Haka House Taupo

The hostel is in a great location, just a little way up a road that leads down to the lake and close to some restaurants and shops nearby. The staff were really friendly and welcoming on arrival, I felt their presence there definitely made me feel safer. The kitchen was really well equipped and managed by the staff in a very organised fashion - we made dinner and felt it had everything we needed to do so. There was also a vending machine in the kitchen which I noticed sold pretty much anything you might want for a quick bite to eat. The hostel's balcony with seating looked out over the mountains and the lake, even though it was winter we sat outside to enjoy the sunset because it was an amazing view (although we are British so pretty cold tolerant). There were laundry facilities although we didn't end up using them as we didn't stay long but you could buy washing powder from reception for only $2 so pretty handy if needed. The room was fairly small but what we expected, we had an ensuite room and the ensuite itself was great. The bed was really comfy and I loved the bedside lamp - kind of wish I had one to be honest. Also I really loved the soap they provided in the ensuite, it smelt amazing and I would love to know where they get it from. Overall, close to Lake Taupo and perfect location if you want to do any of the Tongariro park walks - I noticed in the summer they have these walks organised by the hostel for groups which would be great for solo travellers who wanted to do some more social hikes or even if you just wanted a lift over there.

Great staff, fixed a snafu from Booking.com who screwed up our reservation. Place was very clean and comfortable with a lot of relaxation communal space. Central to everything in Taupo with a great view of the lake and mountains. Close to the Sunday craft/food market. Nice spacious kitchen with almost everything you need. Easy parking too.

Didn't think I was going to stay in a backpacker lodge after my backpacking days but I'm glad I did. The room was clean and acceptable for a one night transit stay in Taupo. I booked a room with a private toilet so my experience may be slightly different from the other backpackers in the lodge but for the cost and the clean bed abd good night's rest, Haka Lodge is bang on the buck.

Great location. Facilities are well organised.

Well appointed double room with comfortable bed. Large communal kitchen with all relevant utensils and adequate dining area. In a quiet part of town but still close enough to walk to the bus stop, shops, restaurants and a large supermarket