit rundown but nice enough. No tv or toaster/cutlery etc. only tea/coffee making facilities. The view from the restaurant balcony was lovely but food quite expensive. The other cheaper Snapper bar never opened while we were there. Overall I would recommend and return

I was looking forward to stay at the "Double Room with Patio" with a beautiful view of the sound, only to be told on arrival by resort staff that the room does not exist. Instead I was allocated a room half below ground level with a sad view of the back of another building with noisy machinery equipment. The Portage was not interested in taking responsibility for what is advertised on Agoda and they blamed Agoda for the allegedly misleading listing for a room that doesn't exist. Given that the area was fully booked out during the holiday season, I had no alternative to book elsewhere with a good view. 2 months of anticipation ultimately led to a disappointing introduction to the sounds.

I stayed at the Portage with my 11 year old daughter. We loved the pool and kayaking. The location is fabulous. The staff at reception were fantastic. I found the food fairly bland, especially the breakfast. The rooms don’t have a Tv and whilst adults are happy to socialise at the bar, we would have preferred to watch a late night movie in the comfort of our room. The room was clean although there was mould in the shower and toilet bowl was stained which I didn’t like.