The best hostels in New Zealand aren’t just a bed for the night—they’re the kind of places you never want to leave. They turn a quick stop into an experience, where you meet new friends, share stories, and maybe even change your plans just to stay longer.
With so many hostels to choose from all over the North and South Islands, there are plenty of epic stays around—from hidden gems to big city names. These are the best hostels in New Zealand right now—handpicked by us for their vibe, location, and facilities.
1. The Tree House (Hokianga)
Hidden in the subtropical hills of the northern Hokianga, The Treehouse is one of New Zealand’s most unique hostels. Surrounded by native bush and birdsong, this totally off-grid eco-hostel offers rustic cabins, shared kitchens, and a peaceful vibe that’s ideal for unwinding on your journey. We fell asleep to the sound of moreporks calling through the trees and woke up to misty harbour views.
Like its name suggests, The Treehouse was purpose-built among native bush, with a large balcony that overlooks an abundance of subtropical trees and plants. This owner-built hostel even has its own nature trail through regenerating forest. At the hilltop you can enjoy 180 degree views of the picturesque Hokianga Harbour.
Staying here is an unforgettable experience, it’s the perfect place to disconnect in pure nature—with quality facilities.
👉🏼 Discover hidden treasure in our dedicated guide: 15 best things to do in Northland: Highlights and hidden Gems.
🛒 Pro tip: Bring groceries with you—there’s no supermarket nearby, and you’ll want to stay a few days!
2. Adventure Queenstown Hostel (Queenstown)
This place ticks all the boxes. Adventure Queenstown Hostel is located right in the heart of town, offers quality bedding, a well-equipped kitchen, and even some pretty epics views of the surrounding mountains. Also, it’s worth adding that these guys have some of the best bathroom facilities we’ve come across! This hostel makes the perfect base for your Queenstown adventures.
The vibe is friendly and inclusive, with daily events like quiz nights, potluck dinners, and movie marathons. The staff here are legends and they made us feel very welcome. They’re often backpackers themselves, and they’ll help you book activities or find work if you’re sticking around.
Adventure Queenstown Hostel isn’t just popular—it’s legendary. With its social vibe and award-winning service, it’s no wonder backpackers rave about it. Book early though—beds disappear fast in summer and ski season!
👉🏼 Wanna hit all the best local spots? Check out our guide: 8 best things to do in Queenstown for free.
3. LyLo (Auckland)
Get ready for a bold statement—LyLo Auckland is redefining the backpacker experience with its sleek, modern design and tech-forward vibe. This place is bold. It ain’t cheap either—but you get what you pay for big time. I mean seriously they’ve got yoga classes!
Most importantly—they’re located within the heart of Auckland’s city centre. The waterfront, Mount Eden, Auckland Domain, etc, are easily accessible on foot.
Instead of traditional dorms, LyLo offers pod-style sleeping with privacy screens, USB charging ports, and comfy bedding. The common areas are bright and social, with snazzy lighting, there’s an inviting bar and eatery (Miss Lucys), and plenty of space to chill, work, or mingle. There’s even a self-check-in kiosk.
You don’t need to jump in a time machine to travel to the future, just step out of the elevator here.
👉🏼 Check out our insider guide to the 8 best things to do in Auckland for free. Kiwi made!
4. Drifter (Christchurch)
A fresh face on the South Island hostel scene, Drifter Christchurch is already making waves. This boutique-style hostel blends comfort, community, and cool design in a way that feels more like a co-living space than a traditional backpackers. It’s clean, safe, and full of thoughtful touches that make you feel at home. Located in the city centre, Drifter is close to cafés, galleries, and the Botanic Gardens.
Inside, you’ll find stylish dorms and private rooms, a café and bar, and beautifully curated common areas that invite connection. There’s even a wellness studio offering yoga and fitness classes—perfect for balancing out those long bus rides and pub crawls!
Drifter is ideal for backpackers who want a more refined hostel experience without losing the social vibe.
🧘♀️ Pro tip: Check the events board—Drifter hosts regular live music, workshops, and community dinners.
5. Haka House (Aoraki / Mt Cook)
If waking up to snow-capped peaks and crisp alpine air sounds like your kind of morning, Haka House Aoraki Mt Cook is the place to be. We’re talking 10/10 views—sunrise over the mountains is next-level, and honestly, it’s one of the most epic backdrops you’ll find at any hostel in New Zealand.
Situated in the tiny alpine village of Mt Cook, Haka House offers unbeatable access to hiking trails (Hooker Valley Track), world-class stargazing, and the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Alps.
The hostel itself is cosy and welcoming, with a log cabin feel and plenty of space to relax after a day on the trails. Dorms are warm and comfortable, and the shared kitchen is well-equipped for cooking up a hearty meal. There’s also a lounge with board games, books, and big windows that frame the mountains perfectly (funny that).
Here’s the best part—there’s a free sauna. See you in there!
🌌 Pro tip: Don’t miss the night sky—Mt Cook is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the stargazing here is insane.
6. Palm Tree Apartments & Backpackers (Paihia)
These guys claim the title of best tropical hostel in New Zealand with their laid-back, beachy vibe. Palm Tree Apartments & Backpackers is close to all the action in central Paihia: dolphin cruises, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and scenic hikes like the Haruru Falls track.
It’s just a short walk from the beach, ferry terminal, and town centre—making it a perfect base for exploring the Bay of Islands.
The hostel offers a wide range of accommodation options from dorms to self-contained apartments, with competitive rates. You’ll find everything you need here, including a well-equipped kitchen, free parking, and a cozy movie room.
But what we really love about this place—it runs on island time. There are actually palm trees everywhere—we lost count. Plus, a sunny courtyard with a BBQ and plenty of outdoor spaces to chill and get social.
And the best part? There’s a tiki pool! You could easily spend an afternoon on one of their sunloungers—without the price tag. That’s us!
🛶 Pro tip: Ask about kayak hire down the end of the street—paddling around the bay is a must-do.
7. The Marion Hostel (Wellington)
Stylish, central, and surprisingly affordable, The Marion Hostel is one of Wellington’s best-kept secrets. Located just off Cuba Street, it’s close to all the action—bars, cafés, galleries, and Te Papa Museum. But inside, it’s calm, clean, and beautifully designed. These guys are flexing some serious style.
Think boutique hostel meets Scandi chic. The dorms have privacy curtains, individual lights and outlets, and comfy mattresses. There’s a rooftop terrace with city views, a modern kitchen, and a lounge that makes a handy co-working space for digital nomads.
💃 Pro tip: Check out Courtenay Place for the best Wellington nightlife.
8. Adventure Inn (Mārahau)
At the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park in Mārahau, Adventure Inn is an ideal base for your hiking and kayaking adventures in this stunning scenic region. They’ve earned iconic status in the backpacking world, thanks to a vibe that’s as warm and inviting as the people you’ll meet there.
This small, locally owned hostel has a laid-back, eco-friendly vibe and is just a short stroll from Sandy Bay and the start of the Abel Tasman Coast Track. The staff are super helpful here and they know the area inside out.
Adventure Inn offers a mix of dorms and private rooms, plus a sunny courtyard, and a communal kitchen that’s got everything you need to cook a great meal. It’s quiet, clean, and surrounded by nature—making it a relaxing stay for those who want to chill out after a day of exploring.
🛶 Pro tip: Adventure Inn is a short walk from Abel Tasman Kayaks—one of the best ways to explore the Abel Tasman coastline.
9. Adventure Q2 Hostel (Queenstown)
There’s a lot of mega hostels in Q-Town—but what if you want something smaller while still being central? Enter Adventure Q2. It’s one of the best small hostels in Queenstown—ideal if you want to be close to the action but prefer a more chilled-out space.
Another member of the Adventure Hostels brand, Q2 is the sister hostel to Adventure Queenstown, and we found it just as awesome. Located one street over, and close to the Village Green, Q2 offers a slightly quieter vibe with the same great facilities and social atmosphere.
The hostel features small dorms (with privacy), private rooms, and a cosy lounge with Netflix, board games, and beanbags. There’s also a well-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and even views of the Remarkables. Like its sibling, Q2 runs daily events and is staffed by friendly backpackers who know the town inside out.
🏞️ Pro tip: Ask the staff about hidden hikes and local deals—they’ve got great tips!
10. Adventure Wānaka Hostel (Wānaka)
Whether you’re here to hike Roys Peak, spot that Wānaka tree (we don’t blame you), or just chill out in the alpine surroundings, Adventure Wānaka Hostel is the kind of place you’ll want to stay longer than planned. It’s locally owned and operated (another Adventure Hostels member), which means the vibe is personal, welcoming, and full of character.
Just a short walk from Lake Wānaka and the town centre, this hostel offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with all the comforts you could want. It features small dorms, private rooms, and a spacious common area with a fireplace, board games, and a well-equipped kitchen. Outside you can enjoy a sunny courtyard and BBQ area with epic mountain views.
Staff organise regular social events, and they’re always happy to help with hiking tips, bike hire, or local recommendations. Adventure Wānaka Hostel is a hidden gem in one of the South Island’s most scenic towns.
🚲 Pro tip: Rent a bike and explore the lakefront trail—it’s flat, scenic, and full of photo ops.
More than just a place to crash
It’s been a trip down memory lane for us, revisiting some of the greatest stays we’ve ever had. We want you to experience the same magic in New Zealand. Your hostel should be more than a bed—it should be part of the adventure.
Experience the off-grid magic of The Treehouse in the Hokianga, or the future-forward digs at LyLo in Auckland. Each hostel offers something unique—and unforgettable. A vibe that you can’t find anywhere else.
These hostels have got it all—from subtropical escapes and alpine adventures to beachside bliss and stylish city vibes. There’s a hostel on this list that’ll feel like home to you. That’s what they are for us (seriously, we’re not just feeling nostalgic).
They’re places to connect, recharge, and enrich your experience in New Zealand. So pack your bags, book early (we ain’t gonna stop with that), and get ready to meet new travelmates, swap stories, and make memories that’ll last a lifetime.
The hostel scene is thriving here, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet for backpacking in New Zealand. ✌🏼
🧭 Pro tip: Hostels like these fill up fast in peak season—especially in hot spots like Queenstown. We advise booking ahead whenever possible so you can enjoy our best hostels in New Zealand for yourself!
⭐ Looking for travel inspo? Check out our Kiwi-made insider guides to the 25 best things to do in NZ: North Island highlights and 25 best things to do in NZ: South Island highlights.
