About Us
Our History
& Our Future
History
The Commercial Hotel, 1917
The Commercial Hotel is part of an intact group of significant historic buildings on The Strand re-developed during the interwar period. The first Commercial Hotel, a wooden building on the same site, was established during a period of major development in the 1890s.
The building that the eight Heritage rooms are in was built in 1917 for the Bank of New Zealand. Corner sites were traditionally chosen by the banks. The Manager’s accommodation was on part of the ground floor and the entire first floor. This is the only purpose built bank remaining in Whakatane dating from the early part of the 20th century. It was designed to make an impression of solidity and reliability.
Architecturally it is one of few substantial two-storied buildings in Whakatane. The design is based on a Classical style. It was visible from the main wharf centre and the centre of trade at the time it was built.
The building is a major landmark in the streetscape. It is highly visible when viewed along The Strand.
Today
The Com Plex
Now The Com Plex is a Motel with 28 rooms. Guests have the option of choosing a modern studio suite or a completely refurbished boutique heritage suite in the original Bank of New Zealand building built in 1917.
The Com Plex Studio Suites were built in 2020/2021 on the site of the old Art Deco building that was demolished because of earthquake issues. Each downstairs and upstairs unit is alternated and are held in place by large steel beams resembling a Meccano set.
The Com Plex has a new restaurant on site on the bottom floor of the heritage building. This offers Santos coffees, breakfast, lunches, snacks, and dinners. It is the home of Good George craft beers and cider in Whakatane. There is a choice of seating out the front of the building, inside, or in the large garden bar.
The Com Plex is conveniently located just a two minute walk from the Central Business District and the beautiful Whakatane river mouth is just a short walk away.
Several scenic walking tracks are within a short distance and the Wairere waterfall is located 100 metres behind The Com Plex.
About your stay
We aim to make you feel “you’re somewhere special” whilst staying with us, and we trust your stay will be an enjoyable one.
Heritage Suites
Heritage Twin Suites
Modern Studio Suites
Free WiFi
Free Parking
Sky TV
Air Conditioning
Private Bathrooms
Housekeeping
Check In Times
Check in time is 2.00 pm.
Check out time is 10.00 am on the morning of your departure.
CREDIT CARDS
The Complex Motel welcomes the use of Eft-Pos, Mastercard, Visa, and Farmlands Cards at Reception.
Restaurant & Bar
The Comm Bar and Restaurant is alongside The Com Plex, the only of its kind in Whakatane, and is an excellent dining choice.
The Comm is open for Breakfast from 8am on the weekend and 10am weekdays, Lunch and Dinner everyday. Not only is it home to Good George craft beers and ciders, it also serves the beautiful Santos Coffee all day long.
The Comm also has a Takeaway option for your convenience.
Hot Beverages
For your comfort, complimentary tea and coffee making facilities are located in your unit. Please contact Reception if you require further supplies.
HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES
All rooms are serviced in the mornings on a daily basis; if you require an afternoon service please contact reception to arrange a time. Additional towels and selected toiletries are available. For all housekeeping needs please contact reception.
Personal Appliances
A hairdryer can be found in all our rooms.
There are irons and ironing board in all our rooms.
