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

The Oceanview Suite
Discover the enchanting Mangamaunu Retreat, where breathtaking ocean and mountain views await you year-round. Nestled in a peaceful and secluded setting, our property offers some of the most spectacular vistas in Kaikōura. Wander through our five acres of gardens, featuring fruit orchards and sculpted native bush. Located on the Mangamaunu coastline, we’re just a two-minute stroll from the world-famous surf beach. Unwind and rejuvenate in one of New Zealand’s most stunning and unique locations.
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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.
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Beachfront Bliss - absolute beachfront stunner
Stunning beachfront home, right on the beautiful beach of Parapara, Golden Bay. The beach is literally a few steps from your door. Let the sound of the waves lull you to sleep and wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the ocean. Enjoy your warm sanctuary to hibernate and rejuvenate with unlimited wifi, smart TV and cellphone coverage, or have an action filled day on the beach, in the ocean or exploring the local native bush walks. Truly blissful - you won't want to leave your little haven!
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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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ParaPara River Retreat, tranquil, private, cosy
This well crafted stone cottage is close to beautiful Golden Bay bush walks, old historic gold workings, lonely beaches, the Mussel Inn, swimming holes and much more. A striking building nestled in a tranquil and private setting, makes for a relaxing stay that would suit couples and solo adventurers alike. Literally on Kahurangi National Park's doorstep! The host's partner has developed an extensive network of tracks , some easy walks and some more challenging, with great views of the bay.
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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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Black's Hut - Lakefront Cottage
Black's Hut sits on the shores of Lake Te Anau with expansive uninterrupted views of Fiordland. Built in 2022 with quality fixtures and furnishings, entertainment system and hot tub. Excellent unlimited wifi. Black's Hut has been specifically set up to accommodate adults with two separate bedrooms and bathrooms. Extremely private with extensive plantings. Bike track and reserve between the cottage and lake. Just a 15 minute walk along the lakefront to shops and cafes.
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Mountain View Abode - Spectacular Views In Twizel
Mountain View Abode is a spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with sweeping views of the Southern alps, on the edge of the picturesque high country town of Twizel. Set on 2 acres overlooking a private pond towards snow covered peaks, it’s also a stone's throw to the town square and shops, restaurants and cafes. Our home is situated in an exclusive position directly on the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, and is a perfect base for exploring Mount Cook National Park.
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Coastal Calm | Luxe Stay with Views, Bath & Fire.
Pōhutukawa Farm is a luxe, light-filled apartment with breathtaking views over the Waimea Inlet. Big windows, high ceilings and space to unwind, dance, or soak in the outdoor bath. Set on peaceful farmland with friendly animals, an outdoor fire, and a calm, minimal interior made for slow mornings and golden hour magic. Private, stylish and relaxed—ideal for a romantic escape or a joyful weekend with good tunes, good wine and wide open skies. Pure bliss.
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Wairua Moana ~ Spirit of the Sea
Spirit of the Sea is a thoughtfully redesigned and newly renovated seaside cottage with exceptional coastal views from all rooms, a large sunny outdoor deck area, and modern fittings. A short walk to Kaka Point's two beaches and village centre. Spirit of the Sea is a private yet central coastal escape designed as a couples retreat, not ideal for small children as there are a number of hazards such as steep unfenced cliff and a busy road.
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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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The Kakanui Cube
This fabulous little contemporary beach house is right across the road from the ocean. Stroll along the waterfront to Campbell's Bay surf break and the gorgeous sandy beach to All Day Bay. The Cube is the place to really relax and recharge enjoying the views and gorgeous sunrise and sunset. Chill out at home or get out for a surf or walk on the beach.
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Popular amenities for waterfront rentals in South Island
Waterfront apartment rentals

Lakeside Escape
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Bay Rise Lakeside Apartment
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Kakianau Retreat, Luxury Waterfront Unit A
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Luxurious accommodation at Tahunanui Beach
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Te Ora (Life) at the Beach- Luxury Beach Retreat
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Te Onepoto lodge Sumner, 151a TM road
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Kikorangi | Lake View, BBQ, A/C & Free Parking
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Waterfront 2-bedroom apartment with car park
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Waterfront house rentals

Lakefront Luxury
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Drifting Sands - Beachfront Retreat Jacuzzi & Fire
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Straw bale house by the sea
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Glacier Lake House
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Pukaki Lakeside House - Fantastic Views
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Waituhi at Whitehorse Bay ~ wrapped in nature
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Punakaiki Retreat
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Hidden Paradise in Christchurch
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Waterfront apartment rentals

Lakeview Haven
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"The Prospector on Miners"
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Rata - Q1 Apartments, Apt 1
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Incredible Views Lakeside in Queenstown
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