Find hostels in South Island at the best prices

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South Island hostels
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12 Hostels in South Island

Best South Island hostels with breakfast

Among the 4 hostels in South Island, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

On Top Backpackers - South Island
8.2 2521 reviews

On Top Backpackers

hostel, Dunedin
On Top Backpackers is located in the Octagon district of Dunedin, just a short walk from the city centre and close to the vibrant nightlife of the area. It has received very good user ratings, with excellent location and good cleanliness ratings.
The hostel has a sun-drenched sundeck overlooking the city, perfect for relaxing. Guests can enjoy a free continental breakfast, a fully equipped kitchen, free high-speed Wi-Fi, secure rooms, on-site laundry facilities, and a bar, fitness centre, swimming pool, garden, and parking.
The Palace Backpackers - South Island
8.1 4688 reviews

The Palace Backpackers

hostel, Nelson
Bridge Backpackers is conveniently located in Nelson, just a short walk from Christ Church Cathedral and Trafalgar Park, offering easy access to the town's attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for its cleanliness and overall experience, with an excellent location rating.
The backpacker accommodation has a garden and a shared lounge, perfect for relaxing and meeting fellow travellers. You'll find a range of facilities and activities here, including a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a tour desk, luggage storage, a dart board, a sauna, and a fitness centre.
The Bohemian At Noah's Ark - South Island
9.0 48 reviews

The Bohemian At Noah's Ark

hostel, Greymouth
The Bohemian at Noah's Ark in Greymouth offers budget accommodation a 1km walk from Greymouth railway station and 2.9km from Cobden Beach.
This three-guest capacity guesthouse features free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and some rooms with sea views, plus a private bathroom in select units, all equipped with flat-screen TVs and hairdryers.
Hotel Give - South Island
8.9 15014 reviews

Hotel Give

hostel, Christchurch
Hotel Give is situated in the heart of Christchurch, just a stone's throw from the Botanical Gardens, Canterbury Museum, and Hagley Park, offering a convenient base for exploring the city. It's a 2.5-star hotel with excellent user ratings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The hotel provides a range of accommodation options, including self-contained apartments, private rooms, and shared rooms. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, and fitness centre, making it a great choice for families and those looking for a relaxing and active holiday.

Best South Island hostels with a locker

Ha Fa Villa - South Island
8.4 384 reviews

Ha Fa Villa

hostel, Hong Kong
Accommodation with a good rating of 84% based on 384 reviews. Your accommodation will be based in Hong Kong.
Facilities and services: fast check-in/out, a wheelchair friendly access and air conditioning.
Haka House Queenstown Lakefront - South Island
8.3 1635 reviews

Haka House Queenstown Lakefront

hostel, Queenstown
Haka House Queenstown Lakefront is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, just 1 kilometre from the centre of Queenstown and 30 kilometres from the Remarkables Ski Field. This hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and shared dormitories. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a drying room for ski equipment, BBQ facilities, movies and board games.
尖沙咀小型双人房/维多利亚港/星光大道/天星码头/中港城码头/海港城 - South Island
8.4 29 reviews

尖沙咀小型双人房/维多利亚港/星光大道/天星码头/中港城码头/海港城

hostel
Kmb Hostel, a two-star guesthouse in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, enjoys a prime location less than 1 kilometre from Harbour City shopping mall and within a 1.5 kilometre radius of Victoria Harbour and the Star Ferry pier.
This compact inn offers 7 square metre rooms, sleeping up to two guests, and includes air conditioning, an on-site restaurant, and excellent Wi-Fi access; nearby, numerous restaurants and cultural attractions await exploration.
Urbanz - South Island
8.5 3811 reviews

Urbanz

hostel, Christchurch
Urbanz is located in the heart of Christchurch, just a short walk from New Regent Street and the Cathedral, making it a great base for exploring the city's cultural attractions. It has received very good user ratings for cleanliness and a great location, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a range of room types, including double rooms and family rooms, all with a modern design. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a bar, a self-catering kitchen, a fitness centre, and a terrace, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in South Island

  • What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in the South Island of New Zealand?

    For budget-conscious travelers, the South Island offers plenty! Free activities abound, like hiking the numerous trails in the national parks – the Kepler Track and Routeburn Track are popular choices, though requiring some planning. Exploring beaches like those in Abel Tasman National Park or Hokitika Gorge is also free. Many smaller towns have free museums or walking tours. Camping is a fantastic way to save on accommodation, with many Department of Conservation campsites available for a small fee.
  • What are the best hostels in South Island?

    Among the hostels in South Island, Adventure Inn Marahau, The Barn Cabins & Camp and Kanuka Ridge Lodge are the most popular ones.

  • What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in the South Island of New Zealand?

    While Milford Sound is iconic, consider exploring the less-crowded Doubtful Sound or Dusky Sound for breathtaking fiordland scenery. The West Coast's Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes are a must-see, but venture further north to the charming town of Greymouth. For a unique experience, visit the Ngarua Caves near Takaka in Golden Bay. These hidden gems offer a more intimate connection with the South Island's natural beauty.
  • What are the best hostels for families and kids in South Island?

    The Barn Cabins & Camp and The Barn Cabins & Camp are the best hostels for families and kids in South Island.

  • What are the best nightlife spots in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Queenstown is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and pubs along its waterfront. Fergburger is a popular late-night food stop. Wanaka offers a more relaxed atmosphere but still has a good selection of bars. In Christchurch, the city centre has a variety of options, from craft breweries to lively pubs. Smaller towns will have their own unique pubs and social scenes.
  • What are the best pet friendly hostels in South Island?

    The best pet friendly hostels in South Island are Adventure Inn Marahau, The Barn Cabins & Camp and The Barn Cabins & Camp.

  • What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of the South Island of New Zealand?

    A minimum of two weeks is recommended to scratch the surface of the South Island. Three weeks allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore more remote areas. A month or longer would be ideal for truly immersing oneself in the diverse landscapes and activities available.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in South Island?

    Adventure Inn Marahau, The Barn Cabins & Camp and Kanuka Ridge Lodge are the best hostels with parking in South Island.

  • Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Yes, many opportunities exist to learn about Māori culture. Several organizations offer workshops on traditional crafts like weaving or carving. Visits to marae (Māori meeting houses) provide insights into cultural practices and protocols. Many iwi (tribes) offer guided tours and cultural experiences throughout the South Island.
  • How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Staying in smaller towns or homestays allows for more interaction with locals. Participating in community events or festivals provides opportunities to meet people. Taking guided tours with local operators can lead to engaging conversations. Simply striking up conversations in pubs or cafes can also lead to memorable encounters. Learning a few basic Māori phrases is always appreciated.
  • Which restaurants and bars in the South Island of New Zealand offer the best local cuisine?

    The South Island boasts diverse culinary options. In Queenstown, Botswana Butchery is renowned for its steaks. Many restaurants throughout the region feature fresh seafood, especially on the West Coast. Numerous wineries offer tasting experiences and restaurant options. Smaller towns often have charming cafes and restaurants showcasing local produce. Exploring farmers' markets is a great way to discover local culinary delights.
  • What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for the South Island of New Zealand?

    Pack for all types of weather. Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate, and rain is always a possibility. Layers are essential. Good hiking boots are a must if planning any outdoor activities. A waterproof jacket and trousers are crucial. Sunscreen and a hat are vital, even on cloudy days. Insect repellent is recommended, particularly in forested areas. Consider packing a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Nearby regions

Best South Island hostels with air conditioning

Sunny & Spacious Twin Bed Room @Tst For 2-3 Pax - South Island
9.5 350 reviews

Sunny & Spacious Twin Bed Room @Tst For 2-3 Pax

hostel
This charming guest house is conveniently located in Tsim Sha Tsui, just a short walk from the bustling Nathan Road and the harbourfront. With excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings, it's a popular choice for travellers seeking a comfortable and well-maintained base in Hong Kong.
The guest house features a single bedroom with a double and a single bed, comfortably accommodating up to three guests. Modern amenities include individual digital door locks, private bathrooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, hair dryers, kettles, and essential toiletries.
Hotel Lake Brunner - South Island
8.2 1035 reviews

Hotel Lake Brunner

hostel, Moana
Hotel Lake Brunner is located in the township of Moana, a 40-kilometre drive from Greymouth and a 100-kilometre drive from Hokitika airport. The resort has received very good ratings for its cleanliness and location, and guests have described it as excellent.
The resort offers a variety of studios and apartments, all equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar, free parking, and a range of activities such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Adventure Inn Marahau - South Island
9.5 811 reviews

Adventure Inn Marahau

hostel, Marahau
Adventure Inn Marahau is located in the small town of Marahau, just a 2km walk from Marahau Beach and 2km from Porters Beach. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The inn has a shared kitchen and lounge area, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a garden, barbecue facilities, a pool table, and a fitness centre.
Hop Inn - South Island
8.4 4875 reviews

Hop Inn

hostel, Hong Kong
Hop Inn is a hostel located in Tsim Sha Tsui, a short walk from Victoria Harbour, the Cultural Centre, and the Art Museum, making it ideal for exploring the city's cultural attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with an excellent location rating.
The hostel offers a range of rooms, including private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and dormitory rooms with individual storage, catering to different travel styles and budgets. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a shared fridge, a rooftop terrace with city views, and a communal space, perfect for meeting fellow travellers.

Best South Island hostels with laundry available

The Prince Albert Backpackers & Bar - South Island
8.5 1527 reviews

The Prince Albert Backpackers & Bar

hostel, Nelson
The Prince Albert Backpackers & Bar is situated in Nelson city centre, a short 0.8km walk from the town's centre, 1.6km from the bus station, and conveniently located near Trafalgar Park (5-minute drive) and Nelson Airport (15-minute drive).
This heritage building, dating back to 1888, offers guests a shared kitchen, a sun terrace with hammocks, an on-site bar and restaurant with a 10% discount, free Wi-Fi, plus a fitness centre and parking; it features heated rooms with private bathrooms and carpeted floors.
Zi Xin Motel - South Island
No reviews

Zi Xin Motel

hostel, Kowloon
Zi Xin Motel, a 2-star establishment in Kowloon, is located 4 kilometres from the city centre, offering convenient access to Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Ocean Terminal, and the Hong Kong Museum of History.
This accommodation provides air conditioning, room service, free Wi-Fi, and an elevator, with rooms featuring a television and slippers, and a unique check-in process via WeChat.
Tasman Bay Backpackers - South Island
9.3 4074 reviews

Tasman Bay Backpackers

hostel, Nelson
Tasman Bay Backpackers Hostel is a 10-minute walk from Nelson city centre and the bus depot, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. The hostel consistently receives excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, indicating a high standard of accommodation.
The hostel offers a range of private and shared rooms, some with en-suite facilities. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, evening treats like hot chocolate pudding and ice cream, and BBQ facilities in the garden, as well as a shared kitchen and laundry.
Nomads Queenstown Hostel - South Island
8.1 8710 reviews

Nomads Queenstown Hostel

hostel, Queenstown
Nomads Queenstown is situated in the town centre, just 100 metres from Lake Whakatipu, close to Queenstown's main attractions. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent location and good cleanliness ratings.
The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly dormitories to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Nomads Queenstown features a cinema room, sauna, and a communal area with a smart TV, pool table, foosball table, and vending machines.
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