The Flaming Kiwi Backpacker

The friendliness of staff and cleanliness of room and bathrooms.

I booked 3 nights, unfortunately I had to leave after the 1st night due to windows left open the entire day/night (6C outside) by the other people, and no heating. I switched the heating on, only to find it off just minutes after I switched it on (reason - no point in having the heating on and the windows open. I agree, however I could not sleep in those conditions!). I could have slept outside if I wanted it that cold (two windows behind me, so the next day I did not feel well at all). I had to book a B&B for the other 2 nights and no refund received from the Hostel. Not really the Hostel's fault, but they need to look into this as not great.

The staff were amazing - we had an unexpected hospital stay the night before we were due to check out. We rang the morning of as we’d stayed at the hospital overnight and they told us not to worry about a thing, that we could check out whenever we were free to come back and made sure we had somewhere else to stay. They were super friendly and helpful outside of this too, from the moment we turned up they were lovely. Also really lovely little pup called Ramon roaming around the reception area which we couldn’t resist a cuddle with!

I found it clean, and organized, with comfortable beds, hot showers, and enough room to store in the room (#3). Most of the staff are friendly and kind.

The cleaning started at around 8 am every day so it´s hard to go to the shower/toilet when you wake up and if you want to sleep more, there is the cleaning noise. Also, cleaners left the windows wide open and the room gets super cold while you are still sleeping or getting dressed. You can´t tell them anything coz they have the headphones on (with their music I guess).

My favorite hostel thus far! The keycard system makes you feel safe. Each bed has power outlets, a light, storage cabinets and privacy curtains. Even in an 8-bed unisex room, I got some of the best sleep of my trip. Plenty of bathrooms and kitchens and a large common area room. The staff was also very welcoming and gave recommendations for local hikes. If I hadn’t talked with them I would have missed the Basket of Dreams on Queenstown Hill.

The common room was somewhat dark and dated. The furniture is well worn, but it was welcoming.

The hostel was very nice - perfect family-like atmosphere. It was quite a small house, but with 3 kitchens, 3 bathroom, living room and (I think) 4 rooms upstairs for the backpackers. I stayed in a private bedroom, which was fine. Comfortable bed, spacious balcony with seating and mountain view - very nice! I also liked the check-in process. Caitlin checked me in and then she showed me all the rooms and what is where. I liked it very much.

The evening before I was supposed to check out, suddenly a different new guest opened the door of my (private) room with a room card and claimed she is checked-in for this room. I was surprised and shocked, but I knew I was right, so there was nothing to worry about for me. :) However, of course it was some kind of misunderstanding from the reception and I suppose the new guest then received the correct information about the room number and a correct room card. Nothing terrible, but also nothing I want to experience again. :D

I really enjoyed staying af Flaming Kiwi Backpackers! There was plenty of storage and the rooms/bathrooms/kitchen/sharing spaces got regularly cleaned. It had a very nice “homey” feeling. Especially the manager Emilia made you feel super welcome and comfortable!

There is 1 washing machine and 1 drier which are located in a bathroom, so when someone is using it, it’s frustrating to do your laundry.

Nice hostel, friendly staff.

There is only one bathroom per floor. It’s difficult to get in in the morning.

The staff is very hostile and willing to help you with anything you need. The beds are pretty comfortable and it’s nice that you have a curtain you can close when going to bed. And the communal area really made me feel at home.

The WiFi connection is not that good. You really have to be in the communal area to have a strong and stable connection.

Friendly and cosy atmosphere with great and helpful staff. Plenty of storage - BYO locks, bathrooms, shared spaces including kitchen and lounge area. Ideal location in close proximity to a few locations for our trip. Some parking available if you drive.

Can be a bit challenging if you are a light sleeper and for your laundry. Just be prepared and know the best times to get things done.

Great hostel with comfy beds and blankets, (half)curtains for a bit more privacy, and lockers for your stuff. The common living room is super cosy and has a great view, kitchens and eating areas were well equipped and even had ovens. Would definitely stay there again !

The curtains on the bed are only halfway, so don't expect blackout