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The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel

2.0 star property

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Photo gallery for The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel

Exterior
Property grounds
Queen & Single Room With Bathroom | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Property grounds
Interior

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Laundry
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
55, Whakarewa Street, Motueka, 7120
  • Place, Motueka District Museum
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, SimPit Technologies
    ‪1 min drive‬
  • Place, Skydive Abel Tasman
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nelson (NSN)
    ‪39 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Queen & Single Room With Bathroom

Queen & Single Room With Bathroom | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Queen & Single Room With Bathroom

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Double Room, Private Bathroom

Double Room, Private Bathroom | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Double Room, Private Bathroom

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(10 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Double Room, Shared Bathroom

Double Room, Shared Bathroom | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Double Room, Shared Bathroom

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for 4-Bed Shared Dorm

4-Bed Shared Dorm | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

4-Bed Shared Dorm

  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for 6-Bed Shared Dorm

6-Bed Shared Dorm | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

6-Bed Shared Dorm

  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Twin Bunk Beds

View all photos for 7-Bed Shared Dorm

Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

7-Bed Shared Dorm

  • Garden view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Twin Bunk Beds

Basic Cabin

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

About the neighborhood

Motueka

The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel places you within a short walk of Motueka District Museum and within a mile (2 km) of SimPit Technologies. This 13-room hostel welcomes guests with conveniences like free in-room WiFi, free self parking, and a library.
View more Hostels in MotuekaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Motueka District Museum - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • SimPit Technologies - 1 min drive - 0.9 miles
  • Skydive Abel Tasman - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Kaiteriteri Beach - 13 min drive - 10.2 miles
  • Abel Tasman National Park - 32 min drive - 18.9 miles

Getting around

  • Nelson (NSN) - 40 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Top of the Town Dairy - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Sprig + Fern Motueka - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Toad Hall - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪The Smoking Barrel - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪The Village Café & Bar - ‬11 min walk

About this property

The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel

The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel features free WiFi in public areas, microwave in a common area, and refrigerator in a common area. If you decide to drive, there's free parking. Front-desk staff can assist with luggage storage, tours or tickets, and securing valuables. Additional amenities include a library, a terrace, and laundry facilities.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi. Portable fans are also included. Limited housekeeping is available.

Similar properties

Reception
Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Kids pool
  • Waterslide
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, 139 reviews
$63 nightly
The price is $74
May 2 - May 3
Total with taxes and fees
Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park

Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site

Things to do

  • Library

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Shared microwave
  • Shared refrigerator

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (limited availability)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 3 steps to reach entrance
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk (40 inches high)

More

  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Shared kitchen access

More

  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • Portable fan

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:30 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions and key retrieval information; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
You will be asked to provide the property with a copy of your government-issued photo ID after booking
If you are planning to arrive after 8:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Guests should be aware that 2 cats and 2 dogs reside at this property
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), key retrieval

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets (service animals welcome)

Property payment types

Important information

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
This property accepts credit cards
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM—-8:30 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

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.
  • 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.
  • This property accepts credit cards.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

National rating

Property class, provided by our rating system, is based on property type, amenities, and services.

Property is also known as

White Elephant Backpackers Hostel Motueka
White Elephant Backpackers Hostel
White Elephant Backpackers Lodge Motueka
White Elephant Backpackers
White Elephant Backpacker Motueka, New Zealand - Nelson-Tasman
White Elephant Backpackers Lodge
The White Elephant Accommodation
White Elephant Backpackers Lodge
The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel Motueka

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel offers free cancellation on select room rates. For more details, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

As of Apr 1, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel on Apr 16, 2026 start from $69, 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 is there to do close to The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

This hostel is located in Motueka within a short 13-minute walk of Motueka District Museum. You'll also find Skydive Abel Tasman and SimPit Technologies within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the hostel.

Does The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel have a casino?

No, The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hostel.

What do couples enjoy most about The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

Couples staying at this hostel will appreciate amenities like a terrace and a library plus some rooms include a garden view.

Does The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel have a hot tub?

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

Does The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel though service animals are welcome.

Does The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hostel.

How far is the airport from The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

The closest major airport to The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel is Nelson (NSN), which is 26.6 mi away (40 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel?

Yes, some rooms at this hostel offer a furnished patio where guests can enjoy garden and mountain views.

The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 64 out of 130 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 47 out of 130 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 13 out of 130 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 130 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 130 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

DH

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Mary

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alice

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Good, cheap, clean
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

2/10 Terrible

Kate

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Arnold

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, very friendly and accommodating staff, and great amenities. Room surfaces were quite dusty/dirty and there were spider webs found periodically but nothing too majorly bad. Heater in the room was great and the bed was very comfortable!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Ronja

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We had a good stay. The Cleanliness was ok. We could park our motorbikes on the property and there are a lot of cool shops nearby. In the kitchen wasn’t that much space for our stuff.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

6/10 Okay

Michael

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Angela

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Had all the basics one needs. Warm, comfy bed, good water pressure and the staff was super friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Catherine

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Pros: I had a good stay at the White Elephant. I stayed in a cabin at the back of the property. The gardens at the back are beautiful and it was very quiet at night. The staff are excellent - very friendly and helpful - many thanks to Lorin and Gurt/Gert! The cabin had a comfy bed, ensuite, fridge, toaster, kettle and crockery & cutlery. There was a good heater. The location is excellent. The local bus stop (from Nelson) is a 5 minute walk and the supermarket & town centre are a 5 to 10 minute walk. There are lovely estuary and beach walks in Motueka. Cons: The cabin was not super-clean and all the surfaces were rather dusty. Also, on my last full day, I came home to find ants near the head of the bed and in the bathroom. Another guest also told me that she had ants in her food in the communal kitchen. The White ELephant is certainly not the only place in NZ to have ants, but it would make me think twice about staying again, because I was staying in September and not in the hotter weather, when ant activity is worse. If they could do a deep clean of the cabin and address the ant problem before their summer season, then I would definitely recommend the White Elephant.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hilary

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Janet Ho

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
At good location
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely home like enviroment, clean, friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

edward

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

Perfect

Excellent stay with everything that you would need at the accommodation and in the short walk to the town. I’ve stayed here before and would definitely recommend it
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Gail L

Liked: Cleanliness
The neighborhood was a little sketchy but we walked to town without any problems.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Rob

Liked: Amenities
Everything was fine and clean and friendly staff, except the showers and toilet (who are used by others) is built against the wall of my room. If you want a good sleep you need earplugs
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Michelle

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

john

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Lovely cabin in great garden setting. The onlly problem we encountered was lack of Wi-Fi in the outside apartments. It was ok in the hostel part
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Allison

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

10/10 Excellent

Ronja

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

Lovely cabin

Great place to stay before heading out to the abel tasman!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean, comfortable room. The property was beautiful and the staff were helpful and friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Room comfort

You get what you pay for...

Pros: Clean, very welcoming host at check in, cheaper than other accommodations in area. Cons: Tight, awkwardly designed bathroom, thin walls (can hear neighbor's every move), one pillow. All of the above is somewhat understandable as it is a very budget accommodation. What was intolerable was the extremely unreliable wifi - worst I've experienced in NZ. Ok stay for a quick night.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Carla

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved where hostel was situated. Beautiful grounds & walkable to the main shopping area. Very convenient.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

6/10 Okay

Janik, Toronto

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
This is a review for the private cabin: it was functional but very basic. No toiletries were provided. The cabin had no heating or cooling at all, it was quite cold in the morning! There are much much better private rooms in Motueka for only slightly more money.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

TONY

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
quiet and close to the town
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ngakau

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Host was amazing, highly reccomend
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024