Silverfern Backpackers

The staff were nice, but that wasn’t enough to make this a good stay. Food we’d left in the fridge was taken out and left on the bench, so it had all spoiled by the time we got back. The bunk beds had dried, spilled food on them, and the air quality was unbearable, so I slept in my sleeping bag instead of on the sheets. There is a car park, but our spot was often taken, and people were drinking in vans outside at all hours. The female bathroom felt sketchy, and the lock didn’t seem to work properly.

It’s cheap and very central, and the staff were really nice. They promptly gave me different bedding, but the original linen had stains and hairs on it and didn’t seem to have been changed. There were bed bugs in several rooms, and food was stolen from my fridge too.

The staff were nice and helpful, but the place felt more like a homeless shelter, with so many strange people around. I normally don’t expect much and wasn’t looking for a five-star hotel at that price, but I couldn’t even bring myself to touch the bed. I was meant to stay one night and lasted 30 minutes before finding somewhere better. Worst experience ever.

For a budget stay of a few nights, this hostel does the trick. Some travellers say it’s okay for the price, affordable and close to the city centre. It’s in a very central part of Auckland CBD, handy for sightseeing, public transport and walking to lots of places. Reviewers often describe the staff as helpful and friendly. The hostel’s website lists large shared kitchens, a lounge and TV room, free high-speed WiFi, and parking availability.