Could settle in and call it home after a day. Tardis like from initial impression this sprawling comfy hostel is run by the friendliest Scotsman who like some of his staff came for a visit and never left. Heaps to do and give good advice on the oodles of activities on offer. Room with en suite was clean and basic... more

We stayed in a twin ensuite room which cost 32 euro. We were surprised to have a tv in the room. There are plenty of facilities as listed by other reviewers. The reason I say the hostel could do better is because: there seemed to be insufficient kitchen facilities to cater for the number of guests, ie there is only... more

I always think its difficult to adequately review budget accommodation. If I was rating the Rainbow Lodge for value for money, I'd give it a higher mark, but I guess a lot ot people use trip advisor as a quick guide to what the best hotels are, so its difficult to give it more than a 3 star as (obviously)... more

We stopped here for 1 night in June 2008. We had booked a double ensuite room in advance but when we arrived we found they had booked us in for the wrong month. This was not to much of a problem. The friendly and helpful staff checked their emails, saw it was their fault and did everything they could to... more

My wife, daughter and myself stayed here for one night during a months holiday of New Zealand and Australia. We found the hostel to be well run with friendly staff. The hostel is well located for the town centre and loads of activities, during our stay we had a ride on the jet boats at the Huka Falls and my... more

We stayed there a few nights in March (in a double room with private bathroom). Our room was nice and clean. The kitchen was OK, if a bit crowded at dinner time. There is an outdoor area where you can eat. The staff was very helpful. The location is good (close to town, and close to the supermarket). Overall, we... more

I had a most pleasurable stay here for a couple of nights in March 2008. Very good staff willing to give you tips and book trips etc. Good location, close to town and easy to walk down to the Huka and the Taupo Bungee. Nice and clean and a definite place I would stay again if in the area. Thanks... more

Previous reviews of a 'spotless' backpackers on Trip Advisor encouraged us to book. It wasn't spotless but it was okay. The front desk staff were friendly and provided good advice. Location was about a 15 minute stroll into town for restaurants, the lake and bars. Our ensuite room was basic (as expected for a hostel) but on cold side. Thin... more

Bunks are nice, decent amount of space in the rooms, kitchen is a great size and clean with the staff coming in regularly to keep on top of the cleaning, really nice patio area outside, separate building with TV lounge and they even have a sauna. Run by people who used to be backpackers so they seem pretty on the... more