The widest selection of unusual accommodations in South Island

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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

Walk To Town 41b Alpine Chalet - South Island
9.0 3 reviews

Walk To Town 41b Alpine Chalet

chalet, Queenstown
This Queenstown lodge offers convenient access, being an 18-minute walk to the Skyline Gondola and Luge and 8.5 kilometres from Queenstown Airport.
This 86 square metre, one-bedroom apartment accommodates up to seven guests and features a kitchenette, air conditioning, and parking, providing a peaceful retreat 8.5 kilometres from the Queenstown Event Centre.
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.
Lavender Row Farm - South Island
9.5 66 reviews

Lavender Row Farm

farm, Outram
Lavender Row Farm is situated in Outram, just 22 kilometres from the Taieri Gorge Railway and Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, offering a peaceful retreat in the countryside. The property has received excellent ratings for its location and overall experience.
This two-bedroom farm stay provides 49 square metres of space, comfortably accommodating up to five guests. It features a modern kitchen with a dishwasher, a terrace, a garden, and free Wi-Fi, making it ideal for a relaxing family getaway.
Beach Bungalow - South Island
9.8 762 reviews

Beach Bungalow

bungalow
This charming bungalow in Timaru is just a short walk from the town centre, offering easy access to cafes, restaurants, and bars overlooking Caroline Bay. It has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and user experience.
The property has three bedrooms and one bathroom, comfortably accommodating up to seven guests. It features a fully equipped kitchen, a private garden, and a deck with stunning ocean views, providing a peaceful retreat for families and groups looking for a relaxing holiday.

Best South Island unusual places with a garden

Cosy, Comfortable, Rustic Cabin In The Absolute Heart Of The Catlins - South Island
8.6 11 reviews

Cosy, Comfortable, Rustic Cabin In The Absolute Heart Of The Catlins

cabin, Tahakopa
This Tahakopa cottage is situated in the Tahakopa district, conveniently located 9.8km from Matai Falls, 18.5km from Purakaunui Falls, and within 26km of Cathedral Caves and Catlins Lake.
The self-catering lodge offers one bedroom, one bathroom, sleeping two guests, and features a kitchenette with a fridge, a private patio, and internet access.
Samadhi Hypedome - South Island
9.9 198 reviews

Samadhi Hypedome

bubble
This Hypedome bubble accommodation in Collingwood, Golden Bay, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Ruataniwha Inlet and is situated near a private bush track for exploration.
The self-contained unit sleeps two guests and features a kitchen with a fridge, a bathroom with a shower and compost toilet, a hot tub, and a wood-burning fire; a complimentary sound bowl meditation session is also provided.
The Log Cabin Mt Lyford - South Island
9.9 445 reviews

The Log Cabin Mt Lyford

cabin
This cosy cabin is located just a short distance from Lyford, offering easy access to the Southern Alps and their breathtaking views. The cabin has excellent user, location, and cleanliness ratings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodge sleeps up to four guests and boasts a well-equipped kitchen, a fireplace for warmth, and a private garden with decks for relaxing. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including exploring the surrounding bush, going for walks or bike rides, swimming in a nearby tarn, and accessing a private ski field in winter.
Hunter Farm - South Island
9.1 42 reviews

Hunter Farm

farm, Kononi
Hunter Farm is located in Kononi, a peaceful rural area situated 87 kilometres from Dunedin Airport.
The farm offers a range of amenities, including a private terrace, a garden, free parking, and WiFi, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

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 and its dramatic coastal scenery near Nugget Point, Otago. Further afield, the West Coast's Hokitika Gorge boasts stunning turquoise waters. For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, explore the less-visited sections of Fiordland National Park, perhaps taking a hike to a less-known waterfall.
  • Are there any notable festivals that take place in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island hosts many events, though large-scale international festivals are less common than in some other areas. The Queenstown Winter Festival is a significant winter event, featuring various winter sports and entertainment. Smaller, local festivals celebrating arts, crafts, and food are held throughout the year in various towns and cities across the island.
  • What types of natural environments are typical in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island's landscapes are incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from rugged mountain ranges like the Southern Alps, encompassing Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, to expansive glaciers such as Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. There are also vast plains like the Canterbury Plains, stunning fiords in Fiordland National Park, and beautiful beaches along the West Coast and east coast.
  • Are there popular sporting events or activities in the South Island of New Zealand?

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

    Packing layers is crucial, as the weather can change rapidly. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential, along with warm layers like fleeces and thermal underwear, even in summer. Good hiking boots are a must for exploring the many trails. Sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat, is also important, 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 markets, such as the Oamaru Farmers Market, offers a chance to interact with producers and sample regional produce. Taking a guided tour focusing on Maori culture provides opportunities to learn about the indigenous culture and traditions. Many smaller towns have local craft shops and galleries where you can chat with artisans.
  • What are the best local foods in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island boasts fantastic cuisine. Try the fresh seafood, particularly Bluff oysters. Lamb is a staple, often featured in hearty roasts or pies. Local cheeses, such as those from Canterbury, are also excellent. Don't forget to sample the region's award-winning wines from Central Otago and Marlborough (though Marlborough is technically in the North Island).

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

Yuki's Chalet - Luxury Ski Chalet, Sleeps 14, Spectacular Mountain Views; Golf - South Island
No reviews

Yuki's Chalet - Luxury Ski Chalet, Sleeps 14, Spectacular Mountain Views; Golf

chalet, Windwhistle
This Windwhistle golf lodge is situated 2.1km from the Rakaia Gorge and within 14.5km of Washpen Falls and the Rakaia Gorge Walkway.
This spacious 274 square metre property sleeps 14 guests in 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, boasting a jacuzzi, tennis court, private garden, barbecue, and free Wi-Fi.
Fantail At Bluestone Retreat - South Island
9.2 108 reviews

Fantail At Bluestone Retreat

farm, Leeston
Fantail at Bluestone Retreat is a farm stay located 43 kilometres from Christchurch Railway Station and is situated in the peaceful countryside of Leeston. The farm stay has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with a good location rating.
The farm stay has one bedroom and one bathroom with a floor area of 15 square metres, accommodating up to two guests. Amenities include a private hot tub, a garden with outdoor dining, a fully equipped kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, and private parking.
Classy Cabin - In Town - Spa Pool - South Island
8.8 122 reviews

Classy Cabin - In Town - Spa Pool

house, Queenstown
This Queenstown apartment, a 17-minute walk from the Skyline Gondola and Luge and 8km from Queenstown Airport, offers easy access to key attractions.
The self-catering flat features a 26 square metre floor area, one bedroom, one bathroom, a private hot tub, free Wi-Fi, and parking, sleeping up to two guests.
Matai Peak -Remote Hideaway, Experience Coastal Nz - South Island
9.8 21 reviews

Matai Peak -Remote Hideaway, Experience Coastal Nz

cabin
This secluded Conway Flat cottage boasts stunning coastal views of Banks Peninsula and Kaikōura, situated in the Conway Flat district with the Clarence River visible in the distance.
The self-catering retreat sleeps two, featuring a kitchen with a fridge, a jacuzzi, a garden, parking, and luxurious outdoor amenities including a wood-fired hot tub and outdoor bath; a complimentary cheese and champagne board awaits on arrival.

Best pet friendly South Island unique stays

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

Lakeside Heart Of Old Cromwell Our Tiny Home Is A Gateway To Big Adventures - South Island
10 3 reviews

Lakeside Heart Of Old Cromwell Our Tiny Home Is A Gateway To Big Adventures

cabin, Cromwell
This lakeside tiny home in Old Cromwell, a 45-kilometre drive from Queenstown and Wanaka, is conveniently located near the Goldfields Mining Centre.
The accommodation offers a queen bed and double sofa bed for up to four guests, with amenities including a kettle, toaster, fridge, and BBQ facilities, and is pet-friendly with internet and air conditioning.
Mahakipaoa Cabin - South Island
9.0 19 reviews

Mahakipaoa Cabin

cabin, Linkwater
This Linkwater cottage is located in the Linkwater district, approximately 32 kilometres from Picton Airdrome Airport.
This compact 18 square metre dwelling accommodates up to five guests, featuring a separate bedroom, a kitchenette, a private balcony, and complimentary parking, with pets welcome.
Privacy, Tranquility, Wildlife On Your Front Lawn! - South Island
10 10 reviews

Privacy, Tranquility, Wildlife On Your Front Lawn!

farm, Leeston
This Leeston self-catering holiday home is situated 0.16km from Lake Ellesmere, offering easy access to watersports and scenic walks, and is also within a 32km radius of Lincoln University and the Lincoln Event Centre.
Sleeping six guests across three bedrooms and one bathroom, this property boasts a kitchen with microwave and dishwasher, a jacuzzi, terrace, garden, parking, and excellent internet access; nearby attractions include Larcombe Vineyard and the Port Hills.
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.
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