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The Villa Backpackers Lodge

Picton, South Island, New Zealand

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Online booking is not offered for this hostel, contact them for availability and reservations (any contact info we have is listed below).
Address
34 Auckland Street, Picton   Map
Price
from $21 in a dorm to $72 for an ensuite room
Location/Contact
Details
Their Description

Features

  • Free Breakfast
  • Kitchen
  • Gameroom
  • Lounge / Common space
  • Hot tub / jacuzzi
  • BBQ
  • TV
  • Book Collection/Exchange
  • Washing Machine (laundry)
  • Clothes Dryer
  • Travel information provided
  • Bike Rental
  • 24 Hour Free Hot Showers
  • Phones (public or in room)
  • Currency Exchange
  • Gym/Fitness Room
 
The Hostelz.com Review
The Villa is one of the finest backpackers in NZ, and being close to the ferry terminal in Picton, it makes an excellent stop-over upon arriving from the North Island, or before setting out for Wellington.

This is a clean and friendly hostel, with excellent facilities. The backpacker has been converted from prior homes, and each building has a kitchen and internet access. The rooms are comfortable and well kept, and linen is available. Each building has its own kitchen and dining room, as well as a living room with couches and comfortable chairs.

Outside between the buildings and away from the street there is a secluded patio and lawn area with tables, hammocks, a large (and free) spa that comfortably fits about six people. In the morning a free breakfast of cereal is available, and in the evening the staff serves up a warm apple crumble. This a great place to relax before heading out on a tramp or when returning from one. In all, The Villa Backpackers Lodge is an excellent choice in Picton and is highly recommended.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review


Your Comments
This is an open forum, and unlike other hostel guide websites, we don't censor out the negative comments.
We do not validate the legitimacy of comments posted on this site—so take what you read here with a grain of salt.
Comment by Paula, Ireland
March 2008
Fine
This backpackers has a great location about five minutes' walk from the Ferry and from the town/shops. The rooms are fine, stayed in a double which included a TV. The toilets and showers are plenty and quite clean, however there was a small flood in the bathroom which came through to the carpet in our room (next door). The kitchens could get a little cramped but are well equipped. The buildings and place could do with some renovations or just a bit of care, as they are quite old and rundown.
Comment by Stella
January 2007
I loved staying here. So homey, great staff -- and the cutest dog (Milly) to walk. It's right next to a wonderful bakery too.
Comment by Anonymous
September 2005
This hostel is expensive for what it is. We came in off the ferry and arrived here. The staff weren't that friendly towards us and the rooms accommodate large numbers (8-plus). The kitchen is small as well as the eating area. I'm sure it would be nice in the summer as it has a lot of outdoor seating. But in June it's not the best.
Comment by Ina
February 2005
This is a lovely place, with friendly staff and people. The kitchen is not the newest but it's okay. The rooms are individual and not impersonal bunks. Go there.
Comment by Anonymous
February 2005
People rave about this hostel, but as with any place its not ALWAYS going to be great. I've stayed here twice and a friend convinced me to stay the second time. Thankfully it ended up being a better stay (even though I had an awful flu!) The first time I stayed I felt the place to be cliquey and the people in my humongous dorm were loud and rude. I know that is no fault of the hostel but it doesn't help for a good stay either. The second time around though, I found people to be friendlier and the place to be more relaxed (when it gets busy it's not so great). But the free apple crumble and breakfast are a great bargain. All in all, it is the best place to stay in Picton and you probably won't be staying in the town for more than a couple of days anyway.
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