YHA Research Programme

Since 2005, the Youth Hostelling Association of New Zealand has worked with NZTRI to conduct an annual programme of research. A Guest Survey has been conducted over the past four years and a wealth of data collected.

In 2008, the research programme included the annual Guest Survey as well as a series of three Focus Groups with YHA guests looking in to the ageing trends of the backpacker market.

In 2007, 1447 guests completed the annual Guest Survey. In addition to the basic questions, the survey explored dimensions of what makes a hostel a fun place to stay.

In 2006, the Guest Survey covered a total of 2043 guests. A survey of YHA Members was also conducted, which explored member profiles and use of NZ and overseas hostels, member satisfaction, and importance of member services.

In 2005, a survey of 1500 YHA guests, and 550 non-YHA backpackers produced a comprehensive report outlining the profiles and travel patterns of these 2 groups. Following on from this, four focus groups were conducted with both members and non-members. A web survey of NZ YHA Members was conducted and received close to 1500 replies, giving a rich understanding of the value of membership, membership services, and member thoughts on the importance of YHA’s social and environmental values. A survey of readers of the YHA magazine Hostelling HorizoNZ gave an insight into YHA communication with its members.