
Holiday rentals in South Island
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Top-rated holiday rentals in South Island
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Skylark Cabin – Private Luxury Escape with Hot Tub
Skylark Cabin is a private, luxury escape, nestled serenely within the awe-inspiring landscape of the Mackenzie Region. Surrounded by soaring mountain ranges and the rugged, ethereal beauty of an expansive valley, this isn’t just a comfortable place to stay, it’s an experience in itself. Witness the mesmerising clarity of a starry night sky. Connect with nature and escape from the pace of daily life. Skylark Cabin is 10km to Twizel, 50-min to Mt Cook, 4hrs to Christchurch, & 3hrs to Queenstown.

Hawea Country Hut Beautiful mountain cabin
Take it easy at this unique country cabin. Breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and farmland. Soak in the outside bath. Close to Lake Hāwea hiking and biking trails. Boating and Cardrona and treble cone ski fields. The township of Wanaka with its many award winning restaurants and cafes is only 20km away. The cabin is warm and cozy, sunny, wood burner & heat pump. location is nestled between Grandview and Lake Hāwea station. We have no light pollution making for incredible stargazing.

Secluded modern rural retreat with coastal views
'Big Hill Luxury Retreat' - a bespoke luxury rural escape nestled amongst native New Zealand bushland, stunning Banks Peninsula farmland and dramatic coastline. With views across the Pacific Ocean and a private walking track to your own secluded beach. The elevation and isolation of Big Hill provides a unique contrast of total solitude and unparallel panoramic views - rural New Zealand at its best. 90 mins to Christchurch and 35 mins to Akaroa, close enough to explore - a world away to escape.

Peak View Cabin - Ben Ohau - Stylish Seclusion
We invite you to enjoy the magnificent tranquility of Peak View Cabin. Nestled in 10 acres of golden tussock with expansive views of the Ben Ohau Range and beyond. Relax, unwind and de-stress in the beautiful isolation with ever changing mountain views. A short 15 minute drive from Twizel, the cabin has easy access to all the natural amenities the Mackenzie Region is renowned for. Such as - cycling & mountain biking, tramping & hiking, snow sports, hunting and fishing to name but a few.

Black Mountain Rukuruku
Black Mountain is situated in the foot hills of the Kaikoura Seaward Ranges and 6km North of the Kaikoura township. The home is designed for short and long term stays, is very private and enjoys a rural aspect. Bedroom, living, dining, bath and deck all enjoy mountain and garden views and it is possible to see the ocean from the surrounds. On arrival you will find freshly some freshly prepared provisions - probably enough for a little breakfast for two on me for your first morning!

The Rise. Ben Ohau
New-Sept 23 The Rise is exclusive-use accommodation for two, located on private land within Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, where a tranquil aesthetic creates an immersive experience; a grounding into the rugged surroundings of our alpine region. Here, we honour the slow unfolding of time and embrace the imperfections of nature, seeing beauty in the raw, unfiltered world around us. Experience it all with a deeper sense of connection - to each other, and to our surroundings.

Glenorchy Couples Retreat
Welcome to the Glenorchy Mountain Retreat (GMR), a boutique cabin nestled amidst the breathtaking peaks of Glenorchy. Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, unwind in style with a soak in the outdoor bath and immerse yourself in the serenity of your own private mountain haven. Situated at the headwaters of the stunning Lake Wakatipu and only a 40min scenic drive from Queenstown, Glenorchy offers world-class scenery and an array of memorable experiences for all.

The Nest at Hurunui Jacks (outdoor bath & firepit)
So much more than a place to sleep - toast marshmallows around a private fire, take a bike on the West Coast Wilderness trail, kayak on our little lake! The Nest is a stand alone self contained unit with outdoor bath/shower, close to but separate from the main house. Set on 15 acres of private land, Hurunui Jacks has the Nest and a glamping tent nestled in beautiful West Coast native bush. A small private lake, historic water race & the Kaniere River are on your doorstep.

The Temple Cabin (Steeple Peak) Wilderness Comfort
Outdoor Adventure Awaits! Now offering Horse Treks! The Temple Cabins Steeple Peak is located at The Temple, at the head of Lake Ohau right at the beginning of the Hopkins Valley. A remote area well known in the outdoors community. Situated on a classic New Zealand high country station, the cabin gives it's guests access to one of the truly remote areas of the Southern Alps. Enjoy horse riding from our farm, skiing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and much much more.

Beautiful eco retreat, wow views & outdoor bath
Take refuge at our cosy, tranquil and eco-cabin set in 9 hectares of classic Central Otago landscape. Rikoriko Retreat features stunning panoramic views of Lake Dunstan, Pisa mountains, and rock formations from the living area. Nordic influences include Danish lighting and fireplace, outdoor bath, solid timber flooring. Private, rural location close to vineyards and a walk to the lake. Only 8mins drive to Cromwell, 35mins to Wanaka, 50mins to Queenstown.

Tahakopa Bay Retreat, Catlins, South Otago
Takahopa Bay Retreat is in the heart of the Catlins and offers sweeping panoramic coastal and established native Forest views. The Retreat was established by the Clark family who live on, and farm the surrounding land. The Clark's have been farming the 685 hectare coastal property in the Catlins for the last 25 years. Cameron and Michelle would love to share their secluded retreat with you to enjoy the privacy and peacefulness it provides.

Luxury Wilderness Cabin on Private Lake
Luxury off-grid cabin in absolute wilderness nestled on the edge of a small lake fed by a pristine mountain stream a 3-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier village. Sensational views of snow-capped mountains, the lake, glacier, Fritz Falls & rainforest. Super King bed, sunsets, outdoor stone bath, cedar barrel sauna with panoramic window & nature's swimming pool on your doorstep. Experience luxury amidst nature.
Popular amenities for South Island holiday rentals
Other great holiday rentals in South Island

Omaka Valley Hut

Unique & Private Treehouse with Outdoor Bathtub

Mariners Cabin: Your seaside escape

Unique Mountain View Cabin with Outdoor Bath

Place for 2 with a sea view 1 Bedroom / W/ Hot Tub

Luxurious • SPA, SAUNA & Cold Plunge Pool

The Lookout - boutique mountain hideaway

Stargazer’s Luxury Retreat
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Te Waipounamu / South Island located?
Te Waipounamu, also known as the South Island of New Zealand, lies to the south of the North Island, separated by Te Moana-o-Raukawa, or Cook Strait. The island is known for dramatic mountains, deep lakes, and varied coastlines.
When is the best time to visit Te Waipounamu / South Island?
Late spring through early autumn is frequently suggested, when temperatures range from 44–74°F (6–23°C) and rainfall is moderate. Winter attracts those interested in snow sports, with cooler temperatures and alpine environments.
What are some things to do near Te Waipounamu / South Island?
You can explore Fiordland National Park, visit the cultural sites of Ōtepoti/Dunedin, or discover traditional markets and regional wineries. Outdoor adventures like hiking and glacier walks are often recommended.
How is the weather near Te Waipounamu / South Island?
Te Waipounamu / South Island has cool winters, with lows often around 28–46°F (-2–8°C), and mild summers near 49–74°F (9–23°C). Rainfall is typically moderate year-round, and alpine regions can be colder.
Destinations to explore
- Smoking-friendly rentals South Island
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