Nelson City Centre stay.With a stay at this Nelson City Centre hostel, you'll be steps from Montgomery Square and Nelson Market. Anzac Park and Nelson Provincial Museum are also within half a mile (1 km).
Nelson I-site Visitor Information Centre - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
Christ Church Cathedral - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
Trafalgar Park - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
Getting around
Nelson (NSN) - 9 min drive
Restaurants
Tern Coffee House - 5 min walk
Coupland's Bakeries - 5 min walk
Victus Coffee & Eatery - 4 min walk
Tasty Tucker Bakery - 2 min walk
The Vic Mac's Brew Bar - 5 min walk
About this property
Bridge Backpackers
Hostel perfectly located for exploring Nelson
Bridge Backpackers offers its guests barbecue grills, tour/ticket assistance, and a garden. A computer station is on site and WiFi is free in public spaces. Bridge Backpackers also features laundry facilities, express check-out, and a television in a common area.
This Nelson hostel is smoke free.
21 guestrooms or units
2 buildings
Self-service laundry
Front desk (limited hours)
Express check-out
Storage area for luggage
Tour and ticket information
Garden
BBQ grill(s)
Computer for guest use
Television in lobby
No smoking on site
Microwave in a common area
Refrigerator in a common area
Bridge Backpackers offers 21 accommodations with washers/dryers and blackout drapes/curtains. Rooms open to balconies or patios. Pillowtop beds feature premium bedding. This Nelson hostel provides complimentary wireless Internet access. Guests can make use of the shared/communal kitchen. Housekeeping is provided daily.
Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
Late check-out fee: NZD 10
Express check-out available
Special check-in instructions
The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
At check-in, guests must provide either a negative PCR COVID-19 test result or a record of full COVID-19 vaccination
Negative COVID-19 test result requirement applies to all guests aged 1 and up, and test must have been administered no more than 72 hours prior to check-in; COVID-19 vaccination record requirement applies to all guests aged 12 and up
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Access methods
Front desk (limited hours)
Pets
Pets: NZD 10 per pet, per stay
Only dogs are allowed
Service animals are exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
Cribs (infant beds) are not available.
Property payment types
Important information
Optional extras
The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.
Pet fee: NZD 10 per pet, per stay
Service animals are exempt from fees
Late check-out fee: NZD 10 (subject to availability)
Towels fee: NZD 3.00 per person, per stay (or guests may bring their own)
This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, debit cards, and cash. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit in each accommodation. At check-in, guests must provide either a negative PCR COVID-19 test result or a record of full COVID-19 vaccination. The negative COVID-19 test result requirement applies to all guests aged 1 and up, and the test must have been administered no more than 72 hours prior to check-in. COVID-19 vaccination record requirement applies to all guests aged 12 and up.
National rating
Property class, provided by our rating system, is based on property type, amenities, and services.
Bridge Backpackers Hostel/Backpacker accommodation Nelson
Frequently asked questions
How close is Bridge Backpackers to the airport?
Bridge Backpackers is 4.8 mi (9-min drive) away from the Nelson (NSN) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
How much does it cost to stay at Bridge Backpackers?
As of May 14, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bridge Backpackers on May 23, 2026 start from CA $66, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Does Bridge Backpackers have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at Bridge Backpackers.
How close is Bridge Backpackers to the beach?
This hostel is 2.8 mi (9-min drive) from Tahunanui Beach Reserve.
Does Bridge Backpackers offer free breakfast?
Bridge Backpackers does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at Bridge Backpackers?
No, there is no casino at this hostel.
What time is check-in at Bridge Backpackers?
Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM.
Is there free parking at Bridge Backpackers?
Free parking is not available at this hostel.
Does Bridge Backpackers have a pool?
Bridge Backpackers does not have a pool.
Does Bridge Backpackers have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this hostel.
How close is Bridge Backpackers to downtown Nelson?
Bridge Backpackers is 0.2 mi away from Nelson.
Bridge Backpackers Reviews
Reviews
8.2
Very good
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
I arrived before 3.00pm got the key from the safety box and waited in the lounge till 3.00. The room wasn’t cleaned at all and the old bed clothes still there. I rand the phone number for the night manager (the only number inside in the hostel) he came and was complaining that I rang before his shift at 8.00pm! The room was cleaned I got into it by 3.30 pm but in my opinion the duvet cover was’nt changed and I had my doubts about the fitted sheet. All in all I won’t be going there again.
Nice common areas, well equipped, clean and nice decor. Staff friendly and responsive. Room clean, bit faded but good for the price.
Frances
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
8/10 Good
Jamie
Travelled with partner
Mar 20, 2025
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Nice spot to stay for a night. Great location to Nelson shops. We had an issue getting into the hostel as they ask you to call reception, however I did not have a cell phone plan to call. I emailed the hostel and did not recieve a response. We eventually were able to get someone's attention, however it would have been easier if a door code was emailed to us prior to our check in time.
On the flip side of the coin, this place is very secure :)
The room we stayed in smelled of dog or cat pee. Although we thought that opening the window and door would diminish the smell, the smell did not change. During the night when the door and window were closed, the strong odour made it impossible to sleep. When I called staff the next morning to explain, staff was told that the previous person's pet was inside the room because it was pet-friendly. They apologized and we decided to stop rating the room, but it is strange that the staff did not notice the smell until we told them, and the room and kitchen are dirtier than when I stayed before, the stove is broken and we would like to see improvements, so we rate the room honestly.
Dorm was spacious and clean. Plenty of bathrooms and showers. I arrived after reception, and I found the information for late check in was easy. Good hostel :)
I stayed here for two nights and everything seemed fine. The staff was very kind during check-in ans the kitchen was very clean. When I got into my room, it was well kept as well. I did not like the shower because the step was so high to get out (it’s fine going in, but when you forget and going out, I almost fell - 20Litre backpack for reference), the light was also responsible for the fan which made such a loud noise but worst of all, I found three bugs on my pillowcase throughout the duration of my stay. I mustered my courage and killed them and figured I would be able to pass the night but I have itchy bites all over my body, it’s horrendous! I told a staff member and showed her my photo as I was checking out and she seemed concerned as she had deep cleaned the room just a few days prior.
I stayed here for two nights and everything seemed fine. The staff was very kind during check-in ans the kitchen was very clean. When I got into my room, it was well kept as well. I did not like the shower because the step was so high to get out (it’s fine going in, but when you forget and going out, I almost fell - 20Litre backpack for reference), the light was also responsible for the fan which made such a loud noise but worst of all, I found three bugs on my pillowcase throughout the duration of my stay. I mustered my courage and killed them and figured I would be able to pass the night but a little time afterwards, I have itchy bites all over my body, it’s horrendous! I told a staff member and showed her my photo as I was checking out and she seemed concerned as she had deep cleaned the room just a few days prior.
Not very clean at all. Pillow case had holes in. Didn't use kitchen as always too busy. Only 2 parking spaces slightly missing leading on advert. No hot water in shower one day. Shower head to low I'm 5ft 3 and I couldnt stand under it.
Good place in nice city center area — great staff —- good backpacker environment
kenneth
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
kenneth
Mar 25, 2024
Liked: Amenities
Very nice room - I had .#2 — place was clean, safe and in heart of the Nelson city center
Loved the staff and vibe- hope to return
kenneth
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024
2/10 Terrible
Alexandra
Mar 22, 2024
Arrived at the hostel at 6.15pm, the reception had closed at 6pm. I was sent email instructions to collect a key from a safe, I opened the safe and there was no key for my name/room.
I asked around if anyone had seen any hostel staff, they had not. I tried emailing them but they only respond to emails during their working hours from 9am to 6pm. I then added credit to my phone to call their number - this went straight to voicemail and said they only answer calls between 9-6. There was NO emergency number to call out of hours.
After hanging around for over an hour I was about to leave and book a new hostel when a staff member appeared. He did not even apologise about what had happened. He said I was lucky as he doesn’t normally get up until 10pm.
I would strongly recommend not staying here if you are planning on arriving outside of their office opening hours.
The hostel in general was also odd and completely unsociable.
Alexandra
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024
8/10 Good
Emma
Mar 6, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Good value for money. Property is old and needs a bit of maintenance, but generally is clean and comfortable. My main annoyance was how much sound travelled from the courtyard into the room, even just the sound of other rooms opening and closing doors, walking up and down the stairs. So once everyone was up preparing for their early Abel Tasman departures, it meant I was up too. But in the grand scheme if things, this wasn't really a big deal for me.