New Zealand Hostels

City Directory


 

Breathtaking verdant landscapes, unique native wildlife and a pleasant climate
are just a few of the offerings that make New Zealand a true paradise for
lovers of nature and the great outdoors. Majestic peaks, crystal-clear lakes
and rivers, thermal wonders, sparkling beaches and friendly cities (not to
mention an often favourable exchange rate) all add up to one thing: NZ was
made for backpackers and budget travellers, and quality hostel accommodation
throughout the country bears proud testament.

Auckland, at the top of New Zealand’s North Island is the main point of arrival
for backpackers, and serves as a wonderful gateway to the rest of the country
with such attractions as the iconic Sky Tower (naturally, you can bungy jump
from it), Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World and the fascinating Auckland War
Memorial Museum. Even the most cursory exploration of New Zealand’s harbour
city will reveal just how boat-crazy its inhabitants are; your Auckland backpacker
hostel will help you book a cruise to explore the harbour and the enchanting
islands of the Hauraki Gulf.

A few hours drive further south and NZ’s characteristic variety and contrast
will soon become evident. From Auckland’s volcanic cones to the seething
geothermal reserves of Rotorua, you will be amazed at how good a mud bath actually feels
(not your typical spa facility!). You’ll need a good swig of cool water as
geysers erupt, hot springs bubble and fissures fling boiling hot mud into
the air - Rotorua is truly amazing.

If bubbling crater lakes don’t push your buttons and beautiful secluded coves
and unspoilt bays sound more like your cup of tea, you’ll love magnificent
Marlborough Sounds at the tip of the South Island. The township of Picton,
Marlborough’s port and ferry departure point for the North Island, serves
as the perfect base to explore the whole Marlborough region and Picton hostels
such as Bayview Backpackers, Picton Lodge, and The Villa provide excellent
budget accommodation.

Christchurch in the South Island complements Auckland as a major centre to
start your adventure with an International Airport and enviable location within
a short distance of a bunch of great ski fields. Judged ‘Garden City of the
World’ in 1997, Christchurch truly is a beautiful city of parks and gardens
laden with resplendent blooms and vibrant colours. Christchurch hostels are
professional, experienced and efficient; Christchurch has long been an international
backpacker hub, budget travellers grace the city year-round.

Continuing on to the deep south of the South Island, Fiordland’s majestic
Milford Sound is an absolute must-do for international backpackers. Recently
voted by New Zealanders as the number 1 of the top ‘101 must-do’s for Kiwis’,
overseas travellers will never forget this attraction that UNESCO gave World
Heritage status and declared to be a “superlative natural phenomena”.
Hop on a large cruise boat and be amazed at the phenomonal falls, Mitre Peak,
and sheer rock walls of the fiord.

Backpackers Accommodation