Surrounded by rainforest and mountains, Chateau Franz offers a hot spa pool, BBQ facilities and a guest lounge with a fireplace. Just 10 minutes’ walk from the Waiho River, it offers free parking on site and free international phone calls. Chateau Franz Hostel is 10 minutes’ drive from Lake Mapourika and Franz Josef Glacier. Christchurch is a 4.5-hour drive away. The hostel offers free vegetable soup each evening, as well as free popcorn to enjoy while watching TV. The free breakfast includes cereals, milk, toast and coffee. There are also a number of restaurants within a 15-minute walk. Guests can choose between dormitory rooms or private rooms with a refrigerator, toaster and electric kettle. Some rooms also have a TV. The property offers 2 communal kitchens, 2 TV lounges with satellite channels, as well as a book exchange and video library. The tour desk can provide sightseeing advice and book local activities.