
Backpackers hostels
With more than 500 hostels throughout New Zealand, backpackers are spoilt for choice. Some offer only dormitories, while others also have ...
Photo: Julian Apse, Tourism New Zealand
New Zealand is hugely popular among backpackers. It’s the perfect place for a road trip with friends or a backpacker bus tour to myriad fascinating places, choosing from an almost endless selection of varied activities to enjoy along the way.
Make sure you don’t miss out on the iconic activities that make this country famous! Hostels and camping grounds abound and the country’s major drawcard, its stunning and diverse landscape, is free for every visitor. There are plenty of inexpensive ways to explore rainforests, beaches, glaciers and geothermal fields. Inexpensive accommodation ranges from backpacker hostels to camping grounds complete with cabins and, sometimes, motel units, while a solid network of coach transport makes New Zealand cheap and easy to get around if you’d prefer not to drive. Renting a vehicle is an economical option if you’re travelling in a group, or if you’re flying solo you can buy bus passes or join a specialised bus tour for an unforgettable social experience. When it comes to saving money, there are lots of ways to make your money go further in New Zealand.
In New Zealand freedom camping is only permitted in fully self-contained campervans with toilet, shower and grey water storage. It is vital that you adhere to the freedom camping etiquette: make sure you only choose legal spots; never, ever leave rubbish behind; don’t pollute waterways with soap; and never use the great outdoors as a toilet. For more info, visit Camping Our Way.
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