Base Taupo

I was lucky to get a lake view this time. The location is great, and booking well ahead meant I got a decent price. The kitchen is open plan and worked perfectly for meal prep. It was clean, with plenty of reminders to tidy up after yourself. I also got clear, concise instructions about collecting my key at the bar next door. I’m happy with the stay. One thing I wish had been clearer: the elevator only reaches the first floor, so you have to take the stairs to the second and third floors.

There are no lifts, so you have to carry your luggage upstairs. Even worse, the hostel is beside a bar where loud live music goes on until dawn. It wasn’t an occasional disturbance, it kept going all night and made sleep impossible. This place seems to have no concern for guests’ comfort. If sleep or basic amenities matter to you, stay far away. Not recommended.

The lake and mountain view from the room was stunning, and I hadn’t expected it. The receptionist was a lovely lady who did plenty to help. They kept my luggage while I had breakfast and looked around after checking out. Thank you.

The kitchen was kept clean, but it felt neglected. There was just basic, very old equipment, awful sponges and cloths that seemed like they’d add dirt to the dishes, and most of the saucepans had lost their handles. Only one fridge worked, so everyone was competing for space. Maybe I was unlucky, and I don’t know how long the big fridge had been out of order. Our third floor en-suite room was small but spotlessly clean, with a large bathroom and a kettle with tea and coffee. The lift only goes to the first floor, which isn’t ideal with heavy bags. We had no noise issues, though we slept with a fan on because it was hot, and that may have masked sounds from outside. It’s a clean, centrally located hostel, but the kitchen needs some care.