Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, is a hub of creativity, culture, and stunning natural landscapes. With its vibrant arts scene and incredible culinary options, it’s no wonder the city is a top destination for travelers. During my visit, I wanted to explore as much of Wellington as possible without breaking the bank, so finding affordable accommodation that didn’t compromise on comfort was key. One of the highlights of my trip was staying at a fantastic budget-friendly hotel, and I’ll share my experience there, along with some other great hotel options in the city.
My Stay at The Dwellington
One of the best decisions I made for my trip to Wellington was staying at The Dwellington, located just a few minutes’ walk from Wellington’s main ferry terminal. I booked my stay directly through their website after reading stellar reviews online. The booking process was simple and straightforward, and I immediately received a confirmation email with all the details.
Getting to The Dwellington was easy. After arriving in the city by train, I took a short 10-minute cab ride to the hotel. The hotel is nestled in the quiet suburb of Thorndon, away from the bustling city center but still within walking distance to many attractions like the Wellington Botanic Garden and Parliament Buildings. The peaceful neighborhood was a perfect retreat after long days of exploring.
As soon as I walked through the door, I was struck by the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere. The lobby was cozy and inviting, with a mix of modern and vintage decor. The staff at reception were incredibly friendly, offering me tips on local eateries and must-see sights. They even provided me with a map of Wellington and highlighted some hidden gems that I wouldn’t have found on my own.
The room I stayed in was a private double, and for the price (around NZD 80 per night), I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious and clean it was. The bed was comfortable, the linens were crisp, and the room had a minimalist design that made it feel bright and airy. One of my favorite features was the shared kitchen and dining area, which was incredibly well-equipped. As someone who likes to save money by preparing my own meals, I found this to be a huge bonus. They even provided free breakfast every morning, including fresh bread, spreads, and coffee—simple, but enough to fuel me for a day of adventures.
The hotel also had a lovely communal lounge area where I could relax in the evenings and chat with fellow travelers. The Dwellington really felt more like a boutique hostel than a budget hotel, with its stylish decor and warm, social atmosphere. On top of that, they had a tennis court and offered free use of the court and rackets, which was a fun way to unwind one afternoon.
My Rating: 9/10
Why? The Dwellington offered everything I needed—clean and comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and great amenities. For the price, it was unbeatable. The only minor drawback was that it was a bit of a walk (about 20 minutes) to reach the center of the city, but if you enjoy a nice stroll through quiet neighborhoods, this is hardly a downside.
Other Affordable Wellington Hotels to Consider
While I only stayed at The Dwellington, I did extensive research on other budget hotels in Wellington and came across several that stood out as excellent choices for travelers looking to save money without sacrificing comfort.
YHA Wellington
Located on the bustling Courtenay Place, YHA Wellington is a highly rated budget accommodation option, perfect for travelers who want to stay close to the city’s nightlife and cultural attractions. This hostel offers both dormitory-style and private rooms, catering to all kinds of budgets. The private twin and double rooms are a great option if you’re looking for more privacy without paying a fortune.
The hotel’s biggest selling point is its central location—just minutes away from Te Papa Museum, Wellington’s famous waterfront, and a plethora of restaurants and cafes. For those who prefer cooking their own meals, YHA Wellington also has a spacious and fully equipped kitchen. The communal areas are designed for socializing, with comfortable lounge spaces and free Wi-Fi throughout the building.
Prices at YHA Wellington start at around NZD 40 for a dorm bed, and private rooms are available from NZD 90 per night. It’s an excellent option for solo travelers and groups alike who want to be at the heart of the action.
Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers
Situated right across the street from Wellington Railway Station, Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers offers affordable accommodation in an iconic Art Deco building. Originally opened in 1937 as a grand hotel, this property has since been converted into a budget-friendly backpacker hostel and hotel. The charm of its historic architecture has been preserved, making it a unique place to stay.
Rooms range from simple dorms to private en-suite doubles, with prices starting at NZD 35 for dorm beds and around NZD 85 for private rooms. The hotel has a large communal kitchen, laundry facilities, and a bar where travelers can meet and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Given its proximity to the railway station and ferry terminal, Hotel Waterloo is a convenient base for travelers arriving by train or ferry. It’s also within walking distance of Wellington’s Parliament Buildings and the popular Lambton Quay shopping area.
Willis Wellington Hotel
For those who want a touch more luxury while staying within a reasonable budget, Willis Wellington Hotel is a great mid-range option. Located in the vibrant suburb of Te Aro, this hotel is within easy walking distance of Cuba Street’s restaurants and shops, as well as the famous Mount Victoria Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Rooms at Willis Wellington are spacious and comfortable, featuring modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The decor is simple but elegant, providing a relaxing atmosphere after a day of exploring.
Prices here are slightly higher than some of the other options, with standard rooms starting at around NZD 100 per night. However, for the extra comfort and central location, Willis Wellington is an excellent value for money.
Oaks Wellington Hotel
For travelers who want to stay right in the heart of Wellington, Oaks Wellington Hotel offers affordable yet stylish accommodation on Courtenay Place, one of the city’s main entertainment districts. This hotel is perfect for those looking to enjoy Wellington’s lively nightlife, with bars, restaurants, and theaters just steps away from the front door.
The rooms at Oaks Wellington are modern and well-appointed, featuring all the standard amenities you’d expect from a higher-end hotel, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant and bar, as well as a fitness center for those who like to keep active while traveling.
Prices at Oaks Wellington start at around NZD 120 per night, making it a bit more expensive than some of the other budget options, but the central location and quality of the rooms make it well worth the price for many travelers.
The Setup on Manners
For a no-frills but comfortable stay, The Setup on Manners is a great budget option right in the heart of Wellington. This self-contained apartment-style hotel offers compact but functional rooms that include kitchenettes, allowing you to prepare your own meals and save on dining costs. The location is unbeatable—on Manners Street, you’ll be just minutes away from Cuba Street, the Wellington waterfront, and public transport options.
The Setup on Manners is ideal for travelers who are looking for affordable long-term stays or those who prefer the flexibility of having a kitchenette. Prices start at around NZD 80 per night for a studio apartment, making it one of the most cost-effective options for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Wellington is a city that can cater to all kinds of travelers, whether you’re visiting for the vibrant arts and culture scene, the stunning outdoor attractions, or the delicious food. When it comes to accommodation, the city offers plenty of affordable options that don’t skimp on comfort or convenience.
During my stay at The Dwellington, I was amazed by how much value I got for the price. Between the friendly atmosphere, the fantastic location, and the cozy amenities, it was the perfect base for my Wellington adventure. If you’re planning a trip to the capital city of New Zealand, I highly recommend considering one of these budget-friendly hotels.
