Hugo & Carter's Backpackers & Motel

The online booking through Agoda was why we didn't get the room we originally wanted, so that wasn't the staff's fault. The woman helping us found us the bigger room we'd paid for and was really helpful. The room was clean and had everything we needed, and the staff were friendly. Great location, and I'd definitely stay again.

The one-bedroom motel exceeded what we expected. It was spacious, modern, clean, and had everything we needed. It's a lovely area, although farther out than I expected. Definitely the best backpackers I've stayed in.

The location felt inconvenient and far from town, even with a car. For the same price, I'd stay in town, where the hostels have better sea views, professional staff, and real cleanliness. After years of travelling, this is among the worst hostel experiences I've had. Don't be misled by the "Brand New" label on Hostelworld. My dorm had a nauseating smell, like damp walls, dirty bedding, and stale renovation chemicals. Leaving the door open and the fan on full blast until midnight made no difference. It was impossible to sleep there. The photos online must be years old. The place seemed like an old motel with a superficial, poor-quality refurbishment, and the facilities were outdated and inadequate. The bathroom light timer was especially absurd: sitting on the toilet made the lights go out, so you had to get up and move around to trigger the sensor. It felt unhygienic. I tried to check out early because the conditions felt uninhabitable, but they said the cancellation policy was seven days, far longer than the usual 24-48 hours in New Zealand. Staff offered to move me to another room and seemed to be helping, but after more than half an hour of waiting, they never gave me a key. I left and gave up the money just to get away from the smell.

It's a quiet, pleasant spot, and the staff are kind and helpful. The location is a bit out of town, but that was a plus for me after staying in town and getting tired of cars hooning around 24/7. I'd come back next time.