Family-friendly holiday rentals in South Island

Find and book unique family-friendly homes on Airbnb

Top-rated family-friendly rentals in South Island

Guests agree: these family-friendly homes are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top guest favourite

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

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.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 206 reviews

Superhost

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

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.

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 193 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.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 342 reviews

Top guest favourite

Two wooden rocking chairs are positioned on a wooden deck, facing a panoramic view of the ocean and hills. A small side table is placed between the chairs, enhancing the serene outdoor setting, where the horizon meets the sky.

Cottage in Purakaunui

Catlins Coastal Hideaway, The Catlins, South Otago

Explore a new, off-grid Airbnb on the Catlins coast. This modern, sustainable accommodation offers panoramic coastal, and native forest views. Newly built, it provides a secluded retreat where you can enjoy peace and tranquility while listening to birdsong. The hot tub on the deck adds a touch of luxury, allowing you to unwind surrounded by nature. Experience comfort and environmental harmony in this eco-friendly getaway, perfectly situated to connect you with the natural beauty of the Catlins.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews

Top guest favourite

Cabin in Ben Ohau

Cosy alpine cabin near Mt Cook and Tekapo

Welcome to Ruataniwha Hut, an intimate wood fired cabin in the high country of the Southern Alps. Wake to coffee and mountain views. Spend your days exploring Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park. Return to unwind under a blanket of stars. Set in an international dark sky reserve, the hut is built for couples and small families craving a simple escape. Ruataniwha Hut is the perfect base for your adventures. Mt Cook / Hooker Valley Track 50 min Tekapo 40 min Twizel 15 min IG: @ruataniwha_hut

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 400 reviews

Top guest favourite

Guest house in Little Akaloa

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.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 176 reviews

Guest favourite

A spacious deck extends out from the house, featuring steps leading down to the lush green landscape. A hot tub is positioned on the deck, providing a view of the rolling hills and the Pacific Ocean in the background, under a clear blue sky.

Home in Dunedin, Karitane

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.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 328 reviews

Top guest favourite

A modern dwelling is framed by lush gardens and a rocky path, with the scenic hills rising in the background. Soft lighting captures the building's sleek exterior, highlighting its vibrant entrances and large windows, while the surrounding flora adds natural texture.

Home in Kaikōura Ranges

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.

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 259 reviews

Top guest favourite

A fire pit is set beside a tranquil pond, with flames flickering and casting a warm glow. Lush greenery surrounds the water, reflecting the calm surface, while stones outline the fire area, creating a cozy outdoor setting for relaxation.

Guest house in Kokatahi

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.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 880 reviews

Top guest favourite

An outdoor space features two patterned chairs facing the stunning view of Lake Hāwea and distant mountains. A wooden dining table and umbrella provide additional seating options. Lush greenery and gently sloping grass complete the serene landscape under a clear blue sky.

Cottage in Wānaka

Lake View Earth Cottage

Lake View Earth Cottage sits 134 metres above Hawea township and overlooks Lake Hāwea and surrounding mountains with world-class 180° views. The hand-crafted earth home is nestled in native New Zealand bush and has rustic wooden beams throughout. The house comprises an open-plan living and dining area and outdoor dining, with spectacular views of the lake and mountains. Located up a rural gravel road, hidden away from suburban areas, the home is bound to make you say WOW.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 368 reviews

Top guest favourite

A spacious living area is presented with large floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the rocky terrain. A plush, sectional sofa in soft tones is centered around a light-colored coffee table. Two comfortable armchairs provide additional seating, complemented by a compact dining set nearby.

Home in Ben Ohau

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.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviews

Top guest favourite

Cabin in Franz Josef

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.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 368 reviews