Where to Stay in Hokitika for Backpackers
This little beachside settlement on the South Island, West Coast has so much to do that you’ll definitely want to stay awhile.
Watch the famous Hokitika sunset from Hokitika Beach, carve your own greenstone in the jade capital of New Zealand, walk over milky blue waters at Hokitika Gorge, and so much more!
Just check our Hokitika must-do list! While you’re out there making the most of this cool little town, save on the cents by staying in one of these backpacker hostels in Hokitika.
But wait a minute, there are only two official hostels in Hokitika… Well, be that as it may, we’ve thrown in a few more budget accommodations for backpackers so that you know your options.
Table of Contents
1. Lake Mahinapua Hotel
Approximately 10 km (6 mi) south of Hokitika, Lake Mahinapua Hotel boasts an awesome lakeside stay for an affordable price. Stay in the “Miners’ Quarters”, a well-appointed four-bed shared dorm perfect for groups or solo travellers.
Alternatively, huts and cabins with double beds or family-room layouts are available should you want more privacy.
In between a comfortable night’s sleep, find adventure on your doorstep, such as bushwalks, yoga mat hire, bonfires on the beach, petanque, lake swimming and more.
Book Lake Mahinapua Hotel:
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© Lake Mahinapua Hotel2. Shining Star Beachfront Accommodation & Holiday Park
Nestled in a picturesque garden landscape, Shining Star Beachfront Accommodation offers a range of options for travellers, from budget-friendly cabins to self-contained beachfront chalets.
Just steps away from clear blue waters, this holiday park provides the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty. With free WiFi and private balconies in some rooms, you can stay connected while enjoying stunning ocean views.
The well-appointed wooden cabins feature flat-screen TVs, DVD players and dining tables, with some including kitchenettes for added convenience.
Plus, with its location just a 5-minute drive from Hokitika Airport, it’s an easily accessible base for exploring the area.
Book Shining Star Accommodation:
- Shining Star Accommodation on Booking.com
- Shining Star Accommodation on Trip.com
- Shining Star Accommodation on Expedia
© Shining Star Accomodation3. Hokitika Holiday Park
For a great value option in Hokitika, the Hokitika Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation choices. Stay in affordable cabins or book a powered site or tent site with access to excellent communal facilities.
The park boasts two well-equipped communal kitchens, shared living areas and guest laundry facilities. Some cabins even feature private kitchenette facilities for added convenience.
We appreciate that the holiday park is pet-friendly, allowing travellers to bring their furry friends along.
What’s more, free WiFi is available throughout the property, keeping you connected during your stay.
Hokitika Holiday Park is conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Hokitika town centre.
Book Hokitika Holiday Park:
- Hokitika Holiday Park on Booking.com
- Hokitika Holiday Park on Trip.com
- Hokitika Holiday Park on Expedia
© Hokitika Holiday Park4. Lake Mahinapua Campsite
For a cheap camping option, whether you’re in a campervan or tent, is the Lake Mahinapua Campsite. The campsite is run by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and has a cooking shelter, flushing toilets and tap water.
There are around 100 spaces so you don’t need to worry about getting there too early, but you will need to book online. The campsite is a 10-minute drive south of Hokitika.
Book Lake Mahinapua Campsite:
© Tim Parkinson on WikipediaMore About Hokitika for Backpackers
That’s it for our list of the best hostels in Hokitika. For more West Coast travel advice, check out the following guides:
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in the West Coast – Guide for Backpackers.
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 Mฤori Tourism (Official Mฤori 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.
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