If you are planning a trip you’ll be glad to know that that New Zealand offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit every budget.
Finding the right place to stay is a crucial part of planning your perfect holiday and no matter what you are looking for you will find accommodation to suit.
There are more than 500 backpacker hostels in New Zealand. Some individually owned, others are operated as part of a backpacker network.
Hostels are essentially a form of shared accommodation and are the main source of budget accommodation in New Zealand. In general you will share a large room with 3 to 10 people, sleeping in either single or bunk beds. Bathroom, kitchen and living areas are also shared making for a relaxed communal atmosphere that’s great for meeting fellow travelers.
There are three main hostel networks in New Zealand.
There are also a number of smaller hostel chain such as Base/Beyond Backpackers.
The majority of Hostels are part of a chain which you can join and as a member you can benefit from the discount packages they offer.
If you prefer of stay in a home-like environment and get a closer connection to New Zealand’s people you may want to check into one of the many bed and breakfasts, farm stays, country inns and guest houses.
You can expect a comfortable bedroom, television and phone. Bathrooms may be private or shared, whilst lounges and dining areas are shared
Holiday Parks provide sites for tents, caravans and motorhomes. Many parks also have cabins and motel units or backpacker lodges.
Shared facilities create a friendly atmosphere, making Holiday Parks a great place for meeting people.
To take the hassle out of booking you can purchase a Holiday Park Accommodation Pass.
If you like independence and privacy then a self contained motel unit or apartment is perfect. These are ideal for families and groups as you will be able to cook your own meals and do laundry.
Most motels are near main roads and are generally easy to find and offer a choice of units - studio, one or two bedroom.
Alternatively you may choose to rent a holiday home which offers the luxury of a whole house.
You will find international chains as well as local New Zealand hotels in all sizes and styles.
Top international chains include Accor, Hilton, Hyatt, and InterContinental are generally found in the major cities and popular resorts.
On the main traveling routes you will find medium priced chains such as Scenic Circle, Mainstay, Best Western, Kingsgate, Flag Inns, Golden Chain and Pacifica.
New Zealand also has many small hotels with plenty of character.
It is essential to book ahead at peak times. This includes New Zealand summer holidays from Christmas to the end of January as well as Easter and winter in the snow resort areas.

Rock climbing has grown in popularity in recent years especially with the introduction of rock climbing walls and gyms.
Apart from the indoor activities, New Zealand has some of the best natural climbing areas in the world.
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There are limitless options for routes and activities in New Zealand. Our itinerary suggestions will give you a few ideas of the range of experiences on offer.
Included are some of the more famous destinations and highlights along with some of the lesser known but equally breathtaking sights.
Use them as a guide to help plan a perfect New Zealand holiday.