Tuatara Lodge Hostel

Tuatara Lodge is a YHA-associate hostel with extremely high standards. It is situated in the middle of the city, with the shops and other amenities a very short distance away. The reception area houses an internet cafe open to the public, which as well as offering low-cost internet access, serves food and drink from breakfast to dinner.

The dorms are spacious and tidy. Each floor of the hostel has its own kitchen, dining area, lounge and bathroom. There is also 24-hour internet access and security lockers, a laundry, and a larger TV room for use by all guests. The kitchens are very well equipped with a good range of utensils, pots and pans etc. and plenty of fridge space. There are also two full ovens in each kitchen.

The atmosphere here is very relaxed and friendly. This hostel seems to appeal to a wide age-range, from babies to senior citizens. It has a 'family' feel about it. Many guests are using this as a stopover point en route to, or from, Stewart Island. The staff are very knowledgable and will offer advice about walking tracks on the island etc., and other backpackers are keen to share their experiences. It is also possible to store gear here while you are away -- useful even for non-trampers as the airline has a very strict luggage allowance.

Getting to the hostel is fairly easy. For people arriving by car, there is a small car-park at the rear. Arrive early! If arriving by Intercity bus, the drop-off point is at the tourist info centre -- a 20-minute walk. Taxis and a few locals buses will get you right outside the hostel.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review