Paula is from the UK and worked for YHA England and Wales for 17 years before heading to YHA New Zealand for 5 years! Her perfect place in New Zealand is Aoraki Mt Cook; a tramper and traveller by nature, New Zealand is her playground.

Managing groups at both Auckland hostels, Paula enjoys the daily challenges and smiles that come with the territory!

Your incredibly organised and hardworking Groups Coordinator in Rotorua is Samantha. Kiwi born and bred, she grew up in Palmerston North, studied at NZ School of Tourism, moved to Rotorua three years ago and joined the YHA whanau in 2016.

Samantha has a very warm personality and is approachable and friendly. So, don’t be afraid of asking or any help you need, she will look after you!

The Group Coordinator in good ol' “Windy Wellington”, Jynelle grew up in New Zealand (Kiwi Kid!) and went to school in a small, busy, country town in Martinborough.

At YHA Wellington Jynelle has met many teachers and children from all over New Zealand and around the world all experiencing travelling at Wellington for the first time. It’s amazing to see so much learning outside the classroom and she loves being a part of the experience!

Paul is also known around the hostel as the maintenance guy and mischievous goof, and likes to think himself the handsome one! After 3 years at YHA Christchurch every day is still different and keeps him coming back with a welcoming smile and helpful mindset. 

On his days off Paul heads out to explore the Canterbury region and New Zealand as much as he can. Always trying to widen his knowledge of our beautiful nation from the back of his beloved motorcycle.

Hailing from the bustling metropolis of Invercargill, Anna moved to Queenstown 6 years ago to enjoy the wild and wonderful things the most beautiful town in NZ has to offer.

She reports she hasn't been let down having tried NZONE Skydiving, Dart River Funyaks and the Shotover Canyon Swing to name a few.

Working at YHA for over 6 years, Anna is proud to have seen the development of YHA Queenstown Lakefront turn it into a brand new 5-star property!

At YHA Paihia, owner Andy has extensive knowledge of Paihia and surrounds. He has lived there for over 15 years and is well connected locally.

Andy is passionate about supporting activity providers in the local community. He can field any question a group could have and is happy to go the extra mile to co-ordinate activities on behalf of any group.