For most of us, while Auckland isn’t the main destination, it is the unavoidable entrance when travelling to New Zealand.
Auckland is often the gate-keeper of New Zealand, but many people aren’t aware that in its own right, is, in fact, an awesome and fascinating city.
Too many travelers have a tendency to spend a quick night in Auckland before heading south, which is exactly why I made this post of the 20 best hostels in Auckland.
Auckland can be awesome, and if you are willing to spend a few days there, you’ll find a ton of interesting things to do and sites to see.
With the help of this post, you’ll get an idea of the where to stay in Auckland so you can spend less time stressing on lodging, and more time exploring this vastly underrated city.
Let’s look into the 20 best hostels in Auckland.
Quick answer: The best hostels in Auckland
- Overall Best Hostel in Auckland – Haka Lodge Auckland
- Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Auckland – The Attic Backpackers
- Best Cheap Hostel in Auckland – Waiheke Backpackers Hostel
- Best Hostel for Couples in Auckland – Verandahs Backpackers Lodge
- Best Party Hostel in Auckland – Hekerua Lodge Backpackers
- Best Hostel in Auckland for Long Term Stay – BK Hostel
What to look for in the Best Hostels in Auckland
Just like the rest of New Zealands hostels, all of the hostels on this list are great, so what is ‘best’ comes down to your specific needs. I’ve identified some of the most common backpacker/traveler needs, so you can book your hostel quickly. Here are some of the things I took into consideration while I was backpacking Auckland…
- Price – On the international scale, Auckland is on the higher end, but not quite Northern-Europe-Japan-USA prices. The Price of Travel puts Auckland at $61 a day, but if you book the right hostel and don’t party too much, you can get this down to the high 40’s, low 50’s.
- Location – Auckland is not a small city by any stretch, and a lot of the activities are spread out across the city. If you have a specific itinerary, definitely make an attempt to be closer, but if you can’t, the city’s impressive public transportation has got you covered.
- Amenities – While Auckland’s hostel scene is good, it’s not known for its freebies. In particular, the majority of hostels do not include breakfast or towels. This makes an already expensive city more difficult to budget, but it’s all a part of the experience!
The 16 Best Hostels in Auckland
We’ve listed our favourite Auckland hostels to make sorting your trip easier. We haven’t only listed them, though—we’ve divided them into different categories so you can spot your own fave in an instant. As we mentioned above, the city isn’t small, so deciding where to stay in Auckland can be a bit tricky.
Whether you’re a party-loving backpacker or a digital nomad, are looking for somewhere as cheap as chips, love the solo sociable vibe, or want to feel the love with a significant other, here are the 20 best hostels in Auckland.
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Overall Best Hostel in Auckland – Haka Lodge Auckland
- $$
- Age Restrictions
- Mini Cinema
- Lockers
A new addition to Auckland’s hostel scene, Haka Lodge Auckland is modern, comfortable, and appealing. One to keep an eye, this could very well become of the best hostels in Auckland in 2021. Suitable for solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends, different-sized dorms sleep from five to 20. There are private rooms too. There’s no need to feel shy at bedtime; all beds have a curtain. There are ample power outlets and Wi-Fi is free. The extensive DVD selection and mini cinema is a nice addition to the communal areas. There’s a lounge and kitchen too. There’s a sociable vibe, yet plenty of peace and quiet at night.
Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Auckland – The Attic Backpackers
- $$$
- Tour Desk
- Laundry Facilities
- Jobs Board
Friendly, relaxing, and centrally located, The Attic Backpackers is a top hostel in Auckland. There’s a large terrace for prime chill-out time, a sociable dining area, a tour desk, a book exchange, and a kitchen. Wi-Fi is free and you can scour the jobs board for all the latest vacancies. Don’t worry about having to climb the stairs each time you go in and out—there’s an elevator. Laundry and luggage storage are available too, and there are female-only dorms as well as well as mixed dormitories. There’s an over-18 policy.
Best Cheap Hostel in Auckland #1 – Waiheke Backpackers Hostel
- $$$
- Beach Location
- BBQ
- Steam Room
If you’re more of a beach bum than a city sightseer, Waiheke Backpackers Hostel could be the perfect Auckland base for you. Around 40 minutes by bus from Auckland’s centre, chill on the sands of Onetangi Beach, enjoy surfing (in season), hit up beachfront cafes, and tour local vineyards. Throw something tasty on the BBQ, prepare meals in the well-equipped kitchen, and chill in the shared lounge or on the terrace. There’s free Wi-Fi at this Auckland backpackers hostel, though do note that towels are not available.
Best Cheap Hostel in Auckland #2 – Metro Adventurer Backpackers
- $
- Key Card Access
- Luggage Storage
- Laundry Facilities
The new Metro Adventurer Backpackers is a top hostel in Auckland for backpackers who want to stay close to the lively Queen Street without breaking the bank. Dorms are available for between four and ten and there are two shared kitchens to cater for a large number of guests. All beds have USB and regular charging points and each guest has a locker. Bedding is provided, though you’ll need to have your own towel or rent one at the hostel. Relax and meet other travellers in the common room, complete with a TV, board games, and a book exchange.
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View on Osprey View on REIBest Hostel for Couples in Auckland – Verandahs Backpackers Lodge
- $$
- Jobs Board
- Washing Machine
- Outdoor Space
Calling all romance-seekers and flashpackers in Auckland! If you’re oversleeping in bunk beds and want a more stylish stay while still maintaining a modest budget, Verandahs could be just the Auckland hostel you’re looking for. Close to trendy bars, restaurants, and up-market shopping, the hostel is within two awesome historic villas. Dorms are small, sleeping four or five, and the single and double rooms make it great for privacy-loving solo travellers and couples too. Chill outdoors and admire the views from the spacious verandahs and the pretty garden, hangout in the lounge, and bliss out in the steam room.
Best Party Hostel in Auckland – Hekerua Lodge Backpackers
- $$
- Swimming Pool
- Hot Tub and Steam Room
- Bike Hire
Experience the enticing island life just 35 minutes from downtown Auckland with a stay at Hekerua Lodge Backpackers on Waiheke Island. Gorgeous beaches are right at your fingertips and nature is all around. The party vibe is strong here and there are loads of sociable activities, like pizza nights, yoga classes, quizzes, drinking games, and paddleboarding. Bliss out in the pool, steam room, and hot tub for a little TLC if the hangovers get a bit too much. There’s a kitchen where you can cook your catch after a day of fishing, a lounge, and a terrace.
Best Hostel in Auckland for Long Term – BK Hostel
- $
- Pool Table
- Key Card Access
- Laundry Facilities
A clean, comfortable, secure and one of the best budget hostels in Auckland, BK Hostel is filled with friendly and homey vibes. Centrally located, there’s heaps to do from the moment you step out the door. Discounts are available for long term stays, making this a potentially great option for long-term travellers, digital nomads, and people working in New Zealand. Challenge your fellow travellers to a game of pool, stay connected with the free Wi-Fi, watch TV, and cook a tasty meal in the kitchen. No need to lug your backpacks up the stairs—there’s an elevator.
Best Cheap Hostel in Auckland #3 – Borders Beyond
- $
- Laundry Facilities
- Bicycle Parking
- Jobs Board
A recommended hostel in Auckland for anyone hoping to work in New Zealand, the up-to-date jobs board alerts you of potential opportunities making your search a bit easier. There is free Wi-Fi and you can use the telephone to call about jobs. The friendly staff members might be able to give you a heads up too. Peaceful and secure, the hostel is located a five-minute bus ride from the centre of Auckland. There are tons of facilities, including lockers, kitchen, TV lounge, laundry facilities, book exchange, and terrace. Do note: a small payment is needed for hot showers and towels are not provided.
Borders Beyond is one of our favourites in Auckland but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Auckland – Grafton House Accommodation
- $$
- Washing Machine
- BBQ Area
- Meeting Rooms
Among the best hostels in Auckland for digital nomads, the recently refurbished Grafton House Accommodation offers free and unlimited Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and calm spaces where you can focus on your work. There are comfortable tables and chairs in the lounge and lobby-cum-TV area, and you’ll also find somewhere to sit up on the roof terrace. Some dorms have pod-style beds, with a curtain, lights, and power outlets. There’s a large kitchen and the vending machines help to chase away late-night munchies.
Grafton House Accommodation is one of our favourites in Auckland but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Auckland Hostel near the Airport – Lantana Lodge International Backpackers
- $$
- Free Parking
- Jobs Board
- 24-Hour Security
Situated near Parnell Village, the freshest thing about Lantana Lodge International Backpackers is, well, the fresh air! The dorms and private rooms all have special technology that keeps the air nice and crisp and fresh—no more dirty washing or sweaty feet smells! Accessible by direct airport bus which takes away the hassle of finding an Auckland hostel near the airport. Rent a car onsite for explorations or, alternatively, book trips via the friendly members of staff. Welcoming and warm, the hostel has a kitchen and a lounge. Wi-Fi is free. Security lockers and round-the-clock security provide peace of mind.
Lantana Lodge International Backpackers is one of our favourites in Auckland but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Auckland – YHA Auckland City
- $$
- Age Restrictions
- Laundry Facilities
- Tour Booking
A top hostel in Auckland, close to Queen Street and the vibrant city centre, YHA Auckland City has private rooms and both mixed and single-sex dorms for four or six. Meet others and mingle in the spacious kitchen and common room, head out to the deck for a BBQ in the sunshine, and relax in the steam room. A TV, DVDs, free Wi-Fi, and book exchange keep you busy in your downtime, and there are laundry facilities, luggage storage, lockers, and round-the-clock security. It has everything you could need for your stay in Auckland.
YHA Auckland City is one of our favourites in Auckland but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
More of the Best Hostels in Auckland
And that’s not all folks … keep reading to discover some more of our favourite hostels in Auckland. Make sure to check out all of the amazing things that Auckland has to offer too.
Fat Cat Travellers Community
- $
- Free Breakfast
- Free Vegan Meals
- Eco Living
The low prices not only include free breakfast and all the usuals, like a common room, kitchen, Wi-Fi, etc. but hungry backpackers can also feast on healthy vegan meals each evening—for free. Just half an hour outside the city, it’s the cool experiences and hippy vibe that make this a real winner. Help out on the farm (though you don’t have to), learn more about sustainable living, and join tons of interesting workshops. Social issues, peace, and the environment reign supreme. Expect campfires, yoga, singing, dancing, music, nature, and friendship.
Queenstreet Backpackers
- $$
- Free Breakfast
- Key Card Access
- Jobs Board
Single, twin and double rooms are available at Queenstreet Backpackers in addition to dorms for between four and eight. Especially handy, the two extra “powder rooms” let guests use hairdryers, put makeup on, and use sinks without clogging up the bathrooms. With two kitchens too, there’s no need to hang around hungry and impatient. Start your day with a free breakfast, quite a rarity for Auckland’s hostels, and surf the net with free Wi-Fi. The onsite bar, spacious TV lounge, and pool tables, combined with the friendly vibe, make this a great hostel in Auckland for solo travellers to meet new buddies.
Nomads Auckland
- $
- Hot Tub and Steam Room
- Under-Bed Lockers
- Daily Activities
A bustling and lively hostel in the heart of Auckland, Nomads Auckland may not be the fanciest hostel on the block but it’s one of the best cheap hostels for budget backpackers. The on-site hot tub and steam room are free to use, and you’ll also get free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee for the low price. Regular activities are arranged for a cheap price and you can save more dollars by cooking your own meals in the kitchen. There’s a big common room and an onsite restaurant/bar.
Frienz
- $$
- Tour Desk
- Lockers
- Elevator
With something happening every evening, backpackers staying at the cool Frienz hostel can look forward to pub crawls, movie nights, free ice cream, free BBQs, party nights, and more. It’s easy to make friends at Frienz! Probably the coolest hostel in Auckland, there’s a separate dedicated smoking area, a roof terrace, a kitchen, a travel kiosk, and a lounge. Designed to meet the needs of modern travellers, you’ll also find laundry facilities and lockers. While desktop internet access is free, you’ll need to fork out for Wi-Fi if you want to use your own devices.
YMCA Hostel
- $$
- Laundry Facilities
- Jobs Board
- Games Room
There’s no need to feel down at the YMCA Hostel in Auckland; free BBQ nights, a games room with ping pong, pool, board games, and foosball, a lounge with Sky TV, a book exchange, and basic fitness equipment will keep you and your new buddies entertained. You’ll find self-catering and laundry facilities too—you still need to take care of the practical stuff! Within walking distance of Queen Street, Karangahape Road, and Ponsonby, the location couldn’t get much better. A great youth hostel in Auckland, students are welcomed too. With no free Wi-fi though, this isn’t a particularly suitable hostel for digital nomads in Auckland.
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What to Pack for your Auckland Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from us, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straight forward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art we have perfected over many years.
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
Why you should travel to Auckland
Auckland has always been a bit under the radar, but if you are planning on traveling to New Zealand it comes highly rated. Hopefully, with the help of this list, you’ll be able to see the best hostels in Auckland and book yours specifically on your travel-needs.
And remember, if you are having a tough time deciding which hostel to book, our highest recommendation is Haka Lodge Auckland.
FAQ about Hostels in Auckland
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Auckland.
Travel Safety Tips for Auckland
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More Epic Hostels in New Zealand and Oceania
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Auckland.
Planning an epic trip all across New Zealand or even Oceania itself?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around Oceania, check out:
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Auckland has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
