10 Best Backpacker Hostels in Christchurch 🎒 2025

Last Updated: 1 August, 2025

Where to Find the Best Hostels in Christchurch for Backpackers

These backpacker hostels are more than just a place to stay for the night. Christchurch‘s hostel scene is one where hostels strive for additional comforts to make longer stays more enjoyable, such as a spa pool or organised social nights to make some quick travel mates. One of the hostels is even a converted jail…

We appreciate that staying in budget accommodations is because you want to save money for much more awesome stuff in New Zealand, so be sure to also check the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Christchurch and 15 Best Things to Do in Christchurch too.

Without further ado, here are the backpacker hostels we love the most in Christchurch.

1. Jailhouse Accommodation

A converted prison makes Jailhouse Accommodation one of the most unique hostels in the Southern Hemisphere! Set in a refurbished 1874 building with Gothic-style architecture, this tourist attraction-turned-backpacker hostel offers an intriguing blend of history and comfort.

Choose from dorms and private rooms with shared bathroom facilities. The on-site café, guest lounge with cinema projector, and historical display room where you can pretend to be an inmate add to the quirky charm.

Guests enjoy free parking and WiFi in public areas, as well as access to TV lounges, a billiards table and a spacious communal kitchen. The helpful information desk can assist with organising excursions and vehicle rentals for your Christchurch adventures.

Book Jailhouse Accommodation:

9 Best Backpacker Hostels in Christchurch

2. Christchurch Backpackers and Cafe

Christchurch Backpackers and Cafe is a cosy hostel that offers a welcoming retreat for budget-conscious travellers. With free WiFi throughout and a communal lounge perfect for mingling, it’s an ideal spot for solo adventurers and sociable backpackers alike.

The shared kitchen is well-equipped, allowing guests to whip up their own meals and save on dining out.

What sets this place apart is its range of modern amenities. From the handy microwave to the essential electric kettle, you’ll find all the comforts of home.

Both private and shared bathrooms are available, catering to different preferences. As a bonus, free on-site parking means you can explore Christchurch and beyond with ease in your rental car.

Book Christchurch Backpackers and Cafe:

7 Best Backpacker Hostels in Christchurch 🎒 [2025]

3. Around The World Backpackers

Free WiFi and easy access to Christchurch’s top landmarks await at Around The World Backpackers. This welcoming hostel offers a terrace with BBQ facilities, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers.

The shared kitchen is ideal for budget-conscious backpackers, while the tour desk can help you plan your next adventure. All rooms include bed linen and access to shared bathroom facilities.

With thoughtful touches like pouches next to dorm beds for keeping important belongings close, and no dorm larger than four beds, it’s a cosy home away from home.

What’s more, you’re only a 10-minute walk from the city centre, making it an excellent base for exploring Christchurch.

Book Around the World Backpackers:

4. The Bealey Quarter

A great base for Christchurch city is this ultra-modern purpose-built accommodation and dining complex on Bealey Avenue.

With an open courtyard kitted out with hammocks and right next door to The Bealey Ale and Steak House, there are plenty of places to relax with your fellow backpackers at The Bealey Quarter.

“The Lodge” part of the complex is the space for backpackers, complete with eight-bed mixed and female dorms and twin and double rooms with and without an ensuite.

You also have easy access to a TV lounge, a laundry room with modern machines (finally!), shared bathrooms and a well-equipped kitchen.

For more stays with self-catering facilities in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Christchurch.

Book The Bealey Quarter:

5. Lylo Christchurch

This modern “flashpackers” continues to impress with its innovative features. Located less than a 10-minute walk from Christchurch International and Domestic Airport, LyLo Christchurch is ideal for travellers seeking convenience and comfort.

The 24-hour reception and self-check-in terminals ensure a smooth arrival, while free WiFi keeps you connected.

Guests can unwind in the large communal area, complete with a guest kitchen. The awesome common space, adorned with hammocks, bean bags and a swing on artificial grass, creates a unique outdoor vibe indoors.

For extra privacy, opt for the “pod” dorm rooms, or choose from various private room options with ensuites. With its airport proximity and modern amenities, LyLo Christchurch offers a perfect blend of convenience and comfort for your stay.

For more cheap alternative stays, also check out the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Christchurch.

Book Lylo Christchurch:

6. Urbanz

A super modern hostel just a stone’s throw from Cathedral Square, Urbanz is an excellent base for your time in Christchurch.

Renovated in 2015, this downtown accommodation offers a range of rooms with either shared or private bathrooms, catering to various traveller needs. Budget-conscious guests will appreciate the self-catering kitchen and free towels.

After a day of exploring, unwind in the on-site bar, challenge fellow travellers to a game of pool, or catch up on your favourite shows on the satellite TV.

For those seeking extra comfort, double and most family bedrooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV. With public buses to and from the airport stopping nearby, Urbanz combines convenience with affordability for an ideal Christchurch stay.

Enjoy the social vibe in the lounge bar with frequent events and drink/snack offers. Working holidaymakers can get advice on job hunting, as well as get long-term rates. Plus, there’s free parking nearby and free WiFi!

Book Urbanz:

7. Point Break Backpackers

For an alternative location in Christchurch, head to Point Break Backpackers in the suburb of New Brighton. The beachside suburb is famous for its surfing beach, as well as the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in New Brighton.

Point Break Backpackers offer basic but comfortable accommodation for budget-conscious travellers. While the cosy lounge, kitchen and laundry facilities are modest, the real gem is the café downstairs – the perfect spot to mingle with fellow guests.

According to our editor-in-chief, Laura, the hostel’s location is a major draw, being just a 10-minute stroll from New Brighton Beach and Rawhiti Domain. We love that guests can take advantage of bicycle rentals to explore the area.

The clientele is a mix of international backpackers and locals in long-term stays, creating a diverse and friendly atmosphere. With WiFi available (for a small fee) and an arcade room for entertainment, Point Break provides a laid-back base for your Christchurch adventures.

Book Point Break Backpackers:

8. 85 on Bealey

85 on Bealey offers a cosy retreat for backpackers seeking comfort and convenience. This charming hostel boasts family rooms with private bathrooms and balconies, perfect for groups or those desiring a bit more privacy.

Each room is equipped with a kitchen and dining area, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and save on dining out.

Travellers will appreciate the free WiFi, ideal for planning their Christchurch adventures. The communal lounge and garden provide relaxing spaces to unwind and mingle with fellow guests.

With its shared kitchen, housekeeping service, and complimentary on-site parking, 85 on Bealey caters to all your backpacking needs. The addition of tea and coffee makers, refrigerators, and microwaves in the rooms adds an extra touch of convenience to your stay.

Book 85 on Bealey:

9. Haka House Christchurch

Haka House offers backpackers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city. Situated opposite the Arts Centre and just 150 metres from the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park, this hostel boasts an enviable location for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Guests can take advantage of two well-equipped communal kitchens and two inviting guest lounges, perfect for socialising or relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The lovely BBQ and garden area provides an ideal spot for al fresco dining and unwinding in the fresh air.

With both private and shared bathroom options available, Haka House caters to various preferences and budgets.

The clean and comfortable guestrooms, coupled with the on-site laundry facilities, make Haka House an excellent choice for backpackers seeking a homely atmosphere in Christchurch.

Book Haka House Christchurch:

10. The Blackhorse Hotel

Located near Hagley Park, The Blackhorse Hotel offers a cosy retreat for backpackers in Christchurch. This smoke-free property offers everything you need for a comfortable stay, including complimentary in-room WiFi and self-parking.

Guests can unwind in well-appointed rooms featuring 55-inch Smart TVs with premium channels. The addition of stovetops in the rooms is a bonus for those who prefer to prepare their own meals.

Whether you’re a solo traveller or part of a group, The Blackhorse Hotel caters to various needs with its mix of essential amenities and thoughtful touches.

Book The Blackhorse Hotel:

The Blackhorse Hotel on Expedia

More About Hostels in Christchurch

That’s it for our list of the best backpacker hostels in Christchurch, but it’s by no means the end of our travel tips! Get more stellar travel advice from the following guides:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Christchurch – Guide for Backpackers and The Travel Guide to Christchurch on a Budget.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Robin C.

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

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