Karibu Backpackers, Whakatane

Loved it, thank you!

Stayed here for many months while working in town (mostly living in our van, but 1 week in a dorm room also - both arrangements were good). Welcoming friendly owner and his family, always happy to help if you need.

Free hot showers, WiFi (although can get busy so not always great), use of a well equipped kitchen, super comfy sofas and front room, dining room, outside courtyard as well as use of the garden which has seating too. He kept the fire lit throughout winter which was super lovely and warm.

Overall would 100% recommend, really loved our time there, felt homely. Its close to town, good price, near shops.

We will be back one day I hope. Thank you! :) :)

A little home away from home

I can surely recommend this hostel. We arrived here after a long ride and we felt right at home. The rooms are neat and well maintained. They offer a few rooms, so it's not very crowded. The kitchen is very clean, as are the toilets and showers. The manager is very friendly and an excellent cook. They offer a movie channel and some dvds, so you can also relax at home. The only 'downside' was the limited internet. They offer twice a day an hour of internet. But it is wireless and fast. We checked out at 10, but if we were later, it wouldn't have been a problem. We booked a extra night but we hadn't enough cash with us. It wasn't a problem that we payed a day later.

Karibu Backpackers don't allow children under five -- they don't seem to know why this is the case (i.e. no clear policy). It's a shame that young families are excluding from decent priced backpacking. I'm guessing stay away from Whakatane if you have a family and are looking for budget-priced accommodation.

Karibu Backpackers is situated right in the heart of the sunny Eastern Bay Of Plenty on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island. They offer a relaxed atmosphere in a converted 1930s family home that is both clean and safe and only minutes from the supermarket and shopping centre. They are situated in 13 Landing Road, Whakatane, and owners Dave and Nadene are only too happy to pick you up if you arrive on the bus.

There are a wide range of activities available, from cycling (bikes provided), fishing, swimming with dolphins, beautiful local beaches, hunting, scuba diving, jet boating and rafting, tramping and bush walking (New Zealand bush is glorious!). You can also visit White Island, which is an active volcano.

Facilities include a large garden area with BBQ, laundry, free bike use, internet availability, tent sites, free tea and coffee, large spacious living areas, and a large, fully equipped kitchen. Rates are really competetive. BBS members get discounts off the prices, which can make for a really economic stay at a beautiful beach town.

All in all, this is a great place to stay. The accomodation is clean and well presented and the owners are very friendly and relaxed.