National Park Backpackers

It was a bit old but clean on everything, even the share kitchen. Only thing is that the big panel heater isn't working in the room but they provided a oil heater. We have loved everything there, location was the best and super convenient, we were tempted to book another night if we didn't have to head back home. Have already book for our next ski trip at the same accommodation :)

Kitchen area not clean after used sometime, but it was other traveler didn't clean it properly and some dishes are still oily and dirty so need to wash them before we use it.

Check-in and check-out was easy. The reception was open to 2200 which was convenient for late check-ins. There is a basket for keys for check out. The backpackers had lots of rooms with different occupancies. You can book a single bed or go for a room if you have a group. It is located in National Park and it is conveniently a location for the shuttle pick up to Whakapapa. Although there is parking on site, it gets full fast but there is also street parking nearby. There is a shared kitchen and dining facility on the ground floor. There is also a climbing wall attached to the building. The rooms were fairly large and had lots of places for storing items and lots of power points.

The parking is a bit tight on site. There is street parking available, though. I found the room too hot but it was shared with other people.

The location is fantastic! You're in the heart of Waimarino and all the shuttles to Tongariro leave from its parking lot. The hostel has a climbing wall and great communal spaces.

It did everything cheap accommodation needs to do. You arrive, you eat, sleep and get out.

The cockroaches, just the small ones. I wasn't keen on those but they happen. Later I realised there was a much darker evil lurking. Days later I still have terrible itchy welts. I may never forget my encounter with the BED BUGS. I've been bitten half to death. My traveling companion wasn't bitten so I guess not all the beds are affected. It's Russian Roulette. Take your chance if you dare 🪲🪲🪲