Tatahi Cove - Hostel

The family staying nearby had two kids who ran around and screamed all evening, either in the living room or in the bedroom next to mine. It ruined my evening and night. I get that kids are kids, but in a shared place where people come to rest, I think the host should have reminded the family not to run and scream. I’d booked a private room specifically for quiet. The man at reception was very nice and welcoming, the room was small but cozy, and the shared areas were big and clean. The place was almost empty when I visited, but I worry there wouldn’t be enough toilets and showers if it were full. It was just me and that family with two kids.

The dorms are part of Tatahi Cove Lodge. The three of us had a whole dorm room, and the shared kitchen and bathrooms were clean and tidy. The lounge and kitchen are spacious, although the cooking hob area itself is small and some hobs didn’t work. Two showers and two toilets serve three dorm rooms, each with at least two bunk beds, so there could be long waits if all the rooms were booked. The bunks could use individual lights, more pegs for hanging clothes, and mattresses with the worn springs replaced.

This was a happy surprise. It felt more like a low key guesthouse than a typical hostel, with lots of space to relax indoors and out. Our side had three double rooms, plus a room with a shower and sink and another with a toilet and sink. We stayed in a double room with a shared bathroom, and everything was very clean. The staff were fab: they lent us a shovel for hot water beach and kept a pair of shoes we’d forgotten so we could come back for them. I’d certainly stay again.

A welcoming, very nice place, with clean rooms and kitchen and a nice shared area. I’d recommend it.