Staying overnight in New Zealand doesn’t have to break the bank, as long as you plan ahead. Here are several budget-friendly accommodations that you’ll love.
New Zealand is an adventurer’s paradise (so bring your sneakers and a shoe sac!). With its giant mountains, coastal beauty, and everything in between, there really is something for everyone. But, for those traveling to the country from all over the world, the price of the flight alone can often eat up a large part of the travel budget, leaving little left over for other expenses. So, finding quality places to sleep without spending too much is important. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options. Ready to pack your bag? Read on for six budget accommodations that’ll help you stretch your travel dollar.
The Black Sheep Backpackers
If you find yourself in Queenstown and need a place to stay, check out The Black Sheep Backpackers. Whether you need a place to park your campervan, or are looking for the full hostel experience, Black Sheep has something to offer you. Accommodations start at NZD $26 per person, per night for a bunk in a shared dorm, but if you want a bit more privacy, you can still get that for a reasonable rate (like NZD $70 for a twin cabin).
Jailhouse Accommodation
How would you like to spend a night in the slammer? Well, if you are in Christchurch (one of New Zealand’s largest cities), you can make that happen at the Jailhouse Accommodation (but with the option of escaping whenever you want). It was originally an actual jailhouse, which closed in 1999 and remained unoccupied until 2006, when it was renovated and turned into the hostel it is today. Cells are available starting at about NZD $34 per night for a dorm-style bunk.
YHA Auckland International
Whether you’re looking for a place that can accommodate your whole family, or just yourself, YHA Auckland—a hostel located in the country’s largest urban area—can fit the bill. Located on Auckland’s bustling Queen Street, it’s right in the heart of the city and close to the excitement. Plus, YHA Auckland has a travel and booking service onsite to help you plan your adventures. Accommodations start at around NZD $25 per night for a bunk in an eight-bed shared dorm.
Sahara Guest House
If you are looking for an affordable bed and breakfast accommodation while traveling through Dunedin, New Zealand, check out Sahara Guest House, which is part of a larger Sahara accommodation complex that includes a motel and studio units. This heritage-style brick building offers a selection of rooms, some of which feature en suite bathrooms (otherwise, there are shared facilities), and all of which come with continental breakfast. Guest House rooms with a shared bathroom start at NZD $59 per night.
Kaiteri Lodge
Kaiteri Lodge is a budget accommodation in New Zealand’s beautiful Nelson region, next to Kaiteriteri Beach and near Abel Tasman National Park. The 21-room lodge offers family rooms with en suite bathrooms and a choice of bed combinations, twin rooms with en suite bathrooms, and dorm rooms with or without en suite bathrooms. The latter starts at NZD $30 per person, per night. Kaiteri also features an outdoor barbecue area, a bar and restaurant, mini golf, and more—so even if you don’t venture far, you’ll have plenty to do.
Nomads Queenstown
If you are the adventurous type and relish the traditional hostel experience, you’ll feel right at home at Nomads. The hostel boasts amenities that lend themselves perfectly to socializing and exploring, like a pool table, ski storage, and a cinema room. And when you need to relax, you can take advantage of the fireplace and sauna. Dorm beds are available starting at NZD $25 per night.
With so much adventure to be had in New Zealand, it’s no surprise that people flock there. (Are you so excited that your bag is already packed?) With the accommodations mentioned above, you can spend some time there without spending too much coin. Of course, these aren’t the only options. If you’ve been to a great budget hotel, hostel, or guest house in New Zealand, please share the details in the comments.
Related Links (from Eagle Creek blog)
New Zealand Wine Tasting: The Best Vineyards
