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From38US$ /night
Check-in
13May2026Select date
Check-out
14May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

96 Lichfield Street, Christchurch, New Zealand, 8011
-
Steps from Latimer Square
Great
8.9
/10
4.0
4.9
/5

Drifter Christchurch - A vibrant hotel-hostel hybrid with lively common areas and central city access

Drifter Christchurch, a 4-star hotel-hostel hybrid rated 9.0/10 on Booking.com, blends the social energy of a hostel with hotel comforts in Christchurch City-Centre. Rooms include dormitory-style accommodations with 4-8 beds, private doubles, family rooms, and suites, all featuring air conditioning, carpeted floors, and private bathrooms. The property's design emphasizes communal spaces, with vibrant lounges for socializing and shared kitchens for guest use. Nearby landmarks include Latimer Square (0.5 km), Canterbury Museum (1 km), and the Cardboard Cathedral (0.5 km). Dining options like Lower 9th Diner and Bacon Bros Burgers are within 300 meters. Drifter Christchurch offers free high-speed Wi-Fi and caters to groups exploring the city's arts scene and heritage sites.

Pros

The central location provides easy access to key attractions like Canterbury Museum and Latimer Square.

Vibrant communal spaces encourage socializing and group interaction.

Diverse room options range from budget-friendly dorms to private suites.

Multiple dining choices are within walking distance.

Cons

Shared dormitory rooms may lack privacy for some travelers.

No on-site parking is available.

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Select your room type

Drifter Christchurch offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Private Superior 4 Bed Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Private Superior 4 Bed Female Ensuite Dorm
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Private Superior 4 Bed Ensuite Dorm
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Bunk bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Twin Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Room Rates & Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Drifter Christchurch offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Security
  • Lift
  • Vending machines
  • Fireplace
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness club
  • Billiard tables
  • Yoga class

Guest Parking

  • Shared kitchen

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture

Self-catering

  • Shared kitchen

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
  • Curtains
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Drifter Christchurch Location

96 Lichfield Street, Christchurch, New Zealand, 8011
Map view
96 Lichfield Street, Christchurch, New Zealand, 8011
Nearby
Bridge
Bridge of Remembrance
1700 ft
Church
Cardboard Cathedral
1900 ft
Corner of Cashel and Madras Street
185 Empty White Chairs
1400 ft
Worcester Street Central City
Latimer Square
1500 ft
Oxford Terrace
Kate Sheppard Memorial
1700 ft
105 Cathedral Square
Godley Statue
1500 ft
68 Oxford Terrace Corner of Oxford Terrace and Montreal Street
Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial
2000 ft
Mall
Re:START Mall
1600 ft
Waterloo Place
Statue of Robert Falcon Scott
1900 ft
Cashel Street
Cashel Street
1200 ft
Square
Cathedral Square
1400 ft
100 Cathedral Sqiuare Next To The Christchurch Cathedral
Chalice Sculpture
1500 ft
From Cathedral Square to Rolleston Avenue Central City
Worcester Boulevard
1600 ft
Church
St Michael And All Angels'
1700 ft
Restaurants
Orleans Christchurch
100 ft
89 Lichfield Street
Lower 9th Diner
200 ft
89 Lichfield Street Strange's Lane
C1 Espresso
800 ft
185 High Street
Smash Palace
600 ft
172 High Street Central City
Earl
500 ft
128 Lichfield Street
Brick Farm
600 ft
172 High Street
Cafe 165
700 ft
165 Cashel Street Breakfree On Cashel
Muffin Break
700 ft
628-658 Colombo Street Bus Interchange
Indian Sumner CBD
900 ft
185 Manchester Street
Two Fat Indians
700 ft
Hoyts Entx 617 Colombo Street Corner of Tuam Street
Explore Christchurch
Experience Christchurch
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Canterbury Museum
16 minutes' walk
Canterbury Museum showcases natural history and Maori culture, featuring free admission and engaging exhibitions.
Christchurch Art Gallery
14 minutes' walk
An award-winning space, Christchurch Art Gallery features contemporary artworks and free admission to ongoing exhibitions.
Quake City
13 minutes' walk
Quake City is a museum dedicated to the 2011 earthquake, offering insights into the event and its impact on the community.
Bridge of Remembrance
7 minutes' walk
The iconic Bridge of Remembrance commemorates soldiers from both World Wars, with beautiful views along the Avon River.
Kayaking on the Avon River
15 minutes' walk
Kayaking on the tranquil Avon River offers a unique perspective of the cityscape. Rentals are available nearby, perfect for families.
Margaret Mahy Family Playground
12 minutes' walk
An expansive playground offering play areas for all ages, perfect for families to unwind or for solo visitors to relax.
Bacon Bros Burgers
3 minutes' walk
A casual gem known for its gourmet burgers and laid-back vibe. Popular options include the bacon cheeseburger.
Smoke 'n' Barrel
3 minutes' walk
This barbecue spot offers a rustic atmosphere and a variety of smoked meats. Vegetarian options are available.
Christchurch Casino
16 minutes' walk
A vibrant casino offering gaming, live shows, and dining. Family-friendly options include casual eateries inside.
CoCA - Centre of Contemporary Art
10 minutes' walk
CoCA features contemporary art exhibitions and events, fostering a creative atmosphere perfect for art lovers.
Getting around
City Centre
Christchurch4 min  ·  1000 ft
Airports
Christchurch (CHC)17 min  ·  6.9 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 10 am
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
237

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Drifter Christchurch from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Drifter Christchurch impresses guests with its modern and clean aesthetic, boasting various cozy spaces like a library, cinema, and yoga room. The location is particularly convenient, being near the bus station. Guests appreciate the spacious dorm rooms that include two bathrooms and, in some cases, a large balcony. Some guests have noted that the kitchen can get crowded due to the number of guests. the hotel provides a unique experience with features like free kitchen essentials and options to open room keys via an app.
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Review score
Based on 1247 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
94%
Recommend
Location
9.6/10
Cleanliness
9.3/10
Breakfast
7.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Pros
Communal areas
Clean rooms
Comfy bed
Central location
Cons
Sleepless night
Small lockers
Guest reviews
based on 1247 reviews
9.0/10
based on 2684 reviews
8.9/10
Louise from Canada
Single
Superior Queen
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 21, 2026
8.5/10

Excellent Stay in Central Location

modern decorgood lightingshared spacesconvenient location
The room had modern decor and good lighting. I liked the shared spaces. They were well kept and provided many seating options. The kitchen provided adequate utensils. it was a bit small. The location was very convenient. It was near the bus station.
The key access system was somewhat unreliable. I had trouble with the app.
Service
9/10
The staff greeted me upon arrival and answered questions about local spots! They were attentive, very helpful and friendly, offering assistance whenever needed. Their communication was excellent throughout the stay.
Dining
8/10
The hotel offered a breakfast option for an extra charge of $15. There was a bar downstairs! Guests could purchase snacks and drinks from vending machines. They had tea bags and other drinks for free.
0 Helpful
|
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Connor from Australia
Single
Superior Queen
4 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:November 08, 2025
9.0/10

excellent stay, good amenities

kitchen amenitycommon area
i found the location quite convenient, near the bus station and many restaurants. the kitchen and common areas are fantastic amenities! i particularly enjoyed the relaxing room options. the staff were helpful.
Location
9/10
The hotel's proximity to the bus station offers great convenience. Many restaurants are accessible. its central location offers great access to public transportation, which i liked.
Service
8/10
some staff were very helpful, particularly at reception. quick assistance was available for various inquiries, and their support enhanced my experience there.
Dining
9/10
i found many dining options nearby, with a variety of restaurants accessible from the hotel. these included diverse cuisines, and they offered a great culinary experience in the surrounding area.
Facilities
10/10
the kitchen facilities allow guests to prepare meals, and multiple common areas create space to relax. there are lots of rooms like a library and a lounge, they are clean.
0 Helpful
|
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Ethan from United States
Single
Shared Suite 4 Bed
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:October 25, 2025
9/10
cinema roomquiet spaceuseful kitchen
the cinema room had a good selection of movies. the board and study room provided a quiet space. i found the communal kitchen useful though it was a bit small.
the app to access the room doors required some personal data.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Drifter Christchurch
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Drifter Christchurch?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
What is the distance from Drifter Christchurch to Christchurch International Airport?
Drifter Christchurch is 11 km from Christchurch International Airport, which takes approximately 20 minutes by car.
Are there any notable attractions near Drifter Christchurch?
Nearby attractions include Christchurch Art Gallery (1 km), Canterbury Museum (1 km), and The Chalice (0.5 km).
What dining options are available on-site at Drifter Christchurch?
Drifter Christchurch features an on-site restaurant and a bar/lounge area.
Is free Wi-Fi available at Drifter Christchurch?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Drifter Christchurch.
What fitness amenities are provided at Drifter Christchurch?
Guests can access a fitness club and participate in yoga classes at Drifter Christchurch.
What services does Drifter Christchurch offer for guests?
Services include 24-hour reception, luggage storage, laundry facilities, and entertainment staff.
What are the room amenities like at Drifter Christchurch?
Room amenities include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and private bathrooms equipped with showers.
What are some nearby restaurants to Drifter Christchurch?
Nearby restaurants include Lower 9th Diner, Bacon Bros Burgers, and C1 Espresso, all located within 0.5 km.

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Check-in
13May2026Select date
Check-out
14May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room