Adventure Holidays in New Zealand : Backpacking
Backpacking is a very popular form of holidaying in New Zealand. There are hostels in most tourist towns and cities, where you would expect to pay an average of $20 per night for single accommodation, $15 for shared. These prices include Goods and Services Tax. All hostels have self cook kitchens, laundry facilities and common areas where you can meet and exchange information with fellow travellers. You do not have to be a member to stay at any of the hostels, and no institutional rules apply. Linen and blankets are available for hire, though some hostels supply these free.
Discount Cards
Discounts have been arranged for many backpackers' hotels, from film developing and tandem parapenting, to cheap fruit and vegetables. Many hostels have VIP cards so you can take advantage of these discounts.
Some discount cards give excellent travel discounts - 50% off Air New Zealand and Ansett New Zealand domestic fares, 30% off Intercity Coaches and Trains, 10% off Kiwi Experience-Backpackers Adventure Travel, and 10% off Fiordland Travel (South Island). These specials are available on the VIP Backpackers Discount Card which can be purchased for $20 and is valid for 12 months. For further information write to: Back Packers Accommodation Council of New Zealand, level 15, Price Water House, corner of Hobson and Wyndham Streets, Auckland, New Zealand. Tel: 64 9 377 4714.
