If you’re a couple backpacking in Auckland on a budget, the last thing you want to do is stay in a cramped dorm surrounded by strangers. However, you don’t want to pay over the odds to get private accommodation either.

At Freemans Lodge you don’t have to as for an additional €3 you can stay in a comfortable two-bed, self-contained apartment complete with lounge, kitchen, bath, shower, toilet and TV.

The popular hostel also features a comfortable lounge where you can relax and watch TV with a complimentary tea or coffee, and a spacious garden to laze away those sunny Auckland afternoons with fellow backpackers.

The lodge is located just outside Auckland's CBD, just a short stroll from the restaurant laden area of Ponsonby. The city centre is just five minutes away by bus.

65 Wellington Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland, New Zealand

www.freemanlodge.com.au/
Google map: tinyurl.com/2usp89e

www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/new-zealand/auckland/6610/

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Accommodation in Piha. It has three choices from budget to the best and all very close to the beach.

www.pihabeach.co.nz

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Mollies is an amazingly affordable (thanks to the fabulous current exchange rate) luxury hotel.

Our suite ($495 per night B&B [£165 approx], doubles same price), had a mezzanine lounge, and whether sitting on the expansive, comfy corner sofa or at the mosaic terrace table, the harbour across to Chelsea Bay and around the North Shore stretches across the vista. It's a sailor's dream.

Alongside period elegance and modern charm, there's unlimited internet access in the guest library, live opera/ musical performances before dinner, and extreme thought, care and attention put into everything.

It's like stepping into someone's comfortable family home, with extra touches. At night, staff come in and turn the bed down for you, put out your nightgown and slippers, leave lights on for you and light the fire if needed, and leave gifts - scented soaps and night moisturisers beautifully wrapped - for your evening comfort. Food is exquisite and the wine cellar world-class.

Mollies, in short, is faultless.

Mollies, 6 Tweed Street, St Mary's Bay, Auckland, 0064 (0)9 376 3489

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Ponsonby's a great little area with loads of good cafes and funky shops, more character and feel to it than the city, but just a 20 minute (downhill, pretty) walk away - or a 5 minute direct bus trip. It has a range of good accommodation, including 3 funky backpackers and some posher boutique hotels. And it's the main gay friendly area of Auckland.

Ponsonby

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

We stayed at Onetangi beach on Waiheke Island for a week in late March, just before the Jazz festival and schools broke for Easter. The beach was deserted and the water was warm. Onetangi Beachfront Apartments were really nice and right on the beach.

Waiheke Island is half an hour on the ferry into the Hauraki Gulf. Fuller Ferries operate a regular service from Auckland's harbourfront;
www.onetangi.co.nz

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends