Tombstone Motel, Lodge & Backpackers is conveniently located in Picton, a short walk from the Bluebridge ferry terminal and within a 15-minute walk of the Picton Railway Station and Inter Islander ferry terminal. The motel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and location, making it a popular choice for travellers. The motel offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms, a self-contained apartment, and dormitory rooms. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a shared kitchen, dining area, TV room, laundry facilities, games deck, gym equipment, a spa, free Wi-Fi, parking, bike hire, and luggage storage.
8.1 5839 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
$117/nighttotal: $351 (3 )
The Palace Backpackers
1 4
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.
9.1 1371 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$82/nightfor 1 night
Hanmer Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Backpackers is conveniently located in the heart of Hanmer Springs, just a two-minute walk from the thermal pools and adventure centre. The hostel has consistently received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hostel offers a range of rooms, from private to dormitory-style, catering to different budgets and preferences. Guests have access to a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, a terrace, a garden, and parking, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
8.7 2569 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$102/nighttotal: $204 (2 )
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.
8.0 1935 reviews
South Island
08/10 – 11/10
$82/nighttotal: $246 (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.
8.4 4009 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
$132/nighttotal: $396 (3 )
Urbanz
3 4
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.
8.8 3542 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$76/nightfor 1 night
Rainforest Retreat
1 2
hostel , Franz Josef
The Rainforest Deluxe hotel is located in Franz Josef, just a short distance from the Franz Josef Glacier, offering easy access to stunning natural beauty. It consistently receives excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall guest experience. The hotel offers a range of modern amenities including a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and spa, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests can enjoy stunning views from the terrace, unwind in the sauna or jacuzzi, and explore the surrounding area with ease.
8.9 563 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
$227/nighttotal: $681 (3 )
The Innlet, Country Apartments And Cottages
3 4
hostel , Collingwood
The Innlet, Country Apartments and Cottages in Collingwood offers pet-friendly apartments and cottages, conveniently located approximately 137 kilometres from Nelson Airport, providing easy access to local hiking and fishing. This Collingwood lodging boasts a fitness centre, restaurant, and various rooms with private bathrooms, featuring gardens, barbecue facilities, and a terrace, along with free Wi-Fi and parking.
8.5 1138 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$65/nighttotal: $130 (2 )
Dolphin Lodge
1 2
hostel , Kaikoura
Dolphin Lodge is just a two-minute walk from Kaikoura's town centre, offering views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness, user experience and location. The hostel has a choice of dormitory rooms or private rooms for added comfort. Guests can enjoy a relaxing garden with deck chairs, a shared kitchen, BBQ facilities and coin-operated laundry facilities.
8.2 1569 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$46/nighttotal: $92 (2 )
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.
8.8 14878 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$88/nightfor 1 night
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.
8.0 405 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$80/nightfor 1 night
Tui Base Camp
1 2
hostel , Tuatapere
This Tuatapere golf hotel enjoys a central location, 14.8km from the Clifden Suspension Bridge and within 40km of the Hump Ridge Track and Te Wahipounamu. Offering a restaurant, bar, spa, fitness centre, and on-site golf course, this family-friendly inn with a jacuzzi and sauna provides rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and parking; Lake Hauroko is a 42km drive.
Best South Island hostels with breakfast
Among the 4 hostels in South Island, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast
8.2 1023 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$89/nightfor 1 night
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.
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$156/nighttotal: $312 (2 )
Heartland Hotel Glacier Country
1 2
hostel , Fox Glacier
Heartland Hotel Glacier Country is a 3-star hotel conveniently located within walking distance of Fox Glacier's town centre, offering easy access to local amenities and attractions. This accommodation provides guests with complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant and bar, free parking, and tour assistance for booking local excursions.
8.4 8785 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
$84/nighttotal: $252 (3 )
Atlantis Backpackers
1 4
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.
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$71/nighttotal: $142 (2 )
The Boathouse Lodge
1 2
hostel , Picton
Accommodation. You will be located in Picton. Facilities and services: free parking and a garden.
Best South Island hostels with a locker
8.2 10294 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
$194/nighttotal: $582 (3 )
Lylo Christchurch Airport
1 4
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.
9.1 222 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$56/nighttotal: $112 (2 )
Oxford Queenette Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Oxford
Oxford Queenette Backpackers is situated in the centre of Oxford, directly opposite the Town Hall and just a short walk from the River Avon. The hostel offers a range of facilities, including a shared kitchen, lounge area with a flat-screen TV, BBQ facilities, and a garden, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers.
8.0 2225 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$112/nighttotal: $224 (2 )
The Black Sheep Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
The Black Sheep Backpackers is located in Queenstown, just a short distance from the Skyline Gondola and Luge and a mile from the Shotover River. The hostel has received very good ratings for user experience, cleanliness, and location. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and dormitory rooms with individual pods. The amenities include a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna, a spa, a bar, a fitness centre, and parking. Guests can enjoy a hot tub after a day on the slopes or exploring the surrounding mountains and can also use the free bicycles to explore the area.
8.0 7688 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$129/nightfor 1 night
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.
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 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?
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?
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?
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
8.9 5199 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$112/nighttotal: $224 (2 )
Absoloot Hostel Queenstown
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
Absoloot Hostel Queenstown is located right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, a short walk from the Gondola and transport links to ski resorts and adventure activities. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience. The hostel offers private bathrooms in all rooms, a rare feature for this type of accommodation. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen, laundry facilities, a games room with satellite TV, secure storage, a swimming pool, a terrace, a garden, a fitness centre, and a tennis court.
8.8 697 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$106/nightfor 1 night
Smylies Accommodation
1 2
hostel , Springfield
Smylies Accommodation is located in Springfield, 34km from Porters and 47km from Broken River Ski Field, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. Smylies Accommodation offers a shared kitchen, a lounge, a garden, and a BBQ area for guests to enjoy. The hostel also provides amenities such as free Wi-Fi, airport transportation, ski equipment rental, and a choice of continental or Asian breakfast options, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$121/nighttotal: $242 (2 )
85 On Bealey
1 2
hostel , Christchurch
85 On Bealey, located in Christchurch, offers convenient access to city attractions, with the nearest landmark being the Canterbury Museum, situated 1.5 kilometers away. This hostel provides family-friendly accommodation with free Wi-Fi, complimentary on-site parking, a garden, and a terrace/balcony, alongside a shared kitchen equipped with a fridge and microwave oven.
9.3 6511 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$112/nighttotal: $224 (2 )
Adventure Queenstown Hostel
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
Adventure Q2 Hostel is located in Queenstown, just an 8-minute walk from the Skyline Gondola and Luge, offering easy access to the town's main attractions. The hostel has received excellent ratings for location and user experience, with a very good rating for cleanliness. The hostel offers a shared kitchen and grill area for guests to prepare meals and socialise. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and complimentary bikes to explore the area, as well as a tour desk to help plan their activities.
Best South Island hostels with laundry available
8.4 1574 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$49/nightfor 1 night
Possum Lodge
1 2
hostel , Manapouri
Possum Lodge is a hostel located in Manapouri, just 21km from the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves and 19km from the Te Anau Wildlife Centre. It has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience. The hostel offers a shared kitchen, barbecue facilities, and a garden with lake views. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, table tennis, darts, and free private parking, as well as the opportunity to book tours at the on-site desk.
9.4 3515 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
$68/nighttotal: $136 (2 )
Global Village Travellers Lodge
1 2
hostel , Greymouth
Global Village Travellers Lodge is a short 3-kilometre drive from Greymouth's town centre, situated next to Sawyers Creek, a tranquil spot with a local pub and supermarket within a 5-minute walk. The lodge has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with a very good location rating. The lodge offers a range of accommodation options, including both lively dormitories and private rooms, all with bed linen provided. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen, a hot tub, sauna, small fitness centre, guest lounge with a log fire, and a library. There are also a variety of activities available, such as free use of bicycles, fishing rods, golf clubs, and kayaks, as well as the opportunity to book local excursions like glacier walks, cave rafting, and quad biking.
8.8 6460 reviews
South Island
13/09 – 14/09
$69/nightfor 1 night
Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Te Anau
Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers is a short walk from the town centre, offering stunning views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding Fiordland National Park mountains. The hostel has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The backpackers is set in beautiful park-like grounds, providing a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a bar, fitness centre, movie room, well-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and free unlimited Wi-Fi, as well as organise tours and activities with the friendly staff.
8.7 196 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
$146/nighttotal: $438 (3 )
Berlins Cafe, Bar And Backpackers
2 4
hostel , Newton Flat
Berlins Cafe, Bar and Backpackers, a backpackers' lodge in Newton Flat, is situated 37 kilometres from Westport Airport, offering easy access to local hiking trails. This single-bedroom, single-bathroom guesthouse provides guests with a shared kitchen equipped with a fridge and microwave, a garden, on-site restaurant and bar, free Wi-Fi, and parking, alongside pet-friendly accommodation.