5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Turangi 🎒 [2023]© Tongariro River Retreat
5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Turangi 🎒 [2023]

5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Turangi 🎒 [2024]

© Tongariro River Retreat

Where to Find Accommodations in Turangi for Backpackers

Epic white water rafting, world-class trout fishing and not to mention the Tongariro National Park on its doorstep; no wonder you are looking for backpacker hostels in Turangi! Turangi is a great base with proximity to the famous Tongariro Crossing. Some might say that it makes more sense to stay here than, ahem, that other town on Lake Taupo

The backpacker hostels in Turangi are extremely helpful in organising shuttles to the Tongariro Crossing, as well as giving advice on the hikes, mountain bike trails and, of course, fishing in Turangi. What’s more, Turangi is only a 45-minute drive from the North Island ski fields of Mt Ruapehu.

So where should you stay in Turangi? Here are, what we consider, some of the best backpackers hostels in Turangi.

1. Riverstone Backpackers

A purposely renovated budget accommodation in Turangi, Riverstone Backpackers is just a short walk from the centre of town. Relax on the outdoor covered deck and garden in a hammock after a hard day’s hiking. They have drying rooms, ideal for after your outdoor antics, and a modern kitchen so cooking won’t feel like such a chore. As for rooms, take your pick from shared dorms and private single, queen (ensuite available) and twin rooms with shared bathrooms.

Check Riverstone Backpackers out:

5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Turangi© Riverstone Backpackers

2. Tongariro River Retreat

For the most centrally located backpackers in Turangi, Tongariro River Retreat is within easy reach of Turangi’s services, including a climbing wall next door! You can’t go wrong with the super spacious kitchen, TV lounge with streaming services and outdoor areas where you can kick back in a hammock. Although the rooms are as basic as it gets, at least you have choices, including shared dorms, private double and family rooms with shared bathrooms, and king and twin ensuite rooms. There’s also free unlimited WiFi!

Check Tongariro River Retreat out:

5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Turangi 🎒 [2023]© Tongariro River Retreat

3. Sportsmans Lodge Turangi

Not exactly a backpackers, but if you’re looking for a cheap private room (or all of the other hostels are fully booked), then Sportsmans Lodge Turangi is a worthy alternative. Located near the Tongariro River Trail, you’re in an idyllic base for fishing, walking and biking. The lodge offers some of its own recreations too, with a large amenities hall equipped with a pool table, TV area, cosy fireplace and a kitchen. As for rooms, choose from cheap double, twin and triple rooms – all with an ensuite. The self-contained cottage for up to three guests is also very affordable.

Check Sportsmans Lodge Turangi out:

5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Turangi 🎒 [2023]© Sportsmans Lodge Turangi

4. Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park (Motuoapa)

Less than 10 minutes’ drive from Turangi is the lakefront village of Motuoapa and the Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park. Offering affordable private accommodation in a selection of quirky cabins, from retro VW Kombis to boathouses, Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park makes a fun and affordable alternative to staying in a hostel. Although the cabins only have drink-making facilities, there are shared facilities like a camp kitchen and toilet block to see to your other needs.

Check Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park out:

Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park© Motuoapa Bay Holiday Park

5. Tony’s Lodge (Tauranga Taupo)

One more affordable lodge for good measure, Tony’s Lodge includes breakfast! What’s more, this cosy lodge has “backpacker” written all over it – just minus the dorm rooms. Whether you’re staying in one of the queen, king, family or quad rooms, you’ll be treated to a continental breakfast in the communal kitchen while mingling with fellow travellers, fisherfolk and even Tony himself! The accommodation is pet-friendly too.

Check Tony’s Lodge out:

5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Turangi 🎒 [2023]© Tony's Lodge

[CLOSED] Off the Track Backpackers

Located in a quiet corner of Turangi, Off the Track Backpackers is a cosy and homely backpackers with a lot of charm. Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains from their outside area. Plus, the hostel offers a free pasta and sauce meal every evening! Note that the backpackers is only open for the shoulder and peak seasons.

[CLOSED] Turangi Kiwi Holiday Park

Not a “backpacker hostel” per se but with several different types of budget accommodation, there’s something for everyone at the Turangi Kiwi Holiday Park. Stay in your campervan in a powered site, pitch a tent or stay in one of the basic cabins while making use of the communal kitchens and laundry facilities. There are self-contained cabins too. Learn more about holiday parks in New Zealand in the Accommodation Guide to Holiday Parks in New Zealand.

More About Backpacker Hostels in Turangi

That’s it for our list of the best backpackers hostels in Turangi. For more Turangi tips, take a look at these other handy guides:

And if there’s anything else we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Tongariro National Park – 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:

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

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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