Backpacker Hostels in Wanaka, New Zealand

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Get to know Wanaka (no more "I wish I knew this before")

This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Wanaka.

 Lake view

Wanaka is a gorgeous little lakeside town surrounded by mountains with a chilled-out atmosphere and lots of outdoor activities -- making it a favorite among cyclists, skiers, hikers, and anyone who enjoys being among nature. You can spend a day tramping over Rob Roy glacier or spend an hour climbing a lookout hill for an excellent view of the town. There are many wineries to visit nearby, swimming in the summer, and skiing in the winter.

Although it's less than an hour away from the excitement and parties of Queenstown, those who come to Wanaka hostels enjoy that the stillness and serenity feels miles away and the fresh air and peacefulness comes as a welcome rejuvenation. There are a few nice cafes along the main road where you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of local Pinot Noir with a good book or sit in the sun outside Relishes cafe and brows a magazine with a cappuccino, the lake stretching out in front and mountains in the background. You could spend the day shopping for the latest ski gear in the multiple sports shops or you might find something cool to add to your wardrobe at the little vintage shops; Godswallop and Balderdash (in the arcade behind New World) is highly recommended.

Go skydiving over the picturesque landscape in the morning then spend a relaxing afternoon feeding the ducks by the lake as you breathe in the crisp mountain air. Depart from your Wanaka hostel to take a scenic drive through the Crown Ranges, between snow-capped mountains and through the tussock-strewn landscape dotted with tiny houses and green pastures, a gorgeous drive to Queenstown or the ski slopes that is well worth an afternoon and a few memorable photos.

The subdued nightlife here is that of a small ski village, and consists mainly of a few drinks by the fireplace or on the front porch with the sunsets to end the day with a few new friends. There are a several choices for hostels in Wanaka, mostly larger names. So just relax and enjoy this quaint and beautiful town, it's definitely a New Zealand favorite.

Written by local enthusiast for Wanaka hostels

Written by local enthusiast for Wanaka hostels Amanda Haehl

Wanaka Hostel Cheatsheet

Above we list every single hostel there is in the city. Let us take a broader look at what you can expect - and what not. We created this cheatsheet for you to get a more complete picture of the hostel quality in Wanaka, average prices and types of hostels to choose from.
Total number of hostels 5
Average dorm price $28
Average private room price $80
Cheapest Hostel in Wanaka Zula Lodge with $24
Party hostels in Wanaka Yha Wanaka (1 in total)
Average rating of all hostels 8.5

FAQ about Wanaka Hostels

We've collected the most common questions for hostels in Wanaka. The more you know, the better you can plan with confidence and ease, right?

A hostel in Wanaka costs $28 for a dorm. A private room in a hostel in Wanaka costs $80. (based on Hostelz.com price comparison)
The only website listing all 5 Hostels in Wanaka is Hostelz.com. We are a specialized hostel price comparison.
Yha Wanaka is the best hostel in Wanaka for groups.
Hostelz.com compares prices for 5 hostels in Wanaka, New Zealand. We list for you other cheap places to stay in Wanaka such as
  • 1 guesthouse

This makes Hostelz.com the best place to find cheap accommodation in Wanaka.

Yha Wanaka is the best hostel for partying in Wanaka.

It offers: Bar.

4 Best Hostels in Wanaka

4 Best Hostels in Wanaka

Other Nearby Cities

Arrowtown (38 Km / 23 mi.)
Cromwell (38 Km / 24 mi.)
Queenstown (53 Km / 33 mi.)
Glenorchy (63 Km / 39 mi.)
Omarama (69 Km / 43 mi.)
Oturehua (69 Km / 43 mi.)
Ranfurly (89 Km / 55 mi.)

Travel Tips for Wanaka - from the Community

Oh man, so far no one from the community has left a comment or travel tips for Wanaka. How about you kick start the discussion here? Gather your best backpacking recommendations for Wanaka and jot them down below. The community thanks you.

Wanaka comments only. Don't discuss the hostels here, post a review on the hostel's page instead.

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