Jugglers Rest Backpackers
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Jugglers Rest Backpackers

Absolute bliss.....
Traveller (61)
my Jugglers Rest cabin
Room & Suite (4)
Dining (3)

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About

#1 of 10 hostels in Picton
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Value
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Picton's smallest hostel (with beds for just 16 people) is BIG on comfort. Our lovingly renovated historic villa is an easy 10 minute stroll or 3 minute drive from the centre of town and there are walking tracks just outside our door. With shady decks, comfy chairs, bean bags, hammocks and sunny chill-out areas in lush gardens, either relax, play, learn or simply sit back & watch the amazing fire and glow shows at night. Small and cosy with all beds fully made up (no bunks), we provide every comfort for your stay including organic fruit, herb & veggie garden, breakfast, juggling toys, workshops in a variety of circus and spinning skills (poi, hoop etc) unlimited wi-fi, bikes, log fire, quality book exchange, musical instruments, barbecue, well equipped kitchen with a huge array of herbs & spices, information/advice/bookings on local activities AND an atmosphere that can't be beaten!
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Breakfast available
Bicycles available
Game room
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Laundry service
Street parking
Wifi
Canoeing offsite
Entertainment staff
Non-smoking hotel
Shared kitchen
Sun terrace
Self-serve laundry
Room features
Kitchenette
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Budget
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, French

Location

8 Canterbury Street, Picton 7220 New Zealand
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 56 out of 100
56
Picton Aerodrome
6.3 km•
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Blenheim Airport
26.7 km•
See all flights

Reviews
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Traveller rating
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Detailed Reviews
Monica wrote a review Jan 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had a fabulous time at this very special place. I had visited over 20 years ago and always wanted to go back. I am so glad I did, because it was even better than in my memory. The owner, Nicky, patiently taught my circus-loving daughter some new skills and we met lots of interesting folks, as well as relaxing in the hammocks, cuddling Omi the cat and sharing a group prayer in response to the Australian bushfires. 5 stars!
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Date of stay: January 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kristina S wrote a review Feb 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Nicky's place in Picton! The Juggler's Rest is more like a homestay rather than a hostel! It's in a lovely homey house with Nicky as a warm host. We felt like it was a home away from home. We stayed here for my boyfriend's 30th birthday - it was great to be able to bake a cake in the well-stocked kitchen! Nicky was lovely and friendly, and made us feel very welcome. We enjoyed our evening chats next to the fire place cooking baked potatoes! There is a great herb garden so you can pick a bunch of fresh herbs to cook with which was so nice! We will definitely stay here again if we are back in Picton! Thanks for having us! Kriss, Andrew & Kate x x x
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Date of stay: February 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Taylor S wrote a review Mar 2019
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The coziest, cleanest hostel I've stayed in New Zealand in the past two months. I felt like I was in my own home the moment I walked in the door. I got in late the first night so my first morning I was there I opted for the breakfast they offer for a small fee, and it was SO worth it. Fresh home baked bread and jams, and Hazel cooked me scrambled eggs which were delicious. While I stayed there I used a giant selection of spices they offered in my cooking, plus lemons from the lemon tree in the backyard, fresh rosemary, sage, spinach and carrots from the garden. But my favorite thing about the hostel was that while traveling I had the opportunity to flow with some hoops and poi that I've been missing dearly on my travels!!!! Thank you <3
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Date of stay: February 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anne72Leeds wrote a review May 2009
Leeds
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This is a surbuban house turned into a hostel, and so is quite small and friendly. You might feel a little old here if you're over 30, but will still be welcome.

We stayed in one of the two double cabins in the garden. They were quiet, comfortable and warm (but not sure how they'll fare in the middle of Winter). All the rest of the accommodation is inside the house.

There's free breakfast in the form of homemade bread and jam - many flavours, and often produce from the garden available with a donation. I couldn't stop eating the lovely grapes hanging round the outdoor seating area.

The place used to be owned by professional jugglers, and the current owner tries to keep this idea going. There are juggling toys available to play with in the garden.

No off street parking, but easy to park on the street and feels safe.
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Date of stay: March 2009
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Crickett28 wrote a review Apr 2009
Worldwide
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We found Juggler’s Rest to be the perfect backpackers (hostel) to stay before and after walking the Queen Charlotte Track – really cozy little lounge, nicely furnished, and good atmosphere.

It is just a little bit outside the center of Picton, but in a nice and quiet residential neighborhood. We stayed in both of the outdoor, self-contained doubles (on either side of walking the Queen Charlotte Track), for maximum privacy and quiet. Darling husband found the bed in the larger of the outside doubles to be a bit uncomfortable, but I had no such problems. There are no heaters, but plenty of duvets and hot water bottles. Juggler’s Rest is a converted house with shared rooms featuring real beds (no bunks), and spacious doubles with high ceilings. I think it can accommodate about 20 or so people, so it is not overly crowded.

There is a lovely little garden where they grow their own vegetables, with couches and hammocks in the backyard to relax in. An assortment of juggling paraphernalia is available for you to try your hand at juggling if you are feeling slightly more active. There is one computer paid for on the honesty system, or you can use your laptop for $5/day.

Nikki, who runs the place, is really friendly and keeps the place in great shape. There is free freshly baked bread every morning at 8am, accompanied by homemade jams.

All around a great place with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere and great staff.
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Date of stay: April 2009
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
750ruth wrote a review May 2018
Halle (Saale), Germany
5.0 of 5 bubbles
When I started traveling I would have never thought that I would ever feel as comfortable in a hostel, as I did in this place. It felt so much like home that I almost didn't leave the hostel whatsoever. Nikki is one of the most warm-hearted people I've ever met and she made me feel like part of a family.
The rooms are wonderful, the kitchen is well equipped and you're allowed and even encouraged to use some fresh veggies out of the garden. Everything is clean and cosy. In front of the house there is a space for people to learn and practice juggling and I spent hours there (juggling, reading, talking and just resting).
You will not find a place comparable to Jugglers Rest anywhere in New Zealand and probably not even anywhere else in the world.
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Date of stay: May 2018
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from stripycat69, Owner at Jugglers Rest Backpackers
Responded 18 May 2018
So glad you enjoyed your stay Ruth and thanks so much for your very kind comments - it was wonderful to host you :-) Keep on juggling!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brandon M wrote a review Apr 2016
Wellington, New Zealand
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Having a high interest in all things Juggling I made the Juggler's Rest a high priority visit as soon as I knew of its existence. JR is a great place to teach, learn, and watch all types of spinning/juggling. I juggle clubs and balls and left JR juggling rings(which I was able to purchase at the super reasonably priced prop store in JR)! I emplore anyone, juggler or not, to spend a night or three here.
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Date of stay: April 2016
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Backpacking, woofing, sweet as, juggling, peaceful
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Meranda Carter wrote a review Apr 2016
Los Angeles, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Staying at the Jugglers rest was the perfect rest we needed. They know just the right balance between social and relaxation. If you want to learn to juggle, they can do it. If you want a private candle light bath, you can soak away all your walks. If you want to stay in a beautiful house and eat straight from the garden, you totally can! It felt really like home. P.s get the breakfast in the morning! She makes all the breads and jams by hand! Really beautiful visit!!
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Date of stay: April 2016Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Till1234 wrote a review Nov 2015
Stäfa, Switzerland
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Woho! I still owe you a review :D
I came to Picton with the ferry and wanted to stay for one night there. Checking the bbh website I found this place. I play poi, so I had to go there ;)
Instead of one night I ended up staying for 4 nights. Just because it was so cosy. Beautiful place, super tidy, with lots of juggling toys and close to nice walks. Probably a 10min walk to town, and if you know the way (Nikki or Bruce will tell you) it is a nice walk along a creek through bush :)
Go there! It is awesome ;)
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Date of stay: October 2015
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Siffy84 wrote a review Nov 2015
Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
From the moment we arrived at Jugglers Rest we were charmed. Such an enchanting beautiful little place, it's very clear to see why it's in the top ten of hostels in the world to stay rather than a hotel! We stayed in one of the private cabins, which was very pleasing. Very clean, tidy room. Friendly atmosphere, very easy to get talking to other backpackers and the owners, Nikki & Bruce are both fantastic hosts, very helpful and very lovely people who are both very skilled in various circus arts and it was great to watch the show they put on for us all on the evening. They also get the guests involved if you wish to join in which I would highly suggest doing as you learn a lot and have a lot of fun! Before long I was totally engrossed with poi! I would definitely recommend anyone to stay here. The facilities are great, it's in a great location of Picton and the vibe you feel is fantastic. Unlike anywhere we have stayed before - anywhere!
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Date of stay: November 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
Brendah71565 asked a question Nov 2015
McKenzie Bridge, Oregon
how far is this from the Ferry?
Answer from BruceAnd
Wollongong, Australia7 contributions3 helpful votes
1.3 Km - if you arrive on a Blue Bridge ferry they have a free shuttle bus that will drop you off at Jugglers Rest.
Hazel wrote a tip Apr 2019
1 contribution1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Cabin rooms are more private, have their own keys and access outside the main house, in house doubles are lockable and very comfortable"
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Griffin Cooper wrote a tip Feb 2019
Dallas, Texas1 contribution1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The Double Room- Single Occupancy felt like a hotel room - incredibly spacious."
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Westie wrote a tip Jan 2019
1 contribution1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"In house is closer to ameneties."
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Michael Ogle wrote a tip Jan 2019
1 contribution1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"All rooms are quiet at night."
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Sean R wrote a tip Nov 2018
1 contribution1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Mixed dorms, double rooms and cabins available"
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…
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LOCATION
New ZealandSouth IslandMarlborough RegionPicton
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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JUGGLERS REST BACKPACKERS | Hostel Reviews (Picton, New Zealand) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Jugglers Rest Backpackers
Which popular attractions are close to Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
Nearby attractions include Picton Sound (1.1 km), Tirohanga Track (1.2 km), and Heritage & Whaling Museum Picton (1.1 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free parking, and laundry service.
What food & drink options are available at Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
Guests can enjoy breakfast and barbeque facilities during their stay.
Is parking available at Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
Yes, free parking and street parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
Conveniently located restaurants include Seumus' Irish Bar, Picton Village Bakkerij, and Sisu Cafe And Bar.
Are any cleaning services offered at Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
Yes, laundry service and self serve laundry are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and French.
Are there any historical sites close to Jugglers Rest Backpackers?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Edwin Fox Maritime Museum (1.3 km).
Is Jugglers Rest Backpackers accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.
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