I only stayed in this place for one night in a 6 person dorm room. Everything was ok, and in the night there was a friendly environment. You can go to the common area with sofas, or they have a small place to prepare BBQ. They also had movie nights in a separate bedroom. They have showers for women, men... More

I stayed here for a couple of nights on my trip through New Zealand. The hostel is more functional than comfortable, there wasn't really anywhere comfortable to just sit back and relax and the dining area feels like a school canteen with benches and tables squeezed in tightly. A lot of the guests were staying there long term so not... More

There are a number of areas where you can't fault Rainbow lodge - excellent, friendly staff, cheap internet, well located, parking and the hostel itself was very clean. Couple of negatives - the kitchen/lounge area is a bit too canteen like, not a very social space and is a bit tired looking. Main problem for me was all the flies... More

Hostel was a little run down but still comfortable enough. Beds were comfortable and room was a reasonable size. Service was good and owners were happy to help you organise any activities you wanted to do. Takes 5-10 minutes to walk into the centre of town.

I almost think that I shouldn't write this review because we realized that we aren't cut out for a hostel. So if you are, ignore this. But if you aren't sure, maybe it may help you. The good: central location with a short walk to grocery, restaurants, lake, big kitchen area, laundry, bikes for rent, nice staff, off street parking.... More

Rainbow Lodge is an outstanding hostel that provides everything a backpacker could want. A well supplied kitchen, free tea and coffee and a really good atmosphere around the communal areas. The location is ideal if you're traveling by bus being just a few blocks from the drop off site as well as being close enough to be able to walk... More

I stayed in a 6-bed en-suite dorm, the room and beds were all comfy and clean, and the kitchen facilities were great. The reception staff are very friendly and extremely helpful, recommending activities and booking them for you. Initially I was only planning to stay 2 nights but ended up staying for 4. The only negative I can think of... More

This is a nice place. It is very close to the Inter City Coach Station drop off site. I stayed in a twin en - suite room and the room is clean and spacious. The kitchen does get busy, but it is large. The reception books tours, adventure activities etc at no extra charge. I would stay there again.

Nice familiar atmosphere and very friendly staff. Optimal location in the centre of Taupo. Meet people from all over the world and do activities together. Free coffee, TV/Video room and DVD rental and car park. Cheap bike rental, laundry etc. available. Plenty of cool activities, eg. football (every sunday), movie evenings with popcorn and mountain hikes. Bad things? Not really!... More