Taupo is a must see for anyone visiting New Zealand’s North Island! With rows of hotels, apartments and hostels, it became increasingly difficult to find a place to stay within out budget! We opted for Taupo Urban Retreat simply because it had a rustic feel with all the right comforts we desired! Let’s see how it faired in my critical review!
The Staff:
When I get greeted anywhere, whether it be a hostel or a 5* hotel, all I ask is for a smile! I definitely got big smiles and a pair of helpful hands here at Taupo Urban Retreat. Both the reception staff as well as the bar staff provided us with everything we needed and made us feel at home! Which is tough to do when “home” is 14,000 miles away!
Location:
Sure, some hostels in town are better located and it would have been awesome to get a place with a killer view of Lake Taupo, however, only 60 second away from the waters edge provides a much quieter and laid back atmosphere!
Facilities:
Taupo Urban Retreat offers everything a backpacker could possibly need. Clean sheets, super fast WiFi and a large communal area to meet plenty of new people! If you plan on self catering, they have a large fully equipped kitchen and large communal tables for you to relax with your big bowl of noodles!
If you don’t travel with the laptop or tablet, then the hostel offers computers free for guests to use! Great if you need to book your next flight or first nights accommodation in a new and exciting location!
Taupo Urban Retreat also offers a film room and most importantly they have a bar! This means you are not allowed to bring your own alcohol, but they have you covered with super cheap drinks and happy hour every night!
Price:
Dorm rooms start at $25 per night
Private rooms start at $75 per night
We had a fantastic stay and would definitely stay again! The staff were super friendly, the beers were cold and cheap and we made some awesome friends thanks to their big open communal areas! Click here to check them out for yourself!
