NZHA is a sub-community – part of BYATA so together we are stronger!

The BYATA board is now dedicated to creating a sub-group that solely focuses on supporting the Backpacker and Youth Accommodation Sector. In creating the New Zealand Hostels Association (NZHA) the aim is to get the 300+ independent hostels and lodges in our country to come together to improve the industry and support each other . A large majority of these operators would turn over less than $500,000 per year and, in the more regional areas, would not be making large profits.

Often operated by people with passion for the industry rather than business minded professionals, it's a great opportunity to provide assistance on many levels. With the current downturn in tourism, many of regional hostels will be struggling to get by, therefore all the more reason to get involved in a network where support can be drawn.

The cost for hostels will be simplified and affordable to encourage membership. Similar consideration will be given to the annual conference. We are also looking to concentrate some of our efforts during the conference to cater for the accommodation sector, so a section of the day would be dedicated to your needs. And if only one day, perhaps a single price day could allow the budget conscious to come along and learn about what's happening in our industry.

What is BYATA? - please refer to the About BYATA section

What is the New Zealand Hostels Association?

There are 300+ independent hostels in NZ with a vast majority being under 80 beds. NZHA will be dedicated solely to backpacker accommodation issues with a focus no other lobby or support group can offer. NZHA is made up of 6 sectors around NZ: Auckland, Taupo/Rotorua, Wellington, Picton/Nelson, Canterbury, and the Queenstown Lakes District who will host a Sector Leader. Each sector leader will sit on a national board chair by a BYATA Board Member from the accommodation industry.

Accommodation operators are the shopfront for the backpacking industry. Backpackers spend more time with accommodation providers than any other service provider in the industry. Accommodation operators are the first to see the changing trends of the industry and falls or gains in the market. A wealth of knowledge can also be used by other BYATA members in understanding & pre-empting these changes.

Why do we need the NZHA?

The vast majority of hostels, lodges and other shared room accommodation providers are small, independent operations who may likely feel they don't have a voice on industry issues. When we started in late 2019, we had just two independent accommodation operators, alongside large chain hostels, now we have 18 independents and growing! By creating NZHA the aim is to give the conduit through 6 regional sectors for the smallest operator voice and elevate concerns.

BYATA is made up of many different operators (transport, accommodation, activity and service related sectors) so by having an autonomous hostels group within the BYATA framework, smaller hostels can have the best of both worlds, with a national hostels board to engage specifically on hostel issues. The hostel owner can also enjoy the support network that BYATA offer, working together on wider advocacy issues and speaking on behalf of the industry.

What will be the focus of NZHA?

• To look more closely at issue affecting the budget accommodation sector
• Allowing all operators to have an equal opportunity to affect change regardless of the size 
• To work with BYATA to offer more accommodation and backpacker (the person not the industry) focused content at the annual conference
  
• Promote sustainability practises amongst members
  
• To foster the sector groups ability to connect on local issues and elevate national issues
  
• To work with Tourism NZ to invest more into the backpacker industry 
• Work with BYATA and Hospitality NZ on immigration and visa issues
  
• Monitor government changes to legislation, employment and/or immigration
  
• Provide updates with rising/falling visitor numbers
  
• Ensure a fair application of the Visitor Levy in regions across New Zealand

All accommodation members of NZHA will include membership to BYATA and vice versa, there will not be a double up of fees.

How to apply

Email info@byata.org.nz with your Hostel Name, Contact Person, Address, Region, Website, Email and Phone Number and ask to become a member.