Great Backpacker Hostels to Book in Christchurch, New Zealand

The Haka Lodge is an eco-friendly backpacker hostel that looks like a lavish, off-grid sanctuary. A beautiful garden welcomes its guests into the modern, cabin-like accommodation, which consists of private rooms spread across three floors. Even within their shared dorms, the notion of personal space prevails – the lodge proudly boasts not having any bunk beds among its facilities. The hostel is located within a 5 to 10 minute drive from downtown, and conveniently has a bus stop right outside it.

Jailhouse Accommodation transformed the former Addington Prison into what is probably the most uniquely themed backpacker hostel in the Southern Hemisphere. In fact, one could go as far as saying that this is a tourist attraction in its own right: a handful of well-preserved display rooms pay an ode to this hostel’s historic origins. The Jailhouse Accommodation is situated within a 15 minute walk from Hagley Park, and is the closest hostel to the Christchurch Railway Station.

Dorset House is a boutique hostel that oozes Victorian charm. This affordable, inner-city accommodation’s setting is a heritage house that was built as a private residence in the 1870s. The house and its rooms were refurbished in 2012 – with modern furnishings (and no bunk beds!) ensuring all its guests are comfortable and satisfied. To add to its serenity, Dorset House is situated a mere 10-minute walk from the Botanic Gardens.

Around the World Backpackers is renowned for its hospitable freebies: WiFi, tea, coffee, cooking spices, herbs from their own garden, ear plugs, hair dryers, and even alarm clocks for the early birds. There’s also a BBQ on-site, as well as computer and printing facilities for those who need it. The hostel is located within a 10-minute walk to the city centre, and 20 minutes from the Canterbury Museum.

The YMCA Christchurch Hostel ticks all the right boxes: it is centrally-located, budget-friendly, and consists of an extensive range of backpacker dorms and private rooms. There’s also a fully licensed restaurant on its premises – ideal for those nights you’d prefer to dine in. The Botanic Gardens are right next to the hostel, making this the perfect departure point for those wanting to spend some time exploring the city landscape.

Jucy Snooze is a ‘flashpacker’ within close quarters of the International Antarctic Centre and the international airport. Guests can choose between private en-suite rooms or a selection of futuristic, self-contained dormitory pods. Other standout features include a modern communal lounge with hammocks, a bean bag and a swing, as well as free WiFi and USB charging ports in just about every imaginable corner.

Point Break is a backpacker hostel in the seaside suburb of New Brighton. A five minute walk will take you to the beach, and a 20-minute bus ride will get you to Christchurch’s city centre. Along with offering an alternative from the downtown rush, the backpacker also has its own café. Free breakfasts are offered in winter, and homemade cooking is always a given.

The Old Countryhouse Backpackers is situated in Linwood, approximately a 20 minute walk from downtown. With accommodation options ranging from shared dormitories to private rooms, the Old Countryhouse invites its guests to enjoy a number of hotel-grade luxuries without breaking the bank. The hostel boasts two communal lounges, three fully-equipped shared kitchens, free WiFi, a sauna and spa pool facilities.