Harbourside City Backpackers is a lively hostel close to the action on the waterfront in Tauranga. For social backpackers looking to mix and mingle in the Bay of Plenty, Harbourside is a good choice to meet other travelers and partake in planned activities or outings.
The Location
The hostel is located in the Tauranga city centre, on The Strand by the waterfront. It's next door to restaurants and a nightclub, with a Starbucks on the corner. Parking is free on nights and weekends across the street in the city lot, otherwise you'll need to pay or find something on-street. The city visitor centre is around the corner.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Dorms rooms each have a small en suite and a decent shower. The bunks are a bit tightly packed, but the rooms are otherwise in good shape. There can be some noise from the bars and nightclubs on weekends, so bring earplugs. Note that the beds are not made up -- you can bring your own linens or hire them from the front desk. There is a deposit for room keys.
Common Spaces
To the right of reception when you enter the hostel is the Internet area. The price is not bad by New Zealand standards. Also at the front desk area you'll find the free yellow bike -- it's yours to borrow to ride about town. The kitchen, laundry, TV room, and balcony are all on the third floor. There's a nice area outside with picnic tables that looks over the harbour and street below. On Friday and Saturday night this is where all the action is before everyone goes to the bars.
Summary
If you're after a bit of a party, then this hostel is probably a good fit for you. Tauranga is nice, but there's more to see and do across the harbour in Mount Maunganui. However, the front desk has some activities you can book. A day trip to White island is available, as are horse treks and kayak tours of glow worm caves.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
October 2009
Location/Contact
