Reefton Hostels

One of those towns most international travelers have never heard of is Reefton. It's situated on the South Islands highlands, stretching out around a river and enclosed by low mountain ranges. There are plenty of restored old houses making up the town centre and creating an old world atmosphere. It doesn't offer the adrenaline rush of other places in New Zealand, but is a quiet, little country town that still retains its local charm; the comparative lack of tourist attractions is actually quite surprising as there are some A-grade attractions around to keep you busy, happy, and out of your Reefton hostel for days. Apart from its obviously beautiful surroundings that invite all kinds of outdoor activities, there is also a rich mining history. As it is one of the bigger towns in the area and supplies its surrounding villages and farms, it's quite a convenient stop for stocking up on groceries before stopping at your Reefton hostel. It's also easy to navigate and there is plenty of parking throughout town, though maybe at times not right where you want to stop (the supermarket is a bugger).

Hostels in Reefton are scarce for the obvious reason of low demand, but the options are charming, including a family-run cutie occupying the old bread shop, a big leap across the road from the town pub. It basically has the layout of an apartment with a central living room and a kitchen/dining area to one and a handful of rooms to the other side.