Nomads Capital

Nomads Capital is quite centrally located close to the waterfront, the Wellington Information Center and the famous Te Papa museum. It is located approximately ten minutes' walk from the Wellington Railway and Bus station. Be warned, however, that it can be difficult to spot. The only sign of the hostel is a small doorway with "Nomads Capital" above the door.

From the Railway Station (also the long-distance bus station), upon exiting the front door, turn left and then continue until you reach Customhouse Quay. Turn right and continue along Customhouse until Victoria Street, and turn left onto Victoria. Keep an eye out as you walk along Victoria, as the road will split with Wakefield on your left. Take Wakefield and walk along the right hand side of the road. From here, continue along the sidewalk until you see the doorway that says "Nomads Capital."

The hostel appears to be brand new, and the living areas smell slightly of a new carpet and paint aroma. Everything is in immaculate shape, and the bathrooms are very clean and new. The kitchen, dining area, and adjacent commons area are all very well-stocked and modern-looking. They do have a DVD library available at reception (which is open twenty-four hours).

During the day, the common areas and reception are pretty quiet. But at night it really picks up and there are lots of people around. It helps that there is a bar directly adjacent to the hostel, so you can come and go as you please. The big-screen LCD television is also a bonus.

This hostel also has six computers that are internet-ready, but they are right in the reception area, so they aren't very private. Laundry machines are available in-house. The accommodation itself is also very good. The ceilings are high and the bunks are tall as well, so it's less likely you'd hit your head while on the bottom bunk. Bunks do not have individual lights. Each set of bunks has a nightstand, but it is so small that it's probably not good for much more than an alarm clock. Each bunk has a small lockable compartment, big enough for a small rucksack or large purse, but certainly not big enough for a backpack. There is about a foot of towel bar for everyone and a hook on the wall each.

The Nomads Capital is a slick hostel that is very new and modern. The reception staff are helpful and cheerful, even in the wee hours of the morning. Best yet, the location is great.

— Avis exclusif de Hostelz.com
December 2005