The widest selection of unusual accommodations in South Island
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Accommodation type
Rating
12 Unique places to stay in South Island
9.6 52 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£97/nighttotal: £194 (2 )
Riverside Retreat
2 2
farm , 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.
10 4 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£120/nighttotal: £360 (3 )
Kowhai Cabin - Serene Scandi Escape In Hokitika
2 4
cabin , Hokitika
This Hokitika lodge is a 12-minute walk from the National Kiwi Centre and Hokitika Beach. This 132 square meter cottage accommodates up to four guests, featuring two bedrooms, one bathroom, a full kitchen with a dishwasher, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and barbecue facilities, with on-site parking and a washing machine.
9.2 530 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£99/nighttotal: £198 (2 )
Hydrangea Cottages
1 2
chalet , Punakaiki
Hydrangea Cottages are located on a hillside in Punakaiki, just a short distance from the Pancake Rocks and the Punakaiki lagoon, offering stunning views of the Tasman Sea or the native garden landscapes of the South Island. The accommodation has consistently received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness and overall user experience. Each cottage offers a tranquil and secluded escape, with private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, heating, tea and coffee making facilities and a kitchen or kitchenette. Guests can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views from a private balcony or patio, and can also take advantage of the on-site garden, parking and self check-in service.
9.7 64 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£111/nighttotal: £333 (3 )
Cosy Cabin
2 4
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.
10 106 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£105/nighttotal: £210 (2 )
Alpacas Off Grid - Eco Cabin
1 2
apartment , Takaka
This apartment is located in Takaka, a short distance from the town centre and approximately 54 miles from Nelson Airport. The property has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall guest experience. The self-catering apartment has one bedroom and one bathroom, covering 60 square metres. Guests can enjoy a private outdoor hot tub, a garden, and alpaca encounters, as well as a fully equipped kitchen, a terrace, and free parking.
9.7 195 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£73/nighttotal: £146 (2 )
Farm Therapy- Farm Stay & Digital Detox Retreat
1 2
farm , Tapawera
Farm Therapy, a rural retreat in Tapawera, is situated approximately 60 kilometres from Nelson Airport. This one-bedroom property, boasting a 10-square-metre floor area, offers guests a jacuzzi, open-air bath, private patio, and fireplace, accommodating up to two people.
9.4 771 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£94/nighttotal: £282 (3 )
Hunters Moon
3 4
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.
9.9 186 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£74/nighttotal: £148 (2 )
Stargazer's Cabin
1 2
cabin , Saint Arnaud
This Saint Arnaud lakeside cottage is located 1km from Nelson Lakes National Park and 4.1km from the Classic Boat Museum, offering stunning lake views and easy access to hiking trails and historical attractions. Sleeping up to three guests, the self-catering lodge boasts a fully equipped kitchenette with oven, microwave and fridge, a private shower, and a peaceful garden; DVD player and electric kettle are also provided.
9.0 1 review
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£147/nighttotal: £441 (3 )
Kowhai Cabin - Serene Scandi Escape In Hokitika
2 4
cabin , Hokitika
This Kowhai holiday cottage in Hokitika is situated a mere 3-minute walk from Hokitika Beach, 0.96 kilometres from Hokitika Airport, and 38.6 kilometres from Greymouth Train Station. This 132 square metre dwelling accommodates up to seven guests with two bedrooms and one bathroom, offering air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, and free private parking.
10 2 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£106/nighttotal: £318 (3 )
Private And Relaxing Pet Friendly Cabin Near Barrytown And Punakaiki
1 4
cabin , Barrytown
This secluded eco-cabin in Barrytown offers a unique tiny home adventure, located a short distance from Rapahoe Beach and the Pancake Rocks. This off-grid dwelling accommodates four guests with a Queen bed downstairs and two single mattresses in the mezzanine, featuring an outdoor kitchen, wood-fired bush bath, fire pit, and a unique outdoor shower.
9.4 3 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£77/nighttotal: £154 (2 )
Tranquil River Setting, Cosy Chalet For Two, Pet Friendly.
1 2
chalet , Aniseed Valley
This Aniseed Valley cottage is ideally situated within 15km of Fossil Ridge Winery, Richmond Mall, Hoglund Art Glass, Pic's Peanut Butter World, and McCashin's Brewery. The self-catering property sleeps two guests in one bedroom and one bathroom, offering Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and pet-friendly accommodation.
9.0 2 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£138/nighttotal: £414 (3 )
Cosy Cabin In The Loop
1 4
cabin , Te Anau
This cosy cabin in Te Anau is located 1.8 kilometres from the Glow Worm Caves and 2.9 kilometres from Ivon Wilson Park, offering convenient access to local attractions. This accommodation sleeps up to seven guests and includes air conditioning, free WiFi, private parking, and a fully equipped kitchen, providing a comfortable base for exploring Fiordland.
Best family friendly South Island unique stays
Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best family friendly unique accommodations
9.2 2587 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£131/nighttotal: £262 (2 )
Larnach Lodge
1 2
chalet , Dunedin
Larnach Lodge at Larnach Castle is a 4-star hotel located in Dunedin, overlooking the Otago Harbour and just a short drive from the historic Portobello township. It has consistently received excellent user reviews, making it a popular choice for travellers seeking a unique and memorable stay. The lodge itself is housed within the stunning Larnach Castle, a grand Victorian mansion with beautiful gardens. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, room service, and babysitting services, along with access to the castle's fascinating history and the surrounding scenic landscapes.
8.8 3478 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£37/nighttotal: £74 (2 )
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park
1 2
mobile home , Hanmer Springs
This mobile home is located in Hanmer Springs, a short drive from the thermal pools, a farm park, and a scenic hill. It has received very good ratings for user experience, location, and cleanliness. The mobile home has one bedroom and one bathroom. It offers a range of amenities, including a kitchen, air conditioning, a swimming pool, a terrace, a garden, a fitness centre, parking, and free Wi-Fi.
8.7 29 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£129/nighttotal: £258 (2 )
Alpine View Lodge
1 2
chalet , Wanaka
Alpine View Lodge, a family-friendly Wanaka holiday lodge, offers convenient access to the town's attractions. This self-catering lodge boasts a jacuzzi, spa, and in-room fireplaces, alongside free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and parking; it includes a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, microwave, and fridge.
9.5 35 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£113/nighttotal: £226 (2 )
Seaspray Cabin
2 2
cabin , Hinahina
Seaspray Cabin, a beachfront lodge, is located in Hinahina, 93 kilometres from Dunedin Airport, offering direct access to a private beach and picturesque sea views. This family-friendly accommodation covers 6 square metres, features two bedrooms, one bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and dishwasher, air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, private parking, and a garden with outdoor seating, accommodating up to four guests.
Best South Island unusual places with a garden
9.0 345 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£74/nighttotal: £148 (2 )
'The Crib' On Legacy Vineyard
1 2
chalet , Alexandra
'The Crib' on Legacy Vineyard is a self-catering chalet located in Alexandra, 35 kilometres from the Central Otago District Council and 89 kilometres from Queenstown Airport. This one-bedroom chalet, with a floor area of 20 square metres, offers a fully equipped kitchenette, a garden with outdoor seating, and free Wi-Fi, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the vineyards.
9.4 22 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£192/nighttotal: £576 (3 )
*** Lake Villa 465 ***
3 4
chalet , Hanmer Springs
LAKE VILLA 465 is a charming chalet located in Hanmer Springs, just a short walk from the village centre and within easy reach of the stunning natural beauty of the area. This family-friendly chalet has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The chalet offers 130 square metres of space, comfortably accommodating up to six guests across its three bedrooms. Enjoy the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen, a private garden for outdoor relaxation, a terrace with mountain views, free Wi-Fi, and private parking.
10 1 review
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£155/nighttotal: £465 (3 )
Lakeside Heart Of Old Cromwell Our Tiny Home Is A Gateway To Big Adventures
1 4
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.
9.4 16 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
£214/nighttotal: £642 (3 )
Walk To Town 41b Alpine Chalet
2 4
apartment , Queenstown
This charming chalet is situated in central Queenstown, just a short distance from Steamer Wharf and Skyline Queenstown, offering easy access to the town's main attractions while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. It boasts excellent user ratings, suggesting a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The chalet features one bedroom and one bathroom, spanning 48 square metres and comfortably accommodating up to four guests. Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, a Jacuzzi, a terrace, a garden, a spa, parking, and internet access, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
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
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.
10 1 review
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£675/nighttotal: £1350 (2 )
Fairytale Log Cabin With Hot Tub At Homewood Forest Retreat
5 2
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.
10 209 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£156/nighttotal: £312 (2 )
The Bird's Nest - Secluded Getaway!
1 2
cabin , Christchurch
The Birds Nest is a secluded Christchurch cabin near the Heathcote River, offering easy access to city amenities and gelato shops. This pet-friendly self-contained unit sleeps three, features a full kitchen, bathroom, private hot tub, and parking; a port-a-cot is available for infants (at an extra cost).
10 8 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£618/nighttotal: £1236 (2 )
Ultimate Secluded Hideaway - Pekepeke Farm Cabin
1 2
cabin , Queenstown
Pekepeke Farm Cabin, a secluded designer dwelling, is situated at the base of The Remarkables mountain range, offering an alpine experience near Queenstown. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodge accommodates two guests and features a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, a private garden with a hot tub, and a spacious deck, with floor-to-ceiling glass providing views of the mountains.
Best pet friendly South Island unique stays
Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best pet friendly unique accommodations
9.9 335 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£112/nighttotal: £224 (2 )
Little Red School House
1 2
farm , Oamaru
Little Red School House, a renovated farmhouse stay near Oamaru, offers a tranquil escape approximately 129 kilometres from Richard Pearse Airport. This one-bedroom property features a fully equipped kitchen, open-air bath, tennis court, and various on-site activities including table tennis and darts, alongside complimentary Wi-Fi and a welcome package.
9.3 24 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£94/nighttotal: £188 (2 )
Fantail Cottage
1 2
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.
9.6 28 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£67/nighttotal: £134 (2 )
Ahaura River Valley Views A Short Walk From Bach
1 2
cabin , Lake Brunner
This riverside cabin is located 31 kilometres from Brunner Industrial Site and within 51 kilometres of Victoria Forest Park and Greymouth Golf Club, offering easy access to a range of activities and attractions. The self-catering cabin sleeps three guests and features a fireplace, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the surrounding area.
9.8 476 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
£99/nighttotal: £198 (2 )
Wildside Lodge (Romantic Off-grid Cabin)
1 2
chalet , Westland District
This eco-certified lodge is located on a lake in Westland District, 1.5 miles from Willberg Walk Trail Access, 40 kilometres from The Bushmans Centre and Te Wahipounamu, and 43 kilometres from Ross Goldfields Information & Heritage Centre. The lodge has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall user experience. This one-bedroom chalet has a floor area of 1 square metre and can accommodate two guests. The chalet offers amenities such as a kitchen with a fridge, a spa tub, a garden, a terrace, parking, and is pet-friendly.