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Drifter Christchurch

3.5 star property
Hotel with a restaurant, 7-minute walk to Cathedral Square

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Drifter Christchurch

Lunch and dinner served
Fitness facility
Family Room | Free WiFi, bed sheets
Property amenity
Family Loft Suite with Queen and Bunk | Living area | Books

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Bar
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
96 Lichfield St, Christchurch, Canterbury, 8011
  • Place, Cathedral Square
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Hagley Park
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Airport, Christchurch (CHC-Christchurch Intl.)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Superior Queen Room

Free WiFi, bed sheets

Superior Queen Room

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(8 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Premium King Suite

Premium King Suite | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Premium King Suite

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Queen Room with Balcony

Free WiFi, bed sheets

Superior Queen Room with Balcony

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Family Room

Family Room | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Family Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

View all photos for Family Loft Suite with Queen and Bunk

Family Loft Suite with Queen and Bunk | Living area | Books

Family Loft Suite with Queen and Bunk

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

View all photos for Loft Suite with Two Queen Rooms

Books

Loft Suite with Two Queen Rooms

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Premium Private Suite - 8 Bed

Free WiFi, bed sheets

Premium Private Suite - 8 Bed

  • Sleeps 8
  • 8 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for Premium Private Female Suite - 8 Bed

Free WiFi, bed sheets

Premium Private Female Suite - 8 Bed

  • Sleeps 8
  • 8 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for Private Suite - 4 Beds

Free WiFi, bed sheets

Private Suite - 4 Beds

  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for Private Suite - 8 Beds

Private Suite - 8 Beds | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Private Suite - 8 Beds

  • Sleeps 8
  • 8 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for Superior Twin Room

Superior Twin Room | Free WiFi, bed sheets

Superior Twin Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

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9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, 1,004 reviews
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The price is $137
Dec 24 - Dec 25
Total with taxes and fees
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About the neighborhood

Christchurch

Located in Christchurch City Centre, Drifter Christchurch is within a 10-minute walk of popular sights such as One New Zealand Stadium and Cathedral Square. This 3.5-star hotel has 95 guestrooms and offers conveniences like a restaurant, a 24-hour gym, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • Riverside Market - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Cathedral Square - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Hagley Park - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Christchurch Casino - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles

Getting around

  • Christchurch Railway Station - 10 min drive
  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) - 23 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪C1 Espresso - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Akin - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Smash Palace - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Pink Lady Rooftop - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Kebab Masters - ‬3 min walk

About this property

Drifter Christchurch

Hotel with a restaurant, 7-minute walk to Cathedral Square
Renovated in 2024, Drifter Christchurch offers a 24-hour gym, free WiFi in public areas, and microwave in a common area. The front desk is staffed 24/7 to help with luggage storage, and answer any questions about the accommodations. Additional amenities include a refrigerator in a common area, a library, and express check-in.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a 24-hour fitness center.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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  • Restaurant
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8.4 out of 10, Very Good, 1,000 reviews
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Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • Rambler

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Billiards/pool table
  • Books
  • Evening entertainment
  • Fitness classes
  • Library
  • Pilates classes
  • TV in common areas
  • Yoga classes

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Shared microwave
  • Shared refrigerator
  • Vending machine
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Firepit
  • In a nature reserve
  • Outdoor entertainment area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator (63 inch wide door)
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

More

  • 1 building
  • 4 floors
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Renovated entire property - June 2024
  • Rooftop garden

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Bulk dispensers for toiletries
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Mobile key entry

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2 percent for credit card payments
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Guests are required to download the property's Goki mobile app before check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for NZD 28 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Rollaway bed fee: NZD 28 per night
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 2 percent

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might 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
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
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
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking in and out are easy with express services.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • 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.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • No parking is available onsite.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

National rating

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

Property is also known as

Drifter Christchurch Christchurch
Drifter Christchurch Hostel/Backpacker accommodation

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Drifter Christchurch?

Drifter Christchurch offers free cancellation on some room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Drifter Christchurch?

As of Dec 23, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Drifter Christchurch on Dec 24, 2025 start from $90.11, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see around Drifter Christchurch?

This hotel is situated in Christchurch City Centre, just steps from High Street and The Crossing, and within a short walk of Riverside Market. You'll also find Cathedral Square and New Regent Street less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at Drifter Christchurch?

No, this hotel doesn't offer parking.

Does Drifter Christchurch have a casino at the property?

No, Drifter Christchurch doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Drifter Christchurch?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Drifter Christchurch?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this hotel, including a bar, a restaurant, and a nature reserve.

Does Drifter Christchurch have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does Drifter Christchurch feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, Drifter Christchurch doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Drifter Christchurch allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Drifter Christchurch.

Are there connecting rooms at Drifter Christchurch?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from Drifter Christchurch?

The closest major airport to Drifter Christchurch is Christchurch International Airport (CHC), which is 7 mi away (23 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Drifter Christchurch?

Yes, some guestrooms at Drifter Christchurch offer a balcony.

Drifter Christchurch Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 79 out of 128 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 33 out of 128 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 8 out of 128 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 6 out of 128 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 128 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Priscilla

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely place to stay, easy walk to the shops and dining!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alexis

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Xuan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean and nice staff
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Nadia

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Claire

Traveled with group, Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, easy walking distance to all of central christchurch. Friendly staff, modern, clean facilities, good price.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Darshaka

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Very Helpful Staff

Staff (Roo) were very helpful as I sustained an injury whilst out on a trek. Made our a stay very comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patrick

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robyn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great option
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beverley

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachel

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Such a cool place to stay in the cbd. Beds were super comfy.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Igor

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Trendy place for your peiple but also suits families. Good value for money.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

4/10 Poor

Eming

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
Self check in property, super tiny wash face basin, ceiling light only worked once when we entered the room and thereafter despite informing a guy at check in counter upon going out for dinner problem was not resolved. How did this hotel get 4 stars ?
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Katie

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The digital check in didn’t work, none of the digital keys worked. Thankfully someone working at the bar was able to help us open the elevator door. There was no actual employees when we checked in because it was 11pm. The one towel in our room had blood on it, but once again no employees were there to get us a new one.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keith

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good quiet room and modern facilities
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrea

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel - was recommended to me and I would recommend to others.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Andrew

Business traveler
A pleasant place to stay. Quiet and comfy bed.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Marla

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
So enjoyed the design, the combination of old building and renovated chic and funky details. It was super clean, had unique spaces like a cinema with bean bags, an open to the sky courtyard, and lovely bar, barista and breakfast space. Also, many options for rooms from dorms to private rooms with ensuite facilities. The only issue is no affiliated parking and not convenient drop off/pick op space. I would go back for sure!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

4/10 Poor

Noretta

Traveled with partner
Hotel Room too small for couple . Bathroom sink small and have no place to put personal toiletries, no cups are provided for tooth brushing. Bathroom light sensor not effective at all, it just switched off many time during showers, very very annoying. Room felt clean when we arrived, but felt no one really clean our room the next few days, may be just empty trash bin only. Smell from common kitchen does comes into the room. However, the bed is comfortable so we slept well. Location is very convenient. Overall, if anyone expecting a typical hotel service n facilities, this is not the place. It's really for young travelers and backpackers.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debbie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great places to stay we stayed for a girls night in town and was perfect
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
First time staying here and we loved it. Every is new and modern, and it was great having the bar downstairs - great margaritas!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Kate

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff were excellent. Location was ideal.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mealofa

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was the best hotel i have stayed at, the room was beautiful, great comfy beds & pillows. Location is the best, right in town with the bus exchange right next door and a supermarket straight across the road. Rambler Bar was a great spot, and made the best espresso martini, yum. My new favorite hotel in Christchurch and i would definitely stay here again. Great customer service from all the staff, so well done. Cheers, Mealofa
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025