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Check prices for these dates

Next weekend
13 Nov - 15 Nov
In two weeks
20 Nov - 22 Nov
In one month
4 Dec - 6 Dec
In two months
1 Jan - 3 Jan

Our top choices for Nelson hostels

A pathway leading through a garden with a red mailbox labeled 'NO CIRCULARS' and the number '10'.

1. Tasman Bay Backpackers

Tasman Bay Backpackers
2.0 star property
The Wood
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (151 reviews)
"Extremely convenient location with parking"
Australia
Megan
The price is AED 160
AED 184 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
Tasman Bay Backpackers
A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a freezer, and a sign indicating kitchen cleaning times.

2. YHA Nelson - Backpackers

YHA Nelson - Backpackers
2.0 star property
Nelson City Centre
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (108 reviews)
"Very well-managed, clean, efficient, and welcoming hostel!"
United States
Corey
The price is AED 196
AED 225 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
YHA Nelson - Backpackers
A lobby with a red sofa, black armchairs, a coffee table, and a desk with a computer.

3. Downtown Backpackers

Downtown Backpackers
2.0 star property
Nelson City Centre
6.0 out of 10, (69 reviews)
"Decent cheap inner city accommodation. "
Australia
Jamie
The price is AED 167
AED 193 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
Downtown Backpackers
A night scene with two chairs on a wooden deck under a starry sky.

4. Eden's Edge Lodge

Eden's Edge Lodge
5.0 star property
Riwaka
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (168 reviews)
"Really nice Lodge with breakfast included. Very quiet location where you get a good night sleep. Big, well maintained garden where you can spend time reading a book or just relax. Clean rooms, parking is free, staff was welcoming and helpful finding a good restaurant for dinner. Would book again when in the area."
Canada
Alexandra
The price is AED 293
AED 336 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Nov - 21 Nov
Eden's Edge Lodge
A large, white, two-story house with a grey roof, surrounded by lush greenery and flowering plants.

5. The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel

The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel
2.0 star property
Motueka
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (133 reviews)
"Great spot for our overnight stay. Easy walk to restaurants & supermarket"
New Zealand
Brent
The price is AED 109
AED 126 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Nov - 21 Nov
The White Elephant Accommodation - Hostel
A neatly made bed with a white and brown blanket, two pillows, and a rolled white towel. A painting of a beach scene is on the wall, and a window with curtains is visible.

6. Happy Apple Backpackers

Happy Apple Backpackers
2.0 star property
Motueka
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (72 reviews)
"Apart from the mens shower having no pressure unless it was on cold, we really enjoyed the stay. My six year old loved George the horse who was very friendly and gentle. The kitchen and outdoor facilities were great. The room was clean, but we found someone else's Vaseline under the bed which was gross; when checking to see if any of our kids toys were left there."
Australia
Ben
The price is AED 196
AED 226 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Happy Apple Backpackers
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Learn more about Nelson

Discover local art treasures at the Suter Art Gallery before exploring the vibrant Saturday market in Montgomery Square. Hike to the 'Centre of New Zealand' viewpoint or kayak the turquoise waters of nearby Abel Tasman National Park.

See all hotels in Nelson
A serene lake reflecting a town with a prominent clock tower, surrounded by lush green hills and mountains.

Top reviews in Nelson

A pathway leading through a garden with a red mailbox labeled 'NO CIRCULARS' and the number '10'.
Tasman Bay Backpackers

Tasman Bay Backpackers

Tasman Bay Backpackers
The Wood

10/10 Excellent

helpful kind staff, clean rooms, free towels for shower & wonderful nightly vegan chocolate pudding :)
United States
Karen
Reviewed January 21, 2026
Tasman Bay Backpackers

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I stay in a hostel in Nelson?

Hostels are a great way to stay for a lower cost, so you can save your budget for fun things to do. You can enjoy activities like shopping, and the beaches create an appealing natural setting.

What is a hostel?

No two hostels look the same, but these dorm-style accommodations all feature shared rooms (though many have private options too), budget prices, and a social setting.

What are the best hostels in Nelson?

Based on reviews from our customers, these hostels in Nelson have positive ratings: Bridge Backpackers - Property features include free WiFi, tour assistance, and laundry facilities. You'll find bed sheets and free WiFi in all rooms. Tasman Bay Backpackers - Guests can enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and tour assistance. You'll find towels, bed sheets, and free WiFi in all rooms. YHA Nelson - Backpackers - Property features include free WiFi, free parking, and a sauna. Rooms come with towels, hair dryers, and bed sheets. The Bouncing Lamb Backpackers - You can take advantage of free WiFi and free parking, as well as a restaurant. You'll find towels, showers, and bed sheets in all rooms. Downtown Backpackers - Property features include free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. You'll find towels, showers, and TVs in all rooms.

How many hostels should I expect to find in Nelson?

If you're looking for a low-cost place to stay in Nelson, one of Expedia's 6 hostels could be a great choice.

When is the best time of year to stay in a hostel in Nelson?

The weather is important when you want to venture out and explore, so here's some information about the local climate: The hottest months are usually January and February with an average temp of 61°F, while the coldest months are July and August with an average of 47°F. Average annual precipitation for Nelson is 61 inches.

What is there to see and do in Nelson?

In general, Nelson is known for its parks, cafes, and beaches. Get out into nature with places like Queens Gardens, Tahunanui Beach Reserve, and Nelson Provincial Museum. Cultural attractions include Founders Heritage Park and World of Wearable Art and Collectable Cars. Locals like to shop at Nelson Market and Montgomery Square.

What's the best way to get to and around Nelson while staying at a hostel?

Keep this information about transit options in Nelson on hand to make the most of your stay: You can search for flights to the nearest airport, which is Nelson (NSN), located 3.6 mi (5.9 km) away from the city center. An alternative is Blenheim (BHE-Woodbourne), situated 34.6 mi (55.6 km) away.

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