Best Hostels in Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, is a popular stop for backpackers traveling through the island nation for many reasons, from its cultural sites such as Te Papa Tongarewa (New Zealand's national museum) to its beautiful waterfront section, adorned with sculptures and cafes. Staying in this popular urban center doesn't have to break your budget, though. Like any large city, Wellington hosts a number of great backpackers hostels. Check out our list of the best hostels in Wellington to get the most for your money.

YHAWellingtonCity

This high-rise hostel is mere blocks from Te Papa and the waterfront and boasts great views in all directions. It has an eco-friendly ethic with touches such as eco-friendly cleaning supplies, recycling bins, and a policy of not laundering towels on a daily basis. You can choose from traditional hostel-style rooms such as four- or six-bed dorms, or opt for more privacy with a twin or double room. You'll have the option of ensuite rooms or rooms with shared shower and toilet facilities.

YHA Wellington City has a large common area and its kitchen provides ample space for its many guests to prepare meals and dine-in. Entertainment options include Wi-Fi throughout the hostel, bicycle hire, and a movie theater room complete with a large screen, projector, and complimentary DVD rental.

Nomads Capital

Nomads Capital is a self-described "flashpackers," a term referring to backpackers hostels with a bit more elegance and flair than their peers. This centrally-located hostel offers a full range of dormitory rooms as well as private rooms. Private twin and double rooms even include satellite television, an unusual but welcome touch for a hostel.

Common facilities include a large kitchen if you wish to self-cater, although it also has an on-site café and bar. The Blend Bar and Café has a fireplace for windy, chilly Wellington evenings, pool tables, live music, and event nights such as Thursday's beach walk and pub crawl.

Downtown Backpackers

Downtown Backpackers sits in the former site of the Hotel Waterloo, a luxury building chosen as the site of the queen's coronation in 1953. Although it's since been converted to a budget backpackers hostel, it retains many of its elegant touches. Choose from a range of dormitories with shared bathroom facilities or ensuite private rooms with all the classic décor of the original Hotel Waterloo.

The ground floor hosts the Buzz Bar, a popular bar and café boasting some of the cheapest drinks prices in Wellington as well as several pool tables and a relaxing lounge area. Even though it started life as a hotel, Downtown Backpackers has a large kitchen with modern appliances for its guests to use.

Sources

http://www.yha.co.nz/Hostels/North+Island+Hostels/Wellington/
http://nomadshostels.com/hostels/new-zealand/wellington-nomads-capital
http://www.downtownbackpackers.co.nz/