Situated in the heart of sunny Sumner, The Marine Backpackers is ideally located for lazing on the beach or pottering around the local art shops, cafes, and cinema. And if that's not enough excitement for you, Christchurch City Centre is only thirty minutes away.
Because you're slightly out of the city, and right next to the sea, Sumner has a very laidback atmosphere. For those of you arriving into Christchurch airport, this is an ideal spot for getting over your jet lag. It's also a great place to hang out and eat ice cream on a sunny day. But if you're looking for shopping malls and lots of nightlife, you'd probably be better off in central Christchurch.
The hostel itself is just off the main road through Sumner and is a "Bar and Backpackers." The building appears only to have been built in the last few years, so it's still in good condition and clean throughout, with thick carpet in the hallways and modern fittings. However, the modern style of decor and insufficient lighting can make the interior dark at times, though this is less of a problem in the communal areas, which have large windows.
The large, decently-equipped downstairs kitchen has plenty of space, though a second sink would come in handy at times. There is plenty of room to eat at the kitchen tables or breakfast bar, or outside by the BBQ at picnic tables. The downstairs lounge could do with a few more seats to fill up the large area, but the piano and the fireplace are welcome extras. Upstairs, the the smaller kitchen/dining/lounge area leads out onto its own small balcony. The back garden is pretty large and gets the sun all day, though with the beach so close, it doesn't get much use.
The dorm rooms are all small dorms with two sets of comfortable, metal-frame bunk beds in each. There is adequate space in all dorm rooms for four people to share. Doubles, luxury doubles, twins, and en-suite rooms are also available. All beds are made up with sheets and duvets and the bathrooms are modern and have powerful showers. The free breakfast on offer consists of bread for toast and various spreads. Free milk, tea, coffee, and sugar is also supplied.
The bar and the attached bottle shop are nice extras and the bar does a very basic food menu if you don't fancy cooking. The bar itself doesn't appear to cause any noise problems. However, being so close to the centre of Sumner, the general area can be a little noisy on a Saturday night. If you're a light sleeper, ask for a room at the back. All in all, this is good value for money in the Christchurch area and a great place to chill out for a few days.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
March 2007
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