The capital of New Zealand sits on the south shore of the north island. This windy city makes for a logical starting point for a road trip in this adventurous country. The small city of Wellington has a buzzing downtown district, with plenty of museums, art galleries and theatres to keep you entertained.
The coffee shop and craft beer scene is REAL here, plus there are loads of creative kids doing their thing, making for a fun atmosphere. Just nearby is a load of rocky wilderness to explore and wildlife to get up close and personal with.
But you gotta ask yourself: are you in Wellington for just a couple of nights or do you need somewhere to stay on a more… long-term basis? There’s a big range from super chic to basic beds and it can be hard to navigate.
But don’t you worry! I’ve sorted through the best hostels in Wellington and put ’em into neat categories. All this so you can find the best one to suit you and what you plan to do in the city.
All I want to do is leave you with more time to visit Cuba Street and ride the Wellington cable car.
Let’s get into it!
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Wellington
- Best Overall Hostel in Wellington – The Marion
- Best Hostel in Wellington for Solo Travelers – Trek Global Backpackers
- Best Cheap Hostel in Wellington – Nomads Capital Backpackers
- Best Party Hostel in Wellington – Worldwide Backpackers
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Wellington – The Cambridge Hotel
The 5 Best Hostels in Wellington
Below are the very best backpacker lodges in Wellington, for every type of travel there is. Pick your favorite and then hit the town! Make sure you in which of Wellington’s areas you want to stay in before you book your hostel.
If you’d like to know more about this windy city, head over to my in-depth backpacking Wellington guide. It’s full of useful information and hippy-dippy shit, the kind that Welly’s loves.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
1. The Marion Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Wellington
- Dorm (mixed): From $36/night
- Private Room: From $92/night
- Address: 13 Marion Street, 6011 Wellington
No, unfortunately, it’s not The Marriott – it’s The Marion Hostel, however, it’s still the best overall hostel in Wellington. For a number of reasons actually. First off it’s BRAND NEW and right in the centre of Wellington. So it’s clean and has top-notch facilities – a great place to stay in Wellington close to all the fun stuff going on in the city.
This Wellington backpackers hostel is also very stylishly decorated, think wood panelled walls and exposed brick. Y’know, that sorta thing. The environment here feels safe and welcoming, which is always a plus. Basically, it’s a proper luxurious hostel. I love it.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Incredible ratings and reviews
- High value for affordable prices
- Super stylish design
Let’s talk more about the location of the hostel. The Marion Hostel is right in the heart of New Zealand’s capital, near Cuba Street and Courtenay Place. The hub of the cultural and bohemian city life happening in the capital city, it’s a great base to start exploring. You’ll get around easily and have plenty of public transport connections nearby.
When it comes to amenities, The Marion Hostel offers the best of the best as well. You’ll get a super stylish (and I mean super super stylish!) kitchen. Then there’s a great common area to hang out and the comfiest hostel beds you’ve ever laid in. Since this hostel is the overall best, you’d be better off booking well in advance, it is fairly popular, so a simple walk-in might not guarantee a bed!
2. Trek Global Backpackers – Best Hostel in Wellington for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $19/night
- Private Room: From $56/night
- Address: 9 O’Reily Ave, 5016 Wellington
It’s the kinda place where lots of friendly people stay, and the kinda place where a lot of lovely staff work. Yep, these things definitely add up to the best hostel for solo travellers in Wellington at Trek Global Backpackers. They also put on free events so you can get to know other people and the staff are super happy to help you at all times.
This Wellington backpackers hostel is also located in the heart of Wellington, meaning you don’t have to travel into town by yourself a long way. You can literally just wander around the local area to find some cool stuff – or go out with some newly made friends. A solid solo choice is Trek Global Backpackers.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Welcoming and friendly vibe
- Helpful staff
- Free tea and coffee
If you’re keen to see as much of Wellington as possible – including green spaces just outside the city, like George Denton Park & Polhill Reserve. Hire one of the hostel’s mountain bikes. Come home for a free cup of tea (or coffee!) in the ground-floor kitchen before taking the elevator upstairs and crashing out in your comfy bed. There’s an 11 pm noise and booze curfew at Trek Global Backpackers to help you sleep more soundly.
It might not be the most modern hostel, but Trek Global Backpackers really goes above and beyond to make their guests’ stay as enjoyable as possible.
3. Nomads Capital Backpackers – Best Cheap Hostel in Wellington
- Dorm (mixed): From $17/night
- Private Room: From $62/night
- Address: 118 Wakefield Street, 6011 Wellington
If you’re looking for free stuff, this place has a whole load of perks. There’s free breakfast, free tea, free coffee, free DINNER even, and on top of that, there are drinks deals and fun nightly activities. Is that enough to make it the bestest, cheapest hostel in Wellington? I think so.
The hostel’s bar is literally next door and always busy with a lively atmosphere a lot of the time. The vibe is one of those that’s conducive to getting a whole load of new mates together to hit the town. As a plus, it’s clean and professionally run. You can also save money here because it’s pretty central, so you don’t have to spend anything on public transport.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free activities
- Drink deals
- Epic nightlife location
Let’s talk more about the location though – you’ll be based just 10 minutes from the Bus and Railway Station. A short bus ride will get you to the Ferry Ports and the Airport and you’re just minutes from the waterfront and the famous Te Papa Museum. Cuba Street, with its eclectic mix of shops, bars and restaurants, and Courtenay Place, with its fantastic nightlife, is just around the corner.
After you’ve danced the night away, come back to the hostel and fall into your comfy bed – it’s ideal to cure hangovers! If you need any help, Nomads Capital Backpackers also has a 24-hour reception with super kind and friendly staff. If anything goes wrong during your stay, they’ll know exactly how to help!
According to previous guests, the hostel offers the absolute best value you can get for just a little bit of money. On top of that, the staff is super friendly and welcoming – making you feel at home as soon as you walk through the door.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Worldwide Backpackers – Best Party Hostel in Wellington
- Dorm (mixed): From $24/night
- Private Room: From $53/night
- Address: 291 The Terrace, 6011 Wellington
It might be a small place, but this recommended hostel in Wellington is really cute and homely. I can’t help but like it – even the building, a traditional old house, is cute. To match this, the staff are super nice at Worldwide Backpackers.
Not exactly a party hostel in Wellington, it’s in a great location just a 10-minute walk from Cuba Street. Which is where you’ll find all the action of the city. The owners are relaxed and there are quizzes and activities to make for a very nice atmosphere indeed.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central Wellington
- Free Wifi
- Self-catering facilities
Yes, there aren’t any typical party hostels in Wellington but Worldwide Backpackers is a safe and friendly environment which invokes the freedom to party! You’re within walking distance of the city centre, public transport is available and so are taxis. There is literally nothing to stop you from partying here.
Then there’s the recovery from the party – the beds are comfy in either mixed or female-only dorms sleeping four to six people. Or you can book a private room – wherever you choose to stay, the surrounding facilities are great too. You can do a full reset with the laundry facilities and self-cater yourself up a storm in the kitchen at Worldwide Backpackers.
5. The Cambridge Hotel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Wellington
- Dorm (mixed): From $19/night
- Private Room: From $48/night
- Address: 28 Cambridge Terrace, 6011 Wellington
Inside an updated heritage building (you KNOW I like those) in the city centre, this is a mix between a hotel and cheap backpacker accommodation. As if you couldn’t tell that from the name already. This place has plentiful tables and places to post up and get the laptop out so it’s easily my pick for digital nomads.
The dorms at this Wellington backpackers hostel aren’t the niiiiiiicest available in town – a little basic, perhaps – but the location makes up for that. It’s right in the centre of town, which is great for getting out to explore what Wellington has to offer once you knock off.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Space to work
- Clean and tIdy
- Relaxed, helpful staff
There’s an epic pub attached which is great for post work vibes, watching sport, making friends or just getting a meal after work. The restored decor of Cambridge Hotel is charming in a colonial way and it’s nice to be in a newly restored heritage building. There are self catering facilities too which are great to make the most of and help you stick to your budget.
There are 52 dorm beds at the Cambridge Hotel spread across dorm rooms that sleep four to eight people. There are also private room options and each room has heating and linen.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Budget Stays in Wellington
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic affordable accommodations in Wellington below.
Cosy Studio in the Heart of the City
- Private Room: From $72/night
- Address: 805/169 The Terrace, 6011 Wellington
Some claim that this is the most comfortable bed in Wellington so if you value a good night’s sleep, you’ve found your joint. This cosy apartment in windy Wellington is a great place to park up and watch the city go by from that massive window. It’s also in a central location – within walking distance of major venues.
This apartment is clean and has everything you need – a kitchen with tea and coffee making facilities for that morning cuppa in bed. There’s a life in Fujitsu Towers to access the apartment during business hours but after hours you’ll have to hike the stairs. Not a problem for most people but something to be aware of.
Microtel by Wyndham Wellington
- Private Room: From $64/night
- Address: 25 Vivian Street Wellington, 6011 Wellington
This is a unique option if you’re considering Wellington hotels, the location is incredible, the staff are lovely and there’s a light airy vibe to it. Being a big city (by NZ standards!), Wellington hotels often feel pretty sterile but this Microtel is different. The rooms are comfortable, quiet and clean – even if they do lack personality.
You’ll be in an epic downtown location staying here and with private parking available you’ll be able to ditch your car. Make the most of this pedestrian-friendly city and walk the streets, see the people and enjoy the atmosphere of the capital city. There’s a self-check-in option for late arrivals too!
Nikau’s Nest
- Private Room: From $63/night
- Address: 63 John Sims Drive, 6035 Wellington
Oh yeah, I see your broke backpacker eyes lighting up at all those freebies! Nikau’s Nest is an epic choice if you’re travelling through windy Wellington on a whirlwind timetable. Situated out of the city centre (about a 15-minute drive) this guesthouse is perfect for an early (or late) ferry arrival/departure.
This cozy self-contained unit comes with a free breakfast which is also an epic bonus for those time-poor travellers. If you’re staying awhile longer and using this as your base, there’s a kitchenette in the unit too so you can self-cater. There’s free parking onsite if you’re travelling with your own vehicle to embark on a great South Island road trip – woohoo!
Newtown Oasis
- Private Room: From $87/night
- Address: Newtown, Wellington
This quirky, homely Airbnb is a perfect example of what living in wellington can be like. This fully self contained studio is on the owners property and Jenny will show you around when you arrive. After this warm welcome, you have your own private entrance to use any time of the day or night without disturbing the propieters.
You’ll be based in Newtown which is a hip village about 15 minutes walk from the city centre with epic cafes and restaurants. If you want any insider tips on where to go, chat with Jenny, she’ll happily give you good intel. There’s also great public transport in Wellington so if you’re not keen on the walk into town, you’ve got options.
Classic Kelburn Villa
- Private Room: From $70/night
- Address: Kelburn, Wellington
This room is private and modern while being in a restored villa from 1905 (yes – BATHTUB!). There is a simple, lovely breakfast on offer and Katherine and Michael’s place is the perfect place to base yourself if you’re in Wellington for work. There’s a desk to set up on, private, calm to get you in the zone and have quiet to be on calls if you need.
Location wise, you’re in Kelburn which is a sweet spot between Wellington’s Green Belt (mount Victoria) and the city. You’re within walking distance of the botanic gardens so this affordable accommodation is great for nature lovers too. Enjoy being amongst the birdsong rather than the traffic noise in this paradise.
YHA Wellington
If you’re looking for somewhere that’s clean and with friendly staff where you can stay a few nights, well, this is the best option. Very affordable and with great value for money, this branch of YHA is one of the best cheapest hostels in Wellington. There’s a big ol’ industrial communal kitchen at this budget hostel in Wellington so you can make your own meals on the cheap.
Maybe not be the most fashionable hostel in Wellington, but it keeps its promises: a great night’s sleep, high-quality amenities and plenty of space. Whether you need to work on your laptop, want to explore the city or simply hang out with like-minded travellers… You’ll find that all of your needs are being met at YHA Wellington.
Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers
Right in front of the train station, this top hostel in Wellington is super well situated for anyone needing to use the train, bus – or ferry. Which is great if you like convenience. There’s also an in-house cafe here, which means even more convenience.
Everything at this place is generally run pretty smoothly by the professional staff. Rooms are light and clean (but basic), and the privates are a little more spacious. But it DOES have a log fire and a pub with a pool table, which definitely sounds alright to me. A classic budget backpackers’ place, I reckon.
The Dwellington
I love the genius simplicity of this name – already I’m probably biased about this place, but oh well. You will NOT regret choosing to stay at the Dwellington. It’s a clean and very cool hostel in Wellington that’s set in a big ol’ house.
You can enjoy meals around the five-meter-long redwood dining table, having a knockabout on the tennis court, and watching a movie together in the cinema room. There are different-sized private rooms on offer here – the best hostel for couples in Wellington, you can wake up and enjoy a free breakfast together. Romantic stuff.
The friendly staff can help with booking a variety of local activities and onward journeys including the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries to Picton. They’re known to go above and beyond for their guests, so you’ll be well looked after!
The Setup Dixon
If you’re not looking to socialize with other people you probably couldn’t pick a better Wellington backpackers hostel than this one. In fact, it’s not very backpacker-y at all – think white walls, fresh white sheets, minimalism and long corridors. Sorta like a… hotel… hostel… thing.
It does have dorms and a shared kitchen, and sure it may be a little clinical, but the private rooms here are pretty darn decent. So that’s why it’s the best hostel with a private room in Wellington. It’s also very quiet if you like that. But if you don’t like that, it’s in a cool area with bars in the vicinity.
Lodge in the City
Are you a remote worker looking to get some work done in Wellington? Look no further than Lodge in the City. A hostel for digital nomads in Wellington, thanks to its computer desks and the generally loads of space to work on your laptop.
This Wellington backpackers hostel is good value for money, but choose a private room (especially if you’re thinking about working the next morning). Since the dorms can be… a little noisy.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Wellington
Wellington is a great city the last thing you need to worry about is keeping track of your belongings. Make sure you get good hostel insurance and save yourself the hassle.
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.
FAQs About Hostels in Wellington
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Wellington.
What to Pack for Your Wellington 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 even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Wellington?
A dorm bed (mixed or female only) can cost between $13-$18, while a private room’s price is around $53-$58.
What are the best hostels in Wellington for couples?
Trek Global is an epic option. Book a private room for romancing and take your time cruising through the Welly streets holding hands.
What is the best hostel in Wellington near the airport?
The nearest best hostel from Wellington Airport is The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers, just a 10-minute drive away. Get in touch with your hostel or accommodation for the best airport transfer ideas.
Final Thoughts on Wellington’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Wellington has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! Windy Wellington is a gale force good time and you really can’t beat it on a good day. Whether you’re just blowing through on your way between North Island and South Island, or staying longer, there’s affordable accommodation to be found.
My all-time best of the Wellington hostels is without a doubt the Marion Hostel and for good reason. When it comes to amenities, The Marion Hostel offers the best of the best, the location is phenomenal and the people… Well, they’re obviously all time.
Nomads Capital Backpackers is my best of the cheap hostels, and actually the cheapest hostel in Wellington. Hostel prices here are pretty standard by Western standards and there are a few free dinners to be found too if you’re savvy.
Wherever you stay in Wellington, I hope you love it. Make sure you visit Cuba Street and the Wellington Cable car for classic central Wellington times.
If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in New Zealand for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Wellington 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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