5 Best Tauranga and Mount Maunganui Backpackers Accommodation

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Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are two of the most popular holiday destinations in New Zealand. With stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder why so many people flock here every year.

Tauranga is a stunning destination located in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. With pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, it’s the perfect place for an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re looking to explore the city or take part in some thrilling outdoor activities, Tauranga has something for everyone.

From kayaking around Matakana Island to taking a stroll along Mount Maunganui beachfront, there are endless possibilities for adventure here! With plenty of affordable accommodation options available, visitors can enjoy all that this fantastic city has to offer without breaking their budget.

So whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended holiday, check out these 5 best Tauranga and Mount Maunganui backpackers today!


5 best Tauranga and Mount Maunganui backpackers

mount maunganui new zealand


1. Mount Backpackers

Mount Backpackers in Mount Maunganui is the perfect place for a laid-back beach getaway. With its unbeatable views of Mount Maunganui, staying at the closest hostel to the beach puts you right in the heart of the action. 

With its relaxed atmosphere and a variety of amenities, you are sure to have an enjoyable and comfortable stay. Mount Backpackers staff are friendly and welcoming, always ensuring that you have all the comforts of home.

From the well-maintained modern rooms to tours and activities for everyone, Mount Backpackers really does offer something for everyone! Enjoy free unlimited wifi, free bike use and discounted surfboard and wetsuit rental, you’ll have everything you need at Mount Backpackers.

Available rooms

  • 16 bed mixed dorm
  • 10 bed mixed dorm
  • 6 bed mixed dorm
  • 4 bed mixed dorm


👉🏻 Check Reviews and Prices of Mount Backpackers Here!


2. Pacific Coast Backpackers Lodge

pacific coast lodge and backpackers
Image via Agoda

Pacific Coast Backpackers Lodge in Mount Maunganui is the perfect place to stay! Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for a short-term stay or eager to relax and unwind for longer, Pacific Coast Backpackers Lodge offers something for everyone.

They are an award-winning backpackers and provide a range of amenities from full kitchen facilities, an outdoor courtyard, BBQs to laundry services. They also have free surfboards you can use which is a huge plus given Mount Maunganui Beach is a popular surf spot.

If If you’ve got a car, free on-site parking is available too.

Pacific Coast Backpackers Lodge is also conveniently located a short walk from the beach, bars and restaurants giving access to the amazing atmosphere that Mount Maunganui has to offer. Escape the hustle and bustle with Pacific Coast Backpackers Lodge – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Available rooms

  • Private twin bed room with shared bathroom
  • Private double bed room with shared bathroom
  • 10 bed mixed dorm
  • 8 bed mixed dorm
  • 6 bed mixed dorm
  • 4 bed female dorm
  • 4 bed mixed dorm


👉🏻 Check Reviews and Prices of Pacific Coast Backpackers Lodge Here!


3. Wanderlust NZ

Wanderlust NZ Hostel in Tauranga is the perfect place to stay and explore the city. This modern, brightly decorated hostel has everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Enjoy being close to all the local attractions and an awesome waterfront location that comes with stunning views which you can soak up from a large balcony. A selection of cafes and bars are located a short walk from the backpackers.

A variety of rooms are available, from private rooms to shared dorm rooms. Wanderlust NZ can also cater for groups 30+ as there is another area where you can have your own lounge, kitchen and bathroom facilities.

Sustainability is important at Wanderlust NZ and they provide eco-friendly bedding.

With free Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, Wanderlust NZ Hostel will make your stay in Tauranga easy and stress-free. Find some great company, meet fun people from all over the world, and enjoy all that Wanderlust NZ Hostel has to offer.

Available rooms

  • Double bed private shared bathroom
  • Double bed private ensuite
  • Twin room private ensuite
  • 6 bed mixed dorm ensuite
  • 4 bed mixed dorm ensuite
  • 6 bed female dorm ensuite


👉🏻 Check Reviews and Prices of Wanderlust NZ Here!


4. Hugo & Carters Backpackers & Motel

hugo and carters backpackers
Image via Agoda

Hugo & Carters Backpackers & Motel in Tauranga is the perfect place for a getaway! Offering both backpacker rooms and motel units, Hugo & Carter’s has something to offer everyone.

Hugo & Carters allows visitors to truly experience the best of New Zealand’s main cities; with easy access to all of Bay of Plenty’s beaches, hot spring pools and must-do attractions.

The motel units provide all the modern amenities such as free wifi, bed linen and laundry facilities. There is also an outdoor BBQ and courtyard area then a cosy living area provides a place to chill out.

With something for everyone at Hugo & Carters they make it easy to find the perfect place to stay when visiting Tauranga!

Available rooms

  • Family rooms sleeping 2 – 6 people
  • Private double bed room
  • Private twin bed room
  • 8 bed dorm room
  • 4 bed dorm room
  • 4 bed dorm room with ensuite


👉🏻 Check Reviews and Prices of Hugo & Carters Backpackers & Motel Here!


5. Seagulls Guesthouse

seagulls guesthouse
Image via Agoda

Seagulls Guesthouse in lovely Mount Maunganui is the perfect place to stay while exploring the wonders of this gorgeous destination.

Situated only a 5 min walk away from the beach and with a park across the road that offers tennis courts, cricket pitches, netball courts and rugby fields, there’s plenty to do for the active adventurer.

The walk to Mount Maunganui takes 30 mins, a must-visit for any traveller.

While there are no dorm rooms, there are single and double rooms with shared bathroom facilities. They also offer family rooms that sleep up to four people.

Guests have access to shared facilities such as a full kitchen, dining room, lounge area, BBQ and sun terrace. Free wifi, a book library and laundry facilities are also available.

With all necessary amenities taken care of, Seagulls Guesthouse makes holidaying easy.

Available rooms

  • Single room with shared bathroom
  • Double room with shared bathroom
  • Double room with toilet
  • Twin room with shared bathroom
  • Double room with private bathroom
  • Family room


👉🏻 Check Reviews and Prices of Seagulls Guesthouse Here!


What is Tauranga best known for?

Tauranga is best known for its idyllic beaches, stunning views, and vibrant cafe scene. The city is also renowned for the Mount Maunganui hot springs, beautiful gardens, and exciting water sports opportunities such as sailing, surfing and kayaking.

Additionally, Tauranga hosts a number of popular events throughout the year including the Bay of Plenty Classic Car Show and the Tauranga Jazz Festival.

With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Tauranga has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike!


Is Mount Maunganui worth visiting?

Absolutely! Mount Maunganui is a must-visit for any traveller. There are plenty of activities to enjoy such as swimming, surfing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

The beaches in Mount Maunganui are some of the best in New Zealand and you can also visit the stunning hot springs for an unforgettable experience.

Of course you can’t miss walking up Mount Maunganui itself and grabbing a snap for the gram. Just make sure in the summer months you do it in the morning otherwise it’ll be a veeery hot walk.

The bustling cafe scene, unique shops and restaurants make Mount Maunganui the perfect beach town to relax and explore. With plenty to do and see, it’s definitely worth a visit!


Best time of year to visit Tauranga and Mount Maunganui

mount maunganui beach tauranga

Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are both beautiful destinations year-round, with something to offer all seasons.

Summer is the best time of year to visit if you’re looking for hot weather, stunning beaches and plenty of outdoor activities. Springtime in Tauranga is also a great choice, with mild temperatures and plenty of wildlife to see in the local gardens.

Autumn and winter are less popular times for visitors, so this is a great opportunity for those looking for peace and quiet. Although you won’t be able to take advantage of the beach activities, there’s still plenty to do with indoor attractions, shopping and cafes open year-round.

No matter what time of year you visit, Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.


Best things to do in Tauranga

When it comes to things to do in Tauranga, you won’t be short of options. The Tauranga Art Gallery, Historic Village and Kaiate Falls are all great places to visit and explore. You can also take a stroll around Yatton Park gardens and catch glimpses of native birds.

Head over to McLaren Falls Park or Waimarino Water & Adventure Park for some nature-filled adventures. If you’re looking for something a bit more educational, check out The Elms mission house or visit one of the art galleries and museums in the city.

Tauranga also has an abundance of parks and playgrounds perfect for families.


Best things to do in Mount Maunganui

top-of-mount-maunganui-tauranga

Mount Maunganui is a stunning beach town with plenty to offer. You can take a dip in the hot springs, catch some waves or just lounge on the white sands of the main beach.

There are also plenty of activities to do around Mount Maunganui such as walking up the mountain itself and taking in panoramic views of the city, or exploring Pilot Bay in a kayak. You can also take part in activities like stand-up paddle boarding and kite surfing to make your beach day even more adventurous.

If you’re looking for something a bit different or a break from the ocean, Mount Maunganui has plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants. The surfy boutique shops will keep you busy for an afternoon plus a visit to Astrolab for a beer and a burger is a must!


Conclusion: 5 Best Tauranga and Mount Maunganui Backpackers Accommodation

Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are both stunning destinations that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, take part in water activities or just relax on the beach, there is plenty of fun to be had!

For those travelling on a budget, backpackers accommodation is an ideal option. With a variety of options available across Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, it can be hard to choose which one best suits your needs.

I hope this selection of 5 top-rated backpacker accommodations in this area helps with your search – all offering comfortable rooms at affordable prices with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable stay in beautiful Tauranga or Mount Maunganui!