Stewart Island Backpackers

Stewart Island Backpackers Hostel is AWESOME. The owners are wonderful. When our son failed to see a Kiwi on the only night we had booked, the owners found a way around "no vacancy" in their rooms the second night by finding us a large family tent, sleeping bags, and pads, which we pitched in the very field where Kiwis roam. That night, Aaron insisted on driving us on an excursion to find the elusive Kiwi - at no charge - which ended up becoming a two hour hunt in his Ford Explorer. He wouldn't even accept my offer of gas money. My son saw two Kiwis and for the remainder of that night another ended up roaming around our borrowed tent, singing. The facilities are good and clean, with all you need to cook, clean, etc. The location on the edge of Oban, a block from the beach, is perfect. Great spot owned by great folks.

We spent 3 nights at Stewart Island Backpackers. One before our Rakiura tramp and two after. The staff were excellent. Really friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. All the facilities were well catered, clean and tidy. We were able to leave our bags and any un-required items in secure storage while we ere tramping, at no charge. But the best bit of the stay was having a resident kiwi that many of us saw after dark. A great stay, with lots of other like minded holiday makers from all walks of life. Such a magical experience. Definitely highly recommended. Mark, Phil, Dylan and Matilda. Nelson, NZ.

Having never stayed at a backpackers place before, I was pleasantly surprised with this option (it was the last place in Oban to have vacancies). I had a room to myself, although had to share toilets and showers with the other guests, but these were both clean and more than acceptable. The little room had a comfortable bed and good linen, and caters for the mobile phone generation with two USB points. I didn’t hear any late night noises. I didn’t use the communal kitchen and lounge, but both looked ok and had cooking and refrigeration facilities.