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Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel

Property class: 4

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Photo gallery for Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel

A building with a flat roof, a front entrance, and a signboard. - Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel (Turangi)
A kitchen with blue cabinets, a central island, and a clock on the wall. - Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel (Turangi)
A spacious living area with a high wooden ceiling, blue sofas, a wooden coffee table, and a mounted deer head. - Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel (Turangi)
A kitchen with a central island, a refrigerator, and a sink. - Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel (Turangi)
An outdoor patio area with blue plastic chairs and tables, string lights, and a wooden fence. - Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel (Turangi)
You can look forward to an adjacent golf course, a garden, and laundry facilities at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel. Active travelers can enjoy amenities like rock climbing and cycling at this hostel. Free WiFi in public areas is available to all guests, along with a fireplace in the lobby and conference space.

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Business services
  • Laundry
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Kitchen

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Skip the crowds, keep the savings. AARP members save more after Labor Day. Book by Oct 7, 2026.

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 7 of 7 rooms

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 2 Twin Beds, Non Smoking, Ensuite

A room with two single beds, a wooden nightstand with a book and a small table, and a framed picture of a mountain on the wall.

Deluxe Room, 2 Twin Beds, Non Smoking, Ensuite

7.0 out of 10
Good
(2 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Bed in 4 - Bed Female Only Dorm Room 10

A room with three bunk beds, each with patterned bedding and pillows.

Bed in 4 - Bed Female Only Dorm Room 10

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for Bed in 8 - Bed mix dorm Room 4

A bunk bed room with blue metal frames and white walls.

Bed in 8 - Bed mix dorm Room 4

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Bed in 4 - Bed Mix dorm Room 5

A dormitory room with bunk beds, a window with curtains, and a carpeted floor.

Bed in 4 - Bed Mix dorm Room 5

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom

A neatly made bed with patterned bedding, a bedside table with a lamp, and a small stack of books.

Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Family Room, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom

A room with bunk beds, a desk, and a chair.

Family Room, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed and 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Premium Double Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Ensuite

A neatly made bed with patterned bedding, a bedside table with a lamp, and a window with curtains.

Premium Double Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Ensuite

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Located in Turangi, Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel is in the city center and near a boardwalk/promenade. Tongariro River Rafting and River Vineyard are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Taupō and Tokaanu Thermal Pools. Kayaking and water skiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and horse riding nearby. Visit our Turangi travel guide
View more Hostels in Turangi
Map
26 Ngawaka Place, Turangi, 3334

What's nearby

  • A rock formation with a carved face and a cave entrance surrounded by water and vegetation.
    Lake Taupō
    5 min drive - 4.5 miles
  • A snow-capped mountain with a clear sky and a flat landscape in the foreground.
    Tongariro National Park
    6 min drive - 5.2 miles
  • A white water rafting course with a raft in the river, surrounded by dense forest and a viewing platform with people.
    Huka Falls
    46 min drive - 47.5 miles
  • Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre
    3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Tongariro River Rafting
    1 min drive - 1.2 miles

Getting around

  • Taupō Airport (TUO)
    32 min drive

Restaurants

  • Thyme For Food
    3 min walk
  • Hydro Eatery
    4 min walk
  • Delta Coffee
    13 min walk
  • The Bakehouse Cafe and Roasts
    4 min walk
  • Hare & Copper
    4 min drive

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Ski shuttle nearby
  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Things to do

  • 18-hole adjacent golf course
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Bicycle storage
  • Bicycle tours
  • Golf caddies
  • Golf carts
  • Indoor pool (guest access)
  • Outdoor pool (guest access)
  • Rock climbing
  • Ski storage
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Access to nearby indoor pool
  • Access to nearby outdoor pool
  • Children's games
  • DVD player
  • In-room full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • In-room microwave
  • Laundry facilities
  • Separate in-room dining area

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Guidebooks
  • Laundry facilities
  • Lockers
  • Luggage storage
  • Shared microwave
  • Shared refrigerator

Guest services

  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • 25 square feet of conference space
  • 35 meeting rooms
  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • In a state park

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Down comforter

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 75-inch smart TV with digital channels
  • DVD player
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Blender
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Freezer
  • Full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • Microwave
  • Restaurant dining guides
  • Rice cooker
  • Separate dining area
  • Shared kitchen access
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Toaster oven

More

  • Electrical adapters
  • Fireplace
  • Free weekday newspapers
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 7:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 1.7 percent for credit card payments
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email with check-in instructions and an access code; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 AM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Access code, staffed front desk

Pets

Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Rollaway/extra beds are not available
Cribs (infant beds) are not available

Property payment types

  • Mastercard
  • Visa

Important information

Optional extras

  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 1.7 percent

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Long-term renters welcome
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Property class

Rating provided by Qualmark®, source of official star ratings for accommodation in New Zealand.

Frequently asked questions

Does Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel have a pool?

Yes, this property has outdoor pool access. Pool access is from 9:00 AM–7:00 PM.

Is Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much is parking?

Self parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 7:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel?

Check-out is at 10 AM. Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability).

Where is Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel located?

Located in the heart of Turangi, this golf hostel is steps from Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre and Pihanga Scenic Reserve. Tongariro River Rafting and River Vineyard are also within 3 mi (5 km).

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on select room rates, because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

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Reviews

Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel Reviews

8.8

Excellent

8.6

Cleanliness

9.2

Location

9.2

Staff & service

8.4

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 90 out of 148 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 35 out of 148 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 14 out of 148 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 3 out of 148 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 148 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
It was warm, the kitchen was very well equipped, the lounge areas were comfortable with plenty of reading material, there were some interesting characters staying there. Ian, the manager, was helpful and welcoming but we didn't need to hear his political views.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great, friendly service; clean room; complimentary upgraded room.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff, great kitchen, bathrooms and lounge. Everything we needed in a great location.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Really helpful host. Clean room and bathroom. Very well equipped kitchen
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Lovely stay, almost aggressively friendly staff
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ian was friendly and gave good tips for hikes nearby
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean room. Nice place.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly and helpful host, nice and clean accommodation and a lot to do nearby
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Amenities
Very friendly and helpful staff. A quirky back packer hostel. Close to shops.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Great spot for Tongariro. A few necessities nearby. Ian is very welcoming - perhaps too much so. Bathrooms need a deep clean I'm afraid (there was a hand towel in a very bad condition). It's a shame that the property details say access to pool and spa. Yes, they are at a different property (which is fine) but staying here doesn't give you the ability to use it free of charge (which is sort of implied). Really kooky little place with a really nice outdoor section in the middle of the hostel. Kitchen is very good
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
A Lovely friendly place to stay. We were made to feel very welcome. Everyone was friendly and helpful. It has a really special feeling
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness
The owner and host, Ian is very friendly and accommodating. The rooms are getting a bit run down and need a woman's touch.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great Hostel experience. Lots of food and shopping options available very close. Friendly staff and guests.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Ian is a good bloke, very chatty. He gave us a warm welcome and is considerate of our needs. The property location is very convenient, near shops. The room is comfy, we slept well through the night. They have a friendly fluffy cat that roams around the property, he's up for cuddles if you're keen.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Staff & service
The kitchen was well equipped although we didn't use it. The room and en suite were both fine, quiet and comfortable. The lounge area seems to have a lot of surplus furniture and a pile of boxes and rubbish that is both unsightly and a fire hazard.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Staff & service
The owner mananger person was friendly and keeping an eye on things daily
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
bit untidy and messy but staff were nice
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A brilliant place to stay in the charming little town of Turangi. Very peaceful and calm, with plenty of facilities. Lovely and well-equipped kitchen with a large dining area and plenty of space to relax including a great TV room. Plenty of toilets and showers too. Rooms are nice and beds comfy. The place is very clean and all the staff are lovely. The owner is a great guy and really nice to chat to. This place is a haven and easily the best place I have stayed in New Zealand. Thank you to all!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I thoroughly enjoyed staying here. I saw a sign at the door to please call or text when you arrive. I arrived a little early so I didn’t know if a room would be ready. I texted and Ian responded very quickly letting me know that my room was ready and letting me know which room was mine. I paid for a simple bed sharing a room and was pleasantly surprised that I had been upgraded to a double bed and bunk beds in the same room with no one else sharing with me that evening. I asked what he recommended to do and was pleased with his suggestions. I found this place to be very relaxing and I met lots of friendly folks also traveling while enjoying a fire in living room watching movies for many hours feeling cozy. Other folks were playing games in the adjacent room and some folks were cooking in the shared kitchen. I felt welcomed and at home. I slept like a baby in the very comfortable double bed instead of the bunk bed that I paid for and planned on sleeping in. There’s a washer and dryer available for anyone who needs to use it. Ian also offered coffee or tea with the condiments. I’ve never had anyone offer this for the small price I paid to stay in a hostel. I played with Candy short for Candice the adorable dog and Jerry the cute kitty since I love animals. I definitely recommend staying here when in Turangi. You can’t beat the price for the hospitality that you receive. Thank you!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Staff & service
The staff were very helpful. The bed was comfortable and the room tidy. The location was great, right in Turangi township and close to a lot of great activities.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Staff & service
Handy to town. Pizza parlor next door.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Well people was helpful and it was nice place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Was given a room that was not the room we booked. Budget accommodation but clean and the host was friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Basic needs met and excellent value. As comfortable as any backpackers accommodation anywhere in the world.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2018
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Classic kiwi hostel, has everything you'd need. Friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024