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The 10 Best Hostels in Kaikoura, New Zealand

Some of the best backpacker spots in Kaikoura

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Wonderful: 9+ Very Good: 8+ Good: 7+ Pleasant: 6+
Our top picks Lowest Price First Star rating and price Top reviewed

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Just 2 minutes' walk from Kaikoura town centre, Dolphin Lodge features views of the coastline and the mountain ranges. Guests enjoy free on-site parking.

Guests can choose to stay in a dormitory room or in the comfort of a private room. Each room includes free linen, heating and daily cleaning. Most rooms have shared bathroom facilities.

The fire place, the view on the terrace, the serenity

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8.2
Very Good
1,034 reviews
Price from
$24
per night

Located in Kaikoura, a few steps from Kaikoura Beach, Kaikoura Seaside lodge provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking and a shared lounge. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a children's playground. The accommodation offers a shared kitchen and free WiFi.

At the hostel each room is equipped with bed linen and towels.

The public area is great! Living room and dining room got great view!

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8.6
Excellent
7 reviews
Price from
$30
per night

Dusky Lodge offers budget accommodation. Free WiFi in public areas and free on-site parking are provided.

Guests staying at Dusky Lodge Kaikoura can prepare a meal in the shared kitchens available.

For those looking to relax at the property there are sun decks, otherwise, the tour desk can help advise guests on what to see in the surrounding areas.

Friendly helpful staff and comfortable beds.

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7.8
Good
995 reviews
Price from
$27
per night

Looking for a hostel?

Budget travelers know there's no better way to make the most of their trip than by staying at a hostel: Save money for exploring during the day, and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening. Dorm-style bedrooms with shared bathrooms are standard hostel fare, but private rooms are also available for those willing to pay a little more.
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Hostels that guests love in Kaikoura

  • Avg. price/night: $53.45
    8.2
    Scored 8.2
    Very Good
    Rated very good
     · 1,034 reviews
    The hostel had a lovely, laidback vibe. It was in a great location, a short walk into the Centre of Kaikoura. All the staff I met were friendly and welcoming. The garden area was lovely, and it has a beautiful terrace with sea views. The kitchen was well-equipped, and the free ground coffee was a really nice touch. The washing machine was cheap at 2 dollars, and you could use the washing line outside to dry your things.
    Jeni
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $219.99
    9.2
    Scored 9.2
    Wonderful
    Rated wonderful
     · 241 reviews
    Great location, overlooking the sea. Close enough to walk into Kaikoura. Safe parking. Apartment was very well fitted out, all appliances were modern and it looked as if someone had spent money to ensure it was comfortable and safe. There was washing up liquid, dishwasher powder and washing powder provided, a boon for travellers from overseas.
    Linda
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $55.52
    7.8
    Scored 7.8
    Good
    Rated good
     · 996 reviews
    Great backpacker hostel with pool and hot tub. We stayed in a private room which was a decent size and comfortable. Clean toilets and showers. Multiple large kitchens and lots of areas to sit out. 5-10 minute walk to the beach/ high street.
    Richard
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $53.45
    8.2
    Scored 8.2
    Very Good
    Rated very good
     · 1,034 reviews
    Great location good backpacker venue
    Cotter
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $53.45
    8.2
    Scored 8.2
    Very Good
    Rated very good
     · 1,034 reviews
    Fantastic location, hostel felt very safe and staff we're great!
    Row
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $53.45
    8.2
    Scored 8.2
    Very Good
    Rated very good
     · 1,034 reviews
    Very comfortable and very great location. I spent nice time in Kaikoura in the hostel.
    Yoann
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $96.87
    8.5
    Scored 8.5
    Very Good
    Rated very good
     · 569 reviews
    Great location (beachfront). Budget accomodation with everything you need for a short stay.
    Sally
    Solo traveler
  • Avg. price/night: $95.02
    8.9
    Scored 8.9
    Excellent
    Rated excellent
     · 1,755 reviews
    Very nice, relaxing warm, comfortable beds great location. We were travelling through, arrived late, left early. Would have loved to stay longer. Everyone commented how comfortable the beds were and how well the slept. The sound proofing must have been pretty good too, units look nearly brand new
    Carla
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: $86.11
    8.4
    Scored 8.4
    Very Good
    Rated very good
     · 928 reviews
    We have stayed many times as it’s a great location for us The room is clean The area is safe and quiet
    Rein
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: $53.45
    8.2
    Scored 8.2
    Very Good
    Rated very good
     · 1,034 reviews
    great location, nice relaxed vibe, cleanest kitchen I’ve been to in a hostel, cheap laundry
    Lara
    Solo traveler