YHA returns to Kaikoura

Kaikoura: YHA New Zealand welcomes the Lazy Shag to its network of 41 of New Zealand’s best backpacker hostels.

YHA Chief Executive, Marks Wells says, “It is fantastic to restore the YHA brand to Kaikoura after the decision to close our own hostel. We are delighted to welcome the Lazy Shag into our network and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership.”

YHA maintained a presence in Kaikoura for 50 years which came to a close in May 2016 when engineering reports suggested a small but present risk of rock fall at the rear of the building. The search for alternative representation quickly led to the addition of the Lazy Shag to the YHA network in time for the busy summer season ahead.

YHA Kaikoura, The Lazy Shag, is purpose built and boasts features such as sound proofing, insulation, double glazing, and underfloor heating. “There’s lots of outdoor space, a river down the bottom of the property, large gardens, and mountain views,” says owner Dave Stanford. “If you want a bit of solitude you can go down by the river, if you want to socialise there’s a big decking area with lots of tables.”

Dave enjoys the Kaikoura lifestyle because of his love of outdoor pursuits. “You never get sick of the views!” he says. “I’m an avid free diver – where else can I get 6 crayfish within 2 minutes of the hostel?! You don’t need a webcam to check what the sea is doing, you can just look out the window. If you like the outdoors, Kaikoura is quite the place to be.” http://www.yha.co.nz. Check before booking as at the time of going to press road access to Kaikoura was limited.