The Best Hostels in Auckland, New Zealand

“Your dreams start here,” reads one inscription on the wall of this top-floor hostel on Wellesley Street. Geared to suit every roaming backpacker, Attic has its very own travel desk advertising a range of activities and is centrally located, only a few steps from Auckland’s Sky Tower. Inside, the generously- spaced communal areas also include a bright, leafy roof terrace. There’s even a few guitars up for grabs for those keen to introduce themselves with a musical number.

Located in the up-market suburb of Ponsonby, Haka Lodge sits between the stylish eateries and boutique shops that give the area its trendy reputation. The lodge fits well into its surroundings and is easily recognised by its pastel shades, bay windows and Rapunzel-like spire. Even the dorm rooms are chic, featuring solid wood bunk beds with built-in storage lockers, night lamps and privacy curtains.

Killer Pool Wednesdays, Indoor Soccer Thursdays, Free Barbecue Fridays – guests at this hostel near Myers Park will never get bored. Discounts are available for long-stay visits and, for an additional fee, there’s also handy access to on-site parking and an associated YMCA gym. As a non-profit hostel, all proceeds are reinvested into children’s charities in Auckland and the Waikato region.

With a quiet curfew in place between 9pm and 9am and a strict ban on alcohol, travellers seeking a restful night’s sleep will feel at home here in central Auckland. Best of all, a relaxing respite doesn’t mean you’ll lose out on any fun; the teeming bars of Queen Street are still only a 10-minute walk away. On-site parking is offered at an additional cost, but wifi and the use of computers is free throughout.

The two reclining sofas that greet visitors on the porch set the scene for these quirky digs, south of Auckland’s Central Business District. Free perks include parking, local telephone calls and unlimited tea and coffee, while a six-minute hot shower will set you back a few cents. The Auckland-savvy staff, including a former nightclub manager, are happy to give you tips on top night spots and even working holiday visas.

A solid oak dining bench, exposed-brick walls and an open-plan kitchen and lounge area mean this hotel wouldn’t look out of place alongside its Haka Lodge sibling in Ponsonby. Dorm rooms range from five-bed to 20-bed rooms, with female-only options available. The hostel is part of the Haka Tour group, which means that residents who dare to sign up for the 192m (630ft) Sky Jump can do so at a discounted rate.

Family-run by three Kiwi brothers and built from native Kauri timber, Verandahs in Western Park offer a local’s perspective on the city. It is handily-placed between fashionable Ponsonby and the student hangout on Karangahape Road – known locally as K’ Road. Featuring ornate fireplaces and leather sofas, the space feels less like a hostel and more like someone’s home. This theme is continued into the dorms, where comfy single beds are favoured over the standard bunk-bed offerings.