A coastal town with a beach, boats, and a mountainous backdrop.

Cheap Hotels & Resorts in Nelson from NZ$87

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Our top choices for Nelson cheap hotels

1. DeLorenzo's Studio Apartments

DeLorenzo's Studio Apartments
5.0 star property
The Wood
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,437 reviews)
"Excellent stay. Convenient location to town"
New Zealand
Nathan
The price is NZ$120
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
DeLorenzo's Studio Apartments

2. Chelsea Park Motor Lodge Nelson

Chelsea Park Motor Lodge Nelson
3.5 star property
Nelson City Centre
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (465 reviews)
"We can highly recommend this motel. The Location is good, our room was really nice with an outdoor sitting area and great amenities, The host is a wealth of knowledge and is more than eager to share it."
Australia
Gary
The price is NZ$239
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Chelsea Park Motor Lodge Nelson

3. Harbourside Nelson

Harbourside Nelson
4.0 star property
Port Nelson
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (704 reviews)
"Great location, good ammenities including washer&dryer. Helpful staff and almost adjacent to an excellent restaurant and bar."
Australia
Barry
The price is NZ$188
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Harbourside Nelson

4. Tasman Bay Backpackers

Tasman Bay Backpackers
2.0 star property
The Wood
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (151 reviews)
"Extremely convenient location with parking"
Australia
Megan
The price is NZ$87
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Tasman Bay Backpackers

5. Rutherford Hotel Nelson

Rutherford Hotel Nelson
4.0 star property
Nelson City Centre
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (646 reviews)
"Easy location parking and food onsite"
New Zealand
Jason
The price is NZ$251
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Rutherford Hotel Nelson

6. Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park

Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park
2.0 star property
Nelson South
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (181 reviews)
"Clean, tidy and has all you need. Had kitchen cabin with no bathroom, was very spacious. Happy with our stay. We were happy with shared bathroom, very clean and fresh."
Australia
Teresa
The price is NZ$88
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park

7. Riverlodge Nelson

Riverlodge Nelson
3.0 star property
The Wood
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (149 reviews)
"Good location very reasonable prices "
Australia
Michael
The price is NZ$151
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Riverlodge Nelson

8. YHA Nelson - Backpackers

YHA Nelson - Backpackers
2.0 star property
Nelson City Centre
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (108 reviews)
"Very well-managed, clean, efficient, and welcoming hostel!"
United States
Corey
The price is NZ$109
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
YHA Nelson - Backpackers

9. Saxton Lodge

Saxton Lodge
5.0 star property
Stoke
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (449 reviews)
"Great place to stay and the food at restaurant is fantastic"
Australia
Jo-Anne
The price is NZ$187
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Saxton Lodge

10. Arrow Motel Apartments

Arrow Motel Apartments
3.0 star property
Tahunanui
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (129 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
Australia
Stephen
The price is NZ$122
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Arrow Motel Apartments

11. Grand Arden Monaco Nelson

Grand Arden Monaco Nelson
3.5 star property
Nelson
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (914 reviews)
"Was wondering stay, specially booked for 2 nights was amazing"
Australia
Gurwinder
The price is NZ$269
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Grand Arden Monaco Nelson

12. Amber Court Motel Nelson

Amber Court Motel Nelson
3.0 star property
Tahunanui
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (294 reviews)
"Friendly staff, Clean and tidy place to stay."
Australia
Atit
The price is NZ$173
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Amber Court Motel Nelson

13. Bella Vista Motel Nelson

Bella Vista Motel Nelson
4.0 star property
Tahunanui
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (211 reviews)
"Handy location and very helpful staff. "
Australia
Ian
The price is NZ$168
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Bella Vista Motel Nelson

14. Balmoral Motel

Balmoral Motel
3.5 star property
Tahunanui
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (199 reviews)
"Staff were lovely and helpful, rooms clean and a good size for a family. Short walk to a number of eateries. Laundry available. If you're lucky you'll meet the very smoochy motel cat."
Australia
Christina
The price is NZ$175
includes taxes & fees
7 Nov - 8 Nov
Balmoral Motel

15. Abelia Motor Lodge

Abelia Motor Lodge
4.0 star property
Tahunanui
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (91 reviews)
"helpful staff - good basic room,"
New Zealand
Phil
The price is NZ$150
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Abelia Motor Lodge

16. Tuscany Gardens Motor Lodge

Tuscany Gardens Motor Lodge
2.5 star property
Tahunanui
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (90 reviews)
"Great location Room was clean the owner and his wife where fantastic very helpful with local knowledge Would definitely stay there again if I was in Nelson"
Australia
Tharon
The price is NZ$156
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Tuscany Gardens Motor Lodge

17. Tahuna Beach Holiday Park

Tahuna Beach Holiday Park
4.5 star property
Tahunanui
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (279 reviews)
"My third time staying here and it is a very convenient location near the airport and conference facility."
Australia
Ric
The price is NZ$141
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Tahuna Beach Holiday Park

18. Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel

Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel
4.0 star property
Tahunanui
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (212 reviews)
"Good value. Very clean and all amenities that you need. Great sized bed and comfortable. Near road , so was a bit noisey unfortunately."
Australia
Lorraine
The price is NZ$120
includes taxes & fees
21 Nov - 22 Nov
Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find out more about Nelson

Discover cheap things to do in Nelson

Nelson, nestled in the picturesque Nelson Region of New Zealand, offers an array of activities that budget-conscious travellers will delight in. Start your adventure with a visit to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, where you can enjoy free walking tracks, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming. For a dose of culture, explore the Nelson Provincial Museum, which is often free to enter, showcasing the city's rich history and heritage. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous galleries in the city, such as the Suter Art Gallery, which features both local and international works at no cost. Additionally, the Saturday Market in the heart of Nelson is a must-visit, where you can sample affordable local produce and artisanal goods while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying in the character-rich Tahunanui area, known for its nearby both the beach and the city centre. Here, you can find budget-friendly hotels that offer comfortable stays without sacrificing quality. This area allows you to easily explore the golden sands of Tahunanui Beach or meander back into town for a delicious meal at a family-run café, ensuring a memorable yet economical experience.

Top Nelson Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Nelson as a budget traveller?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking comfortable accommodation in Nelson, top recommendations include The Hotel Nelson, Apex Motor Lodge, and Tasman Bay Backpackers.

The Hotel Nelson, with an excellent 9.0 rating, is often praised by guests for its clean and pleasant rooms, along with a friendly and helpful staff at the front desk. It offers great value with free toiletries, free self-parking, and complimentary WiFi, making it a convenient choice.

Another superb option is the Apex Motor Lodge, boasting an impressive 9.2 rating. This lodge provides free self-parking, free WiFi, and the added convenience of a kitchen in its rooms, great for those who prefer to prepare their own meals.

For a more communal experience, Tasman Bay Backpackers, with a 9.0 rating, is a popular choice. Guests frequently praise its friendly staff. It offers free WiFi, free self-parking, and useful amenities like a terrace and a yard.
Which area of Nelson is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Nelson, the central city area and the vicinity around Tahunanui Beach generally offer the best value. These spots provide excellent access to amenities and attractions without breaking the bank.

The central city of Nelson is a prime location for those looking to save money, as it boasts a good selection of hostels and smaller, independent motels. Staying here means you're often within walking distance of many shops, cafes, and restaurants, allowing you to save on transport costs. It's also well-served by local buses, making it easy to explore further afield. Many free attractions, such as the Queens Gardens and the Nelson Provincial Museum, are just a short stroll away, superb for filling your itinerary without spending a fortune.

Alternatively, the area around Tahunanui Beach offers a more relaxed vibe with several budget-friendly motel and holiday park options, some even featuring shared kitchen facilities – a fantastic way for solo travellers to save on food expenses. While a little further from the city centre, regular bus services connect Tahunanui to the heart of Nelson. Spending time at Tahunanui Beach itself is a wonderful free activity, whether you're keen on swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a walk along the shore.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Nelson?
For families seeking top-rated, affordable accommodation in Nelson, consider The Hotel Nelson, Riverlodge Nelson, Amber Court Motel Nelson, Tuscany Gardens Motor Lodge, and Arrow Motel Apartments.

The Hotel Nelson boasts a 9.0 rating and is praised by customers for its nice, clean rooms and convenient location. Guests frequently comment on the friendly and helpful front desk staff, and it offers great value with free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking.

Riverlodge Nelson, a property with an 8.6 rating, provides excellent amenities for families, including complimentary cribs, free Wi-Fi, and free self-parking. Many rooms also feature a kitchen, furnished balcony, or patio, offering a comfortable stay. Reviewers often highlight the friendly and helpful reception and comfy beds.

Amber Court Motel Nelson, rated 8.8, is another option that is well-suited for families. It provides free cribs, free self-parking, and free Wi-Fi, along with in-room kitchens, making it easy to prepare meals for the whole family.

Tuscany Gardens Motor Lodge, with an 8.8 rating, offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking, including accessible parking and off-street parking. Mountain bike rentals are available nearby for an adventurous family outing.

Lastly, the Arrow Motel Apartments, with a 9.0 rating, is highly regarded for its friendly and super helpful staff. Guests appreciate the clean and good facilities, particularly the clean rooms and good showers.
When is the most affordable time to visit Nelson?
The most affordable time to visit Nelson is during the shoulder seasons, specifically autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November), avoiding the peak summer months. During these periods, you'll find more budget-friendly accommodation and flight options, as the demand from domestic and international tourists lessens.

For solo travellers, these seasons offer a pleasant climate for exploring the region's natural beauty without the summer crowds. You can enjoy the numerous walking and cycling trails, such as those in the Abel Tasman National Park (easily accessible from Nelson), or visit local art galleries and craft studios without the premium prices of peak season. Many local eateries might also offer special deals outside of the busiest times, allowing you to sample the fresh local produce and renowned wines more affordably.

Visiting in these quieter months also means you can often secure better deals on activities like kayaking or boat trips, as operators are keen to fill their tours.
What are the best cheap hotels in Nelson with a pool?
When looking for affordable hotels in Nelson with a pool, you'll find excellent options such as The Hotel Nelson, Apex Motor Lodge, Arrow Motel Apartments, and Milton Chalet Motel.

The Hotel Nelson, with a 9.0 rating, offers a heated outdoor seasonal pool, including a children's pool, great for families. Guests frequently comment on the nice, clean rooms and the friendly, helpful staff. Additionally, it provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary parking.

Another great choice is the Apex Motor Lodge, rated 9.2. This hotel features a shared, secured outdoor seasonal pool and provides free Wi-Fi and free self-parking. Each room also includes a kitchen, adding to its value for longer stays.

The Arrow Motel Apartments, with a 9.0 rating, boasts an outdoor seasonal pool. Reviewers often praise the friendly and super helpful staff, as well as the clean and good facilities. Many rooms include a balcony or furnished patio, and free Wi-Fi and self-parking are also provided.

Finally, the Milton Chalet Motel, rated 9.2, offers an outdoor pool. This motel is particularly convenient for those travelling with pets, as pets stay for free.
Are there any cheap Nelson hotels near Burrell Park?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly hotels near Burrell Park in Nelson, with The Hotel Nelson, Apex Motor Lodge, and Arrow Motel Apartments standing out for their value.

The Hotel Nelson, with a 9.0 rating, is often praised by guests for its convenient location and good value. It offers free toiletries, free self-parking, free RV/bus/truck parking, and complimentary WiFi, making it a practical choice for travellers. Reviewers frequently highlight the nice, clean rooms and the friendly, helpful staff.

Another excellent option is the Apex Motor Lodge, rated 9.2, which provides free self-parking, free WiFi, and the convenience of a kitchen in its rooms.

For those seeking an apartment-style stay, the Arrow Motel Apartments, with a 9.0 rating, offers free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries. Guests appreciate the clean and good facilities, big suites, and the friendly, super helpful staff.
Which cheap Nelson hotels are near Nelson (NSN)?
For affordable accommodation near Nelson Airport (NSN), the Amber Court Motel Nelson is a great option.

The Amber Court Motel Nelson, with an 8.8 rating, is conveniently located just 1.9 km from Nelson Airport. It offers excellent value with free WiFi, free self-parking, and free parking for RVs, buses, and trucks.
What cheap hotels in Nelson offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Nelson that provide cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have several excellent options, including The Hotel Nelson, Apex Motor Lodge, Amber Court Motel Nelson, Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park, and Arrow Motel Apartments.

The Hotel Nelson, with a strong rating of 9.0, offers kitchenettes in its rooms. Guests consistently praise its nice, clean rooms and convenient location, making it a great value choice.

Another fantastic option is the Apex Motor Lodge, boasting an impressive 9.2 rating. This property features kitchens in its rooms, along with free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, adding to its convenience.

The Amber Court Motel Nelson, rated 8.8, also provides kitchens, making it ideal for self-catering. It offers free self-parking and free WiFi for a comfortable stay.

Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park, rated 8.8, is a versatile option with kitchen facilities. This holiday park also includes free WiFi and free self-parking, along with a playground for children.

Finally, the Arrow Motel Apartments, with a 9.0 rating, offers well-equipped kitchenettes.
Which cheap hotels in Nelson have good reviews for customer service?
For budget-friendly hotels in Nelson with excellent customer service, travellers frequently recommend The Hotel Nelson, Tasman Bay Backpackers, Arrow Motel Apartments, and Riverlodge Nelson.

The Hotel Nelson, with a 9.0 rating, consistently receives praise from guests who describe the staff as helpful and friendly, particularly at the front desk. It offers practical amenities such as free toiletries and complimentary parking for all vehicle types.

Tasman Bay Backpackers, rated 9.0, is another great choice where guests often highlight the friendly staff. This establishment provides free WiFi, complimentary self-parking, and even has mountain bike facilities nearby, along with a terrace and yard for relaxation.

Arrow Motel Apartments, a property with a 9.0 rating, is much-loved for its friendly and super helpful staff. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, complimentary self-parking, free toiletries, and private balconies or furnished patios.

Finally, the Riverlodge Nelson, rated 8.6, also earns positive remarks for its great staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in Nelson that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
For travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Nelson with flexible check-in or check-out options, Apex Motor Lodge is a great choice.

The Apex Motor Lodge, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers the convenience of late check-out, which can be very helpful for those with later flights or simply wanting a more relaxed departure. Guests also benefit from free parking and complimentary WiFi, adding to the excellent value. Each room includes a kitchen, providing the flexibility to prepare your own meals.
What free activities should we do in Nelson?
Nelson offers a fantastic array of free activities, superb for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture.

You can start by exploring the city centre, making your way to the "Centre of New Zealand" walk. This accessible track leads to a prominent viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Nelson, Tasman Bay, and the surrounding mountains, providing a truly memorable experience without spending a penny. For a more relaxed pace, stroll through the vibrant Nelson Market on a Saturday morning, where you can soak in the lively option and browse local crafts and produce, even if you're just window shopping.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Tahunanui Beach Reserve is a must. This expansive sandy beach is ideal for a leisurely walk, enjoying the coastal scenery, or simply unwinding by the sea. Nearby, the Maitai River Walkway offers a pleasant path alongside the river, superb for a refreshing walk or jog, winding through green spaces and past local parks.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Nelson for you.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Nelson with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Nelson. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
How much does a budget hotel in Nelson cost?
Budget hotel prices in Nelson vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$87 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Is it cheaper to book a Nelson hotel and flight package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

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