
House holiday rentals in South Island
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Top-rated house rentals in South Island
Guests agree: these houses are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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
Luxury Lake House on Edge of Lake & Glacier Views
Off-grid luxury retreat, perched on a small lake nourished by a pristine mountain stream, 3 minutes from Franz Josef Glacier. Nestled on a 30 acre wilderness property with river access, breathtaking views of Croz Glacier, towering snow-capped peaks, a reflective lake, Fritz Falls and lush rainforest. Indulge in king-sized beds, amazing sunsets, an outdoor shower and a barrel sauna with a panoramic window, all beside nature's own swimming pool. Experience unparalleled luxury embraced by nature.
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 100 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
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.
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 199 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, 261 reviews
Crystal Waters- Suite 4
An incredible setting, with unparalleled views of Lake Whakatipu and The Remarkables, Crystal Waters is a brand new property conveniently located within suburban Queenstown, but away from it all. Our suites contain upscale rustic interiors, wood burners, full kitchens, and floor to ceiling windows to enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views from every room. Whether it be a mountain adventure or a romantic getaway, our suites are the perfect spot for treasured memories.
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 204 reviews
Gibb’s Guesthouse
Charming 2-bedroom home in the heart of Franz Josef, Glacier Country. Set beside a peaceful wilderness area teeming with birdlife. Surrounded by native forest, fauna and mountain views, it’s a cosy, private retreat perfect for couples, friends, or small families. Fully equipped with a kitchen, heating, and comfy living space. Just minutes from glacier walks, Waiho hot tubs, world class restaurants and local cafés—ideal for a quiet West Coast getaway.
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 889 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.
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 331 reviews
Stunning House with Spa & Incredible Views
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in tranquility at our stylish waterfront home with a spa. With panoramic views that will leave you in awe, this retreat offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Unwind and relax in the spa pool overlooking the amazing views. Please note that the spa may not be to top temperature when you arrive, as previous guests may turn it off.
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 251 reviews
Luxury Dark Sky Hideaway Cabin A - 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.
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews
Mamaku Hideaway - with outdoor bath
Nestled in native bush, Mamaku Hideaway is a private one-bedroom tiny home for two. Relax with full kitchen, bathroom, and a large covered deck. Cozy up around the fire pit and make some s’mores. With a secluded outdoor bath surrounded by bush views, and private short walking tracks through ferns right on your doorstep. Just 5 minutes from town, yet a world away - your perfect retreat in nature.
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 149 reviews
Ocean View Bach
Escape to a modern and cozy holiday rental in Motunau, New Zealand. This charming two-bedroom retreat offers breathtaking ocean views, a well-equipped kitchen, and a luxurious master bedroom. Explore the picturesque village and relax on the safest beach in Canterbury. Whether you seek nature or romance, this rental has it all for an unforgettable stay.
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 239 reviewsPopular amenities for house rentals in South Island
House rentals with a pool

Unbeatable Luxury • Spa - Sauna - Cold Plunge
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews
Valley Views hot tub - soak in the stars
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews
Insane Hidden Paradise - Pool, Spa & Harbour Views
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 110 reviews
LUXURY HOME WITH LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviews
Luxury Stay with Spa, Gym and Games Room
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 125 reviews
Takapō Retreat | Lake Tekapo
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 136 reviews
Tawhitinui: Connect with Nature
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 190 reviews
Moutain & Water view from private hot tub spa pool
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 306 reviewsWeekly house rentals

The Lookout: Waterfalls & Ancient Rainforest Walks
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 207 reviews
Mountain View Abode - Spectacular Views In Twizel
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 378 reviews
Kai’s Retreat - No Clean Fee / EV Charger Onsite
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews
Kahikatea House
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews
Mary Mac’s Luxury Lake House Retreat - Lake Tekapo
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 655 reviews
Wairua Moana ~ Spirit of the Sea
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews
Outdoor Tubs | Location | Tranquility - ML4186
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 280 reviews
Mathesons Escape
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 220 reviewsPrivate house rentals

Architectural home at Arrow
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 342 reviews
Luxury escape in Nelson Lakes district
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 229 reviews
Peaceful Private 2 Bedroom Lodge - stunning views
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviews
Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront Haven
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviews
The Black House - Stars & Alpine Views
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 171 reviews
Drifting Sands - Beachfront Retreat Jacuzzi & Fire
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviews
Pukaki Lakeside House - Fantastic Views
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews
Straw bale house by the sea
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviewsDestinations to explore
- Apartment rentals South Island
- Ski-in/ski-out rentals South Island
- Rentals with an accessible-height bed South Island
- Boutique hotels South Island
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- Holiday home rentals South Island
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- Rentals with a sauna South Island
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- Loft rentals South Island
- Family-friendly rentals South Island
- Rentals with a hot tub South Island
- Private suite rentals South Island
- Rentals with a kayak South Island
- Waterfront rentals South Island
- Rentals with an accessible-height toilet South Island
- Nature eco lodge rentals South Island
- Barn rentals South Island
- Tiny house rentals South Island
- Guest house rentals South Island
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- House rentals New Zealand
- Things to do South Island
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- Things to do New Zealand
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- Wildlife New Zealand
- Water sports New Zealand
- Outdoors New Zealand
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