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

Peak Sport Chalet - South Island
9.7 338 reviews
South Island
27/06 – 28/06
SG$274/nightfor 1 night

Peak Sport Chalet

2 4
chalet , Wanaka
The Peak Sport Chalet is located just a 5-minute walk from Lake Wanaka and a 5-minute drive from the town centre, offering a peaceful escape while still being close to the action. This chalet has received excellent ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall user experience.
The chalet features a private garden setting and a sun terrace with lawn area, perfect for enjoying the views of Mount Roy. It comes equipped with a full kitchen, a dishwasher, underfloor heating, and a cosy log fire, making it ideal for a comfortable stay.
Explore The West Coast Of Golden Bay From The Luxury Of Your Chalet - South Island
10 3 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$215/nighttotal: SG$430 (2 )

Explore The West Coast Of Golden Bay From The Luxury Of Your Chalet

2 2
chalet , Mangarakau
This Mangarakau holiday home is situated 3.4 km from Kahurangi National Park, within 40 km of Pakawau Beach and Golden Bay, offering easy access to hiking, coastal walks, and other outdoor pursuits.
The two-bedroom lodge sleeps five guests, includes one bathroom, internet access, and boasts an excellent user rating; nearby attractions include Farewell Spit and Collingwood Recreation Ground (within 52 km).
Mt Potts Lodge - South Island
8.9 126 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$219/nighttotal: SG$438 (2 )

Mt Potts Lodge

1 2
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.
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park - South Island
8.8 3478 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$64/nighttotal: SG$128 (2 )

Alpine Adventure Holiday Park

1 2
glamping , 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.

Best South Island unusual places with a garden

Walk To Town 41b Alpine Chalet - South Island
8.5 2 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
SG$328/nighttotal: SG$984 (3 )

Walk To Town 41b Alpine Chalet

1 4
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.
Fantail At Bluestone Retreat - South Island
9.3 99 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$74/nighttotal: SG$148 (2 )

Fantail At Bluestone Retreat

1 2
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.
Walk To Town 41a Alpine Chalet - South Island
South Island
27/06 – 28/06
SG$562/nightfor 1 night

Walk To Town 41a Alpine Chalet

3 4
chalet , Queenstown
This Queenstown apartment is located a 17-minute walk from the Skyline Gondola and Luge and 0.6 miles from the Queenstown Lakes District Council.
This family-friendly 130 square metre flat offers 3 bedrooms for up to 11 guests, featuring a kitchen with fridge, microwave oven, and dishwasher, air conditioning, a terrace, garden, and complimentary private parking and WiFi.
*** Lake Villa 467 *** - South Island
9.4 83 reviews
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
SG$313/nighttotal: SG$939 (3 )

*** Lake Villa 467 ***

3 4
chalet , Hanmer Springs
LAKE VILLA 467 is situated in Hanmer Springs, Canterbury, a picturesque town known for its thermal pools and stunning mountain scenery, about 80 miles from Kaikoura Airport. The property has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and user experience, making it a top choice for travellers seeking a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The spacious three-bedroom holiday home, covering 130 square metres, comfortably accommodates up to six guests. This well-equipped chalet offers a private garden, a terrace with mountain views, free parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi, 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 West Coast's Hokitika Gorge, with its vibrant turquoise water, or the Ngarua Caves near Takaka, offering stunning limestone formations. Further afield, the remote Kepler Track offers incredible hiking opportunities away from the usual tourist crowds, and the charming town of Oamaru, with its Victorian architecture and penguin colony, is often overlooked.
  • Are there any notable festivals that take place in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island hosts many events, but some notable ones include the Queenstown Winter Festival, a large-scale winter celebration with various activities, and the World Buskers Festival in Christchurch, showcasing international street performers. Smaller, local events are abundant throughout the year, so checking local listings closer to your travel dates is always a good idea.
  • 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, Fiordland's stunning fiords (like Milford Sound), glaciers like Franz Josef and Fox, expansive plains like the Canterbury Plains, and diverse coastal areas, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs.
  • Are there popular sporting events or activities in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Absolutely! Queenstown is a hub for adventure sports, with bungy jumping, white-water rafting, and skiing/snowboarding being hugely popular. Other activities include hiking the many trails, kayaking, and cycling. Many towns host local sporting events throughout the year, particularly rugby and cricket.
  • What special gear or clothing is recommended for the climate in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Packing layers is key. The weather can change rapidly, even within a single day. Bring waterproof and windproof outerwear, warm layers (fleece or merino wool), sturdy hiking boots, and comfortable walking shoes. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is also essential, even on cloudy days, as the sun's rays can be strong at altitude.
  • What activities allow you to experience local traditions and interact with residents in the South Island of New Zealand?

    Visiting local markets (like the Oamaru Farmers Market) is a great way to experience local produce and crafts. Consider staying in a farm stay or participating in a guided tour focusing on Maori culture to learn about the indigenous history and traditions. Many local pubs and restaurants offer a friendly atmosphere to chat with locals.
  • Is the South Island of New Zealand known for any unique natural displays or phenomena during certain seasons?

    Yes! During spring, the wildflowers bloom spectacularly in many areas, particularly in the alpine regions. Autumn brings stunning colours to the beech forests. The winter months offer opportunities to see snow-capped mountains and glaciers. The glowworm caves are a unique sight year-round.
  • What are the best local foods in the South Island of New Zealand?

    New Zealand lamb is renowned, and you'll find many delicious variations throughout the South Island. Seafood is also abundant, with fresh crayfish, mussels, and salmon being popular choices. Try local cheeses, particularly those from Canterbury, and indulge in some of the excellent wines from the Marlborough region.
  • What are the best adventurous activities in the South Island of New Zealand?

    The South Island is an adventure playground! Bungy jumping in Queenstown, white-water rafting on the rivers of Westland, hiking the Routeburn Track or Milford Track, kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, and skiing or snowboarding in the Southern Alps are all highly regarded options. The options are truly vast.

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

Fairytale Log Cabin With Hot Tub At Homewood Forest Retreat - South Island
10 1 review
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$1163/nighttotal: SG$2326 (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.
Yuki's Chalet - Luxury Ski Chalet, Sleeps 14, Spectacular Mountain Views; Golf - South Island
South Island
25/06 – 28/06
SG$1089/nighttotal: SG$3267 (3 )

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

7 4
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.
Tasman Holiday Parks - Christchurch - South Island
8.7 7723 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$48/nighttotal: SG$96 (2 )

Tasman Holiday Parks - Christchurch

1 2
resort , Christchurch
Tasman Holiday Parks - Christchurch is located in the Canterbury Region, a short drive from both Christchurch city centre and the international airport. The park has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The park offers a range of accommodation options, including self-catering units with kitchens and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities and activities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, games room, and bike hire.
Cabin With A Hot Tub - South Island
10 78 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$313/nighttotal: SG$626 (2 )

Cabin With A Hot Tub

1 2
cabin , Punakaiki
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).

Best pet friendly South Island unique stays

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

Viking Hut Frigg Set Amid Rainforest W/hot Tub - South Island
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$626/nighttotal: SG$1252 (2 )

Viking Hut Frigg Set Amid Rainforest W/hot Tub

1 2
cabin , Kaiata
This Kaiata cottage is situated 2.7km from Greymouth Golf Club and within 9.6km of the Left Bank Art Gallery and West Coast Rail Trail.
The self-catering property offers one bedroom, one bathroom, a private hot tub, and a garden, sleeping up to two guests and providing easy access to local attractions including the Pounamu Pathway Māwhera and Jade Country Greymouth.
Royale On Cheese - South Island
9.8 36 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$338/nighttotal: SG$676 (2 )

Royale On Cheese

3 2
chalet , Castle Hill
Royale on Cheese is a chalet situated in Castle Hill, just 18 kilometres from Craigieburn and 15 kilometres from Broken River Ski Field, offering easy access to popular outdoor activities.
The 170 square metre chalet sleeps up to 19 guests and boasts a fully equipped kitchen, a private garden and terrace, a Jacuzzi, and a fireplace, making it ideal for families or groups seeking a comfortable and spacious retreat.
Wacky Stays - Unique Farm-stay Glamping Rentals, Free Animal Feeding Tours - South Island
8.7 737 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$169/nighttotal: SG$338 (2 )

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

1 2
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.
Riverside Cabin In Akaroa - South Island
9.3 3 reviews
South Island
24/07 – 26/07
SG$112/nighttotal: SG$224 (2 )

Riverside Cabin In Akaroa

1 2
cabin , Akaroa
This Riverside Cabin is located in Akaroa, offering a peaceful garden setting by the river, a short distance from the town's attractions.
This 22 square meter holiday home accommodates up to three guests in one bedroom, featuring a shared kitchen with a microwave and fridge, a terrace with garden views, and complimentary private parking, with daily buffet breakfast served.
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