5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Taupo

1. Haka House Taupo

One of New Zealand’s most popular hostel chains also has a presence by the Great Lake. What’s more, Haka House Taupo aims for more of the “flashpacker experience” with a free spa pool and WiFi.

Each bunk is equipped with a privacy curtain, personal power socket and reading light, while private rooms with and without an ensuite bathroom are also available.

The communal spaces are also pretty sweet with a very functional kitchen, cosy lounge and deck area and even a volleyball court that’s free for guests to use.

Whether you’re chilling inside or outside, you’re sure to feel right at home.

This hostel is so awesome that we also list it in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Taupo.

Book Haka House Taupo:

• Haka House Taupo on Booking.com
• Haka House Taupo on HostelWorld
• Haka House Taupo on Trip.com
• Haka House Taupo on Expedia

© Haka Lodge

2. Rainbow Lodge

The granddaddy of hostels in Taupo (and New Zealand), Rainbow Lodge was New Zealand’s first purpose-built independent backpacker hostel and the first hostel in New Zealand with a mixed dorm… And it’s still going strong!

Don’t worry, it’s had plenty of facelifts over the ages, still providing a cheap and comfortable on the residential streets of Taupo.

This hostel provides those much-needed comforts in both summer and winter with a BBQ on the deck on a summer’s evening and underfloor heating and the sauna to take advantage of during the cold winter.

Book Rainbow Lodge:

• Rainbow Lodge on HostelWorld
• Rainbow Lodge on Trip.com

© Rainbow Lodge

3. Finlay Jack’s

That’s right, there’s another epic pod hostel in Taupo. The pod beds at Finley Jack’s are custom-built complete with blinds for privacy, a personal USB charging station, a reading light, storage space for your bags and even two pillows! Wow!

Some dorms even have an ensuite, while others have just standard bunks so be sure to ask for a pod room if you want one.

If a pod bed wasn’t private enough, well, there are private rooms too in the form of single, twin and double rooms with a shared bathroom and private triple and family rooms with an ensuite bathroom.

As for communal areas, relax in the sun-soaked courtyard or the lounge with video games, Netflix and free WiFi or cook up a storm in the kitchen.

For more stays with a kitchen, check out the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Taupo.

Book Finlay Jack’s:

• Finlay Jack’s on Booking.com
• Finlay Jack’s on HostelWorld
• Finlay Jack’s on Trip.com

© NZPocketGuide.com

4. Based by the Lake

Purpose-built for backpackers in a convenient central location, Based by the Lake makes an ideal, well, base! Many of their dorm rooms have an ensuite shower room, so there are no midnight missions to the bathroom.

Those who want to treat themselves can get a room with a balcony overlooking Lake Taupo and the volcanoes beyond. Otherwise, you can enjoy the views from the balcony in the communal kitchen and dining area.

Find this hostel close to Taupo’s bars and nightlife scene, which you can learn more about in The Top Cheap Eats in Taupo.

Book Based by the Lake:

• Based by the Lake on Booking.com
• Based by the Lake on Trip.com
• Based by the Lake on Expedia

© Based by the Lake

5. Adventure Taupo Hostel

Adventure Taupo Hostel offers a vibrant and social atmosphere for backpackers in the heart of Taupo.

This budget-friendly accommodation boasts a range of facilities to enhance your stay, including free WiFi, a well-equipped shared kitchen, and a cosy lounge area.

Guests can unwind in the outdoor seating area or challenge fellow travellers in the games room. The hostel’s picnic area is perfect for al fresco dining on sunny days.

With air-conditioning, free toiletries, and work desks in rooms, Adventure Taupo caters to both comfort and practicality.

Book Adventure Taupo Hostel:

• Adventure Taupo Hostel on Booking.com

© Adventure Taupo Hostel