Queenstown is nestled in the dramatic Southern Alps, making it New Zealand’s favorite outdoor playground. Whether skiing, bungee jumping, playing golf, or a family getaway, Queenstown is the ultimate spot for an adrenaline-packed day.
Queenstown is one of the most toured towns in New Zealand, making it pricey when it comes to accommodation. Nevertheless, this beautiful town doesn’t have to be an expensive destination, as affordable hotels are easier to come by than most backpackers would imagine. Here are 10 hotels to stay in Queenstown on a budget.
10 Holiday Inn Remarkables Park
For visitors looking for the ultimate luxury experience on a budget, Holiday Inn Remarkables Park is the place to be. The hotel is Holiday Inn’s newest flagship, opened recently in 2021. The rooms range from simple studios to deluxe suites, all featuring a big bed with crisp linens, a bathroom, and a kitchen. Its heart lies in the cozy and decorated lobby, which boasts ample space for relaxation. In addition, a restaurant and a bar are available for guests who feel like snacking.
- Location: Frankton
- Price per night: From $83
9 Reavers Lodge
Reavers Lodge is located 15 minutes away from Queenstown International Airport. It’s a backpacker’s favorite choice due to its proximity to ski resorts such as Coronet Peak and Cardrona. Features include a mini-kitchen with coffee-making facilities, a queen-size bed, and an en suite bathroom with a bathtub. After the free breakfast, guests in Reavers Lodge are guaranteed to have fun in the games room, offering games like table tennis and billiards.
- Location: Hamilton Road
- Price per night: From $60
8 Sherwood
For visitors looking for the ultimate luxury experience on a budget, then Sherwood is the place to be. Due to its prime location, the hotel provides serene views of The Remarkables Mountains and Lake Wakatipu. From the outside, guests are greeted by a classic 80s design. The inside is even more fascinating, featuring aesthetically decorated rooms with queen-sized beds and a restaurant serving tantalizing dishes.
- Location: Frankton Road
- Price per night: From $89
7 Melbourne Lodge
Thanks to a calm and laidback neighborhood, Melbourne Lodge offers accommodation ideal for solo travelers or couples. The Bed and Breakfast Hotel is located near The Remarkable Ski Area and Coronet Peak Ski Resort, a bonus for adventure lovers. A communal lounge with friendly staff is the highlight of this hotel. Guests who like a buzzy nightlife can explore the nearby bars, restaurants, and late-night shopping areas.
- Location: Central Queenstown
- Price per night: From $65
6 Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
For travelers who want to be surrounded by all the action in Queenstown, Nomads Queenstown Backpackers is an excellent option. Guests love this property, thanks to the feel-at-home atmosphere and complimentary tea and coffee offered. The rooms come in several varieties, from small dorm rooms to family suites with modern kitchens, ski storage, and a bathroom. Other features include a movie theater and an incredible sauna.
- Location: Church Street, South Island
- Price per night: From $53
5 JUCY Snooze Queenstown
JUCY Snooze Queenstown boasts futuristic vibes that can’t be matched elsewhere in Queenstown. Offering comfort and privacy in its pod-style design, it is every backpacker’s paradise. The hotel includes double and Quad innovative pod rooms, equipped with a smart TV and free Wi-Fi. On a lazy afternoon, guests can chill at the rooftop bar with stunning views of The Remarkables mountain ranges.
- Location: 47 Camp Street
- Price per night: From $45
4 Caples Court
Caples Court is a demonstration of a luxurious experience without having to break the bank. Squeaky clean rooms, a private lounge, and a patio are the major strongholds of this stylish 4-star hotel. Adventure lovers can check in at the free activities booking desk, where they can make reservations for water rafting trips and bungee jumping sessions.
- Location: 20 Stanley Street
- Price per night: From $113
3 Sir Cedrics Tahuna Pod
Sir Cedrics Tahuna Pod is every traveler’s dream come true, with its splendid location near attractions like Lake Wakatipu, Sky Queenstown Casino, and Queenstown Art Center. The hotel houses a spacious barbeque area with a balcony, and private rooms include single and double pods. What’s more, the car park and Wi-Fi are available for free.
- Location: 11 Henry Street
- Price per night: From $46
2 Aspen Lodge Backpackers
Aspen Lodge Backpackers offers cozy accommodation in a tranquil environment, making it the ultimate place to crash after a full day’s activity or a night out. The lodge is located minutes away from Skyline Queenstown, supermarkets, nightclubs, and restaurants with sumptuous meals. Aspen Lodge features 50 rooms with an ironing board, a shared kitchen, and a separate bathroom. Backpackers in Queenstown love it here.
- Location: 11 Gorge Road
- Price per night: From $67
1 Ora Retreat
Nestled on hilly terrain with an eerie forest, Ora retreat’s units include spacious rooms with breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu. The property is a good spot for visitors looking to have a peaceful nature retreat, with yoga sessions available daily in this urban sanctuary. Ora retreat’s highlights include a shared lobby with a fireplace, a movie section, and board games for guests wanting to socialize. In addition, guests can engage their taste buds with a continental breakfast served by the friendly staff.
- Location: Fern Hill
- Price per night: From $81