Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel

4.0 star property
4-star golf hostel perfect for exploring Turangi

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel

Front of property
Down comforters, iron/ironing board, bed sheets
Down comforters, iron/ironing board, bed sheets
Lounge
Down comforters, iron/ironing board, bed sheets

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Business services
  • Laundry
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
26 Ngawaka Place, Turangi, 3334
  • Place, Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Tongariro National Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Whakapapa Ski Area
    ‪41 min drive‬
  • Airport, Taupō Airport (TUO)
    ‪42 min drive‬

Room options

Deluxe Room, 2 Twin Beds, Non Smoking, Ensuite

7.0 out of 10
Good
(2 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

Bed in 4 - Bed Female Only Dorm Room 10

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 4 Twin Bunk Beds

Bed in 8 - Bed mix dorm Room 4

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

Bed in 4 - Bed Mix dorm Room 5

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds

Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Family Room, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Shared Bathroom

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

Premium Double Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Ensuite

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Turangi

City center stay.At this Turangi hostel, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre and 3 miles (5 km) of River Vineyard. Also, Tongariro National Trout Centre is within 3 miles (5 km) and Tokaanu Thermal Pools is within 6 miles (10 km).

What's nearby

  • Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Tongariro National Park - 6 min drive - 5.6 miles
  • Whakapapa Ski Area - 41 min drive - 38.8 miles
  • Taupō Hot Springs - 45 min drive - 36.8 miles
  • Huka Falls - 54 min drive - 41.7 miles

Getting around

  • Taupō Airport (TUO) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Thyme For Food - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Rust - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Hydro Eatery - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Delta Coffee - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Turangi Tavern - ‬5 min walk

About this property

Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel

4-star golf hostel perfect for exploring Turangi
As a guest of Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel, you'll find barbecue grills, ski storage, and tour/ticket assistance. Event space at this hostel measures 25 square feet (2 square meters) and includes conference space. A computer station is on site and WiFi is free in public spaces. Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel also features a garden, a fireplace in the lobby, and laundry facilities. Self parking is free. You'll have access to the indoor pool and outdoor pool at a partner property.

This 4-star Turangi hostel is smoke free.

  • 17 guestrooms or units
  • 25 sq ft of conference space
  • 2 sq m of conference space
  • Ski equipment storage
  • Conference space
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Express check-in
  • Express check-out
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Garden
  • BBQ grill(s)
  • Computer for guest use
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Television in lobby
  • No smoking on site
  • Microwave in a common area
  • Refrigerator in a common area
  • Lockers available
Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel offers 17 accommodations with fireplaces and DVD players. Accommodations offer separate dining areas. Beds feature down comforters. Full-sized refrigerators/freezers, microwaves, and rice cookers are provided.

Bathrooms include showers. 75-inch Smart televisions come with digital channels and Netflix. Additionally, rooms include complimentary weekday newspapers and shared/communal kitchens.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • Access to nearby indoor pool
  • Access to nearby outdoor pool
  • Children's games
  • DVD player
  • In-room full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • In-room microwave
  • Laundry facilities
  • Separate in-room dining area

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Ski shuttle nearby
  • Onsite parking available only on request
  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Things to do

  • 18-hole adjacent golf course
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Bicycle storage
  • Bicycle tours
  • Golf caddies
  • Golf carts
  • Indoor pool (guest access)
  • Outdoor pool (guest access)
  • Rock climbing
  • Ski storage
  • TV in common areas

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 75-inch smart TV with digital channels
  • DVD player
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Down comforter

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Blender
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Freezer
  • Full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • Microwave
  • Restaurant dining guides
  • Rice cooker
  • Separate dining area
  • Shared kitchen access
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Toaster oven

More

  • Electrical adapters
  • Fireplace
  • Free weekday newspapers
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 7:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Contactless check-in available
Express 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
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 1.7 percent for credit card payments
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email with check-in instructions and an access code; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 AM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Access code, staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 1.7 percent

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

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
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Long-term renters welcome
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
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 according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    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. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve onsite parking. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, debit cards, and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival. Long-term renters welcome.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit in each accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

National rating

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

Property is also known as

Extreme Backpackers Hostel Turangi
Extreme Backpackers Hostel
Extreme Backpackers Turangi
Extreme Backpackers
Tongariro River Retreat
Golden Fern Backpackers
Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel Turangi
Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation

Frequently asked questions

How close is Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel to the airport?

Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel is 27.3 mi (32-min drive) away from the Taupō Airport (TUO) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel?

As of Jun 8, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel on Jun 22, 2026 start from $44, 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.

Does Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel.

Does Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel offer free breakfast?

Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel?

No, there is no casino at this hostel.

What time is check-in at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 7:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel?

This hostel offers free self parking.

Does Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel have a pool?

Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel features outdoor pool access. Guests can enjoy pool access from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Does Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hostel.

How close is Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel to downtown Turangi?

Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel is 0.1 mi away from Turangi.

Tongariro River Retreat - Hostel Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 89 out of 142 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 32 out of 142 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 12 out of 142 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 3 out of 142 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 142 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.4/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff, great kitchen, bathrooms and lounge. Everything we needed in a great location.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Larsen

Ian was friendly and gave good tips for hikes nearby
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean room. Nice place.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eve

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Lovely stay, almost aggressively friendly staff
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Colette

Liked: Amenities
Very friendly and helpful staff. A quirky back packer hostel. Close to shops.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Lauren

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Was given a room that was not the room we booked. Budget accommodation but clean and the host was friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ron

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Its Okay and could do with a little loving. Door kept banging as lock side has been removed If i had time i would fix it as he is really nice
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Stephen

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness
The owner and host, Ian is very friendly and accommodating. The rooms are getting a bit run down and need a woman's touch.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lina Christina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly and helpful host, nice and clean accommodation and a lot to do nearby
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Liesel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
A Lovely friendly place to stay. We were made to feel very welcome. Everyone was friendly and helpful. It has a really special feeling
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Brian

Liked: Staff & service
The kitchen was well equipped although we didn't use it. The room and en suite were both fine, quiet and comfortable. The lounge area seems to have a lot of surplus furniture and a pile of boxes and rubbish that is both unsightly and a fire hazard.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Well people was helpful and it was nice place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Abigail

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Ian is a good bloke, very chatty. He gave us a warm welcome and is considerate of our needs. The property location is very convenient, near shops. The room is comfy, we slept well through the night. They have a friendly fluffy cat that roams around the property, he's up for cuddles if you're keen.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Alexander

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Perfect overnight stay, great host

Called ahead as we would miss the check-in times, the host was very kind and said he would still be there. When we arrived, he was waiting up and graciously showed us to our room (which he'd already started the heater). Room had a few bunks of varying firm-ness and we found ones that suited perfectly, settled down for a lovely night stay.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great Hostel experience. Lots of food and shopping options available very close. Friendly staff and guests.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Classic kiwi hostel, has everything you'd need. Friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

O'Brien

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Basic needs met and excellent value. As comfortable as any backpackers accommodation anywhere in the world.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2018
Verified

8/10 Good

Tony

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Parking is an issue other wise it’s a great place
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Ross

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This is a lodge not really a motel. There's a lovely welcoming atmosphere.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Nganeko

Liked: Staff & service
The owner mananger person was friendly and keeping an eye on things daily
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Aylin

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Hostel Manager was very friendly, would have picked us up if we would have been stuck at the Tongariro crossing (we were without a car) close to the intercity bus stop
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rocky

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The owner of hostel was really nice guy. It helped me a lot with my big day for Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It went smoothly and enjoyed the whole experience. Thank you again.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

paul

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
bit untidy and messy but staff were nice
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A brilliant place to stay in the charming little town of Turangi. Very peaceful and calm, with plenty of facilities. Lovely and well-equipped kitchen with a large dining area and plenty of space to relax including a great TV room. Plenty of toilets and showers too. Rooms are nice and beds comfy. The place is very clean and all the staff are lovely. The owner is a great guy and really nice to chat to. This place is a haven and easily the best place I have stayed in New Zealand. Thank you to all!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Brett

Room was appropriate for the price, I would normally expect tea, coffee and milk but supplies were very low
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024