Where to Find the Best Hostel Accommodation in Napier and Hastings for Backpackers
With plenty of sun, biking and hiking trails, beaches and work opportunities, no wonder so many backpackers love Napier and Hastings. The Hawke’s Bay cities cater to us budget travellers with plenty of places to stay for an affordable price. So that you know your options, here are some of the best backpacker hostels in Napier and Hastings.
Because of the seasonal work opportunities in the horticulture and viticulture industry in Hawke’s Bay, many of the hostels offer weekly rates giving you another option for a long-term stay in Napier and Hastings. They may even be able to assist you in your job search.
So here it is, these are the hostels that we believe are your best options in Napier and Hastings! By the way, don’t miss the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Napier.
1. Toad Hall Accommodation
Toad Hall or “Toadies” is a great option for seasonal stays and short stays. Enjoy some nice treats in their free continental breakfast, as well as their garden courtyard and roof terrace with a quirky design. The hostel offers four-bed dorms, as well as twin and double rooms with or without an ensuite. Other drawcards to this accommodation in Napier include free WiFi, Thursday dessert/soup evenings, a large communal kitchen and games tables. Check out more affordable stays like this in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Napier.
Check Toad Hall Accommodation out:
2. Criterion Art Deco Backpackers
Situated in the grand historic Criterion Hotel, this Spanish Mission/Art Deco-style building is one of the most photographed in Napier. As for the hostel within, the Criterion Art Deco Backpackers offer free continental breakfast and WiFi. A lot of backpackers, however, are drawn to the spacious and historic feel of the hostel with its selection of mixed and female dormitories, private double/twin, triple and quadruple rooms and some with an ensuite.
Check Criterion Art Deco Backpackers out:
3. Stables Lodge Backpackers
Stables Lodge Backpackers is an ultra-modern hostel in Napier. With hammocks, an outside courtyard, guitars on hand, Spotify and thousands of movies to choose from, you’re likely to have a comfortable and entertaining stay. The hosts are keen to help people have a good time in Hawke’s Bay, as well as help people with finding work. Choose from shared dorm rooms, as well as private double and twin rooms with shared bathrooms and a double ensuite room. For more stays with kitchens, check out the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Napier.
Check Stables Lodge Backpackers out:
- Stables Lodge Backpackers on HostelWorld
- Stables Lodge Backpackers on Trip.com
- Stables Lodge Backpackers on Expedia
4. Archies Bunker
With a super location nearby to Napier’s attractions, such as the beach, art gallery and town centre, you can’t really go wrong with Archies Bunker. It is a good option for long-termers working in the area, as they can provide you with help and offer long-term rates, as well as people looking for a quick and convenient stay. The hostel has a range of dorms, including a female dorm, as well as private double/twin rooms with the option of an ensuite shower room. We also like that there are multiple kitchens and lounge areas, so the place doesn’t feel overly crowded. For more advice on finding long-term stays, check out Napier: A Guide to Cheap Long-Term Accommodation.
Check Archies Bunker out:
- Archies Bunker on Booking.com
- Archies Bunker on HostelWorld
- Archies Bunker on Trip.com
- Archies Bunker on Expedia
5. The Art House Backpackers
As the name suggests, this is a backpacker hostel with a funky art theme where the walls are covered in colourful murals. Soak in the Hawke’s Bay sun in their outdoor seating area, take in the ocean views or stare down at your phone using the free WiFi. The working hostel works closely with the local viticulture and horticulture industry should you be looking for seasonal work. Dorm beds, double/twin rooms and triple rooms make up the accommodation menu.
Check The Art House Backpackers out:
- The Art House Backpackers on Booking.com
- The Art House Backpackers on Trip.com
- The Art House Backpackers on Expedia
6. Rotten Apple Backpackers (Hastings)
Stay in the city centre of Hastings and get help finding work with the Rotten Apple Backpackers. This colourful hostel with a social atmosphere has all the essentials for a quick stay or long-term stay in Hastings. The team can assist in finding work and even help with IRD numbers, bank accounts and all that nitty-gritty. Plus, this hostel puts on some events throughout the week. There are mostly dorm rooms available, but those who want a bit more privacy have the option of a private double room. For advice on finding long-term stays in Hastings, head to Hastings: A Guide to Cheap Long-Term Accommodation.
7. Wally’s Backpackers
A short walk from town yet located on the quiet residential streets of Napier, Wally’s Backpackers is a top choice for seasonal workers and groups visiting the city. It has all the usually dorms and private rooms, with the addition of a private cottage with its own bathroom. You’ll find fellow travellers hanging out in the large kitchen, the lounge and library with more than 500 movies and books, computers and board games to battle rainy day boredom. Summer nights, however, are best outside in the attractive garden and barbecue area.
[CLOSED] A1 Backpackers
A1 Backpackers is a convenient base for exploring the city of Hastings or finding work in the Hawke’s Bay area. It is located near the PickNZ office, Post Shop, banks, pharmacy, shops and bus stops.
[CLOSED] Portside Inn Backpackers
Ideal for those travelling in a campervan, the Portside Inn offers powered sites, as well as backpacker dorm rooms. Get a refreshing view of the port side, away from the hustle and bustle of Napier city centre. This hostel is located in the suburb of Ahuriri.
More About Hostels in Napier and Hastings
That’s it for our list of the best hostels in Napier and Hastings, but it’s by no means the end of our advice! Check out more guides to help you plan the perfect trip to Hawke’s Bay:
- Hawke’s Bay – Guide for Backpackers
- How a Working Hostel in New Zealand Can Help You Find a Job
- 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Napier
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Travel Guide to Napier on a Budget.
Author
Robin C.
This article was reviewed and published by Robin, the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. He has lived, worked and travelled across 16 different countries before calling New Zealand home. He has now spent over a decade in the New Zealand tourism industry, clocking in more than 600 activities across the country. He is passionate about sharing those experiences and advice on NZ Pocket Guide and its YouTube channel. Robin is also the co-founder of several other South Pacific travel guides.