The Flaming Kiwi Backpackers

Good mix hostel of long term and short term stays. Short walk to center of town, yet away from the noise during the night. Mulitple kitchens keep space open.

Very nice staff and free frisbee hire for the frisbee golf, which was a laugh. Beds were comfortable and bathrooms were clean. Free bike hire also, but we didn't get change to use this. Free tea and coffee, which is always nice but unfortunately no free cooking oil. Kitchens were clean and well stocked with crockery and pots and pans, not loads of space in the fridges though. Also the cleaning of the main kitchen was done around breakfast time which seemed a bit odd since. Decent enough though for our 2 night stay.

The Flaming Kiwi is better suited to long-term guests not those of us looking for a 1 or 2-night hostel stay. There is definitely a feeling among the "residents" that you are on their turf. This also means that your roommates are probably messy since they are living there. The kitchen areas upstairs were messy while I was there and there are not enough bathrooms/showers for everyone so unless you are getting up very early, expect to wait. The beds were very comfortable, though and there are small lockers to put your valuables in. The two people who assisted me at the front desk were both very nice and helpful!

It was comfortable and easy to find. I like that it was close to downtown.