YHA Rotorua Treks judged best hostel in Oceania

Online feedback from 800,000 backpackers on 18,000 hostels has seen the YHA New Zealand’s Treks hostel in Rotorua rated best in the Oceania region.

The Hostelworld Best Hostel awards are based on customer evaluations of six criteria – character, security, location, staff, fun-factor and cleanliness. “This is why these awards are so prestigious – they’re a real reflection of travellers’ experiences and satisfaction,” says YHA New Zealand CEO Mark Wells.

YHA NZ has scooped the title three years in a row, following back-to-back wins in 2007 and 2008 by YHA Wellington City. “For YHA NZ to keep winning is a real testament to the quality of backpacking in this country. Several large Australian hostels even launched campaigns to try and knock us off our perch.”

Wells says YHA acquired the 187-bed Treks hostel in Rotorua from the Scapens Family in November and re-employed all existing staff. “The award clearly supports our purchase decision and reflects the high standards that we work to throughout the YHA network.”

Responsible for 52 YHA-owned or managed hostels nationally, Wells is pleased the network finally has a solid presence in the central North Island.

“The last time YHA operated directly in Rotorua was back in 1999 and only one year ago we purchased Action Downunder Backpackers in Taupo. The combined investment is a significant one for YHA but it’s really strengthened our network as we’re now much better positioned to direct guests where to stay as they travel around New Zealand.”

YHA has a substantial share of the backpacker accommodation market, which has until now been largely international travel focused. Wells predicts the backpacking market will survive this year’s economic downturn.

“International arrivals will probably decline so we’re increasingly focused on New Zealand travellers.”