Set on the shores of the huge Lake Taupo, the town of Taupo is actually set on a volcano (the lake is actually in its crater) which last erupted almost 2,000 years ago. It’s a great base for the amazing nature of the surrounding area.
The order for the day here is fishing, hiking in the woods, bungee jumping (of course), kayaking and there is some particularly PRIME cycling to be had around this area. And when you’re done, Taupo is a chill town with some decent restaurants and bars.
But do you want to get involved in the busy bars and restaurants of town? Or do you want to get stuck into the surrounding nature of Taupo? What’s best for you?
Whatever it might be, we got you. Thanks to our handy list of the best hostels in Taupo, we’ve made life easier for you when it comes down to choosing a hostel that’s right for you.
So let’s have a look and see what the top Taupo backpacker hostels have to offer!
Quick answer: The Best Hostels in Taupo
- Best Overall Hostel in Taupo – Haka Lodge Taupo
- Best Hostel with a Private Room in Taupo – YHA Taupo
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Best Hostels in Taupo
If you’re into a bit of action but also a chilled vibe and good food, Taupo should be on your New Zealand backpacking list. To keep the accommodation costs low, check out the best Hostels in Taupo!
Haka Lodge Taupo – Best Overall Hostel in Taupo
This place really does offer a pretty luxurious option for a Taupo backpackers hostel, we gotta say. It’s got a hot tub (wow), and a big modern kitchen, with plenty of space to hang out, too. Plus it’s super clean here. There are even BATHS here. Actual baths.
The purpose-built bunk beds are pretty nice too, not old and creaky. There’s sunloungers 0utside with views across Lake Taupo, too. Basically, this place and all its trimmings and extras definitely make it the best overall hostel in Taupo, for sure.
YHA Taupo – Best Hostel with a Private Room in Taupo
This Taupo branch of the Youth Hostel Association is a pretty solid option if you’re looking for a good budget-friendly stay in Taupo. In fact, it’s not typically backpackery or anything like that – it’s actually a pretty cool Taupo hostel if you ask us.
Rooms are spacious, clean and modern (just like your bedroom at home), and it’s very well maintained by housekeeping. The best hostel with a private room in Taupo, of course, these are gonna be very decent – they come with TVs and Netflix. There’s also a local pub nearby for dinner or – more likely – a drink. Plus if you like dogs, the hostel has one you can take for walks!
Base Taupo – Best Party Hostel in Taupo
It’s a friendly, fun place right in the middle of the city that’s great if you’re looking for a good time. There are drinks deals for everybody staying at the hostel at their bar, which is definitely a plus. That – and the nightly events (DJs, themed parties, etc.) – make it easily the best party hostel in Taupo.
The menu at their restaurant is pretty decent too – we rate it. Daytime activities include BBQs and city tours, and there are even free upgrades for Hostelworld guests, as well. Pretty cool for a Taupo backpackers hostel.
Rainbow Lodge Backpackers – Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Taupo
Looking to make friends and meet new people whilst you’re backpacking through New Zealand? Then Rainbow Lodge should be on your radar. This top hostel in Taupo has been in operation since 1985, so we reckon they know a thing or two about what travellers want.
The atmosphere at this place is pretty top notch, all helped by the welcoming staff (as always). We reckon it’s the best hostel for solo travellers in Taupo, not just for that but also for the group activities and stuff they put on throughout the week.
Bob’s Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Taupo
Bob’s Hostel like it’s pretty modest, normal sounding name is pretty modest and affordable in price too. This best cheap hostel in Taupo is actually under new management, but it’s yet to be renovated so… expect basic.
Yep, this ain’t a flashpacker place by any means, but if you’re just looking for a Taupo backpackers hostel that’s easy on the wallet, then Bob’s Hostel is a pretty good option for you. It’s also above a bar if you like late nights and drinking. If not – bring earplugs.
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View on Osprey View on REITaupo Urban Retreat – Best Hostel for Couples in Taupo
Definitely, the sorta place you’d come with your partner for a chill getaway, Taupo Urban Retreat is easily the best hostel for couples in Taupo. It’s got great facilities, like high-pressure showers and super comfy beds to make your stay THAT much better.
This Taupo backpackers hostel also overlooks the shores of the lack, which is pretty dreamy, but it’s also just a couple of blocks away from bars and restaurants in town. There’s actually a pretty lively social atmosphere here, which is cool, but there’s plenty of space that you’re not all crowded together.
Berkenhoff Lodge – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Taupo
With a load of different rooms on offer from cool private rooms to dorms witen-suitete toilets and showers – and even camping is on offer if you fancy that – this place is the best hostel for digital nomads in Taupo.
There’s a lot of space for you and your laptop to get your heads down and email and type away like there’s no tomorrow. Plus when you’ve got your work done for the day, there’s a swimming pool at this recommended hostel in Taupo, plus a load of activities to enjoy, like mountain bike riding, hiking – or just heading down to the local fish ‘n’ chip shop!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Best Hostels In Taupo
Tiki Lodge
Offering free breakfast and affordable accommodation with lake views, this budget hostel in Taupo is a great option if you like value for money. Plus it’s nearby to a load of cafes and restaurants if you ever wanna head out for some food.
The big lounge area here is a decent place to get chatting to fellow travellers, plus the staff at this Taupo backpackers hostel will organise a load of activities for you if you feel like it – including bungee jumping. It’s fun, friendly and cosy.
Best Budget Hostels In Taupo
Don’t fancy another night in a dorm? The thought of bunkbeds with other people sleeping above (or below) you just completely not working for you right now? Don’t worry, we know the feeling. So we’ve gone through a couple of the best budget hostels in Taupo to give you just a lil’ extra choice when it comes to extra privacy – and comfort.
Lakeland Resort Taupo
Located on the shores of the lake, and with plenty of grounds so you can wander about appreciating the scenery, this budget hotel in Taupo might be more expensive than a hostel but there’s also LOADS of stuff to do here.
It’s got tennis courts, swimming pool, two indoor spa pools, a restaurant, those landscape gardens we already mentioned, cable TV and loads more, so you actually get quite a bit for your money here. You can even get a real bargain and share a triple room with a couple of mates.
Wellesley on the Lake
Just 1 min from the shores of Lake Taupo, plus a short walk to restaurants, shops and the bus station (convenient), this top budget hotel in Taupo is a wooden lodge style place that’s welcoming and friendly.
Besides making you feel at home, if you’re looking for a nice clean room that definitely ISN’T a dorm room, then this could be a solid option for you. Oh, and its restaurant has amazing views out over the lake. And in the winter months, you can cosy up in an armchair next to the open fire. Nice.
What to Pack for your Taupo Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
Why you should travel to Taupo
So there you have it, the best hostels in Taupo.
The backpacking game is pretty strong here, so all the hostels around town are pretty decent.
Whilst some are literally on the shores of Lake Taupo itself, some of the top hostels in Taupo are closer to the lively areas of town for those who might need a little bit of party atmosphere after a day of outdoorsy stuff.
Plus we’ve thrown in a couple of the best budget hotels in Taupo so now you’ve got even more choice!
But if you still can’t choose a place to stay…? No worries!
We’d say just book a room at Haka Lodge Taupo, the best overall hostel in Taupo and a great choice for anybody.
If you’re travelling further, there are some amazing hostels all over New Zealand, each promising a comfy bed and a safe place to rest your head.
The amazing views and stunning scenery of incredible Taupo await!
FAQ about Hostels in Taupo
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Taupo.
How much does a hostel cost in Taupo?
The average price of hostels in Taupo starts from $24 – $25+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Taupo for couples?
Finlay Jacks Backpackers is an ideal hostel for couples in Taupo. It’s clean and near the city center.
What is the best hostel in Taupo near the airport?
Lakeland Resort Taupo, a budget hotel in Taupo, is just 5 minutes by car from Taupo Airport.
Travel Safety Tips for Taupo
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
More Epic Hostels in New Zealand and Oceania
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Taupo. If you’re looking for something a little more private and upmarket, then why not treat yourself to a Taupo Airbnb instead?!
Planning an epic trip all across New Zealand or even Oceania itself?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around Oceania, check out:
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Taupo has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in New Zealand for a wealth of info!
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in New Zealand if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in New Zealand before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Oceania backpacking guide.
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