Where to Find Hostels in Whanganui for Backpackers
With epic beaches, museums, art, towers and on the banks of the majestic Whanganui River, Whanganui city is a must for any backpacker looking to get off the beaten track! To keep those travel costs low, we’ve put together this quick list of the best backpacker hostels in Whanganui.
The awkward thing is that there aren’t actually five hostels in Whanganui city. However, we’ve provided you with two other hostel alternatives so you know all your options when looking for budget accommodation in Whanganui (or you could just skip to the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Whanganui)!
For more ways to keep the expenses low while visiting the city, check out these 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Wanganui! What’s more, we’ve compiled some tips on ways to make the most of your stay in our Wanganui – Guide for Backpackers.
1. Braemar House
This hostel is located on the banks of the Whanganui River and is well within walking distance from the city centre. Choose from private bed & breakfast accommodation or shared hostel accommodation with a mix of male dorms, female dorms and private rooms. Braemar House has all the essential facilities expected in a hostel including a well-equipped kitchen, a cosy lounge with a book exchange, laundry facilities and free WiFi! There’s also a welcoming garden space with a pizza oven to make the most of in summer.
Check Braemar House out:
- Braemar House on Booking.com
- Braemar House on HostelWorld
- Braemar House on Trip.com
- Braemar House on Expedia
© Braemar House2. 42b College House
With the cheapest dorm rates in town and a homely atmosphere, 42B College House is well worth considering for your budget stay in Whanganui. Make use of the free unlimited WiFi, free off-street parking and even free pick-ups from the bus station. There are several spacious lounge areas, as well as a barbecue and garden to relax in. 42B College House is within walking distance of the city centre and supermarkets.
Check 42B College House out:
3. Whanganui Riverside TOP 10 Holiday Park
If you’re looking for alternative backpacker accommodation in Whanganui then check out the Whanganui Riverside TOP 10 Holiday Park. As the name suggests, the holiday park is right on the banks of the Whanganui River. Cabins and glamping tents provide cheap accommodation for couples and small groups, while still being able to make use of the communal facilities like the kitchen and laundry. There are powered sites for those travelling in a campervan, as well as tent sites and motel accommodation. Learn more about holiday park accommodation in our Accommodation Guide to Holiday Parks in New Zealand.
Check Whanganui Riverside TOP 10 Holiday Park out:
- Whanganui Riverside TOP 10 Holiday Park on Booking.com
- Whanganui Riverside TOP 10 Holiday Park on Trip.com
- Whanganui Riverside TOP 10 Holiday Park on Expedia
© Whanganui Riverside Top 10 Holiday Park4. Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park
Another holiday park option in Whanganui is the Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park. Situated adjacent to Castlecliff Beach, this holiday park is a great out-of-town alternative. The private cabin accommodations make for extremely affordable accommodation for backpackers while having all the essential communal facilities that you’ll need. Not to mention the powered sites, tent sites, free WiFi, spa, sauna and barbecue area. For more “alternative stays” like this, take a look at the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Whanganui.
Check Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park out:
- Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park on Booking.com
- Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park on Trip.com
- Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park on Expedia
© Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park5. [CLOSED] Tamara Lodge
Stay right beside the Whanganui River, just five minutes from Whanganui city centre in Tamara Lodge. The lodge with a spacious garden with hammocks also provides free unlimited WiFi and free bike hire! BBH members can make use of the BBH discount at this hostel.
More Hostels in Whanganui
That’s it for our list of the best hostels in Whanganui, but it’s by no means the end of our advice! Check out more guides to help you plan the perfect trip to Whanganui city:
- 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Whanganui
- 10 Must-Do Walks in Whanganui
- Whanganui National Park – Guide for Backpackers
And if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Travel Guide to Whanganui 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 [2024])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
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