Unique Spanish Mission/Art Deco Style building Located in the heart of Napier and just minutes from the Visitor Information Center( i-Site), the Criterion Art Deco Backpackers is Hawkes Bay premier Hostel. It enjoys a 4 Star Plus status and currently holds a 85% Hostelworld customer rating and 85% with booking.com.

The Criterion is Napier's largest Spanish Mission / Art Deco style building and one of the most photographed. Originally built as a luxury hotel in 1932 after the famous Hawke's Bay earthquake, the Criterion has recently been refurbished and now provides travelers with a comfortable base for exploring the Hawke's Bay area. (Please note our hostel is suitable for children, we have a family room available.)

The Criterion Art Deco Backpackers exceeds all expectations for budget accommodation with friendly and helpful staff, a spacious kitchen area complete with free herbs and spices, a relaxing lounge, a cozy television room with SKY TV, an entertaining pool table, free local phone calls, and breathtaking sunsets from the verandah.

Additionally, the Criterion provides laundry facilities, 24-hour internet access in public area and in some rooms, hotspots and free bed linen.

The Criterion is a member of BBH network and is consistently rated as one of the top backpacker establishments in Hawke's Bay.