Haka House Wanaka is situated in the Wanaka district, just 5 kilometres from Puzzling World and a 40-kilometre drive from Mount Aspiring Ski Fields. The hostel enjoys an excellent location rating and a very good rating for cleanliness and overall user experience. The hostel offers a choice of shared or private rooms, all with a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a communal kitchen, a garden, parking, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities. There is also a tour desk where you can book activities and excursions in the area.
8.4 472 reviews
South Island
08/10 – 11/10
£35/nighttotal: £105 (3 )
Marahau Beach Camp
1 2
hostel , Marahau
Marahau Beach Camp is situated in the Tasman region, just a short drive from the popular Porters Beach and offering easy access to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. This campsite receives consistently high ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience. The campsite offers a single-bedroom accommodation with a floor area of 9 square metres. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, private parking, and access to outdoor play equipment, making it a great option for families.
8.7 675 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£52/nightfor 1 night
The Lazy Cow Accommodation
1 2
hostel , Murchison
The Lazy Cow Accommodation is located just outside Murchison, 7.1 km from Fern Flat, offering a peaceful retreat close to the town's attractions. It boasts very good user ratings for location and cleanliness, with guests consistently praising its excellent standards. The hostel features a single bedroom and bathroom, providing a comfortable and private stay. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, bar, shared lounge, garden, terrace, tennis court, and free parking, making it ideal for relaxation and socialising.
8.4 2499 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£48/nighttotal: £144 (3 )
Glentanner Park Centre
1 2
hostel , Glentanner
Glentanner Park Centre is situated on the shores of Lake Pukaki, just 18 kilometres from Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The resort has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The resort provides a variety of accommodation options, including self-contained units and dormitory rooms. Guests can enjoy on-site amenities such as a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and a covered barbecue area, as well as a range of activities including scenic flights, glacier trips, and hiking in the National Park.
8.4 8995 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£19/nighttotal: £133 (7 )
Chateau Backpackers & Motels
1 2
hostel , Franz Josef
Chateau Backpackers & Motels is located near the Waiho River, a short 10-minute walk from the centre of Franz Josef, surrounded by rainforest and mountains. This hostel has received very good user ratings for cleanliness and an excellent location rating. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly dormitories to private rooms with kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, and a tour desk.
8.3 672 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£52/nighttotal: £156 (3 )
Alpine Lodge Queenstown
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
Alpine Lodge Backpackers Queenstown is conveniently located just a short walk from the Skyline Gondola and Luge, offering easy access to stunning views and thrilling activities. The hostel receives very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and an excellent rating for its location. The backpackers features a shared kitchen, perfect for preparing meals, as well as a sun terrace for relaxing and enjoying the views. Guests can also take advantage of free parking, free Wi-Fi, and a range of activities, including skiing, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking for a comfortable and affordable stay in Queenstown.
9.1 1642 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£36/nightfor 1 night
Noah's Ark Flashpacker
1 2
hostel , Greymouth
Noah's Ark Backpackers is conveniently located in central Greymouth, just a 0.3 km walk from the town centre, TranzAlpine Railway Station and bus stop. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and an excellent rating for its location. The hostel is housed in a former monastery, featuring stunning stained glass windows, native timber paneling and original wall paintings by New Zealand artists. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city, sea and sunsets, relax in the large garden area with a spa pool, picnic tables, BBQ and hammocks, and make use of the free mountain bikes and fishing rods for exploring the surrounding area.
8.6 850 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£51/nighttotal: £153 (3 )
Oamaru Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Oamaru
Oamaru Backpackers is located just a short walk from Steampunk HQ and less than 1.6km from the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, making it a convenient base for exploring the town. The hostel consistently receives excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience. The hostel offers a shared kitchen and common area, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a terrace, a garden, a fitness centre, and parking, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
8.0 760 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£23/nighttotal: £161 (7 )
Brunnerton Lodge And Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Greymouth
Brunnerton Lodge And Backpackers is located in Brunnerton, just under a kilometre from the Gray River and a 10-minute drive from Point Elizabeth, making it a great base for exploring the region's natural beauty. The lodge enjoys very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience. The lodge is housed in a historic miner's pub, offering a unique insight into Greymouth's past. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, free bike rental, a shared lounge, a communal kitchen, a terrace, a garden, a jacuzzi, a sauna, a fitness centre, and parking.
8.8 974 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£64/nighttotal: £448 (7 )
Work Stay At 123
1 2
hostel , Dunedin
Work Stay at 123 is conveniently located in central Dunedin, just a short walk from the railway station and the town hall. The hostel enjoys a very good location and user rating, as well as an excellent cleanliness rating. The hostel offers a single bedroom and bathroom, providing a private and comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, a garden, a terrace, free parking, and free Wi-Fi.
9.0 3531 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£34/nighttotal: £238 (7 )
Drifter Christchurch
1 2
hostel , Christchurch
Drifter Christchurch is located in the city centre, just a short walk from the Botanic Gardens and the Avon River. It has received excellent ratings from previous guests, making it a popular choice for travellers. The hostel has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to connect and share stories. It offers a range of amenities including free internet, a terrace, a fitness centre, and parking, as well as social activities like singing, laughing, and writing stories together.
8.0 1935 reviews
South Island
08/10 – 11/10
£44/nighttotal: £132 (3 )
Kaiteri Lodge
1 2
hostel , Kaiteriteri
Kaiteri Lodge is situated just 50 metres from Kaiteriteri Beach and a 32 kilometre drive from Abel Tasman National Park, making it the perfect base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the region. The lodge has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience. Kaiteri Lodge offers a choice of rooms, including twin, double and family rooms with private bathrooms and TVs, as well as shared dormitories. Guests can enjoy a range of on-site amenities, including a restaurant, bar, communal kitchen, BBQ area, garden, spa, and parking, making it easy to relax and socialise with fellow travellers.
Best South Island hostels with breakfast included
Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast included
8.5 8789 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£20/nighttotal: £140 (7 )
Atlantis Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Picton
Atlantis Backpackers is conveniently located in Picton, within easy walking distance of the waterfront, train station, and ferry terminal. The hostel enjoys a very good user rating and an excellent location rating, as well as a very good cleanliness rating. The hostel offers a choice of dormitory rooms or private rooms, all with access to a shared kitchen. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a jacuzzi, spa, fitness centre, and free parking, as well as a terrace, garden, and barbecue facilities.
8.2 1023 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£48/nighttotal: £144 (3 )
Hotel Lake Brunner
1 2
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.
8.2 10294 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£169/nighttotal: £507 (3 )
Lylo Christchurch Airport
1 2
hostel , Christchurch
Lylo Christchurch is located just a short walk from Christchurch International Airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers arriving or departing by air. It's also close to Spitfire Square and the International Antarctic Centre, offering easy access to both shopping and attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with an excellent location rating. The hostel has a communal area and kitchen, perfect for meeting fellow travellers and preparing meals. Guests can also enjoy a terrace or balcony, a garden, and free parking, as well as 24-hour reception, luggage storage, laundry service, and even room service.
8.1 668 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£50/nightfor 1 night
The Eagle
1 2
hostel , Bluff
The Eagle hotel is located in Bluff, 29 kilometres from both Rugby Park Stadium and the Southern Institute of Technology. The hotel offers a shared lounge and bar, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, luggage storage, a continental breakfast, darts, and shared bathroom facilities.
Best South Island hostels with a locker
8.2 1571 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£27/nighttotal: £189 (7 )
The Prince Albert Backpackers & Bar
1 2
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.
8.4 3571 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£31/nighttotal: £93 (3 )
Ivorytowers Accommodation
1 2
hostel , Fox Glacier
Ivorytowers Accommodation is located just 400 metres from the centre of Fox Glacier Village, directly opposite the Westland National Park, offering stunning views of the rainforest and mountains. This hostel has received very good ratings for its cleanliness and overall experience, as well as excellent ratings for its location. The hostel offers a range of room options, some with shared bathrooms and others with private bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a communal TV area, a sun terrace, a hot tub, a sauna, a fitness centre, a garden, barbecue facilities, and a shared kitchen.
8.7 2569 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£48/nighttotal: £336 (7 )
The Flaming Kiwi Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
The Flaming Kiwi Backpackers is located in Queenstown, close to attractions like the Skyline Gondola and Luge, the Shotover River, and AJ Hackett Bungy Jumping. The hostel has received very good ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience. This backpacker's lodge offers a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. You can enjoy mountain views, free Wi-Fi, barbecue facilities, and free parking on-site.
8.8 14878 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£43/nighttotal: £129 (3 )
Hotel Give
1 2
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.
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 travellers, the South Island offers plenty. Free activities abound, like hiking the numerous trails in Fiordland National Park (consider the Kepler Track or Routeburn Track for multi-day options, though permits are required), exploring Abel Tasman National Park's beaches, or walking around Queenstown's lakefront. Many smaller towns have free museums or historical sites. Hitchhiking is also relatively common and can be a cheap way to get around, though always prioritise safety.
What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in the South Island of New Zealand?
While the West Coast glaciers are famous, venturing further off the beaten path to explore places like the Hokitika Gorge, with its vibrant turquoise waters, or the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, is highly recommended. The Catlins region in the south offers stunning coastal scenery, including Nugget Point Lighthouse and Curio Bay. For a truly unique experience, consider visiting the secluded beaches and forests of the West Coast, exploring areas like the Karangarua Valley.
What 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 the undisputed nightlife hub of the South Island, with numerous bars and pubs along its lakefront and in the town centre. Fergburger is a famous Queenstown institution, though expect queues. Wanaka also has a lively bar scene, though on a smaller scale. Smaller towns will have local pubs offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in South Island?
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 explore the South Island's highlights, but three weeks allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to delve into specific regions or activities. A month would enable a truly comprehensive exploration, allowing for more hiking and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
What are the best hostels with parking in South Island?
Does the South Island of New Zealand offer any iconic natural events?
Yes, the South Island is known for its stunning natural displays. The Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) is visible in the winter months from the southern regions, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Witnessing the changing colours of the leaves during autumn is also a remarkable experience, particularly in areas like Queenstown and Wanaka.
Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in the South Island of New Zealand?
Absolutely. Many opportunities exist to learn about Māori culture. Wai-iti Marae near Hokitika, for example, offers cultural experiences including traditional hangi meals and storytelling. Various places around the South Island provide Māori carving workshops, weaving workshops, and other cultural immersion activities. Always check for availability and book in advance.
How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in the South Island of New Zealand?
Staying in smaller towns and engaging with local businesses and communities is a great way to connect with the culture. Consider staying in farm stays or homestays for a more immersive experience. Visiting local markets and farmers' markets allows for interaction with locals and a taste of regional produce. Participating in guided tours led by local experts can also provide valuable insights.
Which restaurants and bars in the South Island of New Zealand offer the best local cuisine?
Many restaurants across the South Island showcase local produce. In Queenstown, Botswana Butchery is known for its high-quality meat dishes. In Christchurch, you'll find a diverse range of restaurants reflecting the city's multicultural character. Smaller towns often have charming cafes and restaurants featuring local ingredients and regional specialities. Look for restaurants promoting sustainable and locally-sourced food.
Nearby regions
Best South Island hostels with air conditioning
8.4 4009 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£43/nightfor 1 night
Urbanz
1 2
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.
8.0 7688 reviews
South Island
28/06 – 01/07
£68/nighttotal: £204 (3 )
Lylo Queenstown
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
Lylo Queenstown is located in the central district of Queenstown, just 200 metres from the Skyline Gondola and Luge, close to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. The hostel has received very good user ratings, excellent location ratings, and good cleanliness ratings. The hostel offers a variety of accommodation options, including pod rooms and hotel rooms with private bathrooms. Lylo Queenstown provides a range of amenities, including a kitchen, a terrace, a garden, a restaurant, a bar, and parking.
8.9 1684 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£48/nightfor 1 night
Adventure Wanaka Hostel
1 2
hostel , Wanaka
Adventure Wanaka Hostel is conveniently located in the centre of Wanaka, just a short walk from the town centre and Lake Wanaka beach. This hostel has been rated excellent by previous guests, so you can be sure of a comfortable stay. The hostel has a spacious courtyard, two decks, a guest lounge, a chill-out room, and dining areas, providing plenty of space to relax and socialise. Adventure Wanaka Hostel offers free high-speed Wi-Fi, towels, a laundry service, and a well-equipped kitchen with everything you need to cook meals.
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£68/nightfor 1 night
Drifter Christchurch
1 2
hostel , Christchurch
Drifter Christchurch offers the "Drifter Christchurch" deal from its central Christchurch location, placing you within easy walking distance of the city's key attractions. This hostel provides complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a restaurant, a fitness centre, and laundry services, with an elevator for accessibility.
Best South Island hostels with laundry available
9.1 376 reviews
South Island
20/06 – 27/06
£27/nighttotal: £189 (7 )
Manor On The Park Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Dunedin
Manor On The Park in Dunedin offers budget-friendly lodging a short walk from the city centre, near a park in a tranquil setting. This recently refreshed hostel provides clean rooms, Wi-Fi, and a relaxed atmosphere, welcoming solo travellers and groups, with friendly hosts Emma and Ben, and their dog Tui.
8.8 702 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£53/nightfor 1 night
Haka House Wanaka
1 2
hostel , Wanaka
The YHA Wanaka is conveniently located just a short drive from Puzzling World and within easy reach of Mount Aspiring Ski Fields, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, and the location has been rated excellent. The hostel offers a choice of both dormitory and private rooms, catering to different budgets and preferences. Guests can enjoy a range of communal spaces, including a cosy lounge with a fireplace, a balcony with mountain views, a games room, and a well-equipped kitchen, making it easy to socialise and relax.
8.0 8692 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
£59/nightfor 1 night
Nomads Queenstown Hostel
1 2
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.
Tripinn Hostel Backpackers YHA is situated just a 3-minute walk from Westport's main street, 4 minutes' drive from Carters Beach and the Coaltown Museum, and 12 minutes' drive from Westport Airport. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hostel offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including a garden, a terrace, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, laundry facilities, and a fitness centre. You can also enjoy free tea and coffee, and the hostel offers a tour desk to help you plan your activities, such as cave rafting trips.