Drifter Christchurch

3.5 star property

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Drifter Christchurch

Lunch and dinner served
Premium King Suite | Free WiFi, bed sheets
Property amenity
Fitness facility
Exterior

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

Superior Queen Room

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(9 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Premium King Suite

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Superior Queen Room with Balcony

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Family Room

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

Family Loft Suite with Queen and Bunk

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Loft Suite with Two Queen Rooms

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

Private Deluxe 8 Bed Ensuite Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 8
  • 8 Twin Bunk Beds

Private Deluxe 8 Bed Female Ensuite Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 8
  • 8 Twin Bunk Beds

Private Superior 4 Bed Ensuite Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

Private Superior 8 Bed Ensuite Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 8
  • 8 Twin Bunk Beds

Superior Twin Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

Private Superior 4 Bed Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

Private Superior 4 Bed Female Ensuite Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

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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, free in-room WiFi, and a gym.

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
  • ‪Pink Lady Rooftop - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Dux Central - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Akin - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Sushi Soldier - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Drifter Christchurch

Renovated in 2024, Drifter Christchurch offers a gym, free WiFi in public areas, and microwave in a common area. Front-desk staff are standing by 24/7 to assist with any requests. Additional amenities include a refrigerator in a common area, a library, and a terrace.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a fitness center.

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

Similar properties

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

  • Billiards/pool table
  • Books
  • Evening entertainment
  • Fitness classes
  • Gym
  • Library
  • Pilates classes
  • TV in common areas
  • Yoga classes

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • 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
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2 percent for credit card payments
Guests will receive smart lock details
Guests are recommended to download the property's Duve mobile app before check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk, smart lock

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • 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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
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.
Property Registration Number 9429050898268

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.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.
  • Guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

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 May 20, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Drifter Christchurch on Jun 2, 2026 start from $85, including 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 The Crossing, and within a 10-minute walk of Riverside Market and Cathedral Square. You'll also find New Regent Street and Isaac Theatre Royal less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at Drifter Christchurch?

No, there isn't parking available at the hotel.

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?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like a restaurant and a bar/lounge plus some guestrooms include free WiFi.

Are there hot tubs at Drifter Christchurch?

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, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

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).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Drifter Christchurch?

Yes, some guestrooms at Drifter Christchurch offer a balcony.

Drifter Christchurch Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 110 out of 179 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 44 out of 179 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 16 out of 179 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 7 out of 179 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 179 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.4/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Liora, hallandale

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Ron

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

4/10 Poor

Kathryn

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Tiny elevator and room. All digital elevator access and lack of space meant long unnecessary delays. This hotel is designed for GenZ only - this should be mentioned in hotel listing. Won’t be staying again.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

He, auckland

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was good and high tech, good location to catch the busses too. But short of reception staff and water was not very hot in shower
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Anabel, Dunedin

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Room was fine but very awkward layout. Bed and lounge upstairs and tiny toilet and shower downstairs. No mini fridge and worst shower I have ever had. Check in is a pain, you need to do it all through the app, the you need the website in you phone to use the doors. Then the doors don’t work and you need to call staff to open. Wouldn’t stay again. Better as a backpackers than a hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Rhiannon

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location and vibe.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Kristine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
New, clean and central
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Zak

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Lovely room, amazing shower and bed. Great staff, great coffee.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Kobus

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Clean and friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Khalid

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Very cool how they mixed a hotel and hostel vibe. We brought our family and it was good for them to see how fun it is for young people to travel like I used to. Check-in was a bit clunky, but not too bad.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Donna

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Amenities
More of a young back packer accomodation not what I was expecting unfortunately
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Scott

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Room was tidy and clean. Common areas were also tidy. Though, for a somewhat steep price point - I wouldn’t call this a hotel. It is more of a hostel. There are very limited in room amenities - basically none. It’s a safe, convenient hotel that is a place to rest really - no frills.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Fuk Hing

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
一般
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Caren

Lots of interesting characteristics. Nice large balcony that needed cleaning.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

6/10 Okay

Robyn

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Poor access - wheel chair access down a side lane - you need to request access. Have to take luggage up stairs to get in. No parking. Noisey at night from in house bar / club. Multiple emails requesting on line check in - no check in at desk. No fridge in room despite being a Superior King suite. Stayed 4 nights - room not vacuumed. Cups not washed. Not always provided with hand towels and wash clothes. Mixed accommodation - someone sitting on hallway floor. Hotel prices but hostel services.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dale

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

2/10 Terrible

TRICIA

Liked: Amenities
Disliked: Staff & service
I arrived at 4:30 and my room wasn't ready. The digital check in was brutal. If that's how they're going to run it, the lobby should be auto-connect wifi. I wasn't connected, so I didn't receive the message about my room not being ready. I went through the digital checking crap with both my backpacks on me (lobby was packed), finally got to my room to find cleaners in it. I had a zoom meeting I needed to join, so I wish I had known. I didn't realize this was a hostel, so I guess I was just expecting the warm reception of a typical hotel, for the price.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

6/10 Okay

Douglas

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kendal

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

John

Liked: Amenities
Quirky. The balcony didn't really look out on anything, but we didn't use it so no big deal.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
All was good
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

janet

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

janet

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great room ,spotless throughout. Great to have big bathtowels too. Staff always helpful and comfortable beds with good quality linen
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

HAOYANG, Angle Park

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Where hospitable staff and stylish decorations! To all landmarks walking can complete 💯!very cool !
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025