Blog
We’ve Transformed! Village Hostels is Now Drifter With a new team, refurbished properties and exciting activities Drifter welcomes a new dawn in accommodation uniquely designed for the free spirited. Expect an energised team focussed on community, culture, and above all unforgettable experiences that will shape new friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. If […]
Your Chance to Travel, Work, and Live the Dream Are you ready to explore the world and make unforgettable memories? The Next Best Job opportunity is calling all curious adventurers, social media enthusiasts, and party starters to apply for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of becoming the Drifter Dream host As the Drifter Dream Host, you’ll: What […]
Are you a content creator looking for a unique collaboration? At Drifter, we’re all about storytelling, adventure, and creativity. Whether you’re a travel vlogger, photographer, or social media storyteller, we’d love to team up and bring fresh, inspiring content to life. Fill out the form below to explore collaboration opportunities and become part of the […]
An Ode to Garden City Drifter Christchurch is thrilled to announce a unique collaboration with the renowned artist Beni Single.
WINNERS! Hotel Magazine Award Kia ora! We are thrilled and deeply honoured to announce that Drifter Christchurch won the Best New Zealand Midscale Award at the 2024 HM Awards Aotearoa-Pacific in Auckland on Friday night! The HM Awards hosted a first-time satellite event in Auckland. Among the 200 people in attendance were leading hotels, resorts, departments, and staff […]
Drifter Talent in Residence: A Home for Creators At Drifter, we celebrate the magic of creativity and exploration. Whether you’re a musician, DJ, artist, writer, performer, or designer, our Talent in Residence program offers you the chance to stay with us—on the house—while you create, perform, and collaborate in an inspiring space where ideas flow […]
Crankworx Summer Series is Coming to Christchurch – Stay at Drifter for Your Chance to Win Free Tickets! Attention all mountain biking enthusiasts and thrill-seekers—Crankworx Summer Series is rolling into Christchurch, and you won’t want to miss it! This epic festival of gravity-fueled riding, high-energy competitions, and action-packed entertainment is set to take over the […]
Christchurch is gearing up for an exciting second half of the year filled with a variety of major events and music performances. From global superstars like Thom Yorke to popular bands such as L.A.B and Lime Cordiale, there’s something for everyone to look forward to. July 2024 L.A.B, Tiki Taane & Corrella the hottest act […]
Drifter is where energy and adventure come to life—a precinct-style stay with a bar at its heart, where good times are always on the menu. With an on-site bar and multiple communal areas, it’s the perfect place to connect, unwind and drift away. Little Drifter is our high-end neighbourhood hostel. Located in some of the […]
Christchurch Hens and Friends – Your Ultimate Hens Night Destination in Christchurch Your journey to plan a hens and friends in Christchurch begins here at Drifter, where we invite you like an old friend to step into a world where celebrations become cherished stories. Nestled in the heart of Christchurch, Drifter offers an array of […]
Your Ultimate Juicy Fest Experience: Stay at Drifter Juicy Fest is back in 2025, bringing the best of R&B and hip-hop to Australia! With a star-studded lineup, this festival promises epic vibes and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re heading to Melbourne or Sydney, Drifter is the perfect base for your festival adventure. When & Where Why […]
Sydney is turning up the volume in 2025 with an unmissable lineup of concerts, gigs, and festivals. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget, a music enthusiast, or just someone looking to soak in Sydney’s vibrant culture, this guide is your ticket to the city’s best events. Discover upcoming gigs in Sydney that span everything […]
Clean Up Crew Drifter has officially partnered with Clean Up Australia and is working with local partners in New Zealand as a Community Ally. Clean Up Australia inspires and mobilises communities to improve and conserve our environment, eliminate litter and end waste. Together, we have mobilised our staff and guests in monthly Clean Ups to […]
Summer in Melbourne is a vibe. With long, sunny days, a buzzing nightlife, and more music and events than you could possibly experience, it’s a vibrant destination that celebrates art, culture, music, and both the great indoors and outdoors. Whether a seasoned backpacker or an excited first-timer, Melbourne’s summer lineup has something for everybody. Here’s […]
Welcome to Sydney, where summer vibes meet epic events! Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or an all-out festival fanatic, this city is serving up the ultimate summer line-up for backpackers like you. So pack your sunscreen, charge your phone, and get ready to dive into these unmissable Sydney events. Moonlight Cinema (Dec–Mar) Movies […]
Planning a holiday doesn’t have to break the bank, and Christchurch is the perfect playground for budget-savvy travellers. Whether you are a solo traveller eager to explore New Zealand on a shoestring or a budget-conscious couple looking for a romantic getaway, Christchurch offers an array of options to suit your needs. At Drifter, we understand […]
Christchurch is an exciting destination for families looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Known for its beautiful parks, interactive attractions, and welcoming vibe, the city offers a wealth of activities that cater to children and parents alike. Whether you’re planning an action-packed holiday or seeking a more relaxed getaway, Christchurch has […]
Christchurch may well come as a bit of a surprise after dark; this Kiwi city morphs from daytime rebuild zone to pumping nightlife, which will surely make backpackers and travellers alike stick around. From heritage bars on Oxford Terrace, hidden speakeasies, to rooftop spots boasting killer views, the city will surely surprise one with its […]
Australia’s First Storytellers Indigenous Australians have lived on this land for over 60,000 years, sharing stories, wisdom, and traditions that define its essence. As travellers, we have a unique chance to connect with this heritage in a way that’s meaningful, respectful, and fun. Indigenous Culture in the City Think Indigenous culture is all Outback? Well, […]
Christchurch is quickly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, offering the perfect balance of work and play. With its modern co-working spaces, speedy internet, and vibrant community, the city provides an ideal setting for remote workers seeking flexibility. If you’re looking for short-term accommodation in Christchurch or a place to stay in the heart of […]
Want to host your next event at Drifter? We have spaces to suit all needs whether your hosting a party, brand launch or something else entirely fill out your details below and one of our Drifters will be in touch to talk through options.
Sydney isn’t just about golden beaches and world-famous landmarks—it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see. Whether perched on a coastal cliff, sprawled out on a grassy hill, or floating on the harbour, Sydney’s golden hour never disappoints. This isn’t your typical tourist list. We’re skipping the predictable and diving […]
Heading to Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour with your mates? Make The Drifter Hostels/Hostels your HQ for the ultimate pre-concert buzz! Both our central locations are designed around community and bringing people together. Marvel Stadium is super close—just a quick 15-25 minute walk or tram ride (depending which Drifter you choose). Whether it’s […]
Welcome to Bondi, where beach culture meets adventure, and every day feels like a holiday! If you’re a backpacker looking for the perfect blend of sun, surf, and fun, you’ve come to the right place. Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand, is more than just a place to catch some rays—it’s […]
Christchurch is a city that blends natural beauty, urban creativity, and hidden gems—making it a perfect playground for millennials searching for the next great Instagram shot. Whether you’re wandering through vibrant streets filled with murals or capturing the serene beauty of scenic lookouts, Christchurch is packed with photo opportunities just waiting to be shared. Prepare […]
You’re probably already familiar with Parliament House and the National Gallery – fantastic stuff. But Canberra is jam-packed with quirky and off-the-beaten-path experiences that are often pushed aside in favour of more famous landmarks. Take our advice and be sure to check out some of Canberra’s secret wildlife spots, unexpectedly cool hangouts and generally underrated […]
Surry Hills, located just minutes from the heart of Sydney, is a dynamic and trendy neighbourhood known for its eclectic mix of cafes, bars, art galleries, and boutique shopping. For backpackers looking to explore beyond Sydney’s beaches, Surry Hills offers a vibrant, laid-back vibe with plenty to see and do. Here’s a guide to the […]
The Best Things to See and Do as a Backpacker in Bondi Bondi is not just one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches; it’s a magnet for backpackers from all around the world. Whether you’re chasing surf, seeking adventure, or looking to unwind, Bondi offers a vibrant blend of sun, sea, and culture. Here’s a guide […]
Embarking on a journey, whether for leisure or business, is an exciting venture, yet it often comes with its challenges. Amidst the thrill of exploring new places and cultures, travellers must prioritise self-care. The concept of ‘self-care travel’ is gaining traction, acknowledging that maintaining wellness and relaxation is essential for a truly fulfilling travel experience. […]
Melbourne is often celebrated as Australia’s cultural capital, and it’s easy to see why. With its lively mix of street art, world-class food, thriving arts scene, and hidden gems around every corner, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, what to do in Melbourne is a question […]
Just a stone’s throw from the heart of Sydney, Surry Hills is a dynamic neighbourhood where creativity meets community. Known for its eclectic mix of cafés, bars, art galleries, and boutique shopping, this trendy suburb offers a different pace than the city centre or beachside hotspots. If you’re a backpacker wondering what to do in […]
Welcome to North Melbourne, where every corner has a story waiting to be explored! Whether you’re a local looking for a new hotspot or a traveller seeking hidden gems, we’ve got the lowdown on the must-visit places. Staff Favourites Our staff’s favorite picks? The Mussell Pot at Queen Victoria Market – offering fresh mussels, take-home […]
From the city’s heart to its buzzing suburbs, Sydney is renowned for its vibrant live music scene. There’s a corner for every music enthusiast, whether intimate gigs in cosy pubs, DJ sets in bustling nightclubs, or acoustic performances in laid-back bars. The city’s venues, known for hosting a spectrum of genres ranging from indie rock […]
Have you ever considered embarking on a journey where every decision, from where to dine to which path to wander, rests solely in your hands? Solo travel is gaining momentum across the globe, offering lone travellers the chance to venture across vast landscapes and through vibrant cities with nothing more than a backpack and passport […]
Welcome to the world of minimalist travel, where less is more, and freedom is carried in a light backpack. The art of packing light is not just about saving space but about creating room for experiences, adventures, and spontaneity. Imagine wandering through the bustling streets of Melbourne or soaking up the coastal charm of Cairns […]
Sydney is a city bursting with culture, iconic scenery, and fun-infused activities that won’t cost you a cent. Perfect for everyone, from young backpackers to seasoned travellers looking for a new adventure, Sydney’s charm lies in its ability to offer unforgettable experiences without the big price tag. The city is a treasure trove for those […]
Hostels offer a vibrant and social environment for travellers from all walks of life. Sharing a space with fellow adventurers can lead to incredible experiences and lasting friendships. However, to ensure a harmonious atmosphere and a memorable stay for everyone, it’s essential for guests to follow some basic hostel etiquette guidelines. In this blog post, […]
Here’s a curated list of must-visit cafes that promise an authentic and unforgettable Melbourne coffee experience
Sydney, the bustling metropolis of Australia, is not only known for its iconic landmarks but also for its vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods. If you’re a traveller with a desire for exploration and a love for the quirky, offbeat, and authentic, then Sydney’s unique neighbourhoods have much to offer. In this blog post, we’ll take you […]
Cairns isn’t just your launch pad for exploring the Great Barrier Reef—it’s also a party lover’s dream, packed with backpacker bars, iconic nightclubs, and budget-friendly nightlife. Whether you’re after live music, killer drink deals, or a packed dance floor, this tropical playground has you covered. When booking your stay at The Village Cairns, you’ll find […]
Want to get the perfect Instagram shot? Sydney is full of all the best backdrops, from stunning beaches to iconic landmarks! This vibrant city hits the mark every time.
Sydney is HOT this summer! What better way to cool off than a delicious sweet treat. Here are 5 of the best spots for a fresh, cold ice-cream this summer. 1. Gelato Messina Messina sets the standard for Aussie gelato! It’s unlikely you won’t be able to find a flavour to suit you, with tonnes […]
When it comes to idyllic tropical getaways, Cairns is a true gem on Australia’s northeastern coast. With its sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of water sports and dining options, Cairns is a beach lover’s paradise. Join us as we explore some of the most picturesque beaches in and around Cairns, each offering its […]