I book ended my tour of the South Island here. I stayed in a twin en-suite both times.
This is good hostel type accommodation. They have a variety of rooms. I did find the pics on the website to be very honest. It doesn’t look like it was built that long ago, so modern. I was a bit concerned about ‘a hostel’ in my mid 50s thinking I would be the only one amongst rampaging teenage backpackers. Couldn’t have been more unfounded, there’s a real diverse group of ages that use it. It has a nice lively feel.
Check in/out was really easy. The Reception is manned 24 hours a day. The staff all seemed really friendly, always happy to help. They do charge a $20 bond fee, when you check in, which I didn’t quite get my head around. This is returned on check out. They organise regular shuttles to the airport.
The room itself was clean, comfortable and spacious as was the bathroom. There was a kettle, tea/coffee, fridge and hairdryer. My room had huge sliding doors which were handy as it was hot, but they made the rooms really light.
There’s a large communal kitchen, which was well equipped. It did always seem busy though. A nice spot to chat to others. Everyone seemed to take good care of it.
As a modern place the sound insulation was better than all the other places I stayed, I slept very well.
If you’re driving there’s not a lot of parking onsite, however there’s loads of on street (free) parking just outside.
Christchurch was super easy to find your way around, they give you a map when you arrive. The centre was about a 20 minute walk. There’s a pub next door, food was nice and a good selection of beers.