Verandahs Backpacker Lodge

If you're staying in Auckland, we highly recommend Verandahs Backpackers Hostel. Get away from the large, crowded, impersonal, and noisy hostels and stay in the wonderful, small and very friendly Verandahs.

Located next to bus stops and within very easy walking distance of downtown's Queenstreet and one minute from "K-road," Verandahs is right off of Ponsonby Road, with restaurants, pubs, shops and much more nearby. Western Park is literally out the back door, and is a great place to wander and relax. If you are arriving from the airport, Super Shuttle takes you to the door. To take Auckland's Link bus, get off at Art Station, walk towards the park and turn right on Hopetoun street just before the park. Verandahs is the third house on the left side of Hopetoun street as you head towards the Sky Tower and downtown.

Verandahs is a small hostel with only eleven rooms, which range from single rooms to doubles, twins, triples, and dorms with up to five (non-bunk) beds. The hostel is a Victorian villa built over a hundred years ago, and every room is clean and cozy with bright walls, large windows, and character. Some rooms have lovely fireplaces too. Beds are comfortable and made up for you with sheets and duvets. There are clean toilets and showers near the rooms.

This hostel is a great place to relax and meet other travelers. The lounge is a popular place to hang out and has a very friendly setting. There isn't a TV, but books, magazines, and music are available, as is computer with internet access, and you'll likely find good conversation and relaxation here. There are two kitchens around the corner, providing plenty of cooking space. The kitchen is stocked with spices and other cooking essentials, and you'll probably find everything you need to cook any meal.

You'll find a nice porch to enjoy the views from out back (check out the Sky Tower at night!), and a large garden below. Other offerings include a phone with free local calls (perfect for calling cards with local access numbers!) and a washing machine and dryer downstairs for a few dollars. If you are arriving on a "quiz night" at the local pub, you'll probably be invited to join in on the fun as a group (and perhaps win a bar tab!).

Verandahs is owned by four brothers who opened this hostel after spending a great deal of time traveling themselves. You'll most likely meet Campbell, who manages the hostel and is very friendly and helpful. He is a great source of knowledge for backpackers and can help you find other hostels around New Zealand and can give you insight on destinations, backpacker buses, and the like.

If you're just arriving in New Zealand and/or Auckland, Verandahs is a great place to come. Get acquainted with the city, meet friendly travelers, and stay in a "home away from home" during your stay. This was our first hostel on a four-month trip, and remains one of the most memorable and favorite places we stayed. You might want to book ahead if you can, as this hostel is quickly becoming a favorite with many other travelers as well! Verandahs Backpackers Hostel is a wonderful, memorable, relaxing and friendly place to stay -- come see for yourself!

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review