Verandahs Backpackers Lodge

The minute you approach this backpackers lodge, you immediately feel the warmth and the welcome waiting for you inside. There is no fuss about this place, all the guests are respectful of one another. The dorms can be a bit tight for space, but you will not find a more comfortable bed (no bunks!) and pure, white, crisp, clean sheets! And don't get me started on the bathrooms...clinically clean and a shower that could easily fit 3 people inside! Campbell the manager and assistant Katrin are both sweethearts and very helpful. When I was staying there in April, there was a new extension of the lodge being built in the house next door so that could probably be finished by now. As for location, it is a short bus ride to the city and off Ponsonby road for great shopping, bars and restaurants. This is not your place if you are up for partying, the vibe here is more chilled out. Verandahs is and always will be my home away from home in Auckland!

Verandahs was my first stay here in New Zealand. Read alot of this lodge before I headed to New Zealand. Heard only good things and now I can confirm this! Stayed in a single room and was happy that I did so. The room was big enough and the bed was very comfortable. The right thing after the very long and exhausting flights. There is a balcony round the house where you can go for a smoke or just for relaxing. Verandahs is located adjacent Western Park and is therefore a quiet place. The busy Ponsonby road is also not far, just a few steps away.