The widest selection of unusual accommodations in South Island

A cabin, a lighthouse, a glamping, your extraordinary stay awaits you

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South Island unique stays
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12 Unique places to stay in South Island

Best family friendly South Island unique stays

Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best family friendly unique accommodations

Hunters Moon - South Island
9.4 768 reviews

Hunters Moon

farm, Mosgiel
Hunters Moon farm stay is located just outside Mosgiel, a 20-minute drive from Dunedin, and is close to the Taieri Plain, Mosgiel Racecourse and Wingatui Station. This farm stay has excellent user, location and cleanliness ratings. The property has one bedroom and one bathroom and offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a working farm experience, stunning views, a peaceful setting, free amenities, and additional services like laundry facilities and airport transport.
Tasman Holiday Parks Picton - South Island
8.8 3138 reviews

Tasman Holiday Parks Picton

resort, Picton
Tasman Holiday Parks Picton is located just a short drive from the ferry terminals and opposite the Picton Marina, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. The park has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The park offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins, apartments, and campsites. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and BBQ facilities, as well as a shared lounge, games room, and children's playground.
Spacious Rural Lodge-sleeps 22 Ideal For Groups, Family, Friends & Celebrations - South Island
10 3 reviews

Spacious Rural Lodge-sleeps 22 Ideal For Groups, Family, Friends & Celebrations

chalet, Greta Valley
This spacious six-bedroom lodge is situated in the Greta Valley, a 33-minute (53km) drive from Amberley Beach and 38-minutes (61km) from Leithfield Beach, offering easy access to both coast and wineries such as Sherwood Estate and Waipara Springs.
The 540 square metre property boasts five and a half bathrooms, sleeps twenty guests, and includes a swimming pool, jetted bath, and modern conveniences like Wi-Fi and a smart TV.
Kingfisher Lodge - South Island
9.1 12 reviews

Kingfisher Lodge

chalet, Lac Tekapo
Kingfisher Lodge, situated in Lake Tekapo, offers convenient access to the lake and its attractions, though precise distances to specific landmarks are not provided.
This self-catering lodge provides excellent guest accommodation with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and facilities including refrigerators and washing machines in each room; further details regarding the size, layout, and capacity of the property are unavailable.

Best South Island unusual places with a garden

Fantail At Bluestone Retreat - South Island
No reviews

Fantail At Bluestone Retreat

cabin, Leeston
This Leeston lodge provides a prime location, situated a mere 500 metres from Lake Ellesmere and within a 57-kilometre drive of central Christchurch attractions such as Hagley Park and Riccarton Road.
This one-bedroom lodge accommodates two guests and offers essential amenities including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a garden, with parking available.
Eden's Edge Eco Lodge - South Island
9.0 523 reviews

Eden's Edge Eco Lodge

chalet, Motueka
This Eden's Edge Eco Lodge chalet offers a convenient base in Motueka, providing easy access to local attractions.
This pet-friendly, family-friendly lodge provides complimentary high-speed internet, free on-site parking, a concierge service, and on-site cooking facilities, with a ticket service and laundry available.
The Landing - Picton - South Island
9.7 7 reviews

The Landing - Picton

chalet, Picton
This chalet is located in Picton, a 19-minute walk from Picton Memorial Park Beach and 5.96 kilometres from Picton Airdrome Airport.
This 20 square metre chalet accommodates two guests with one bedroom and one bathroom, featuring air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a private terrace with barbecue facilities, a garden, and access to a fitness centre and hot tub.
Cosy Cabin - South Island
9.7 64 reviews

Cosy Cabin

cabin, Lumsden
This cabin is located on a river, just 52 kilometres from Eyre Creek Station, Croydon Aircraft Company, and Shepherd Creek Hut, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and user experience.
The property is a two-bedroom retreat that can comfortably accommodate up to four guests. Enjoy modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, a DVD player, a fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen, perfect for relaxing evenings in.

Frequently asked questions about unique stays in South Island

  • What are some hidden gems to explore in the South Island of New Zealand?

    For hidden gems, consider the West Coast's Hokitika Gorge, with its vibrant turquoise water, or the Ngarua Caves near Takaka, offering stunning limestone formations. Further afield, the remote and rugged Kepler Track offers incredible hiking opportunities, far from the usual tourist crowds. For a more relaxed experience, explore the charming town of Arrowtown, with its historic gold mining buildings and stunning autumn colours.
  • Are there any notable festivals that take place in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island hosts many events. The Queenstown Winter Festival is a well-known celebration of winter sports and culture. Another significant event is the World Buskers Festival in Christchurch, showcasing street performers from around the globe. Smaller, regional festivals celebrating local produce and arts are also common throughout the year.
  • What types of natural environments are typical in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island boasts incredible diversity. You'll find dramatic fiords like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, towering mountains in the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mount Cook, expansive glaciers like Franz Josef and Fox, and stunning beaches along the West Coast. Vast plains and rolling hills are also present, particularly in Canterbury and North Otago.
  • Are there popular sporting events or activities in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Queenstown is renowned for adventure sports like bungy jumping, white-water rafting on the Kawarau River, and skiing at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Hiking and mountain biking are also extremely popular, with trails to suit all abilities. Many smaller towns host local sporting events and competitions throughout the year.
  • What special gear or clothing is recommended for the climate in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Packing for the South Island requires versatility. Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate, so layers are essential. A waterproof and windproof jacket is a must, along with sturdy hiking boots. Warm layers like fleeces and thermal underwear are vital for colder months. Sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat, is also crucial, even on cloudy days.
  • What activities allow you to experience local traditions and interact with residents in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Visiting local farmers' markets, like the one in Wanaka, provides a chance to sample regional produce and chat with producers. Participating in a Māori cultural experience, such as a hangi (traditional earth oven meal) and cultural performance, offers insights into indigenous traditions. Staying in smaller towns and engaging with local businesses and residents fosters genuine interaction.
  • Is the South Island of New Zealand known for any unique natural displays or phenomena during certain seasons?

    Yes, the South Island offers seasonal spectacles. The autumn foliage in Central Otago is stunning, painting the hillsides in vibrant hues. In winter, the Southern Alps are covered in snow, providing opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers to the alpine meadows, while summer offers long days perfect for exploring the coastline.
  • What are the best local foods in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island offers fantastic food. Fresh seafood, particularly Bluff oysters, are a must-try. The region is also known for its lamb, often served in hearty roasts or pies. Local cheeses, such as those from Canterbury, are also highly regarded. Don't forget to try the region's excellent wines, particularly Pinot Noir from Central Otago.
  • What are the best adventurous activities in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Adventure is abundant! Bungy jumping and white-water rafting in Queenstown are iconic. Heli-skiing in the Southern Alps offers an unparalleled experience. Kayaking or boating through Milford Sound provides breathtaking views. Hiking the Routeburn Track or Milford Track offers multi-day trekking opportunities through stunning landscapes.

Nearby regions

Best South Island unique stays with a jacuzzi

Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best unique accommodations with a jacuzzi

Ultimate Secluded Hideaway - Pekepeke Luxury Farm Cabin - South Island
No reviews

Ultimate Secluded Hideaway - Pekepeke Luxury Farm Cabin

cabin, Queenstown
This secluded lodge is located in the Queenstown district, 5 kilometres from Queenstown Airport and within easy reach of the Queenstown Event Centre (5.9 kilometres) and the Skyline Gondola and Luge (12.1 kilometres).
This 60 square metre log cabin accommodates two guests and offers a private swimming pool, hot tub, garden, and a well-equipped kitchenette, with free WiFi and on-site parking provided.
Luxury Dark Sky Hideaway Cabin B - With Hot Tub - South Island
9.9 119 reviews

Luxury Dark Sky Hideaway Cabin B - With Hot Tub

cabin
Dark Sky Hideaway, a secluded luxury lodge near Ben Ohau, is situated 24km from Twizel, 640km from Christchurch, and 400km from Queenstown, offering easy access to the Mackenzie District's stunning scenery and the renowned Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
This two-bedroom, one-bathroom retreat sleeps four guests and boasts a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, a private hot tub, fireplace, and deck; various outdoor pursuits including hiking and skiing are readily accessible.
Wacky Stays - Unique Farm-stay Glamping Rentals, Free Animal Feeding Tours - South Island
8.8 785 reviews

Wacky Stays - Unique Farm-stay Glamping Rentals, Free Animal Feeding Tours

glamping, Kaikoura
This mobile home is situated just 2.5 miles from Kaikoura town centre, offering peaceful mountain views and easy access to a working farm. It has received very good ratings for user experience, location, and cleanliness.
The mobile home features a fully equipped kitchen for preparing meals and offers a comfortable living space. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, sauna, spa, tennis court, and free continental breakfast.
Tui's Secret - Private Peaceful Nature Retreat - South Island
9.8 182 reviews

Tui's Secret - Private Peaceful Nature Retreat

cabin
This apartment is located in a secluded nature hideaway near Motueka, a town on the South Island of New Zealand, just 70km from Nelson and 250km from Christchurch. The apartment has received excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings.
The apartment is a one-bedroom, one-bathroom property that sleeps two guests. It offers a unique off-the-grid experience with stunning views, a kitchen, a jacuzzi, a garden, and parking. Guests can enjoy farm-fresh produce, wildlife encounters, and sustainable living practices.

Best pet friendly South Island unique stays

Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best pet friendly unique accommodations

Lodge ∙ 1 Bedroom ∙ 3 Guests - South Island
No reviews

Lodge ∙ 1 Bedroom ∙ 3 Guests

chalet, Chaslands
This self-catering chalet near Chaslands, South Island, offers convenient access to the Catlins Forest Park, a major South Island attraction, situated approximately a short distance from the park's entrance.
Sleeping up to three guests, the one-bedroom lodge boasts two bathrooms, a full kitchen with a fridge, a large deck with Adirondack chairs, and modern amenities including Wi-Fi, a 32" flat-screen TV, and DVD player; pets are welcome.
The Overleigh Shearers Quarters - South Island
9.4 39 reviews

The Overleigh Shearers Quarters

cabin, Port Levy
This Port Levy cottage is situated 15.3 km from Church Bay and 16.1 km from Quail Island, offering easy access to Lake Forsyth and Montgomery Park Scenic Reserve within a 32 km radius.
The self-catering property sleeps four guests in one bedroom and one bathroom, featuring a fully equipped kitchenette, patio, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking.
Clifftop Studio With Ocean Views - South Island
10 79 reviews

Clifftop Studio With Ocean Views

cabin
This studio apartment is located on Omau clifftop in Cape Foulwind, offering direct access to the beach, surfing spots, and coastal walks, with private parking available. Ideal for couples, this intimate space features a kitchen with a fridge, a garden, and is pet and family friendly, providing a tranquil environment for disconnecting from technology amidst the natural beauty of the coastline.
The Cyberhut - South Island
8.6 4 reviews

The Cyberhut

cabin, Underwood
This Underwood cottage is situated 4.5km from Anderson Park and within 9.6km of the Anderson Park Art Gallery and the South African War Memorial.
The self-catering lodge sleeps two, features one bedroom and bathroom, laundry facilities, and is perfect for a peaceful getaway near Otakaro Park and St Paul's Presbyterian Church.
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