Find unique places to stay 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

Fairytale Log Cabin With Hot Tub At Homewood Forest Retreat - South Island
10 2 reviews

Fairytale Log Cabin With Hot Tub At Homewood Forest Retreat

cabin, Alexandra
This log cabin is located in a private forest just 5km from Alexandra and the Otago Rail Trail, 10km from Clyde and an hour from Queenstown, Wanaka and the ski fields. It is a peaceful retreat, perfect for exploring the Central Otago region.
This spacious holiday home covers 460 square meters and comfortably sleeps up to 10 guests. Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, a hot tub, a terrace and a garden, as well as access to a private spa pool. Guests can enjoy nearby cycling trails, magical picnics and explore the surrounding forest.
Hunters Moon - South Island
9.4 770 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.
Riverside Retreat - South Island
9.6 53 reviews

Riverside Retreat

manor house, Waimakariri District
This charming farmhouse is located in the Waimakariri District, a short drive from Rangiora Racecourse and within easy reach of Lake Pukaki and Darjon Vineyard, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The property has received excellent user ratings, signifying a high standard of comfort and service.
This spacious farmhouse sleeps up to 9 guests, providing ample room for families or groups of friends. It offers a range of amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, a terrace, a garden, and a fitness centre, as well as the opportunity to experience life on a working farm.
Te Whare Waipara - South Island
10 1 review

Te Whare Waipara

manor house, Broomfield
This farm stay is situated in Broomfield, North Canterbury, a 15-minute drive from Amberley township and within easy reach of the Waipara Hills and Waipara Springs Winery. The surrounding area offers a peaceful rural setting with the added bonus of being close to local wineries and attractions.
The property offers a spacious and modern four-bedroom home that can accommodate up to eight guests. The farmhouse features a fully equipped kitchen, ducted air conditioning, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and access to a river running through the property, making it an ideal choice for families or groups looking for a relaxing and comfortable stay.

Best South Island unique accommodations with a garden

A Tiny Home Like No Other! - South Island
10 18 reviews

A Tiny Home Like No Other!

cabin
This Christchurch hillside retreat, situated on Cashmere Hill, is 6km from the city centre, offering easy access to the Port Hills and Lyttelton.
The stylish one-bedroom cottage sleeps two, boasting a mezzanine bedroom, well-equipped kitchen with dishwasher, private deck, and abundant walking and biking trails nearby.
Leithfield Beach Holiday Park - South Island
8.4 260 reviews

Leithfield Beach Holiday Park

glamping, Leithfield
This mobile home is located in the Leithfield Beach Holiday Park, just 42km from Christchurch, offering a tranquil escape to the coast. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The mobile home offers one bedroom and a kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and dishwasher. You can enjoy a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, and a garden with a terrace, all within a family-friendly environment.
Mt Potts Lodge - South Island
8.9 126 reviews

Mt Potts Lodge

chalet, Ashburton Lakes
This lodge is situated in the Mt Potts area of Ashburton Lakes, offering direct access to pristine ski slopes and winter sports facilities.
This family-friendly property provides complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a restaurant, bar, and abundant equipment for various activities, with a dedicated ticketing service available for booking local adventures.
Lodge ∙ 1 Bedroom ∙ 2 Guests - South Island
No reviews

Lodge ∙ 1 Bedroom ∙ 2 Guests

chalet, Moeraki
This Moeraki self-catering lodge is situated on the South Island, offering convenient access to the stunning Moeraki Boulders and other coastal attractions.
The one-bedroom dwelling boasts two bathrooms, sleeps two guests, and features a private courtyard with an optional heated outdoor bath, a shared kitchen, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

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 Nugget Point Lighthouse on the Catlins Coast for stunning coastal scenery and wildlife viewing. The West Coast's Hokitika Gorge offers vibrant turquoise waters, and the secluded beaches of Farewell Spit are a haven for birdlife. Further inland, the lesser-known Routeburn Track provides incredible hiking amidst mountains and forests, a less crowded alternative to the Milford Track.
  • Are there any notable festivals that take place in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island hosts many events. The World Buskers Festival in Christchurch is a major international event, while Queenstown hosts numerous events throughout the year, often associated with adventure sports. Smaller, local festivals celebrating arts, crafts, and food are common throughout the region, varying by season and location.
  • What types of natural environments are typical in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island boasts incredible diversity. You'll find dramatic mountain ranges like the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Glaciers like Franz Josef and Fox carve their way through the landscape. There are also vast stretches of coastline, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, as well as lush rainforests like those found in Fiordland National Park. Extensive grasslands and high-altitude tussocklands are also present.
  • Are there popular sporting events or activities in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Adventure sports dominate! Queenstown is the adventure capital, famous for bungy jumping, white-water rafting on the Kawarau River, and skiing/snowboarding at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Other popular activities include hiking the Milford Track, kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, and mountain biking in various locations.
  • What special gear or clothing is recommended for the climate in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Pack layers! The weather is highly variable, even within a single day. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential, along with warm layers like fleece jackets and thermal underwear. Good hiking boots are a must for exploring trails. Sunglasses and sunscreen are crucial, even on cloudy days, due to the high UV index. In winter, consider bringing warm hats, gloves, and scarves.
  • What activities allow you to experience local traditions and interact with residents in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Visiting local farmers' markets offers a chance to sample regional produce and interact with producers. Many towns offer guided walks or tours that highlight the area's history and culture. Staying in smaller, family-run accommodations can provide opportunities to learn about local life. Participating in a Maori cultural experience, such as a hangi (traditional earth oven meal) and cultural performance, is a great way to connect with the indigenous culture.
  • Is the South Island of New Zealand known for any unique natural displays or phenomena during certain seasons?

    Yes, the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) are visible in the winter months from the southern parts of the South Island, particularly in areas with minimal light pollution. The spring brings stunning wildflower displays in various regions, while the autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage in many areas. The changing seasons dramatically impact the landscape.
  • What are the best local foods in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Seafood is a must-try, especially fresh crayfish and Bluff oysters. Lamb is a staple, often served as a roast or in hearty stews. Try the local cheeses, particularly those from the Canterbury region. Hokey pokey ice cream is a classic Kiwi treat. Many restaurants feature creative dishes using local ingredients, reflecting the region's bounty.
  • What are the best adventurous activities in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The options are endless! Bungy jumping and white-water rafting in Queenstown are iconic. Hiking the Milford Track or Routeburn Track offers incredible scenery. Kayaking or boating in Abel Tasman National Park provides a unique perspective. Heli-hiking and glacier exploring are also popular, offering breathtaking views and thrilling experiences.

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

Cabin With A Hot Tub - South Island
10 83 reviews

Cabin With A Hot Tub

cabin
This Punakaiki eco-lodge boasts breathtaking Tasman Sea views, a secluded hilltop location ten minutes north of Punakaiki, and proximity to the scenic coastal road between Greymouth and Westport.
The self-contained cottage offers one bedroom, one bathroom, sleeping two guests, and features a private hot tub, Starlink internet, a gas oven, and a wood-burning stove, plus nearby Sunday markets and Wednesday jam nights at Fox River (a couple of kilometres away).
Hightree Chalets - South Island
10 6 reviews

Hightree Chalets

cabin
This secluded cabin offers a unique and tranquil retreat located a short distance from Peebles.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodge accommodates two guests and features a kitchen, air conditioning, a jacuzzi, and parking, providing an ideal base for relaxation and exploration.
Fairytale Log Cabin - Homewood Forest Retreat - South Island
9.8 5 reviews

Fairytale Log Cabin - Homewood Forest Retreat

cabin, Alexandra
The Fairytale Log Cabin is located in the Homewood Forest Retreat, 32 kilometres from Alexandra and 85 kilometres from Queenstown Airport, offering a tranquil escape surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The cabin consistently receives excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall user experience.
This five-bedroom, two-bathroom property spans 300 square metres and comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, a private hot tub, a fitness room, and a terrace with breathtaking views, making it ideal for families and groups seeking a relaxing and active getaway.
Glencree Luxury Chalets - South Island
9.3 94 reviews

Glencree Luxury Chalets

chalet, Kaikoura
Glencree Luxury Chalets is located in Kaikoura, just 16km from the town centre and 16km from Kaikoura Airport. The chalet has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
This one-bedroom chalet offers 123 square metres of space. Guests can enjoy a private balcony, a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a spa centre, a barbecue and a garden.

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.
Mohua Park - Catlins Eco Accommodation - South Island
9.6 36 reviews

Mohua Park - Catlins Eco Accommodation

chalet, Owaka
This chalet accommodation is situated in Owaka, Catlins, approximately 101 kilometres from Dunedin Airport.
This 40 square metre property offers a private entrance, one bedroom, one bathroom with a walk-in shower, a fully equipped kitchen including a fridge and microwave, air conditioning, a Jacuzzi, a terrace with mountain views, and on-site garden and barbecue facilities.
Caravan ∙ 1 Bedroom ∙ 2 Guests - South Island
No reviews

Caravan ∙ 1 Bedroom ∙ 2 Guests

trailer, Springvale
This luxury railway carriage, situated on the Otago Central Rail Trail near Alexandra in Central Otago, New Zealand, offers guests easy access to local wineries and walking/cycling trails.
The self-contained unit sleeps two, boasting a queen-size bed, two bathrooms, a kitchenette with fridge, freezer and microwave, plus a private deck, clawfoot bath, and internet access; kayaking and swimming are available at a nearby dam.
Fantail Cottage - South Island
9.3 25 reviews

Fantail Cottage

chalet, Hurunui
Fantail Cottage, a pet-friendly self-catering holiday home in Hurunui, is situated approximately 80 kilometres from Christchurch International Airport.
This 80-square-metre one-bedroom chalet offers free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a private garden, parking, and sleeps up to three guests, with a fully equipped kitchen including a microwave and fridge.
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