Backpacking around New Zealand? Stay in the best hostels in Auckland.

Best Hostels in Auckland (Budget Backpackers & Cheap Places to Stay)

Auckland, the ‘City of Sails,’ is the largest city in New Zealand, with over a quarter of the Kiwi population residing there.

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand’s largest city, finding the best hostels in Auckland is essential, especially if you’re travelling on a budget.

Auckland might look like a big, sprawling city, but when it comes to accommodation, it’s very easy and common for places to book out completely.

During the busy summer months (December to February) and major events, the best hostels in Auckland — and even the cheaper options — can sell out fast.

I learned this the hard way.

On one trip, I arrived in Auckland with no accommodation booked, thinking I’d just find something when I got there. Big mistake.

A festival and concert were on that weekend, and I was told by the i-Site that the entire city was fully booked — my only option was to get on a bus and head to Hamilton, another city an hour away.

Instead, refusing to admit defeat, I sat on the airport floor calling every hostel I could find until I finally got a last-minute cancellation at 1 am… and it definitely wasn’t cheap.

And by the time we travelled there from the airport, we didn’t even get a full night’s sleep before we had to check out and start searching for somewhere else to stay for the next few days.

Lesson learned: if you’re visiting Auckland, ALWAYS book your accommodation in advance.

The good news is that there are still plenty of great budget options available — from modern pod-style hostels to social backpacker spots and quieter stays.

In this guide, I’ll share the best hostels in Auckland to help you find the right place for your trip.

Last updated: March 2026 – Auckland’s hostel scene has changed a lot in recent years, with some older backpacker hostels closing and newer options like pod-style accommodation opening in the city. I’ve updated this guide to reflect Auckland’s current hostel scene, including newer hostels like LyLo and the rebranding of several former YHA hostels.

Quick Picks: Best Hostels in Auckland

If you’re short on time, here are the best hostels in Auckland for different travel styles:

• Best overall hostel: LyLo Auckland

• Best social hostel: Attic Backpackers or JO&JOE Auckland

• Best quiet hostel: Verandahs Lodge

• Best cheap hostel: Choice Backpackers

• Best boutique hostel: Newton Lodge

Your Guide to the 10 Best Hostels in Auckland for Backpackers

Staying in the city centre is important to some travellers, particularly if your time in Auckland is limited, but if you have got a few days and you’re flexible, some of the best backpacker hostels in Auckland are found a little further out in the inner suburbs.

I have stayed in MANY different backpacker hostels in Auckland, some good, some not so good, some in the city centre, some in the quiet inner suburbs, some hostels for a (very) long time and some if I just needed to crash for one night in the city.

So here’s my guide to the Best Hostels in Auckland for Backpackers, all located within or close to Auckland city. 

➡️ If you’d rather skip paying for accommodation altogether, this guide on how to become a house sitter is worth reading.

Map of the Best Hostels in Auckland

To help you visualise where each hostel is located, here’s a map of the best hostels in Auckland. Most hostels are located in the CBD, but a few are in nearby neighbourhoods like Ponsonby and Karangahape Road.

As you can see on the map above, most of the best hostels in Auckland are located in the city centre, making it easy to explore attractions like the Sky Tower and Auckland Viaduct waterfront. 

1. LyLo Auckland – Best Pod Hostel in Auckland

Lylo – Best Pod Hostel in Auckland

Location
LyLo Auckland is located on Wakefield Street in Auckland CBD, just a short walk from Queen Street, Aotea Square, and the Sky Tower.

Why stay here
If you’re looking for something a little different from the typical backpacker hostel, LyLo is one of the most modern places to stay in Auckland. Instead of standard dorm bunks, it offers Japanese-style sleeping pods that give you extra privacy while still keeping things affordable.

LyLo is one of the most modern hostels in Auckland, offering Japanese-style sleeping pods in the dorms instead of traditional bunk beds. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Auckland hostel with a bit more privacy, this is a great option. The design is sleek and social, and the hostel also has a stylish lounge area and social spaces, making it popular with backpackers and digital nomads.

Facilities

• Private sleeping pods with privacy screens

• Shared kitchen and communal lounge

• Self-check-in kiosks

• Free WiFi

• Private rooms available

Price range
Dorm pods usually start around $50–$70 NZD per night, depending on the season.

Pros

• Modern pod-style dorms with more privacy than typical bunks

• Stylish, clean, and well-designed spaces

• Great central location in Auckland CBD

• Good mix of social spaces without being too noisy

Cons

• Pods can feel a bit enclosed if you don’t like small spaces

• Can feel more like a budget hotel than a hostel

Who it’s best for

Backpackers who want a modern Auckland hostel with comfort and more privacy than a typical dorm.

2. Haka House Auckland City – Best Modern Backpacker Hostel

(previously known as YHA Auckland International)

Location
There are two Haka House hostels in Auckland City; one is in the Auckland CBD, on Turner St, just a short walk from Queen Street and the Sky Tower. The other Haka House hostel is on K Road.

Why stay here

This is one of the most reliable backpacker hostels in Auckland, with clean, comfortable facilities and a central location. Formerly part of the YHA network, it’s been updated into a modern, well-maintained Auckland hostel that suits both short and longer stays in the city centre.

Facilities

• Large shared kitchen

• Spacious lounge areas

• Laundry facilities

• Free WiFi

• Private and dorm rooms

Price range
Dorm beds usually cost $45–$65 NZD per night.

Pros

• Reliable and well-maintained Auckland hostel

• Large kitchen and common areas

• Central CBD location close to transport

• Good mix of dorms and private rooms

Cons

• Lacks a strong social atmosphere

• Can feel a bit generic compared to smaller hostels

• Some areas may feel slightly dated

Who it’s best for

Travellers looking for a comfortable, centrally located Auckland hostel.

100% Kiwi-owned and New Zealand-made, Haka House is purpose-built, meaning everything has been created or sourced to fit the hostel. They have spacious living areas, and pride themselves on their top-of-the-line facilities and modern equipment.

The bespoke design of their wooden bunk beds is consistently praised in traveller reviews for ticking all the boxes: high-quality, comfortable mattresses, privacy curtains, an individual power point, a reading light, and lockable storage under the bunk.

(NOTE: Haka Lodge/YHA International Auckland is now part of the wider Haka House hostel network, which took over several former YHA hostels across New Zealand in 2023/24.)

3. Attic Backpackers – Best Social Hostel in Auckland

Hang out The Attic – one of Auckland’s best hostels for backpackers

Location
Attic Backpackers is located in the heart of Auckland CBD on Wellesley Street.

Why stay here
Attic Backpackers is one of the best hostels in Auckland for solo travellers thanks to its social vibe and central location. The rooftop terrace and relaxed common areas make it easy to meet other backpackers and travellers, and you’re within walking distance of the city’s main attractions.

Facilities

• Large shared kitchen

• Rooftop terrace

• Free WiFi

• Movie nights and social events

• Lockers and luggage storage

Price range
Dorm beds typically start around $40–$60 NZD per night.

Pros

• Excellent central location near Queen St

• Rooftop terrace is a great bonus

• Easy access to SkyBus for airport transfers (Skybus stop right outside!)

• Social atmosphere, great for meeting other travellers

Cons

• Can be noisy at night due to the location

• Rooms can be cold in winter

• No air-conditioning in summer

Who it’s best for

Solo travellers looking for a friendly, social Auckland backpacker hostel in the CBD.

Now encompassing its sister backpackers, Ponsonby Backpackers, The Attic Backpackers has a trendy design, spacious social areas, a rooftop sun deck area, plus free unlimited WiFi. 

One of the best backpacker hostels in Auckland for location, this hostel couldn’t be better for being right in the middle of it all. Supermarkets, bars, restaurants and bus stops are all less than a minute away.

Why we stayed here

When we stayed at this Auckland hostel, the location was super convenient but a bit noisy at night, especially being so close to Queen Street. Our twin room was also quite cold in winter, and no heaters were provided.

We came back for one night in summer before an early international flight and found the opposite issue — the rooms don’t have air-conditioning, so it was pretty hot and humid (which is typical for Auckland in the summer).

That said, I’d still stay here again. It’s one of the best hostels in Auckland for location alone, especially if you need easy airport access. There’s a SkyBus stop right outside, and we were able to catch a ride to the airport at 3 am with no hassle.

4. Verandahs Lodge – Best Quiet Hostel in Auckland

Photo courtesy of Verandahs, Ponsonby

Location
Verandahs Lodge is located in the trendy Ponsonby neighbourhood, about 10 minutes from the city centre.

Why stay here

Verandahs Lodge is a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter Auckland hostel away from the busy city centre. Set in a character villa with beautiful verandas and garden areas, it feels more relaxed and homely than many backpacker hostels in Auckland.

Facilities

• Fully equipped kitchen

• Garden and verandas

• Free WiFi

• Private and dorm rooms

• Laundry facilities

Price range
Dorm beds usually start around $45–$70 NZD per night.

Pros

• Quiet and relaxed atmosphere away from the CBD

• Beautiful villa-style building with outdoor spaces

• Clean and well-kept facilities

• Located in trendy Ponsonby

Cons

• Not within walking distance of all main attractions

• Less social than city hostels

• Limited nightlife nearby compared to the CBD

Who it’s best for

Travellers who want a quiet and relaxed hostel in Auckland, away from the busy CBD.

Hot on the list of the best hostels in Auckland, Verandahs Lodge in Ponsonby has taken the typical commercial backpackers’ accommodation and made it more like ‘home’.

It’s made up of two restored colonial-style villas and features a mixture of double, double en-suite, twin, single and shared rooms. Travellers get comfy beds, blackout curtains and a peaceful night’s sleep with no late check-ins allowed.

Verandahs practice and encourage environmentally friendly living by using filtered water, solar hot water, energy-efficient sensor lighting and by up-cycling building materials whenever they can.

5. JO&JOE Auckland – Best New Social Hostel in Auckland

Location
Located in Auckland CBD, just a short walk from Queen Street, the Sky Tower, other attractions and public transport.

Why stay here
JO&JOE is one of the newest and most modern hostels in Auckland, designed as a social space rather than just a place to sleep. With stylish interiors, lively common areas, regular events, and a strong focus on community, it’s one of the best hostels in Auckland for meeting other travellers.

If you’re looking for a modern Auckland hostel that blends hotel-style comfort with a fun, social atmosphere, this is a great choice.

Facilities

• Stylish shared dorms and private rooms

• On-site bar and social spaces

• Shared kitchen

• Free WiFi

• Events and communal hangout areas

Price range
Dorm beds usually start around $50–$70 NZD per night, depending on the season.

Pros

• One of the newest and most modern hostels in Auckland

• Strong social vibe, with events and shared spaces

• Stylish design and comfortable rooms

• Central CBD location

Cons

• Can be noisy due to the social atmosphere

• Slightly more expensive than older hostels

• May feel more like a hotel than a traditional backpacker hostel

Who it’s best for
Backpackers looking for a social, modern Auckland hostel with a lively atmosphere.

6. Choice Backpackers – Best Cheap Hostel in Auckland CBD

Location
Choice Backpackers is centrally located on Wellesley Street East, just minutes from Queen Street.  

Why stay here

If you’re looking for a cheap hostel in Auckland, this is one of the most affordable options in the city centre. It’s a simple backpacker hostel, but the location makes it a great base for exploring Auckland on a budget.

Facilities

• Shared kitchen

• Lounge area

• Laundry facilities

• Free WiFi

• Dorm and private rooms

Price range
Dorm beds typically start around $35–$55 NZD per night.

Pros

• One of the cheapest hostels in Auckland CBD

• Very central location near Queen Street

• Good option for budget travellers

• Easy access to public transport

Cons

• Facilities are fairly basic

• Can feel crowded and busy

• Not the cleanest compared to newer hostels

Who it’s best for
Budget travellers looking for a cheap Auckland hostel in a central location.

7. Newton Lodge – Best Boutique Hostel

Location
Newton Lodge is located near Karangahape Road (K-Road), a lively area known for nightlife and restaurants.

Why stay here
Newton Lodge is a smaller, boutique-style Auckland hostel that feels more modern than many traditional backpacker hostels. It’s clean, comfortable, and slightly quieter than CBD hostels.

Facilities

• Shared kitchen

• Free WiFi

• Lounge area

• Lockers

• Private rooms available

Price range
Dorm beds usually cost around $45–$65 NZD per night.

Pros

• Clean and modern boutique-style hostel

• Smaller and quieter than many CBD hostels

• Good location near K-Road

• Comfortable rooms and facilities

Cons

• Not very social

• Limited common areas

• Slightly higher price for a smaller hostel

Who it’s best for
Travellers who want a modern, boutique-style hostel in Auckland.

8. Hobson Lodge – Best Budget Hostel Near Sky Tower

Location
Hobson Lodge is on Hobson Street, within walking distance of the Sky Tower.

Why stay here
Hobson Lodge is a simple but well-located hostel that offers affordable accommodation close to Auckland’s main attractions. It’s not as large as some city hostels, which gives it a quieter atmosphere.

Hobson Lodge is a simple and affordable Auckland hostel with a great location near Auckland’s major attractions. It’s a good option if you want a budget-friendly place to stay in the city.

Facilities

• Shared kitchen

• Free WiFi

• Laundry facilities

• Dorm and private rooms

Price range
Dorm beds typically start around $40–$60 NZD per night.

Pros

• Affordable Auckland hostel near the Sky Tower

• Smaller and quieter than larger hostels

• Good central location

• Simple and practical for short stays

Cons

• Basic facilities

• Not very social

• Limited amenities compared to larger hostels

Who it’s best for

Travellers wanting a budget Auckland hostel close to attractions.

9. Metro Adventurer Backpackers – Best Large Backpacker Hostel

Location
Metro Adventurer Backpackers is on Hobson Street in Auckland CBD, near the Sky Tower.

Why stay here
Metro Adventurer is a larger Auckland backpacker hostel with plenty of rooms and facilities. It’s a practical option if other hostels are fully booked and you still want something central and affordable.

Facilities

• Shared kitchen

• Lounge area

• Free WiFi

• Laundry facilities

• Dorm and private rooms

Price range
Dorm beds usually start around $35–$55 NZD per night.

Pros

• Central location in Auckland CBD

• Affordable dorm beds

• Good availability when other hostels are booked out

• Large hostel with plenty of rooms

Cons

• Can feel crowded and busy

• Facilities are quite basic

• Cleanliness can vary

Who it’s best for
Backpackers looking for a large, central Auckland hostel with availability.

10. United Auckland – Best for Longer Stays

Location
United Auckland. Located near Karangahape Road, close to cafes, nightlife, and public transport.

Why stay here
United Auckland offers budget studio-style accommodation, making it ideal if you want a little more privacy than a typical dorm. Many rooms include kitchenettes, which can help you save money on food while travelling. 

It’s ideal if you want a budget stay in Auckland with more privacy, especially for longer stays.

Facilities

• Private studio rooms

• Kitchenettes in some rooms

• Free WiFi

• Laundry facilities

Price range
Rooms usually start around $80–$120 NZD per night.

Pros

• More privacy than typical hostels

• Studio-style rooms with kitchenettes

• Good for longer stays

• Quiet compared to backpacker hostels

Cons

• Less social atmosphere

• More like budget accommodation than a hostel

• Higher price than dorm-style hostels

Who it’s best for

Travellers who want a budget-friendly stay in Auckland with more space and privacy.

Brown Kiwi Backpackers (Now Closed – but remains part of my Auckland story)

My ‘home’ for 4 months – Brown Kiwi, Ponsonby

Sadly, Brown Kiwi has since closed, but it’s still a special part of my Auckland travel story.

Location
Previously located on Prosford Street near Ponsonby Road.

Why I stayed here

Brown Kiwi was the first Auckland hostel I ever stayed in — and somehow, I ended up living there for four months! It was busy, a bit cramped, and I definitely wouldn’t recommend it, but it ended up being one of those travel experiences you never forget.

And I made some amazing friends here, and that’s what made it so special.

Plus, the location was hard to beat — right in the heart of Ponsonby and within walking distance of Auckland city.

The hostel itself was small, with mostly dorm rooms, a couple of private rooms, shared facilities, and a great outdoor garden space to hang out.

It always felt really crowded when it was full, but it had a lot of character. And we ‘long-termers’ really did stick together, especially when things were hard. I remember us all crowding into the tiny communal lounge to watch The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit movies. 

Staying here for so long whilst looking for/trying to work was so challenging at times, and sometimes I hated it. But the friends I made helped me through the bad parts, and my time here will always be part of my New Zealand story.

Best Areas to Stay in Auckland for Backpackers

If you’re visiting Auckland for the first time, choosing the right neighbourhood can make a big difference to your trip. Some areas are better for nightlife and attractions, while others are quieter and more local.

Here are the best areas in Auckland for backpackers and budget travellers.

Auckland CBD

The Auckland CBD (Central Business District) is the most popular area for backpackers because it puts you within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions.

From here, you can easily reach the ferry terminal, Queen Street shopping district, and the iconic Sky Tower.

Most of Auckland’s hostels are located in this area, including:

• LyLo Auckland
• Haka House Auckland City
• Attic Backpackers
• JO&JOE Backpackers
• Choice Backpackers
• Metro Adventurer Backpackers

This area is best if you want easy access to public transport, nightlife, and major attractions.

Ponsonby

Ponsonby is one of Auckland’s trendiest neighbourhoods and is known for its cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops.

It’s only about a 10-minute drive or short bus ride from the city centre, but it feels much more relaxed than the busy CBD.

Hostels located here include:

• Verandahs Lodge

This area is perfect for travellers who want a quieter stay with great food and nightlife nearby.

Karangahape Road (K-Road)

Karangahape Road — often called K-Road — is one of Auckland’s most vibrant areas.

It’s known for:

• live music venues
• bars and nightlife
• vintage shops and cafes

Hostels in this area include:

• Newton Lodge 
• United Auckland

K-Road is ideal for travellers who want a lively neighbourhood with plenty of nightlife and culture.

Average Hostel Prices in Auckland

Hostel prices in Auckland can vary depending on the season, the type of room, and the location.

In general, you can expect to pay:

Prices are usually higher during the summer months (December to February) when international tourism is at its peak.

If you’re travelling on a tight budget, booking your hostel a few weeks in advance can often help you secure cheaper rates.

Tips for Booking Hostels in Auckland

If you’re planning a backpacking trip to Auckland, these tips can help you find the best hostel type for your trip.

Book early during the summer
New Zealand’s peak travel season runs from December to February, and popular hostels often sell out. I’ve even been in Auckland when EVERY single hostel was booked out. ALWAYS book ahead in Auckland.

Choose your location carefully
Staying in the Auckland CBD makes it easier to reach public transport, main attractions, and the ferry terminal. The inner suburbs are beautiful, but keep in mind that it will take you longer to get around Auckland.

Check dorm size
Some hostels have large dorms with 10+ beds, while others offer smaller dorm rooms with 4–6 beds for more privacy.

Look for female-only dorms
Many Auckland hostels offer female-only dorms if you prefer extra privacy, or don’t feel ok staying in a mixed dorm.

Bring a padlock
Most hostels provide lockers, but you’ll need your own padlock to use them.

FAQs About Hostels in Auckland

All your FAQs answered:

Are hostels in Auckland safe?

Yes, most hostels in Auckland are safe and well-managed. Many offer secure key-card access, lockers, and staff at reception. As with any city, it’s always a good idea to keep your valuables locked away.

What is the cheapest hostel in Auckland?

Some of the most affordable hostels in Auckland include Choice Backpackers and Metro Adventurer Backpackers, where dorm beds can sometimes start from around $25 NZD per night.

Are there private rooms in Auckland hostels?

Yes, many hostels offer private rooms in addition to dorm beds. These are a good option if you’re travelling as a couple or want more privacy while still keeping costs lower than a hotel.

What is the best hostel in Auckland?

Many travellers consider LyLo Auckland one of the best hostels in the city thanks to its modern pod-style dorms, stylish design, and central location.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Auckland

Auckland has a great range of hostels, from modern pod-style accommodation to small boutique backpacker lodges. Whether you’re looking for a social hostel in the city centre or a quieter place to stay near Ponsonby, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from.

Many travellers only stay in Auckland for a night or two before exploring more of the country, so choosing a well-located hostel near the CBD can make it easier to get around.

If you’re planning a longer trip in Auckland, you might also want to check out my guide to the best free things to do in Auckland.

That’s a wrap for this post on the Best Backpacker Hostels in Auckland, New Zealand. I hope you find it helpful when you book your next accommodation in Auckland.

Happy & safe travels 🙂
Alial

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