Cottage holiday rentals in South Island

Find and book unique cottages on Airbnb

Top-rated cottage rentals in South Island

Guests agree: these cottages are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top guest favourite

A private hot tub is seen in the foreground, surrounded by lush greenery and a well-kept lawn. The charming cottage in the background is softly illuminated from its windows, highlighting the welcoming outdoor space as twilight begins to settle.

Cottage in Fairlie

Cricklewood Farmstay, Alpaca walk and hot tub

Just under 10 minutes from Fairlie, 40 min from Lake Tekapo and only 1.5 hr from MT Cook, is our super cute historic Farmers cottage. Watch and pet our friendly animals from the cottage and experience some of the best star gazing in New Zealand from our beautiful hot tub. During your stay we offer a free animal tour of 1 hour, whereby you will visit some of our friendly animals incl bottle feeding our pet lambs (Aug-Dec), an Alpaca walk 🦙, and our friendly horses, cats, dogs and chickens 🥰

LocationFamilyPets

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 246 reviews

Guest favourite

A charming two-story cottage is framed by lush vegetation, with large windows allowing natural light to fill the interior. The Southern Alps rise majestically in the background, capped with snow, creating a striking contrast against the warm tones of the cottage.

Cottage in Ōkārito

Beautiful cottage with mountain and sea views

Watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea from the deck of this beautiful character cottage, or walk out the door directly across to the beach, with stunning views back to the Southern Alps. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the Ōkārito Lagoon, surrounding National Park, native forest walks and bird life, including tui, kōtuku (white heron) and kiwi. Listen to the sound of the sea & the call of ruru NZ's native morepork owl. High quality linen, towels, Free Wi-Fi, fridge/freezer, tea and coffee included.

LocationFamilyAmenities

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 340 reviews

Top guest favourite

A charming wooden house is set against a backdrop of lush greenery and blue sky. The entrance is framed by a wooden fence and a stone pathway lined with flowering plants. Large windows allow natural light to illuminate the inviting facade.

Cottage in Ōkārito

Okarito Cottage - Tigh Na Mara

Beautiful, small but comfortable cottage close to the Tasman sea, native bush and Ōkārito Lagoon. Open plan kitchen/living area with well equipped kitchen and a very efficient wood burning fire. There has been a new heat pump installed, so the place is toasty warm. Short stairs leading down to bathroom and a queen bedroom. Amazing views of the southern alps from different points in and around the house. This is a unique space with a homely feel by the sea in a friendly and welcoming community.

FamilyValueHeating

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 219 reviews

Guest favourite

A quaint cottage is set against a backdrop of vibrant autumn trees, with their leaves in shades of orange and yellow. The serene lake is visible in the distance, reflecting the clear sky. The landscape is spacious, enhancing the sense of tranquility.

Cottage in Lake Pukaki

Cosy Cottage Overlooking Lake Pukaki

Situated in a sheltered cove by the shores of Lake Pukaki, our cottage offers peace, quiet and privacy. With breathtaking views of the lake and the beautiful Mackenzie basin countryside, it is the perfect place a special getaway. Only 35 minutes drive to Aoraki Mt Cook, 30 minutes from lake Tekapo and 13 minutes to twizel Pukaki lakeside getaway cottage is completely self contained, with wi-fi and all linen is provided. A truly stunning setting with abundant fresh air and wide open space.

FamilyLocationAmenities

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

Top guest favourite

The cottage features a distinctive A-frame design with large windows, allowing natural light to enter the interior. Surrounded by lush greenery, a patio is visible with outdoor seating. A wooden shed is adjacent to the cottage, enhancing the serene outdoor environment.

Cottage in Tapawera

Hidden Holiday Cottage

A cute wee cottage for a hideaway. Surrounded by trees and bird life in a peaceful setting. The Motueka River is a 5 min walk. We have a sculpture garden and gallery on site showcasing the work of David Carson and other artists. Free entry to our guests. A great central location for Nelson, Motueka, Kaiteriteri and Nelson lakes. We are conveniently located right on the Great Taste cycle trail. Fully self contained cottage. For a look around check out this virtual tour: https://bit.ly/2PB0Yqt

LocationFamilyLayout

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 309 reviews

Superhost

An outdoor deck features a luxury hot tub overlooking a lake and mountains. Large glass doors provide seamless access between indoor and outdoor spaces. A wooden chair is positioned beside the tub, inviting relaxation in this serene setting.

Cottage in Lake Tekapo

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.

LocationValueGrill

4.82 out of 5 average rating, 928 reviews

Top guest favourite

A wooden bench is positioned in the foreground, overlooking a serene pond bordered by lush greenery. Flanking the bench are planters with vibrant flowers. In the background, the cottage with a dark roof is visible, surrounded by tall grasses and sun loungers.

Cottage in Akaroa

The Herb Farm Cottage - An Idyllic Rustic Retreat

The Herb Farm Cottage is a world of it's own in rural Grehan Valley. Here in the country garden stream side setting of the former Herb Farm (New Zealand's first opened in 1976) you will find the original cottage with the ground floor studio/bed sitting room and adjoining parlour. Relax and enjoy the special setting of flowers, wishing well, native bird life, frogs, friendly free range chooks, ducks on the pond and a great night sky. All just a 15 minute stroll to the village and seaside.

FamilyLocationCondition

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 154 reviews

Guest favourite

A gravel driveway leads into a stunning valley embraced by snow-capped mountains under a bright blue sky. Tall grass sways gently along the fence line, while lush greenery flanks both sides of the pathway, creating a serene natural landscape.

Cottage in Makarora

The Cottage at WildEarthLodge

Our charming cottage looks directly into the incredible Wilkin valley. This is a truly special private sanctuary in the wilderness for one to two people. From this fully self contained space you can explore the Mt Aspiring National park, Blue Pools, Isthmus Peak, Haast, Wanaka and Hawea. Settle in by the fire on the most comfortable couch and enjoy the view, the serenity and beauty of this place. Soak in the outdoor bath to star gaze on clear nights. The Cottage is an adults only space.

FamilyValueCheck-in

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 417 reviews

Top guest favourite

An outdoor spa pool is situated under a covered patio, offering serene views of lush farmland and distant mountains. Soft steam rises from the water, while a spacious lawn and outdoor seating area invite relaxation. The clear sky enhances the peaceful ambiance.

Cottage in Franz Josef Glacier

Lakeview Cottage with Spa Pool

Located on the edge of sprawling valley farmland with views of glistening Lake Mapourika, towering mountains and rainforest at the base of the New Zealand Southern Alps. Unwind in nature's embrace. Sink into an outdoor bean bag on the expansive lawn or take a long soak in the large spa pool whilst taking in the panoramic views and sensational sunsets! You are welcome to pick from the herb garden for your cooking. The cottage is located a 5-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier township.

FamilyValueCleanliness

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 642 reviews

Top guest favourite

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

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.

ValueFamilyQuiet

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 463 reviews

Top guest favourite

A panoramic view of the coastline is visible through a large glass window. Rolling waves gently lap against the shore, while lush greenery frames the scene, creating a serene and natural environment.

Cottage in Cape Foulwind

Okari Cottage

Sunny private retreat with stunning coastal views . Look out to the waves from your bed with a deserted beach at the end of the driveway. Explore the local area beaches, surfing , river, seal colony and the Cape Foulwind walkway all within 2km . Good cell phone reception and wireless internet. The Cottage is very private, brand new and 50m from the main house. Full kitchen facilities with dishwasher and deck with BBQ and outside fire brazier. Smart TV with Netflix for lazy days.

LocationFamilyNearby

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 829 reviews

Top guest favourite

A modern cottage is showcased under a vast starry sky, surrounded by natural terrain. Soft lighting highlights the exterior features and outdoor seating area, creating a serene atmosphere. A pathway leads to the entrance, enhancing the inviting and tranquil setting.

Cottage in Twizel

Stargazing & Hot Tub: Near Tekapo & Mt Cook!

The perfect place for people who love a peaceful countryside location with starry skies and beautiful views! Wake up to peace, quiet & birdsong, not traffic… Our cottage is on a beautiful 10-acre property in a dark sky reserve, and has amazing mountain views. It’s 17km from the town of Twizel, and offers both privacy & modern comforts. Visit Tekapo or Mt Cook then relax in a wood-fired hot tub under the stars. Very safe location. 50 mins to Mt Cook/Tekapo. 2.5 hrs to Queenstown.

FamilyValueSolo travel

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 895 reviews