
Vacation rentals in South Island
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Top-rated vacation rentals in South Island
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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.
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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.
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Stargazer’s Luxury Retreat - Lake Tekapo
For those who fancy a luxury escape; Stargaze the Milky Way from your own luxury outdoor bath, then come inside to a toasty warm fire. Enjoy the comfort of a king size bed with luxury linen, looking directly through to the lake and mountains beyond. In the bathroom, relax in our freestanding bath or enjoy a rain shower for two. Take in unobstructed views of the lake and mountains from your lounge room by day, and cosy up on the couch or wool beanbag for a movie at night. This is paradise.
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Luxury Ocean View Retreat | Private Beach
Big Hill Luxury Retreat Ocean views across the Pacific Private walking track to secluded beach Large two-person bath Adults-only romantic retreat 90 minutes from Christchurch Rural escape nestled amongst native bush, Banks Peninsula farmland and dramatic coastline. Its elevation and isolation provide complete privacy and panoramic ocean views. 90 mins to Christchurch and 35 mins to Akaroa—close enough to explore, yet a world away to escape. Experience seclusion and connect with nature.
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An isolated retreat in a movie like setting.
See the curve of the planet while treating yourself to the best of N Z in a stylish designer house overlooking the Pacific ocean. Nestled among native trees, farmland and a landscaped kiwi styled backyard, is this charming home in a romantic location with a view that will take your breath away. If your looking to relax in comfort, in an isolated setting surrounded by the sea and rolling hills, with the odd Whale in winter and occasional Aurora, then this place will be perfect for you.
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Pure Lakefront. Corner Peak Cottage
Uninterrupted lake views await your next very special getaway. This retreat is a perfect blend of luxe and retro in an architecturally designed 1960's Cottage nestled in outstanding natural beauty. There is nothing between you and the spectacular lake view apart from some deep breaths, a wine and some down time. This is the best view in Lake Hawea! The Cottage sits at the front of the property with a fenced off and completely separate Corner Peak Studio at the back of the property.
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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.
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Black Mountain Rukuruku
Black Mountain is nestled in the foothills of the Kaikōura Seaward Ranges, 6 km north of Kaikōura township. Designed for short and longer stays, the home is private, peaceful, and set in a beautiful rural landscape. The bedroom, living and dining spaces, bathroom, and deck enjoy mountain and garden views, with glimpses of the ocean from the grounds. On arrival, you’ll find a small selection of freshly prepared provisions — enough for a simple breakfast or two, with our compliments.
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Omaka Valley Hut
Omaka Valley Hut is nestled in the Marlborough hill country, 20 minutes from Blenheim, New Zealand. This hut offers you a secluded and private retreat to relax, unwind and recharge in the country. Wake up to stunning views overlooking farmland, vineyards and the southern valleys. Explore the local world class wineries, sample delightful local produce, take a trip to the Marlborough Sounds, or bring your mountain bike or walking shoes and trial the track located behind the hut!
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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.
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Luxury Dark Sky Hideaway Cabin B - with Hot Tub
Dark Sky Hideaway is a secluded, luxury retreat set deep in the breathtaking Ben Ohau landscape. Surrounded by dramatic peaks and a vast rugged valley, it’s more than a place to stay - it’s a chance to slow down and reconnect. Soak under the stars in the private hot tub, in one of the world’s top dark sky reserves. Located just 15 mins from Twizel, 4 hrs from Christchurch, and 2.5 hrs from Queenstown.
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Luxury Wilderness Cabin on Private Lake
Luxury off-grid cabin 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.
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Popular amenities for Te Waipounamu / South Island vacation rentals
Other great vacation rentals in South Island

Stunning House with Spa & Incredible Views
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Hightide River Escape - w/Outdoor Bath.
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The Barn at WildEarthLodge
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Gibb’s Guesthouse
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Peel Forest Hanger Hut
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The Nest at Hurunui Jacks (outdoor bath & firepit)
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Warm, Cosy, Self-contained Cottage
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Luxury Dome with Hot Tub (Kārearea)
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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
- Rentals with an accessible height bed South Island
- Ski-in/ski-out rentals South Island
- Boutique hotels South Island
- Rentals with pools South Island
- Condo rentals South Island
- Farmstay rentals South Island
- Pet-friendly rentals South Island
- Cabin rentals South Island
- Dome rentals South Island
- Bed and breakfasts South Island
- Cottage rentals South Island
- Apartment rentals South Island
- Hostel rentals South Island
- Luxury rentals South Island
- Townhouse rentals South Island
- Rentals with beach access South Island
- Beachfront rentals South Island
- Rentals with a sauna South Island
- Family-friendly rentals South Island
- Rentals with a hot tub South Island
- Loft rentals South Island
- Private suite rentals South Island
- Hotel rooms South Island
- Vacation home rentals South Island
- Holiday park rentals South Island
- Rentals with an accessible height toilet South Island
- Serviced apartment rentals South Island
- Yurt rentals South Island
- Waterfront rentals South Island
- Barn rentals South Island
- Nature eco lodge rentals South Island
- Earth house rentals South Island
- Tiny house rentals South Island
- Chalet rentals South Island
- Rentals with lake access South Island
- Rentals with a kayak South Island
- RV rentals South Island
- Guesthouse rentals South Island
- House rentals South Island
- Rentals with breakfast South Island
- Villa rentals South Island
- Things to do South Island
- Cultural tours South Island
- Outdoors South Island
- Tastings South Island
- Art workshops South Island
- Things to do New Zealand
- Water sports New Zealand
- Wildlife New Zealand
- Outdoors New Zealand
- Tastings New Zealand
- Food tours New Zealand
- Cultural tours New Zealand
- Landmarks New Zealand
- Art workshops New Zealand
- Family travel hub Tips and inspiration
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