5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Whangarei

Budget Accommodation in Whangarei for Backpackers

So you’re heading northwards and you need a place to stay? Try Whangarei! With glowworms caves, a magnificent waterfall, diving trips to the Poor Knights Islands, and more, you’re bound to keep yourself entertained in this Northland city. To save your money to do awesome activities and travel longer, we suggest staying in one of the backpacker hostels in Whangarei!

Whangarei is lucky to have five completely different hostel experiences, from modern country escapes to homely pet-filled villas. There really is something for every type of backpacker in Whangarei.

If you are looking to stick around a little longer, enquire about working for accommodation in a hostel, otherwise known as WWOOFing. For more information, check out Everything You Need to Know About WWOOFing in New Zealand and 10 Lessons You’ll Only Learn When Working in a Hostel.

1. Little Earth Lodge

Escape to the countryside with Little Earth Lodge. The modern and purpose-built lodge situated among beautiful gardens is only a stone’s throw away from the Abbey Caves for free glowworm sightings. The lodge has an eco-friendly ethos for that feel-good factor. Little Earth Lodge is 5-10 minutes drive from Whangarei city centre.

Check Little Earth Lodge out:

- Little Earth Lodge on Booking.com
- Little Earth Lodge on Trip.com

2. Whangarei Falls Holiday Park YHA

Situated right by the iconic Whangarei Falls and walking track up to the Abbey Caves, Whangarei Holiday Park has an ideal location for Whangarei’s free attractions. Whangarei Falls Holiday Park is kitted out with bunk rooms, as well as your usual holiday park facilities. Relax in the hot tub and make use of the barbecue. Whangarei Falls Holiday Park is a 10-minute drive away from the city centre. YHA members will also benefit from a discount.

Check Whangarei Falls Holiday Park out:

3. The Cell Block

The funkiest backpackers in town has been renovated from a 1960’s jail to a Mexican-themed backpackers. With its ideal location right in the heart of Whangarei, it couldn’t be more convenient. For a characterful experience, stay at The Cell Block!

Check The Cell Block out:

4. Bunkdown Lodge

For a more homely backpackers in Whangarei, check out Bunkdown Lodge. Based in a historic kauri villa, this small hostel has some welcoming hosts, more welcoming pets to play with, as well as a few instruments lying around for a jamming session. On those sunny Northland days, relax in the spacious garden. Bunkdown is a 10-15 minute walk from the city centre.

5. YWCA

“It’s fun to stay at the YWCA!” The YWCA offers nightly and weekly rates on single and twin share rooms for both women and men. The YWCA is a 10-minute walk from the city centre.