10 Top-Rated Hostels hotel in Canterbury Region, South Island

May 19, 2023 Marianna Hollaway

Christchurch, the Garden City, and the Canterbury region are the perfect destination for daredevils. From northern Kaikoura to Waimate in the south, Canterbury is an adventure sports paradise. Hangliding, helibiking, bungee jumping, snowboarding, jetboating, rafting and skydiving get the adrenaline going. Golfing, flightseeing, swimming with dolphins and soaking in thermal pools are more laid-back temptations. Christchurch, a city of parks and gardens, is the country’s third largest urban area.
Restaurants in Canterbury Region

1. Tailor Made Tekapo Accommodation

11 Aorangi Crescent, Lake Tekapo 7945 New Zealand
Excellent
50%
Good
40%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 339 reviews

Tailor Made Tekapo Accommodation

Boutique, budget friendly accommodation nestled in a quiet corner of the village and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Only 300 metres from the bus-stop and the Village shops. Self catering facilities are available to all guest in our large, fully equipped kitchen. There are also free tennis courts, free WiFi and bicycles available for hire.

Tekapo tranquility

Reviewed By Jessie1306

We loved our 3 night stay at Tailor Made. The animals everywhere around the grounds just made it that much more enjoyable. I thoroughly enjoyed my daily big bunny fix. We had a double room with shared facilities (that we didn’t share as it was so quiet!). The room was basic but cosy. The bed and pillows were very comfortable and of a much better quality than I’d expect to find in a backpackers accommodation. Lovely hot showers and a heater in the shower room too. The kitchen was large, tidy and well equipped with plenty of seating areas. We couldn’t fault the cleanliness anywhere - it was done to a high standard. Another thing we really loved was that the signage around the hostel was subtle. There aren’t posters everywhere telling you to clean up and don’t do this or that, just a few small reminders. On that note, it is not the place to come if you want a party - the building isn’t very noise proof so it much better suits the quieter traveller and therefore, was perfect for us. Excellent location to town and all the beautiful walks around. Great work Jovana and Richard.

2. Kakapo Lodge YHA

14 Amuri Avenue, Hanmer Springs 7334 New Zealand
Excellent
66%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 146 reviews

Kakapo Lodge YHA

YHA Hanmer Springs, Kakapo Lodge is a two-storey purpose built backpacker hostel with a relaxed friendly atmosphere. This modern hostel is located just 200m (literally a three minute walk) from the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa and the village centre with all its many cafes, shops and restaurants. Relaxing inside the hostel is easy with its log fire, underfloor heating, movie hire, large kitchen and open common room.

Friendly and welcoming

Reviewed By AlexDurran

Great place to stay. Very friendly family run backpacker. They were helpful and friendly with any request I had. Comfortable beds, clean, well equipped kitchen, great balconies and numerous lounge areas. Only down side is they leave a lot of lights on in the unoccupied rooms in the day - seems a waste of energy.

3. Hotel Give

12 Hereford Street Canterbury, Christchurch 8011 New Zealand
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 3 reviews

Hotel Give

Centrally located next to the Botanical Gardens, Canterbury Museum and Hagley Park, Hotel Give features a range of accommodations including self-contained apartments, private deluxe rooms and shared-bathroom rooms and dormitory rooms. Guests enjoy 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi and a cafe. For an additional charge guests can access conference spaces, laundry facilities and a health and fitness center. There are also two communal kitchens, and lounge areas to relax in on the first four floors. Accommodations options include deluxe rooms with private bathrooms and and tea/coffee making facilities. Classic rooms offer access to shared bathroom facilities. Apartments have a fully equipped kitchen, balconies and living areas. All rooms (except dorms) have flat screen TVs and wardrobes. The cafe offers coffee, breakfast and lunch each day.

fabulous !

Reviewed By Exploration819256

the rebranded ymca accommodation cannot be beaten for value, comfort & services. friendly, helpful staff, very good housekeeping, awesome value & perfect location for exploring the garden city. my new go to stay place when visiting christchurch.

4. Jailhouse Accommodation

338 Lincoln Road, Christchurch 8024 New Zealand
Excellent
44%
Good
41%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 557 reviews

Jailhouse Accommodation

Closest Budget Accommodation to the Railway Station! Award winning hostel. 'Author's Pick' in Christchurch for Lonely Planet and Rough Guide 2008. Top mid-sized Independent BBH hostel in NZ. WiFi. Free parking. Newly renovated heritage accommodation with a colourful history as the former Addington Prison. Private Single, Double, Twin bunk and Group/Family/Dorm rooms available in our budget Christchurch accommodation. Clean, warm, friendly with super-comfortable beds close to top Christchurch attractions. Families welcome.

Sentenced to 2 nights

Reviewed By deanculhane

One of the best places I've ever stayed bed in my cell was really comfortable plenty of places to sit and relax the wardens were really helpful you must stay here if you're ever in Christchurch it's a unique experience

5. Mountain House, Arthur's Pass YHA

84 W Coast Rd, Arthur's Pass National Park 7654 New Zealand
Excellent
55%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 165 reviews

Mountain House, Arthur's Pass YHA

YHA Arthur’s Pass Mountain House is situated in the alpine village of Arthur's Pass, right on the Main Divide of the Southern Alps, just two hours from Christchurch and ninety minutes from Greymouth. Accommodation Is in our lodge set in the centre of town, a modern, heated, suntrap with great views, but still with a small hostel feel. We offer you a base from which to explore the tracks of the National Park especially Avalanche Peak, one of the premium day walks in New Zealand.

Spotlessly clean and well equipped

Reviewed By JimW3254

We stayed here because all the motels were booked out, we are of an age where we choose to no longer share. Been there done that for decades. Ended up being fabulous. Spotlessly clean, extremely well equipped kitchen. Room was comfy. Showers were great. Other guests respectful and quiet. Owner was very prompt around responding to emails. Key was left for us as we arrived after hours and a note with it clearly explained what we needed to know. It was a great stay.

6. Dusky Lodge & Backpackers

67 Beach Road, Kaikoura 7300 New Zealand
Excellent
32%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
18%
Poor
5%
Terrible
12%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 312 reviews

Dusky Lodge & Backpackers

Dusky Lodge located in Kaikoura is a great place to relax, unwind and take in the great views and spectacular sunsets from our extensive decks. We have the perfect set up for a family or group that is looking for budget accommodation while exploring the local region. In summer, soak up the sun at our resort style complex with a large saltwater outdoor heated pool and enjoy a choice of Mexican cuisine from Sicarios Kaikoura & licensed bar. In winter, get cozy by the roaring fire, pick from our range of board games or relax in the spa. Book direct with us to access student discounts, members of The Backpacker Group and Explore Our Backyard get special deals too. Dusky Lodge really is lodge quality at budget prices!

Unparalleled Service.

Reviewed By Z3584DSandrews

I stayed at Dusky for work throughout the winter of 2021 up until the recent spring. Russell the manager was absolutely incredible.Proper legend. He went out of his way to help me, no request was ever too much and always made sure my time staying was to the utmost standard. All with a smile on his face. I work remotely and sometimes this spans time-zones, giving me strange hours. Russell was always so courteous to this fact and always made sure everything was ok with my work/life/staying schedule. The team he's put together are great; always friendly, happy to help and just to talk to in passing. All this with the uncertainty amid a pandemic. I cannot thank Russell enough. Kitchen is spacious, very clean and always had a great atmosphere with the other guests passing through, so all of the above with absolutely great value, there is no shadow of a doubt that I will be returning to stay; business or leisure.

7. Hanmer Backpackers

41 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs 7334 New Zealand
Excellent
74%
Good
19%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 144 reviews

Hanmer Backpackers

Hanmer Backpackers is the most centrally located hostel in beautiful Hanmer Springs. Our hostel is a small, cozy, friendly and warm Swiss chalet style backpackers providing excellent accommodation and service at low prices. We are the most affordable accommodation provider in Hanmer Springs for the independent traveller. The main attraction in Hanmer Springs are the Thermal Pools, which are located a 3-4 minute walk from our hostel! But there's more, Hanmer Springs is a fabulous place for mountain biking, hiking / tramping, skiing, rafting, bungee jumping, quad biking, golf, fishing, shopping and many more things. Our kitchen is well stocked with all the essential cooking equipment, fridges / freezers, free tea, plunger coffee, instant coffee, hot chocolate, milk for the hot drinks and a complete spice rack. There is a nice outside patio with comfortable garden furniture and a gas BBQ + utensils. The lounge has some comfy sofas, extensive book exchange, board games, guitar and a massage chair to take care of your sore muscles after a day full of activities.

Felt like home

Reviewed By Jessie1306

Everything was brilliant. Truly. It’s probably our favourite hostel of a 3 year world tour. Hanmer Backpackers is run by a lovely team, Tristan and Yoko. The passion for their business is evident in every corner of the place. It’s spotlessly clean, so cosy and has all you need for an enjoyable stay - couples, solo trippers and families. It’s this gorgeous quaint alpine lodge with comfy furniture and a log fire that Tristan keeps going all afternoon and evening. I was so toasty warm that I was able to sleep in my summer PJs again. It reminded me of visiting my favourite old relative where you instantly walk in and get this warm fuzzy “I’m home” feeling. I loved reading my book in the upstairs lounge and the 15 min free massage chair experience was just a cherry on the already awesome cake. I really love how they have a few polite notices around the place but you aren’t bombarded with instructions and rules. They also wash their duvet covers after every guest (HOORAY!) I would recommend this place to EVERYONE. Excellent job you guys, I already want to come back

8. Dolphin Lodge Backpackers

15 Deal Street, Kaikoura 7300 New Zealand
Excellent
45%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
1%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 155 reviews

Dolphin Lodge Backpackers

Dolphin Lodge is a small, friendly hostel only 3 minutes walk from the i-site, beach, cafes and restaurants. It is often refered to as a "home away from home". We have amazing sea and mountain views from the deck area and a hot tub to relax in after a long day exploring the wonders of beautiful Kaikoura. Accommodation options range from 4-6 bed dorm rooms to private en-suit rooms. All rooms are heated and there is a cozy log burner in the common room for colder days.

Home away from home!

Reviewed By lucianaaA8467TD

I loved staying at this place! Hostel is simple, and quiet due to being low season, and doesnt pretend to be anything fancy. But it is great located, views are amazing, and it is comfortable and cozy, with a wood fire at the night to keep youwarm. Spa pool was closed so cant comment ( I think due to being almost empty the lodge). Staff was incredible friendly and welcoming. Would definitely go back! Luciana

9. Oxford Queenette Backpackers

33 Main Street, Oxford 7430 New Zealand
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 2 reviews

Oxford Queenette Backpackers

Oxford Queenette Backpackers, OQB, is situated in the heart of picturesque town of Oxford –known as “the best little town in New Zealand”, at the edge of the Canterbury plains on South Island, NZ. It is a convenient stop on scenic Route 72, opposite Town Hall, Library and behind Queenette Dairy, the local convenience store. OQB has brand new set up, with 7 rooms, 1 double, 1 double en-suite, 1 family, 2 twin and 2 Dorm rooms. It has total 28 beds able to host 31 people total. All beds have brand new quality mattresses, bedside light and USB charging outlet. All rooms have heater/air condition and keyless digital lock. We offer free WiFi, self-help laundry(coin operated), communal kitchen, indoor and outdoor lounge and eating areas, free on-site parking, kettle and hair dryers shared for our guests, information about local activities, and luggage storage on request. Free tea and coffee in the kitchen and a book exchange and TV in the lounge.

Amazing modern facilities, great customer service

Reviewed By nataliemcveigh

We where pleasantly surprised by this hostel. It was all modern, absolutely great that each bed had there own plug/usb port and light. Modern wooden furnishing, great size of a kitchen. Towels and hand towels was a nice addition as usually hostels do not provide these. We where arriving late but owners where able to accommodate us and they went above and beyond and put me and my friend in a private room cause there was a big group in the other rooms

10. Bealey Quarter

263 Bealey Avenue, Christchurch 8013 New Zealand
Excellent
47%
Good
31%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
4%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 260 reviews

Bealey Quarter

The Bealey Quarter represents our four unique hospitality offerings in the one precinct. Three diverse accommodation spaces, a private function room plus a bustling restaurant and bar provide an unrivalled hospitality experience in Christchurch. The Bealey Quarter offers three distinct Accommodation offerings, which ensures we have the right rooms to suit your every need and budget. The Studios offers premium motel accommodation and all of the modern conveniences without the hefty price tag. These near-new facilities are ideal for short-term stays, both business and leisure. The Courtyard is the ideal place for those wanting easy outdoor access and spacious sunny rooms. These rooms are popular with families and groups who want to be close together and are further complemented with hammocks, picnic tables, a large grassy space, and BBQ area. The Lodge offers warm, lodge-style accommodation designed with a range of shared and self-contained options. Ideal for group bookings, from schools and colleges to sporting and cultural groups.

Not going back

Reviewed By RenateW320

No one told me about the $100 bond they take when you check in. Too noisy, I could hear everything from the rooms next to mine and above. Had to run water for 8 minutes to get hot water in the shower and even that wasn’t hot enough. Reception hours were “7am-11pm” but I had to wait 15 minutes one morning for someone to turn up (not great when you booked a taxi and lost it because of that). Must say place was really clean, the kitchen was spacious and spotless.

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