Our pick of Taupō's hostels, homely Finlay Jacks has turned an ageing motel into a colourful hub. The 12-bed dorms feel spacious, with bunks separated into distinct, connected rooms of eight and four. Private rooms with en suites and Netflix have supercomfy beds, and hammocks and beanbags are sprinkled around the central lawn. Two pod-style rooms were added in 2019.
It's just a short walk to bars and restaurants, and the communal lounge also has Netflix. Bikes available for hire, too.