The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers

2.0 star property
Hostel near Embassy Theatre in Wellington

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers

Meeting facility
Single Room, Ensuite
Reception
Triple Room, Ensuite
Single Room, Ensuite

Reviews

7.8 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Business services
  • Bar
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
28 Cambridge Terrace, Wellington, 6001
  • Place, Wellington Central Business District
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Courtenay Place
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, St James Theatre
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Airport, Wellington (WLG-Wellington Intl.)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Single Room with Shared Bathroom

  • Sleeps 1
  • Free WiFi

Double or Twin Room, 1 Bedroom, Ensuite

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 12 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Large Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

Triple Room, Ensuite

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 17 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Bed OR 3 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

Quadruple Room, Ensuite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 20 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Twin Bunk Beds OR 2 Large Twin Beds and 2 Twin Bunk Beds
  • Free WiFi

Single Room, Ensuite

  • 8 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

Single Room, Shared Bathroom (1 Single Bed only)

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(13 reviews)
  • 7 sq m
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

Standard Room, 2 Twin Beds, Shared Bathroom

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 12 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

Double Room, Shared Bathroom

7.2 out of 10
Good
(5 reviews)
  • 12 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

Single Bed in a 4 Bed Dorm

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 13 sq m
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed
  • Free WiFi

Single Bed in a 6 Bed Dorm

  • 15 sq m
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed
  • Free WiFi

Single Bed in a 8 Bed Dorm

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 17 sq m
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed
  • Free WiFi

Bed in Eight Beds Mixed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1
  • Free WiFi

Bed in Six Beds Mixed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 1
  • Free WiFi

About the area

Wellington

City center stay.With a stay at this Te Aro hostel, you'll be steps from Embassy Theatre and Downstage Theatre. BATS Theatre and Elliott House are also within half a mile (1 km).

What's nearby

  • Wellington Central Business District - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Courtenay Place - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • St James Theatre - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Te Papa - 7 min walk - 0.6 km

Getting around

  • Wellington Station - 5 min drive
  • Wellington Intl. Airport (WLG) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Myrtle - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Minibar - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪The Cambridge Hotel - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪KC Cafe & Takeaway - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Embassy Theatre - ‬2 min walk

About this property

The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers

Hostel near Embassy Theatre in Wellington
Along with a restaurant, there's a coffee shop/cafe on site. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. Public spaces have free WiFi. There are 40 meeting rooms available. A vending machine, tour/ticket assistance, and laundry facilities are also featured at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers.

This Wellington hostel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 58 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Built in 1883
  • Self-service laundry
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • ATM
  • Elevator
  • No smoking on site
  • Bar or lounge
  • Coffee shop
  • Dining venue
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offers 58 accommodations with complimentary toiletries. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Cable television is provided. Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access. Guests can make use of the in-room refrigerators and coffee/tea makers.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices in meeting rooms
  • Elevator

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • TV with cable channels

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM
Late check-out fee: NZD 40.00

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 1.8 percent for credit card payments
The front desk is open Sunday - Wednesday (7:30 AM - 10:00 PM) and Thursday - Saturday (6:00 AM - 5:30 AM)
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra 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.

  • Late check-out fee: NZD 40.00
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 1.8 percent

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
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
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. No onsite parking is available. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club, debit cards, and cash. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in each accommodation.

Please note that guests may experience noise from the bar and hotel building on Saturday nights/early Sunday mornings from 9 PM to 3 AM.

We should mention

  • Certain facilities might have restricted access. For details, you can contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

National rating

Property class, provided by our rating system, is based on property type, amenities, and services.

Property is also known as

Backpacker Cambridge
Cambridge Backpacker
Cambridge Backpacker Wellington
Cambridge Hotel Backpacker
Cambridge Hotel Backpacker Wellington
Cambridge Hotel Wellington
Cambridge Hotel
Cambridge Wellington
The Cambridge Hotel
The Cambridge Hotel Hostel
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers Wellington

Frequently asked questions

How close is The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers to the airport?

The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is 4.1 mi (13-min drive) away from the Wellington Intl. Airport (WLG) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers?

As of Jun 17, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers on Jun 19, 2026 start from CA $65, 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 The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers.

How close is The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers to the beach?

This hostel is a short 11-minute walk from Oriental Bay Beach and 4 mi (13-min drive) from Island Bay Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers offer free breakfast?

The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers?

No, there is no casino at this hostel.

What time is check-in at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM.

Is there free parking at The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers?

Free parking is not available at this hostel.

Does The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers have a pool?

The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers does not have a pool.

Does The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers have a restaurant?

Yes, there is a restaurant on site.

Does The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hostel.

How close is The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers to downtown Wellington?

The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers is 0.7 mi away from Wellington.

The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers Reviews

Reviews

7.8

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 265 out of 907 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 387 out of 907 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 167 out of 907 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 52 out of 907 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 36 out of 907 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.4/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cleo

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
room was spotless, facilities too. staff were friendly and helped my partner and i check in with ease and excellence. thank you to all staff for our stay, we had a wonderful time.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very nice historical building
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great stay will be back
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Priyavanti

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Clean room and helpful staff. It’s a nice quiet place to stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Justyne

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely enjoyed my experience..will definitely stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Angela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Our room was cool - really high ceilings! Beds were comfortable. We were in a private with a shared bathroom. Women’s was great, men’s only had 1 stall operational. Elevator is really cool. The staff are great! Kitchen seemed well equipped (I only used it to make sandwiches)
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Hansie

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
staff was helpful. towel was nice. cold water tap in room sink didn't work water wasn't well contained in shower/bath and would get the floor really wet
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean room, kettle tea coffee and shared showers and toilets,very reasonable price,good bar downstairs
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very lovely hotel/backpacker. Nothing was a problem.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy walking distance to shops and restaurants. Also very close to piblic transport hub.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Robert

Disliked: Staff & service
It was not stated that you are required to show your passport or drivers license to be allowed to stay
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Crista

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Actually the coolest place. Nice architecture, high ceilings. Everything is super old and well built and wooden. Nice new beds. Friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Heidi

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location and good value for money!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pradhuman

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Top
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie ann

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I love staying here. The amenities is great. and it is affordable
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Annalise

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Enjoyed our stay
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

david

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good value for money
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Rachel

Room was clean, nice to have a dining option downstairs. When we arrived our room wasn't quite ready. No problem reception gave us a couple of complementary drinks so we sat at the bar.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Darren

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Great stay for the price.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rob

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Always a consistently enjoyable stay at The Cambridge...great staff, food and location!!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Haruru

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful staff, clean rooms and reasonably priced
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Eliza

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff at the reception were very helpful and the location was perfect
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

JOHN

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
very good
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jamie

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Just awesome as always, has everything we need and nothing we dont! Beds, bathrooms, breakfast and a bar, perfect for a sport or work visit to Wellywood! Thanks again, awesome weekend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great family stay!

Loved our stay here. Great value and location in a beautiful building. Would definitely recommend for any family!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023