The Grapevine Backpackers

Mar 15th, 2022

A really fun backpacker hostel. Very warm in winter. Even if i had already a Job they offered me to find one if i need it. The cat is lovely. A furry company specially for winter!
Oct 31st, 2021

After over two months I had to say goodbye to the grapevine today. I honestly loved living here. The house is in a beautiful place and filled with even more beautiful people. Leaving today felt like leaving home. I had an overall great experience here. The house itself is cozy and beautiful right on the river and has a very communal vibe. The manager Elise was absolutely brilliant and went above and beyond to help me out when I arrived, having already organized work and transport before I even got to the Grape Vine. On top of that she was just generally super lovely, accommodating, and always checking in with everyone and organizing events for the house. She genuinely cares about the experience of everyone who stays here and it shows. Her and Seth do such an amazing job and my stay has been nothing short of spectacular. The Grapevine will always have a special place in my heart and I miss it already !!!
Nov 28th, 2021

Attention please to all backpackers in New Zealand's lovely Blenheim. Grapevine is the one of the best backpackers accommodations that you can experience what backpackers life is like. I stayed there more than 3 months, met amazing people, had lots of memories, had lots of fun whenever I wanted to do . There are always people around to hang out with, playing pool, go kayaking, cooking meals and sharing or just to have a chat with. After a while living there, i am pretty sure you feel belong to Grapevine. Best manager of all times Ellise, and other staff are always there to help you whenever/whatever you need. Perfect location as 10 mins walk to the town 5 mins walk to supermarket. Experience Grapevine for a night or for a life time. You will not regret it !
Oct 16th, 2021

I would have loved to give this place a 5 star rating, but unfortunately this isn't the case. I came to the Grapevine first as a visitor and then as a resident as I loved it so much. From January to May the Grapevine became my home, the people here, my family. I felt so welcomed and safe always. This was under the old management. The majority of the reviews that you see on here that are a few weeks old represent a place that was a home away from home for many, and this was due in fact to previous management (Harleigh and James). New management took over early in May and things began to change. I can only speak from my own experience and I will not be returning as long as this new management remains. This welcoming environment has shifted. The "rules" that Ellise puts in place change depending on the day, there is very little consistency. I experienced and know of others who have had experiences where she has gone back on her word without informing you until it's too late, responding with "I changed my mind". I do not find Ellise to be professional in her management position. I had my belongings moved from their labeled spots without my knowledge , thrown out, and even gone missing. Just a note that the common space across the road that I used for early morning zoom meetings and late night work nights is now shut at 10pm... sometimes. The energy and vibe of this place is very different from when I first came here. Over the years of working in professional environments, I have witnessed many departments that have turned sour due to poor management. I see many similarities here. I would've easily given the Grapevine Backpackers 5 stars three months ago. Ive seen its decline and that is why I'm leaving 1 star.
Sep 23rd, 2021