
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.

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 reviewsPopular amenities for South Island family-friendly rentals
Family-friendly home rentals with a hot tub

Hightide River Escape - w/Outdoor Bath.
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 253 reviews
Shearvue Farmstay with FARM TOUR & Spa | Fairlie
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 990 reviews
Place for 2 with a sea view 1 Bedroom / W/ Hot Tub
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 470 reviews
Dark sky’s Queenstown. 2 bed 2 bath + hot tub
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 184 reviews
Outdoor Tubs | Location | Tranquility - ML4186
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 280 reviews
Hillside Retreat & Woodstoked Hot Tub
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 414 reviews
Skylark Cabin – Private Luxury Escape with Hot Tub
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 506 reviews
Mamaku Hideaway - with outdoor bath
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviewsFamily- and pet-friendly home rentals

Peel Forest Hanger Hut
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews
The Barn at WildEarthLodge
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 666 reviews
Gibb’s Guesthouse
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 889 reviews
Straw bale house by the sea
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviews
Twizel Ecostays. Romantic retreat.
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews
Coombes Cottage, St Bathans
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 384 reviews
Charming Seaside Villa in the Heart of Wainui
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 539 reviews
Eco Lux Mapua | Views, Outdoor Bath & Fire
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 348 reviewsFamily-friendly home rentals with a pool

Unbeatable Luxury • Spa - Sauna - Cold Plunge
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews
Stunning House with Spa & Incredible Views
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 251 reviews
Valley Views hot tub - soak in the stars
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews
Modern guest house with stunning Ocean views
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 551 reviews
Marytrickle in the Heart of the Dark Sky Reserve
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 289 reviews
LUXURY HOME WITH LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviews
Tiny House | Whare iti
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews
Luxury Stay with Spa, Gym and Games Room
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 125 reviewsDestinations to explore
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