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.
9.2 230 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$212/nightfor 1 night
Last Light Lodge
1 2
hostel , Tuatapere
Last Light Lodge is situated on the scenic Southern Road, an hour's drive from Invercargill and three hours from Milford Sound, making it an ideal base for exploring Fiordland National Park. The lodge has consistently received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness. The hostel offers comfortable accommodation in a single room with a floor area of 16 square metres, accommodating up to two guests. Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre, gardens, free Wi-Fi, and parking, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
8.8 6460 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$85/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.
8.8 314 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$122/nightfor 1 night
Zula Lodge
1 2
hostel , Wanaka
Zula Lodge is a short drive from Wanaka’s popular attractions like Puzzling World and Roy’s Bay, offering a peaceful retreat near the Hawea River. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The lodge features a shared kitchen, lounge, and BBQ areas, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy private rooms with garden views, heated accommodation, a sun terrace, laundry facilities, ski storage, and easy access to outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
8.0 2224 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$158/nightfor 1 night
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.
8.3 573 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$160/nightfor 1 night
Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
1 2
hostel , Glenorchy
Kinloch Wilderness Retreat is located just 26 kilometres from Glenorchy, making it the closest accommodation to the Greenstone and Routeburn hiking trails, offering stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. The hostel has received very good ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience. The retreat offers a variety of rooms, from shared dormitories to private queen rooms, catering to different budgets and preferences. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen, guest lounge, outdoor hot tub, and a range of activities, including horse riding, zip lining, fishing, and hiking.
8.0 7680 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$105/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.
8.9 5 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$120/nightfor 1 night
Pennys Drop Inn
1 2
hostel , Cromwell
Penny's Drop Inn hostel is situated in Central Otago, New Zealand, 16km north of Cromwell on State Highway 6, near Lake Dunstan and within easy driving distance of Wanaka and Queenstown. This lodging offers various room types, including super king, twin, and dorm rooms, plus a well-equipped common area with a kitchen, laundry, free Wi-Fi, and ample parking, all set amidst wineries and fruit orchards.
8.8 1571 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$120/nightfor 1 night
Barnyard Backpackers Te Anau
1 2
hostel , Te Anau
Barnyard Backpackers Te Anau is situated just 10 kilometres from the lakes and towns of Te Anau and Manapouri, offering easy access to Fiordland National Park and its stunning scenery. The hostel has consistently received very good ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall experience. This backpacker accommodation features private chalet rooms with en-suite bathrooms, TVs, heating, and kettles, providing comfortable and private spaces for guests. The hostel also offers a large communal kitchen and BBQ facilities, a pool table, free Wi-Fi, and private on-site parking, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
8.7 2856 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$202/nightfor 1 night
Haka House Queenstown Lakefront
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
The YHA Queenstown Lakefront hostel is situated just a short 10-minute walk from the centre of Queenstown, offering easy access to the town's shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The hostel has received consistently high ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hostel features a range of accommodation options, from private rooms to shared dorms, all with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. Guests can enjoy a communal kitchen, a terrace with BBQ facilities, a ski drying room, and a variety of free entertainment options.
8.4 389 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$76/nightfor 1 night
Beach Road Holiday Park
1 2
hostel , Otatara
Beach Road Holiday Park is situated in Otatara, just 8.7km from Rugby Park Stadium and 8.5km from the Southern Institute of Technology. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The accommodation offers a shared lounge, a garden, and a playground for families. Guests can enjoy free bikes, barbecue facilities, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and free private parking.
9.5 218 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$117/nightfor 1 night
Rarakau Lodge
1 2
hostel , Tuatapere
Rarakau Lodge is located 23 kilometres from Tuatapere, in the peaceful Papatotara district, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. The lodge has received very good user ratings, excellent location ratings, and excellent cleanliness ratings. This one-bedroom lodge features a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Enjoy a range of amenities including a Jacuzzi, terrace, garden, spa, and private beach access, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.
Best Southland hostels with breakfast
Among the 63 accommodations in Southland, here are the 1 best hostels with breakfast
8.1 668 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$115/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.
Top cities
Best Southland hostels with a locker
8.3 1506 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$109/nightfor 1 night
Haka House Queenstown Lakefront
1 2
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.
8.3 1978 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$124/nightfor 1 night
Haka House Wanaka
1 2
hostel , Wanaka
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.
9.8 685 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$124/nightfor 1 night
Wanaka Bakpaka
1 2
hostel , Wanaka
The Wanaka Bakpaka offer provides a 34-bed hostel accommodation with unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains, located in Wanaka. This property features a TV-free lounge and dining room, a well-equipped kitchen, an outdoor BBQ area, and full laundry facilities, with private rooms, mixed dorms, and shared rooms available for guests exploring Wanaka's activities.
9.3 6514 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$128/nightfor 1 night
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.
Frequently asked questions about hostels in Southland
What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Southland, New Zealand?
For budget-conscious travellers, Southland offers plenty. Free activities include exploring the stunning beaches of Invercargill, like Oreti Beach, or hiking the many trails in Fiordland National Park, such as the Kepler Track (though permits and some transport costs may apply). The Catlins area is also fantastic for cost-effective exploration, with numerous waterfalls and coastal walks readily accessible.
What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in Southland, New Zealand?
Many overlook the beauty of the Catlins. Nugget Point Lighthouse offers incredible coastal views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Further inland, the Tautuku Peninsula boasts secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs. For something different, consider exploring the petrified forest near Curio Bay.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Southland?
What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Southland, New Zealand?
A week allows for a good exploration of Southland's highlights. However, to fully appreciate Fiordland National Park and the more remote areas of the Catlins, two weeks would be ideal. It really depends on your interests and preferred pace of travel.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Southland?
Does Southland, New Zealand offer any iconic natural events?
While not a regular, predictable event, the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) can be visible in Southland on clear, dark nights, particularly during periods of high solar activity. It's a truly spectacular natural phenomenon.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Southland?
Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Southland, New Zealand?
Opportunities for cultural immersion are available. Several local iwi (Maori tribes) offer cultural tours and workshops, providing insights into their history, traditions, and art forms. Contact local tourism operators for details on availability.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Southland?
How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Southland, New Zealand?
Staying in smaller towns and engaging with local businesses is a good way to connect. Many pubs and cafes offer a friendly atmosphere, allowing for casual conversations with locals. Participating in any local events or festivals will also provide opportunities for interaction.
What are the best hostels with parking in Southland?
Which restaurants and bars in Southland, New Zealand offer the best local cuisine?
Invercargill offers various dining options. For fresh seafood, try the restaurants near Bluff. Many smaller towns have pubs serving classic Kiwi fare, such as fish and chips. Look for restaurants featuring local produce and game meats for a true taste of the region.
Nearby regions
Best Southland hostels with air conditioning
8.0 1065 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$242/nightfor 1 night
The Black Sheep Backpackers
1 2
hostel , Queenstown
The Black Sheep Backpackers is a hostel located in Queenstown, offering convenient access to local attractions. This accommodation provides complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning in select rooms, a jacuzzi, sauna, spa, terrace, garden, and on-site kitchen facilities, with laundry services and concierge available.
8.0 417 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$220/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.
8.0 8688 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$121/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.
8.9 1685 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$110/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.
Best Southland hostels with laundry available
8.4 1574 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$60/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.
8.0 269 reviews
Southland
17/09 – 18/09
NZ$168/nightfor 1 night
Falcon's Nest
1 2
hostel , Cromwell
Falcon's Nest is a hostel located just 5 kilometres from Cromwell's town centre and golf course, surrounded by scenic mountains and countryside. It has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hostel offers a shared kitchen and lounge area, perfect for socialising with other guests. Amenities include a terrace, garden, bar, fitness centre, free Wi-Fi, and parking.