027 470 8484 bookings@chaletbackpackers.co.nz 296 High St, Dunedin

Frequently asked questions

How can we pay?

We accept payments by cash, direct deposit or credit cards (Visa or Mastercard only). You are welcome to pay cash on arrival provided your arrival is before 6pm. Your card will likely be charged for the first night in advance the day before. Please ensure your card has sufficient funds to avoid issues.

All reservations require a credit card.

What are your check-out and check-in times?

Check-out is before 10am. Guests not checking out before this time may be charged for another night.

What are your reception hours?

Our reception desk is open 9.30am to 3pm, 7 days a week. We briefly reopn the reception at 9pm for later check-ins. It can be possible to arrange late check-in outside of these times, by arrangement.

Can I check-in after hours?

Yes - we can allow guests to check-in after the office closes, by arrangement.  It may be that we can issue you a front door code and leave out a room key.

Can I store my bags?

Yes - you can leave your luggage free of charge before you check in and after you have checked out by arrangement. No long-term storage.

Do you have car parking?

Free street parking is available immediately outside the hostel in Graham St and most of High St. We have no private parking. Please be aware of NZ road markings and parking rules, regarding painted lines and distance from curbs to avoid parking tickets. One neighbour has a reserved park: Do not park there.

Do you require ID?

Yes – we require photo ID: Passport or NZ Driver’s Licence. For security and in case of emergency, it is important that we can confirm who is staying with us on any given night.

What bedding do you provide?

We provide all bedding, including sheets, duvets, blankets, and pillows; everything you need: We do not allow the use of sleeping bags. Towels are available for hire but we suggest you bring your own.

Do you have female-only share rooms?

We do not have female-only share rooms. We generally aim to reserve beds for women in rooms with other women when possible. Due to the small size of our hostel, this is not guaranteed.

Do you accept group bookings?

Please contact us first if you would like to book a large group (6 people or more) stay. Extended cancellation policies will apply for groups. Minimum stays will likely apply to group stays during periods of high demand.

Are children allowed to stay?

Yes – provided they are staying in a private room with a parent or guardian. Children are not permitted in shared rooms.

Can I bring my cat/dog/rabbit?

Sorry – NO pets are permitted.

Security

Security is of great importance to us: All of our outside doors are locked with a pin code. All guests must have photo ID. We also have 4 CCTV cameras in common areas in the hostel. All rooms have door keys issued on check-in. Non-guests are forbidden from entry.

How do I get to the airport?

The airport is half an hour’s drive from the city. Shuttle buses meet all flights at the airport and can deliver you to the door of the hostel. You can book a Super Shuttle www.supershuttle.co.nz (or phone 0800 SHUTTLE or 0800 748885). If you need assistance, ask at our reception.

Is there a bus to the Albatross Colony on Otago Peninsular?

There are regular buses to Portobello (but this is 14km from the Albatross Colony) and to Harrington Point twice a day (2km from the Albatross Colony).

Are there any beaches you can see sea lions and penguins for free?

Sandfly Bay will usually have sea lions on the beach. If you are patient and lucky you may spot a penguin late in the day around dusk. For guaranteed sightings of wildlife we suggest you book a tour which can take you to better viewing spots.

Do you sell tours?

No: All the tour companies in Dunedin seem to offer online booking systems and it is best to book directly with providers. We can offer some advice and recommendations at reception.

Is the building haunted?

We have hosted Paranormal NZ (formerly Haunted Auckland)'s investigation teams twice and... (unfortunately) no spirits have been detected (yet)!