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Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

2.0 star property
Art Deco hostel with a restaurant, near Interislander Ferry Terminal

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

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

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, Archives New Zealand
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Airport, Wellington (WLG-Wellington Intl.)
    ‪12 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Double Ensuite

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Double Ensuite

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

View all photos for Standard Double Room, Private Bathroom

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Double Room, Private Bathroom

  • 194 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Single (Shared Bathroom)

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Single (Shared Bathroom)

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(17 reviews)
  • 161 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Bunk Style Twin (Shared Bathroom)

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Bunk Style Twin (Shared Bathroom)

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

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Shared Bathroom (4 Beds)

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory, Shared Bathroom (4 Beds)

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

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Private Bathroom (6 Beds)

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory, Private Bathroom (6 Beds)

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

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Private Bathroom (8 Beds)

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory, Private Bathroom (8 Beds)

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

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Ensuite (6 Bed, Female Only)

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Shared Dormitory, Ensuite (6 Bed, Female Only)

  • 258 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Twin, Double & Single Ensuite

Twin, Double & Single Ensuite | In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

View all photos for Double Shared Bathroom

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Double Shared Bathroom

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

View all photos for Single Room, Ensuite

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Single Room, Ensuite

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

View all photos for Premium Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Premium Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm

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

View all photos for Double Room with Private Bathroom

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Double Room with Private Bathroom

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

View all photos for Twin Double&Single Ensuite

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Twin Double&Single Ensuite

  • Sleeps 3

View all photos for Ensuite Twin Room

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Ensuite Twin Room

  • Sleeps 2

View all photos for Single Room With Bathroom

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Single Room With Bathroom

  • Sleeps 1

View all photos for Double Room with Shared Bathroom

Interior

Double Room with Shared Bathroom

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

View all photos for Single Room with Shared Bathroom

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Single Room with Shared Bathroom

  • Sleeps 1

View all photos for Bed In 4-Bed Dormitory

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Bed In 4-Bed Dormitory

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

View all photos for Bed In 6-Bed Dormitory

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Bed In 6-Bed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

View all photos for Bed In 8-Bed Dormitory

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Bed In 8-Bed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

View all photos for Bed In 8 Bed Dormitory

In-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets

Bed In 8 Bed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1

Premium Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm

  • 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.
View more Hostels in WellingtonOpens in a new window

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
  • Sky 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
  • ‪Concorde Café - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Coffee Supreme Midland Park - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Trax Cafe & Bar - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Master Kong - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

Art Deco hostel with a restaurant, near Interislander Ferry Terminal
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.

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  • Free WiFi
  • Laundry
  • Housekeeping
  • 24/7 front desk
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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 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
  • 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. 
  • 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 Feb 12, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers on Feb 22, 2026 start from $57.32, 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 near Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

This hostel is situated in Pipitea, just steps from Lambton Quay, and within a 10-minute walk of Archives New Zealand and Beehive. You'll also find New Zealand Parliament Buildings and TSB Bank Arena 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 good for couples?

Couples will appreciate amenities like a bar, a restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk at this hostel.

Are there hot tubs at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers?

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

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, this hostel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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 Paraparaumu (PPQ), which is around 28.4 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies 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. 243 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 403 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 222 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 73 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 59 out of 1000 reviews

7.6/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Staff & service

7.2/10

Amenities

6.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

Colleen

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Elise

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
The room was very clean and well laid out. The cleaning staff that I bumped into in the hall were so lovely. I wouldn’t recommend this place for someone that is a light-sleeper - as the building is very old, the sound proofing on the windows is non-existent so you can hear everything from the road below.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

6/10 Okay

gaelle

Liked: Staff & service, room comfort
You get what you pay for. That said, great location.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Liz

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was fine staff could of been more welcoming
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Miriam

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room was clean and tidy.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Deborah

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quiet, clean, good room.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

L M

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Very clean room. Nice to have tea-making facilities and microwave. Staff always wonderful here.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Shane

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarai

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Staff are very friendly and area is good.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nurfadhila

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Jordyn

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Very friendly staff
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jamaica

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We really enjoyed our stay at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers. The place felt welcoming from the start. Solid facilities, and genuinely warm, attentive staff all contributed to a relaxed and pleasant experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

anish

Traveled with family and small children
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Do not stay here!! Pictures on websites are deceptive to what the actual rooms and facilities are. Place stinks, is old and terribly outdated. Beds and beddings have stains and smelly. Floor carpet is filthy and smells. Overall stay was a nightmare. Staff unhelpful.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Gordon

Traveled with family
A 2 star hotel so it's a bit old and tired, but has comfortable beds and hot showers. Close to public transport, eateries and within walking distance of the CBD
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff were lovely. Accommodation was average but i was solo travelling so for price i couldnt complain.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trish

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Customer service was excellent - ensuite room clean and warm - close to train and BlueBridge ferry. Perfect, thank you.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Close to railway and bluebridge
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

KAREN, Greymouth

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Close to all shopping needs
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Joe

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Convenient, central location.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Ning

Disliked: Amenities
Too old building
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Shama Rolyn

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Liked the friendly staff but the overall hygiene of the room not up to standard. The beddings were stained white sheets. The windows glasses cracked.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katina

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I have stayed 3 times. I enjoyed the whole stay. Loved the views from recent stays. Look forward to staying again
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Ben

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
It's a real propper dive. Booked here as it was the last available place in town with space. Now I know why. Staff were friendly enough but there's no getting around the dire facility.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

William

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

William

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025