Pros 
Cons The Clean Carwash & Valet Hawke's Bay: Sparkling or Scraping? NZ Car Wash Insights
The Clean Carwash & Valet Hawke’s Bay, located at 401 Karamu Road North, Mayfair, Hastings, has garnered a mixed bag of reviews, currently boasting a rating of 4.2 out of 5. Operating 24/7, it's a convenient option for those needing a quick wash or a full valet in the Hawke’s Bay region. But is it truly worth the visit? Let's dive into what customers are saying, separating the praises from the criticisms. The phone number is +64 22 131 1455. This article aims to unpack the experiences of users, giving you a clear picture of what to expect.
Raves & Valet Wonders: The High Notes
Several customers sing high praises, particularly regarding the valet services offered. The star of the show seems to be Josh Henry, who consistently receives glowing mentions. Here's a breakdown of the positive feedback:
- Exceptional Valet Service: Numerous reviews highlight the outstanding work of Josh Henry in the Supreme Valet service. He goes "above and beyond," paying attention to detail and exceeding expectations.
- Stubborn Stain Removal: Customers were pleasantly surprised by Josh's ability to remove even the most stubborn stains, like those on a driver's door.
- Going the Extra Mile: Replacing worn-out mats without prompting demonstrates a dedication to customer satisfaction.
- Friendly Staff: Beyond Josh, other staff members also receive praise for their friendly and welcoming demeanour.
- Remarkable Results: One customer reported their first-ever valet of a 2017 truck looking better than when it left the dealership. This is a significant testament to the quality of the valeting service.
- Convenience: The 24/7 access and proximity to amenities like a coffee shop and a bottle store is frequently mentioned as a positive.
- Good for a Laugh: Some found the atmosphere and staff interactions to be enjoyable and lighthearted.
Self-Serve Struggles: Addressing the Concerns
While the valet service enjoys a positive reputation, the self-service wash bays have drawn considerable criticism. This section outlines the key issues raised by those who opted for a DIY clean:
- Poor Value for Money: The pricing of $1 for 55 seconds is deemed “bad value.” The delay in the product reaching the hose leaves only 35 seconds of actual washing time.
- Malfunctioning Equipment: Several reviewers reported the presoak function being out of order during their visits, leading to frustration.
- Underwhelming Pressure: The high-pressure options are described as “underwhelming” and not very powerful.
- Run Down Facility: Recurring complaints include worn-down bay panels, out-of-order options/steps, and a generally cluttered appearance.
- Advertising Clutter: The bays are filled with advertising, which detracts from the user experience and adds to the confusion.
- Dirty Results: Ultimately, some customers left feeling they hadn't achieved a satisfactory clean, considering the cost.
- Comparison to Alternatives: One reviewer suggests traveling to Napier and Hugo's Carwash for a superior experience.
Summary of Self-Serve Concerns in a Table:
| Issue | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $1 for 55 seconds, short usable time | Poor value, customer frustration |
| Equipment | Presoak malfunction, weak pressure | Incomplete cleaning, reduced effectiveness |
| Facility Condition | Worn panels, cluttered bays | Unpleasant experience, confusing signage |
Caravan-Friendly & Easy Access: A Silver Lining
Despite the criticisms regarding the self-service washes, there's a clear consensus that The Clean Carwash & Valet Hawke’s Bay excels in accessibility and caters well to larger vehicles.
- Big Rig Friendly: One reviewer specifically highlighted the facility's suitability for larger vehicles like caravans, noting that the wash booms reach around the entire vehicle - a "fantastic" feature.
- Easy Access: General accessibility is mentioned positively, making it convenient for a variety of car sizes.
- Straightforward Operation: Several customers described the facility as "easy to use" and suitable for varying levels of cleaning intensity.
- Time Flexibility: The 24-hour operation allows for wash anytime.
Balancing Act: Should You Visit?
The Clean Carwash & Valet Hawke’s Bay presents a slightly paradoxical picture. The valet service, particularly with Josh Henry at the helm, receives overwhelmingly positive reviews showcasing a dedication to high-quality detailing. However, the self-service bays face significant criticism regarding value, equipment functionality, and overall condition.
- For Valet Services: If you're looking for a premium valet, especially one focused on detail, this location is highly recommended. Book with Josh for the best results.
- For Self-Service: Proceed with caution. Be prepared for potentially malfunctioning equipment, underwhelming pressure, and a less-than-pristine facility. If a thorough self-service wash is a priority, consider exploring alternatives in Napier.