HI - YHA Whangarei - Manaki Tanga Hostel is a cozy place for a stopover and gateway to the far north. It's an easy drive from Auckland, and offers basic accommodation with friendly management and a pleasant setting.
The Location
The hostel is located off a main road on the north side of the river. It can be difficult to find, especially in the dark, as it's a ways up a twisting residential road. You'll stop along the way to wonder if you passed it, but keep on going. There is limited off-street parking, but cars can be left on the road right outside overnight. To get to the downtown area you'll need to drive or find transport.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The rooms are equipped with locks and some rudimentary furnishings. The dorm room with six beds has a chair and oil heater, but it's of questionable size to actually warm the room in winter. Power points are at a premium. Private rooms are available. The bathrooms are a bit cramped, with two showers inside and one outside. There's not much room to change. Water pressure is good, and hot water is in good supply.
Common Spaces
A cozy lounge is located off the main hallway with a television, reading library, and games. There's also a wood stove for the colder months. The lounge opens directly into the kitchen, with one large dining table. There are ample quantities of all the essential cooking equipment. Outside there are three decks to use during the summer months with table seating. There's also a BBQ available to guests at no charge.
Summary
In all, this hostel is a quiet, subdued place to spend the night. The town has a bit to do, but this location is probably a good spot to rest up on a trip into the far north regions.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
April 2009
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