Chester Street Backpackers

Set in a bright Victorian-style house fronted by cabbage trees, this low-key hostel and cottage is a 14-minute walk from Cathedral Square in Christchurch’s city centre and 2 km from the Christchurch Art Gallery.

The simple, colourful rooms offer bedding, limited free Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms; 1 room sleeps up to 3 guests (mixed), and private rooms are available. A quaint cottage offers a living area with a TV and sofas, a kitchen with dining space and a deck, plus a kids’ toy box. Minimum-stay rules may apply.

There’s a shared kitchen, a verandah and a garden, as well as BBQ facilities. On-site parking is free.