When people think about New Zealand they automatically think about Queenstown. I knew that if I ever made it to New Zealand I would defiantly be stopping in Queenstown. Queenstown is the gateway to all things New Zealand: adventure, lakes, rivers, canyons, mountains, fiordlands, glaciers, Lord of the Rings filming sites, and the great outdoor lifestyle. Queenstown is probably the most popular destination on the south island, if not in all of New Zealand. Staying at the YHA (Youth Hostel Association of New Zealand) Queenstown Lakefront was the cherry on top of the ice-cream. Situated a short walk from the town center and with a view of Lake Wakatipu, it made for the perfect lakeside gateway.

For budget accommodation, YHA Queenstown Lakefront can be considered a rare gem amongst backpackers. With one of the best views in Queenstown, I was able to walk out on my lake view balcony and take in the views. Situated a short walk from the harbour front and towns center, the lakefront lodge is a quiet respite in Queenstown. During the fall season, the backpackers is nestled amongst the colourful trees. The picturesque lodge made me feel right at home whilst traveling through New Zealand.

Queenstown lodging is typically the most expensive in the country; you pay to stay in the adventure capitol of the southern hemisphere. Yet staying at the YHA Queenstown gave me the same views (if not better) than the elite hotels along Beach Street for less that a quarter of the price. For the price of a 4 bed dorm (approximately $32), I stayed at the centrally located paradise. For a youth hostel, Queenstown Lakefront is incredibly clean with accommodating and friendly staff. The fully equipped hostel has various common rooms, large kitchen, and dining/sitting area overlooking the lake. On warm days, I enjoyed sitting out on the deck on the second level watching the boats pass by on the lake. The knowledgeable front desk staff were also helpful to recommend and book my tour south of Queenstown to see The Lord of the Rings filming sites. Queenstown Lakefront is a hostel with a first class reputation. I’d stay there again in a second.

Whenever I stay at a YHA hostel I have an idea of what to expect. The YHA brand sets a certain standard and quality for their hostels. Queenstown Lakefront exceeded those standards. The family friendly backpackers welcomed travelers of all shapes and sizes. I had the opportunity to meet a variety of people at the hostel who were traveling through New Zealand. I love staying at hostels that don’t feel quite like hostels. Queenstown Lakefront is more than a backpackers, but rather a lakeside gateway and a home away from home. Who needs a hotel when you have something like this?

YHA New Zealand Social Media- Facebook & Twitter 

View from YHA Hostels in Queenstown

*Media Coverage for YHA Queenstown Lakefront