25 Best Backpacker Hostels in Auckland

1. Haka House Auckland K’Road

Featuring pod beds for ultimate privacy, this modern Auckland hostel is built around the backpacker.

Situated on the lively Karangahape Road, Haka House Auckland K’Road delivers the ideal combination of comfort and style in one of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods.

Whether you’re after a cosy private room or prefer the social buzz of a shared dorm, all accommodation features comfortable beds and practical furnishings to ensure a stress-free stay.

The hostel’s standout communal spaces include a fully equipped kitchen, social lounge and laundry facilities, perfect for meeting fellow travellers.

With great cafés, restaurants, bars and boutique shopping right on the doorstep, you’re perfectly positioned to explore Auckland like a local.

Book Haka House Auckland K’Road:

• Haka House Auckland K’Road on Booking.com
• Haka House Auckland K’Road on HostelWorld
• Haka House Auckland K’Road on Expedia

© Haka House Auckland K'Road

2. Verandahs Parkside Lodge

On the edge of the Ponsonby and Freemans Bay suburbs, Verandahs Backpacker Lodge is in close proximity to some of the more characterful areas of Auckland.

Also nearby is K Road, known for its alternative nightlife, awesome bargain stores and a whole lot of culture!

As for Verandahs, it boasts itself as a more “peaceful” alternative to the party hostels in the city centre. Find the hostel just 2 km (1.2 mi) away from the city centre.

Book Verandahs Parkside Lodge:

• Verandahs Parkside Lodge on Booking.com
• Verandahs Parkside Lodge on HostelWorld
• Verandahs Parkside Lodge on Trip.com
• Verandahs Parkside Lodge on Expedia

© Verandahs Backpackers

3. Attic Backpackers

Well-hidden inside a long corridor, up an old lift, behind a locked door and whatever else, this jewel in Auckland Central is often fully booked and for good reason.

The Attic Backpackers boasts cool places to kick back and relax with fellow travellers between the large undercover balcony, the spacious kitchen and dining area and the lounge.

The accommodation with secure with coded entry and luggage storage available.

We like this hostel so much that it ranks pretty high in Where to Stay in Auckland: 50 BEST Accommodations in Auckland.

Book Attic Backpackers:

• Attic Backpackers on Booking.com
• Attic Backpackers on HostelWorld
• Attic Backpackers on Expedia

© Attic Backpackers

4. LyLo Auckland

The snazzy new kid on the block, LyLo Auckland boasts pod dorms with all the fixings. These plush king single beds feature storage space in a personal locker, as well as pockets inside the pod (who needs a bedside table?!)

You also get your own fan, USB charging port, a mirror and a sliding felt privacy screen. If you’re not opting for a pod dorm, there are stylish doubles with shared facilities and ensuite queen/twin rooms available.

On-site is also Miss Lucy’s bar and restaurant with weekly specials, while there are several quirky spaces to relax or work between the retro-themed “Typewriter Room” and the cosy beanbags of “The Outlook” lounge.

Book LyLo Auckland:

• LyLo Auckland on Booking.com
• LyLo Auckland on HostelWorld
• LyLo Auckland on Expedia

© Don Benny Vergara

5. Metro Adventurer Backpackers

Another fresh hostel in Auckland is the Metro Adventurer Backpackers on Hobson Street. It’s so central that you can see the Sky Tower from many of the rooms!

The hostel features both dormitory and private rooms, some with handy storage lockers and seating areas. Relax in the communal lounge fitted with a flat-screen TV or whip up a meal in the shared kitchen.

Note that there is free WiFi throughout the entire hostel, plus complimentary private parking.

Book Metro Adventurer Backpackers:

• Metro Adventurer on Booking.com
• Metro Adventurer on Trip.com

© NZPocketGuide.com

6. Newton Lodge

Located on the edge of Auckland Central at the lower end of Queens Street, Newton Lodge offers convenience in many forms!

Not only does it provide all your essential hostel facilities, from an upgraded communal kitchen to storage lockers, but they are a popular choice for those starting a working holiday in New Zealand as their staff can provide a bit of advice to get you started.

The adults-only hostel features air-conditioned rooms with carpeted floors and work desks, while guests enjoy free WiFi, a comfortable lounge and a shared kitchen.

In true city centre style, dorms are pretty cramped but do the job, with shared bathrooms keeping costs down for budget travellers.

Book Newton Lodge:

• Newton Lodge on Booking.com
• Newton Lodge on HostelWorld
• Newton Lodge on Trip.com
• Newton Lodge on Expedia

© Newton Lodge

7. YMCA Hostel

A popular spot for backpackers and long-termers such as those on a working holiday and students, YMCA Hostel offers affordable rooms and beds just minutes from Queen Street and K Road.

Choose from a range of single, twin or double rooms or share the space in mixed and female-only dorms. All rooms come with a small refrigerator, heater, bed linen, a wardrobe and work desk.

The communal space features a kitchenette, an outdoor seating area and a lounge room with billiards and cable TV. Breakfast is only a few bucks per day, so treat yourself!

Book YMCA Hostel:

• YMCA Hostel on Booking.com
• YMCA Hostel on HostelWorld
• YMCA Hostel on Trip.com
• YMCA Hostel on Expedia

© YMCA Auckland

8. Choice Backpackers

A super central hostel in Auckland, Choice Backpackers is a good go-to for ultra-cheap dorm beds, as well as private single, twin and double rooms.

WiFi and air-conditioning are available on all nine floors of this multi-storey hub, while the fully equipped communal kitchen, pool billiard table and multi-lingual staff are welcome additions.

Handy for those on a working holiday, the team can also assist with IRD numbers, bank account set-up, CV building and a mail storage service.

Book Choice Backpackers:

• Choice Backpackers on Booking.com
• Choice Backpackers on HostelWorld
• Choice Backpackers on Trip.com
• Choice Backpackers on Expedia

© Choice Backpackers

9. K Road City Travellers

Another option on the infamous K Road, K Road City Travellers offers a cheap stay with a choice of dorms and double-bed private rooms all with shared bathroom facilities.

They have all the essential facilities you need right down to laundry machines and a fully equipped kitchen, while the outside terrace area offers an alternative spot to relax.

The hostel provides express check-in and check-out services, plus luggage storage and free WiFi throughout.

Rooms come with carpeted floors, wardrobes and shared bathrooms with showers and hairdryers. This basic hostel will meet your basic needs.

Book K Road City Travellers:

• K Road City Travellers on Booking.com
• K Road City Travellers on Trip.com
• K Road City Travellers on Expedia

© K Road City Travellers

10. Piha Beachstay Accommodation

Getting out of the city, stay at Auckland’s most popular surf beach at the Piha Beachstay Accommodation! Piha is famous for its black sand beach, waterfalls and hikes leading into the Waitakere Ranges.

The accommodation gets a lot of sunlight and great views of the wild west coast of Auckland. Plus, surf gear can be hired on-site.

We recommend getting surf lessons on Piha Beach if you are a beginner as the rips are strong. Piha is about 40 km (25 mi) west of Auckland city.

Book Piha Beachstay Accommodation:

• Piha Beachstay Accommodation on Booking.com
• Piha Beachstay Accommodation on HostelWorld
• Piha Beachstay Accommodation on Trip.com
• Piha Beachstay Accommodation on Expedia

© Piha Beachstay Accommodation

11. No. 9 Hotel

Based in one of Auckland’s most popular shopping precincts, No. 9 Hotel doesn’t just provide affordable private rooms but backpacker dorms with a touch of class.

Bunks come with a curtain for added privacy, as well as a USB power point and reading light. Dorms also have an ensuite bathroom.

Newmarket has great bus and train transport connections with most of the city, plus, lots of shopping opportunities. No. 9 Hotel is about 5 km (3 mi) from the city centre.

Learn more about Auckland’s suburbs in our Auckland Suburbs – A Complete Guide.

Book No. 9 Hotel:

• • No. 9 Hotel on Booking.com

© No. 9 Hotel

12. Waiheke Backpackers Hostel

Waiheke Backpackers Hostel, set right on the beachfront in Onetangi, this hostel offers stunning sea views and direct access to one of the island’s most popular beaches.

Most rooms feature just one bunk per room, while family rooms are also available for those travelling in groups.

Guests can make use of the shared kitchen, lounge and games room, plus there’s an outdoor deck and grassy seating area with barbecue facilities, the perfect spot to soak up those awesome ocean views. Free WiFi and on-site private parking are included.

Check out more things to do on Waiheke at 10 Glorious Things to Do on Waiheke Island.

Book Waiheke Backpackers Hostel:

• Waiheke Backpackers Hostel on Booking.com
• Waiheke Backpackers Hostel on HostelWorld
• Waiheke Backpackers Hostel on Expedia

© Waiheke Backpackers Hostel

13. Surf ‘N’ Snow Backpackers

A long-established hostel right in the heart of Auckland city, Surf ‘N’ Snow Backpackers is moments away from the Sky Tower and all of your city centre highlights.

Set in a refurbished historic building, this hostel offers unlimited free WiFi in all rooms. While facilities like the semi-furnished shared kitchen (with kitchenware available on request from reception) are fairly basic, you’ll find comfortable beds with fresh linen, pillows and duvets provided.

Plus, with some of the cheapest dorm rates and private rooms in town, you can’t go wrong for budget accommodation in the CBD. A travel desk is on hand to help you discover Auckland’s attractions.

Book Surf ‘N’ Snow Backpackers:

• Surf ‘N’ Snow Backpackers on Booking.com
• Surf ‘N’ Snow Backpackers on HostelWorld
• Surf ‘N’ Snow Backpackers on Trip.com
• Surf ‘N’ Snow Backpackers on Expedia

© Surf 'N' Snow Backpackers

14. City Lodge Accommodation (YMCA)

A hostel without dorm rooms? The heresy! All jokes aside, if you like the idea of staying somewhere cheap with the conveniences of communal facilities, like a kitchen and dining area with WiFi, but would prefer a private room, then City Lodge Accommodation is well worth considering.

Run by the YMCA, there’s still a friendly hostel vibe here but provides something a little more “flashpackery” than some of the other hostels in Auckland.

For similar stays with private budget rooms, check out the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Auckland City.

Book City Lodge Accommodation:

• City Lodge Accommodation on Booking.com
• City Lodge Accommodation on HostelWorld
• City Lodge Accommodation on Trip.com
• City Lodge Accommodation on Expedia

© City Lodge (YMCA)

15. HIT Hostel

One of the latest hostel additions to K Road, HIT Hostel offers basic accommodation for backpackers and budget travellers. For privacy, choose a double room with an ensuite or a double or twin room with a shared bathroom.

Otherwise, all your usual dorms are available, including female-only dorms. The facilities are a little cramped but functional, though you can get some fresh air in the outside courtyard and garden area.

The hostel makes things easy with express check-in and check-out, while multilingual staff are on hand to help with any questions. Free WiFi keeps you connected, and you can whip up meals in the shared kitchen.

Each of the ten guestrooms comes with a microwave, and bathrooms feature showers and hair dryers.

Book HIT Hostel:

• HIT Hostel on Trip.com
• HIT Hostel on Expedia

© HIT Hostel

16. BK Hostel

Offering very affordable private single, twin and double rooms, BK Hostel is certainly worth considering if you want your own space. Alternatively, their four-bed dorms and female-only dorms certainly don’t feel too crowded.

This hostel just off K Road and a short walk from lower Queen Street features complimentary WiFi, a perfectly functional shared kitchen and a lounge with a large TV and pool table.

We appreciate the helpful front desk services, including luggage storage for those early check-ins or late departures. For travellers who want to keep their favourite outfits fresh, there’s an on-site laundromat.

The hostel is completely smoke-free, and those who enjoy outdoor cooking will find barbecue facilities available.

Book BK Hostel:

• BK Hostel on Booking.com
• BK Hostel on HostelWorld
• BK Hostel on Trip.com

© BK Hostel

17. Kiwi Airport Backpackers

The most obvious reason to stay at the Kiwi Airport Backpackers is the extreme convenience of being so close to Auckland Airport.

Otherwise, enjoy the numerous walks and attractions on offer in the South Auckland area, check out Auckland Suburbs – Guide for Backpackers for ideas.

As for the accommodation, you have fairly packed dorm rooms, while the pool table games room and functional kitchen are a welcome touch.

Complimentary WiFi keeps you connected, and the hostel’s shuttle service makes exploring Auckland hassle-free. We appreciate the luggage storage facilities for early arrivals or late departures, plus there’s free parking if you’re road-tripping.

Some rooms even feature separate living areas and come equipped with a fridge and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Book Kiwi Airport Backpackers:

• Kiwi Airport Backpackers on HostelWorld
• Kiwi Airport Backpackers on Trip.com

© Kiwi Airport Backpackers

18. 17 Albert Hostel

An underrated option right in the heart of Auckland Central, 17 Albert Hostel is run by a friendly and helpful host. While the renovations are modern and pleasant enough, don’t expect the most plush of mattresses.

Rooms come equipped with air-conditioning and free WiFi, plus you’ll appreciate the city views from your window.

The hostel features soundproofing to help you get a good night’s sleep, along with handy amenities like a shared kitchen, washing machine, dining table, refrigerator and microwave.

There’s even a minimarket and hairdresser/beautician on-site, plus a lift for easy access and full-day security for peace of mind.

Book 17 Albert Hostel:

• 17 Albert Hostel on Booking.com

© 17 Albert Street

19. Silver Fern Backpackers

Located mere minutes away from the Sky Tower, this very central independent no-fuss hostel has an unbeatable location even if it isn’t winning any style points.

Rooms feature city views, while the well-equipped lounge and shared kitchen give you plenty of space to relax or prepare a meal.

You can socialise in the games room, fire up the BBQ area or settle into the guest lounge to watch TV. Free unlimited WiFi is available throughout the property.

The rooms are a little cramped, but Silver Fern Backpackers is fine for a short stay in Auckland on Hobson Street.

Book Silver Fern Backpackers:

• Silver Fern Backpackers on Booking.com
• Silver Fern Backpackers on HostelWorld

© Silver Fern Backpackers

20. Hobson Lodge

Another one on Hobson Street, Hobson Lodge offers a low-key stay with upgraded (yet cheaply done) facilities in Auckland CBD. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a hostel in Auckland with a car park.

The backpackers’ accommodation features soundproofed rooms with private bathrooms, carpeted floors and essential amenities like work desks and wardrobes. Guests appreciate the free WiFi, shared kitchen facilities and bicycle parking.

The hostel also provides room service, a lounge area and a tour desk to help plan your Auckland adventures. Private check-in and check-out services add a convenient touch.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for a short stay in the city centre.

Book Hobson Lodge:

• Hobson Lodge on Booking.com
• Hobson Lodge on HostelWorld
• Hobson Lodge on Expedia

© Hobson Lodge

21. JO&JOE Auckland

JO&JOE Auckland is a modern hostel offering both private and shared accommodation options with air-conditioned, soundproofed rooms featuring parquet floors.

The hostel features a family-friendly restaurant serving American cuisine, with plenty of options for those with dietary requirements, including vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free dishes.

There’s also a bar on-site where you can grab a cocktail, and free WiFi is available throughout the public areas.

Book JO&JOE Auckland:

• JO&JOE Auckland on Booking.com
• JO&JOE Auckland on Expedia

© JO&JOE Auckland

22. Stars Hostel

Stars Hostel offers backpackers a welcoming spot with free WiFi, air-conditioning and comfortable communal spaces.

The hostel features a shared kitchen where you can whip up your own meals, plus a lounge area perfect for meeting fellow travellers. There’s also an outdoor seating area and dining space where you can relax between adventures.

Practical amenities include express check-in and check-out services, luggage storage, and in-room facilities like a walk-in shower, refrigerator, microwave and TV.

Book Stars Hostel:

• Stars Hostel on Booking.com

© Stars Hostel

23. Georgie Accommodation

Georgie Accommodation provides backpackers a comfortable base Auckland with practical amenities and a social atmosphere.

The hostel features both private and shared rooms, all equipped with air-conditioning, wardrobes and electric kettles. Guests can choose between private and shared bathrooms, both stocked with free toiletries, hairdryers and showers.

We appreciate the communal facilities here, including a shared kitchen for those travelling on a budget, a comfortable lounge area for meeting fellow travellers and free WiFi throughout the property.

Additional perks include a lift for easy access, full-day security for peace of mind and luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures. The on-site restaurant serves lunch and dinner, perfect for days when you can’t be bothered cooking.

Book Georgie Accommodation:

• Georgie Accommodation on Booking.com

© Georgie Accommodation

24. SpinCity Lodge Auckland

SpinCity Lodge Auckland is an adults-only hostel perfect for backpackers seeking a peaceful stay in the city.

The hostel features a shared kitchen and lounge area, ideal for meeting fellow travellers and preparing your own meals. You’ll also find a sun terrace where you can relax after a day exploring Auckland.

Rooms come equipped with air-conditioning, carpeted floors and hairdryers, while bathrooms are shared with showers. Free WiFi keeps you connected throughout your stay.

Book SpinCity Lodge Auckland:

• SpinCity Lodge Auckland on Booking.com
• SpinCity Lodge Auckland on Expedia

© SpinCity Lodge Auckland

25. Freemans Backpackers Lodge

With affordable weekly rates, Freemans Backpackers Lodge is a popular option for long-termers staying in Auckland. As the name suggests, you’ll find this cosy hostel in Freemans Bay, just a 10-minute walk from Auckland city centre.

Don’t expect a lot of space at this compact renovated house, but you’ll likely enjoy the charm of the leafy suburban area.

For more about finding long-term stays, check out Auckland City: A Guide to Cheap Long-Term Accommodation.

© Freemans Backpackers Lodge