Raglan
North Island, New Zealand
Daily Budget
~NZ$88
~US$45 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Chill surf town
Overview
Raglan is a small, laid-back surf town on the west coast of the North Island, about two hours south of Auckland. Its point breaks at Manu Bay and Whale Bay produce some of the longest rideable left-hand waves in the world, drawing surfers from every corner of the globe. Beyond surfing, Raglan has a hippie-meets-creative vibe with yoga studios, organic cafes, and a strong sense of community. It is one of the most affordable and authentic stops on the New Zealand backpacker trail.
Editor's Pick
Raglan stands out for: World-class left-hand point breaks at Manu Bay and Whale Bay; Excellent surf schools for beginners at Ngarunui Beach; Relaxed hippie/creative atmosphere unlike anywhere else in NZ.
Things to Do
View all 9 activitiesTop Hostels
View all 4 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (NZD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | NZ$39 | $20 |
| Food | NZ$23 | $12 |
| Transport | NZ$6 | $3 |
| Activities | NZ$35 | $18 |
| Total | ~NZ$88 | ~$45 |
Hostels
4 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
9 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Raglan?
- Budget around NZ$88 NZD (~US$45) per day in Raglan, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Raglan?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Raglan are Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Raglan?
- Top-rated hostels in Raglan include Raglan Surf Shack, Karioi Lodge, Solscape Eco Retreat (YHA Raglan). Prices for a dorm bed typically start from NZ$31 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Raglan?
- Must-do activities in Raglan include Browse the Raglan Creative Market, Kayak through the harbour's mangrove channels, Swim at Ocean Beach. There are 9 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
