Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

2.0 star property

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

Twin, Double & Single Ensuite | In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets
Interior
Terrace/patio
Breakfast area
Exterior

Reviews

7.4 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Laundry
  • Housekeeping
  • 24/7 front desk

Explore the area

View in a map
1 Bunny Street Wellington Cbd, Wellington, 6011
  • Place, Wellington Central Business District
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Lambton Quay
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Hnry Stadium
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Airport, Wellington (WLG-Wellington Intl.)
    ‪12 min drive‬

Room options

Double Ensuite

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(27 reviews)
  • 194 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Standard Double Room, Private Bathroom

  • 194 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Single (Shared Bathroom)

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(19 reviews)
  • 161 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Bunk Style Twin (Shared Bathroom)

  • 172 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Shared Dormitory, Shared Bathroom (4 Beds)

  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Shared Dormitory, Private Bathroom (6 Beds)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 258 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Shared Dormitory, Private Bathroom (8 Beds)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 280 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Shared Dormitory, Ensuite (6 Bed, Female Only)

  • 258 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Twin, Double & Single Ensuite

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(18 reviews)
  • 248 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed and 1 Twin Bed

Double Shared Bathroom

7.6 out of 10
Good
(4 reviews)
  • 248 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Single Room, Ensuite

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(15 reviews)
  • 205 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

Premium Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm

  • 258 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Double Room with Private Bathroom

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2

Twin Double&Single Ensuite

  • Sleeps 3

Ensuite Twin Room

  • Sleeps 2

Single Room With Bathroom

  • Sleeps 1

Double Room with Shared Bathroom

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

Single Room with Shared Bathroom

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 4-Bed Dormitory

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 6-Bed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 8-Bed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In 8 Bed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Premium Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm

  • Sleeps 1

Single Bed in Female Dormitory Room

  • Sleeps 1

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About the neighborhood

Wellington

Located in Pipitea, Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers is adjacent to Wellington Central Business District and within a 5-minute walk of Lambton Quay. This 108-room hostel welcomes guests with conveniences like a restaurant, a bar/lounge, and free in-room WiFi.

What's nearby

  • Wellington Central Business District - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Lambton Quay - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Archives New Zealand - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • New Zealand Parliament Buildings - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Hnry Stadium - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles

Getting around

  • Wellington Station - 1 min walk
  • Wellington Intl. Airport (WLG) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mojo Featherston - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Sir Breadwins - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪The Old Bailey - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Rydges Hotel - ‬3 min walk

About this property

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers features free WiFi in public areas, express check-out, and laundry facilities. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with securing valuables and access to locker space. Additional amenities include an ATM and a vending machine.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Safes are also included.
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 restaurant

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Lockers
  • Safe at front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

More

  • Art Deco architecture
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Cable/satellite channels

More

  • Heating
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Contactless 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
Late check-out fee: NZD 10
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
At check-in, guests must provide a record of full COVID-19 vaccination
COVID-19 vaccination record requirement applies to all guests aged 12 and up; guests must have received complete COVID-19 vaccination at least 30 days prior to check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: NZD 20.00 per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

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

  • Late check-out fee: NZD 10 (subject to availability)

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
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking out is 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.
  • 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. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
  • At check-in, guests must provide a record of full COVID-19 vaccination.
  • The COVID-19 vaccination record requirement applies to all guests aged 12 and up; guests must have received complete COVID-19 vaccination at least 30 days prior to check-in.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • 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

Downtown Backpackers
Downtown Backpackers Hostel
Downtown Backpackers Hostel Wellington
Downtown Backpackers Wellington
Hotel Waterloo Backpackers
Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers Wellington
Hotel Waterloo Backpackers (formerly Downtown Backpackers)
Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers Hostel/Backpacker accommodation

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers offers free cancellation on some room rates. For additional details, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

As of May 15, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers on May 30, 2026 start from $47, 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 near Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

This hostel is situated in Pipitea, just steps from Lambton Quay and Wellington Cenotaph, and within a short walk of Archives New Zealand. You'll also find Beehive and New Zealand Parliament Buildings less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

No, there isn't parking at this hostel.

Does Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers include a casino on the premises?

No, Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hostel.

Is Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers a good place to stay for couples?

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

Are there hot tubs at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

No, this hostel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

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

How far is the airport from Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

The closest major airport to Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers is Wellington Intl. Airport (WLG), which is 5.3 mi away (19 minutes by car). Another top airport is Kapiti Coast Airport (PPQ), which is around 28.4 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

No, there aren't any rooms with balconies at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers.

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers Reviews

Reviews

7.4

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 242 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 404 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 221 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 74 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 59 out of 1000 reviews

7.6/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

7.0/10

Amenities

6.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

6/10 Okay

hoon tea

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026

8/10 Good

Harry

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly and helpful staff; good common room/ lounge; other amenities suitable.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

James

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
clean room, affordable price.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Sharmaine

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff , great room
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

CLAIRE, GrangeOverSands

Liked: Cleanliness
This rating is based on the balance of price and amenities. The room and ensuite were clean, if a little tired. The WiFi was not 100% reliable. I appreciated the tea/coffee facilities in the room. I did not make use of the communal areas. Very conveniently located for the train station and Bluebridge Ferry to Picton.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Neil

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, friendly staff and kitchen and common area.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Natkrita

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
The lady staff is really helpful and kind. Kitchen is clean and tidy compared to the age of building.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Sarai

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Alejandro

Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Carole

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Liked: Cleanliness
I had a late check-in after coming in on the 1am ferry and the staff were so friendly and nice! would recommend 100%
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Jarrad James

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Bunk was rocky & ladder broken. Every time you roll over noisy
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

Aswin

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

River

Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff were kind, room was as expected based on the amount paid, good location. A little dirty.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

Melinda

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Sonya

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pradhuman

Liked: Cleanliness
Cxxxx
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Sarai

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mayette

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

6/10 Okay

Kate

Liked: Amenities
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
It was ok
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Rosemary

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Cleaners were friendly and helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Qingyi

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Two bedrooms share a toilet and bath room in a separate corner. My bedroom has a sink with two faucets, with hot and cold water.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Douglas

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Elevators were a trip to ride. Very conveniently located across from the main rail station. Water was blisteringly hot, beds were comfortable enough for a good night’s nap.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jane

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was perfect, quiet, clean, simple. Great value for money. Will book again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anthony, Waiuku

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean, comfortable and close to train and ferry. The Gastro Pub attached/in the Hostel serves very good food in good portions. Enjoyable again.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025