Vacation rentals in South Island

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Top-rated vacation rentals in South Island

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The living area features a light-colored sofa facing a wall-mounted television. Large glass doors provide stunning views of the surrounding hills and harbor. A small coffee table sits on a light area rug, and a ceiling fan facilitates airflow while natural light fills the space.
Home in Diamond Harbour
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 127 reviews

Black Diamond

Kick back and relax in this calm, stylish space at the end of a private laneway. Accessed by external steps, the house is split into two pods connected by an external deck. Lofty ceilings and timber walls create a warm bach-like interior with large ceiling fans in each room and a log burner fire. Glass sliders open out to dramatic views of the harbour and hills. Enjoy a drink or BBQ on the large deck or unwind with a hot outdoor bath. Just a 5-minute walk from the local supermarket and brew bar.

Top guest favorite
A country cabin is nestled among rolling hills, featuring a modern design with large windows that provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The outdoor area includes a small patio with seating, blending harmoniously into the natural environment.
Hut in Lake Hāwea
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 306 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
The cabin's exterior is illuminated at dusk, showcasing large glass windows and a wooden façade. The surrounding landscape features low vegetation, while a dramatic cloud formation highlights the sky above, enhancing the cabin's serene setting.
Cabin in Hopkins Valley
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

The Temple Cabin (North Point) Wilderness Comfort

Outdoor Adventure Awaits! Now offering Horse Treks!! The Temple Cabins (North Point) is at the head of Lake Ohau right at the beginning of the Hopkins Valley. It's a very special part of the NZ Alps. This cabin features a skylight for stargazing from the loft! 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 more

Top guest favorite
A panoramic view captures the rolling green hills meeting the serene coastline at dusk. The soft colors of sunset illuminate the landscape, with ocean waves gently lapping at the shore and a secluded dwelling nestled among the native bushland.
Guesthouse in Little Akaloa
5 out of 5 average rating, 128 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
An elevated luxury getaway is nestled among native bush, displaying a modern structure with large windows and a spacious deck. The exterior features earthy tones, and a gravel driveway is visible with a parked vehicle nearby, creating a serene, inviting environment.
Cottage in Fox River
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 370 reviews

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

Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. Spectacular elevated views will greet you on arrival, inviting you into our piece of paradise. This one-bedroom luxury getaway is a private, warm, and relaxing place to unwind. Surrounded by native bush and oceanic views over the Tasman, it's a perfect getaway to absorb the beauty of the West Coast and everything it has to offer. The stunning coast road is right at your doorstep and is regarded as one of the top 10 drives in the world.

Guest favorite
An outdoor boulder bathtub, crafted from natural rock, is positioned against a stunning alpine backdrop. Snow-capped mountains rise majestically in the distance, while the rugged terrain is dotted with dry grasses. A serene evening light casts warm hues over the landscape.
Cabin in The Rise, Ben Ohau
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 199 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
Two glasses filled with red wine are placed on a wooden tray resting between twin outdoor claw-foot baths. A bottle of wine stands beside the glasses. The sun sets on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the surrounding landscape.
Guesthouse in Christchurch
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews

The Vineyard Retreat Summerhill Heights Vineyard

Escape to the Vineyard Retreat, Romantic Glamping, just a short drive from Christchurch City. Imagine soaking in twin outdoor claw-foot baths, gazing at the Southern Alps as the sunset paints the sky with someone special by your side. This retreat offers tranquility and breathtaking views. Soak in the serenity of the Canterbury Plains and surrounding views. While our Tasting Experience takes a seasonal pause, you can still purchase our wines via messaging.

Top guest favorite
Two wooden chairs are positioned on a wooden deck, facing a stunning coastal sunset. The horizon displays vibrant colors as the sun descends, with gentle waves visible in the distance. A lantern sits on a barrel between the chairs, providing a cozy ambiance.
Home in Purakauiti
5 out of 5 average rating, 311 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Franz Josef / Waiau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 293 reviews

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.

Guest favorite
An interior view of the shipping container showcases a spacious bed with soft linens and pillows. Large glass doors provide an unobstructed view of the outdoor deck featuring a bathtub, table, and scenic mountainous landscape in the background.
Guesthouse in Luggate
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 394 reviews

Secluded Couples Escape Wanaka

Welcome to Tahi... A beautiful, private shipping container nestled amongst native Kānuka trees. Enjoy all the modern luxuries of wifi, air conditioning and great water pressure, but feel a world away from the crowds. Relax in your outdoor bath on the deck under the stars with an uninterrupted night sky view. Enjoy all that Wanaka has to offer only 15 minutes drive away, then escape to our retreat to relax.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of the retreat features a spacious deck with two wooden chairs positioned to enjoy sunset views. The building is designed with large glass windows, and its modern architecture blends with the rocky landscape, offering a serene connection to nature.
Villa in Nelson
5 out of 5 average rating, 110 reviews

Peak View Retreat

Welcome to Peak View Retreat - the ultimate luxury accommodation in New Zealand perfect for romantic honeymoons and couples getaways. Unwind and experience peace like never before while you’re immersed in this spectacular environment. Enjoy crackling fireside cosy evenings, star gazing from the woodfired hot tub and working up a sweat in the sauna.

Top guest favorite
A modern lodge is situated under a starlit sky, featuring a covered deck with gentle lighting. Expansive glass doors open to an inviting interior. Relaxation areas are visible, set against a tranquil landscape, enhancing the connection with nature.
Farm stay in Puketiro
5 out of 5 average rating, 246 reviews

Beresford Heights - The Catlins

Located at the top of Table Hill, 400m above sea level in the heart of The Catlins, Beresford Heights offers boutique accommodation with breath-taking views. This romantic retreat is an off the grid get-away for couples craving a luxurious peaceful escape from their busy lifestyles, in a private magical hideaway.

Popular amenities for Te Waipounamu / South Island vacation rentals

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