With a focus on environmental sustainability, the YHA Raglan hostel has unique backpacker accommodation in a recycled Railway Carriage or 'off the grid' eco-living in our brand new Tipi Retreat or contemporary Eco Baches. Soak up the all day sun while you take in the expansive sea views from our spacious grounds or watch the sunset upon the expansive Tasman Sea as it meets the northwestern coast and experience the enchanting twilight views of Raglan’s township encircled by the Whaingaroa Harbour.

YHA Raglan, Solscape Eco Retreat’s environmentally conscious backpacking facilities include non-toxic building materials, earth floors, solar powered LED lighting, solar heated indoor-outdoor showers, composting toilets and gravity-fed fresh mountain stream water. Enjoy your meals in a covered dining area sheltered amongst the punga ferns and manuka.  The Raglan hostel staff are dedicated to preserving the natural environment, creating a space for raising awareness on all levels with emphasis on sustainable living and well-being while providing healthy, comfortable lodgings for the rest and rejuvenation of all guests.

YHA Raglan, Solscape:  Excellent, idiosyncratic accommodation in the form of imaginatively converted train carriages and cottages, on top of a hill with panoramic views; other bonuses include free pick-ups from Raglan, surf lessons, plus surfboards and boogie boards for rent. Highly Recommended. – The Rough Guide to New Zealand.

Special features at YHA Raglan that backpackers love:

• Unique budget backpacker accommodation: railway carriages, tipis and contemporary eco baches.
• Just a 15-minute walk from legendary surf break Manu Bay and Ocean Beach.
• Outstanding sea views from the YHA Raglan hostel with glorious sunsets.
• YHA Raglan, Solscape Eco Retreat is environmentally-friendly backpacker accommodation.
• Hostel staff are from the Raglan area, so can show where to go surfing – in fact they may even join you!
• Healing massage therapy available at the YHA Raglan hostel.
• YHA Raglan, Solscape Eco Retreat is part of the WOOFing scheme and is an active member of the local Raglan community

About Raglan

A 45 minute drive west of Hamilton and a 2 hour drive south of Auckland, Raglan is situated on the beautiful west coast of the North Island in New Zealand, and is now one of New Zealand's most popular places to visit and live.

Raglan offers a good variety of activities for residents and visitors. From the variety of world class surfing to beach and bush walks to cafes and boutique shops, Raglan is always alive and full of surprises!

Raglan's world famous surf breaks are found at three points: Manu Bay, Whale Bay and The Indicators. Manu Bay (Waireke), also known as The Point, is said to have the longest left hand ride in the world.

Raglan town has a unique laid-back atmosphere and offers a wide array of eateries catering to all tastes. Interesting shops line the main street with their array of bohemian arts-and-crafts and the supermarket is open until 8pm nightly.

It has been said, once you visit the beautiful coastal town of Raglan, you may find it hard to leave.

Top activities to do while backpacking in Raglan

• Surfing! Best known for long peeling left-hand point breaks, Raglan also offers ideal conditions for beginners and novice surfers. YHA Raglan, Solscape Eco Retreat offers customised surf packages, surf lessons and board hire. Surf guiding is also available for the more advanced surfer.
• Raglan is one of New Zealand's premier kiteboarding locations. Because of Raglan's natural land formations, nearly any wind direction is suitable for kiteboarding. Come to Raglan Harbour and learn to fly! Lessons are available through YHA Raglan, Solscape Eco Retreat
• There are several bush and beach walks in Raglan, including climbing Mt Karioi, Te Toto Gorge and the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls waterfall track.
• Lots of other ways to get in touch with the great outdoors at Raglan including kayaking, horse trekking, mountain-biking, paragliding and PADI scuba diving courses.
• Visit the Harbourview Hotel on Raglan’s main street have a drink on the terrace with the majestic Mt Karioi mountain in the background.
• Just do what Raglan residents do – relax and enjoy the best of New Zealand life in this beautiful laid-back coastal town.

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