Pleasantly exceeded expectations
Surprisingly excellent quality, great cleanliness throughout, great location next to the botanic gardens and near shops.
Modern fit-outs, clean and private bathrooms, catered dining hall, and 24-hour reception with helpful and friendly staff was the icing on the cake. My mattress could have done with being replaced a good 1 year beforehand, but I still slept well with residents respecting the 'quiet after 10pm' rule.
Was very impressed with the efficiency of service - a free knock on the door at a ridiculous hour of the morning (ie, 3am) to wake me up for my flight, free local call to organise a bus shuttle from the YMCA to the airport, good directions and maps provided to shops and cafes.
This is a well run organisation that cares for its residents, whoever they are. . . with one exception: if you are a lover of personalised service where people bow down to your every request ... do not come here -- you will be given short-shrift from customer service, as there is really no room for fussiness or whining here.
Chirstchurch has suffered enormously during the past year, but I am so glad to see that the YMCA is operating and catering for locals. As to tourists - this no-fuss, close to CBD service. Although i was ultimately passing through to the airport, it gave me a positive impression of CC and later confidence to return as a tourist once CC stabilises.
I would recc. YMCA CChurch for families on a budget, backpackers, or travelers who enjoy meeting all types of people.