Best Lodges in South Island

The South Island of New Zealand has a wide range of landscapes from the rolling green hills of the Canterbury region to the rugged mountains of Fiordland National Park and the winelands of the Marlborough area. For those looking for a truly authentic New Zealand holiday, staying in a lodge is the way to go. Our hotel experts have compiled a collection of the best lodges in South Island selected on their design, location, amenities, and, of course, views. Whether you want a remote hideaway, a lodge with a spa, or a lodge with an excellent restaurant — there is something to suit most tastes and itineraries. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next getaway?

  • Hāwea Hotel Wanaka from €63

    Active Holiday  -  Brilliant for active types eager to sail, kayak, windsurf or fish on the lake before hiking, skiing & cycling in the mountains
    Families  -  Families will love the two-bedroom suites, complete with private balconies, and the fun games room
    Great walks  -  Hike part of the nearby Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand’s longest walking track
    Restaurant  -  The superb lake view restaurant champions fresh Central Otago produce
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A lakeside hotel with contemporary rooms & suites offering spectacular lake and mountain views. Two-bedroom suites and simpler hostel rooms are well-suited to families, groups or solo travellers. Enjoy water sports, a friendly bar a terrific restaurant and great events spaces. Fantastic. See More

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  • Lochmara Lodge Picton (Queen Charlotte Sound) 14 rooms from €81

    Wildlife Area  -  Book a tour of the lodge's stationary underwater observatory — one of 2 in NZ — for a family-friendly insight into marine life
    Birdwatching  -  Witness the amazing dawn chorus & speak to the team about Yellow & Red Crowned Kākariki, Weka & Blue Penguin conservation
    Back to Nature  -  Ideal for keen kayakers, hikers & wildlife enthusiasts eager to stay somewhere remote yet welcoming on the Sounds
    Families  -  Families will appreciate the plethora of activites and the flexible accommodation with multiple beds in studios
    SpaRestaurantGardenViewsNo pets

    Accessed by seaplane or water taxi, this relaxed eco-lodge on Lochmara Bay is perfect for couples, groups or families. Flexible room options have kitchenettes, balconies & simple, traditional interiors. Hike, kayak, paddle board or marvel at the underwater aquarium & conservation projects. Lovely. See More

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  • Queenstown Country Lodge Queenstown 5 rooms from €113

    Country Escape  -  Whether your idea of a rural break is pure adventure or just lounging with a good book in a hot tub, this lodge has you covered
    Golf  -  Play a round on one of the six golf courses within 45 minutes' drive, or watch the ISPS Handa New Zealand Open each March
    Active Holiday  -  Head to one of the nearby ski resorts for the day or use one of the hotel's bicycles for an adventurous day out
    Cycling  -  Hop on one of the hotel's bikes and explore more than 130km of surrounding trails
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A secluded lodge set in spectacular countryside outside of Queenstown. Boutique interiors have a chic contemporary feel and all the rooms offer mountain views. Breakfasts are served on the terrace and there's a hot tub to soak in after a day's adventuring. An indulgent and well located rural escape. See More

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  • Larnach Castle Dunedin (Otago Peninsula) 18 rooms from €97

    Hotel Entertainment  -  Guided tours of NZ's only castle and its magical gardens are a highlight - and they're included in your room rate
    Back to Nature  -  The area is renowned for its yellow-eyed penguins and albatross, a great base for wildlife enthusiasts
    Great walks  -  Take long walks along the Otago Peninsula Headland, looking out for native birdlife
    Country Escape  -  A unique experience to stay in lodges within the grounds of a family-owned castle
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Characterful accommodation in 35 acres of grounds surrounding New Zealand's only castle. The Lodge offers a truly traditional stay, while the affordable Stables are more contemporary. Savour four-course dinners in the castle's atmospheric dining room. A grand rural escape. Great for weddings. See More

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  • Rimu Lodge Hokitika (Rimu) 4 rooms from €129

    Fishing  -  Fish for perch or brown trout on Lake Mahinapua and Lake Kaniere, or try fly fishing on the Hokitika River and Mahinapua Creek
    Golf  -  See Mount Cook and the Southern Alps as you play a round at Hokitika Golf Club's Mahinapua Links
    Great walks  -  The Hokitika Gorge, Rimu Heritage and Lake Kaniere walks are superb
    Birdwatching  -  Westland district is only white heron breeding colony on west coast
    Disabled accessViewsNo pets

    Boutique eco-lodge overlooking Hokitika River and Southern Alps with four spacious suites. Owner-managed and committed to sustainable practices, this is a top spot for nature lovers and romantics. Close to Hokitika town and the west coast’s only white heron breeding colony. See More

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  • Awaroa Lodge South Island 26 rooms from €144

    Families  -  With space for up to six guests in Family Suites and stacks of activities, this is a great choice for a getaway with the kids
    Back to Nature  -  A beautiful escape for nature lovers in Abel Tasman National Park, with opportunities to spot dolphins, seals and birds
    Kayaking  -  Explore Awaroa Bay by sea kayak or stand-up paddleboard for encounters with penguins, seals and dolphins
    Sailing  -  Sailing adventures, complete with stops for sea swims or relaxed beach picnics, are a family favourite
    RestaurantGardenViews

    A 4-star wilderness lodge in Abel Tasman National Park. Chic, contemporary interiors complement retro-style furnishings. Rooms & suites all have sit-out decks with great views over native bush, wetlands and an organic kitchen garden. Family-friendly base for birdwatching, kayaking and walking. See More

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  • High Leys Lodge Patience Bay, Te Anau 3 rooms from €184

    Romantic Break  -  The small, intimate setting allows couples plenty of quiet and space, as well as opportunities to meet like minded travellers
    Active Holiday  -  A prime property for active visitors to Te Anau, with easy access to the lake, cycle trails and mountain ranges
    Back to Nature  -  Guests can immerse themselves in nature amongst the expansive gardens and surrounding Fiordland
    Charming  -  Endearingly small, charmingly decorated and contained in peaceful surroundings
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Set in 5 acres of luscious and verdant gardens, the High Leys Lodge is a modern, crisp and well presented yet cosy escape for adults. Share in a luxury lounge that encourages guests to get to know each other whilst taking in the sumptuous views of Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland National Park. See More

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  • Manakau Lodge Kaikoura 4 rooms from €184

    Active Holiday  -  Five minutes from the beach and offering a host of outdoor activities including riding, cycling, hiking, kayaking and more
    Wildlife Area  -  Spot whales, dolphins and seals with Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura or Kaikoura Kayaks
    Families  -  Book the whole 4-bedroom house for a fabulous trip with extended family & friends
    Self catering to rent  -  The house has a modern, well-equipped kitchen as well as a Weber BBQ
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A cosy four-room bungalow with a truly spectacular backdrop. This diminutive lodge in Kaikoura offers spectacular ocean and mountain views. Uncluttered contemporary rooms feature handmade wooden furniture, rain-showers, underfloor heating and scenic private patios. See More

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  • Retiro Park Lodge Nelson 2 rooms from €199

    Country Escape  -  A charming rural house covered in wisteria and set in 90 acres of farmland filled with miniture ponies and alpacas - idyllic
    Groups  -  With just two rooms this is the perfect property for two couples or a small group of friends
    Kayaking  -  Explore the coastline from Cable Bay Beach
    Swimming Pool  -  A tranquil and inviting outdoor pool
    Swimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A charming little lodge set in 90 acres of picturesque and rugged farmland with miniature ponies and alpacas dotted across it. The two rooms are spacious and traditionally styled with antiques, wooden floors and lovely views. An idyllic rural hideaway well suited for couples or small groups. See More

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  • Wanaka Homestead Wanaka 10 rooms from €158

    Groups  -  Special rates for group bookings of up to 21 guests- ideal for weddings, residential courses, conference stays or group holidays
    Country Escape  -  Borrow mountain bikes to explore local scenery, use a BBQ built from local stone and relax under-the-stars in the hot tub
    Self catering  -  Offers a choice of either luxury lodge or self-catering cottage accommodation
    Restrictions on children  -  Family friendly self-contained accommodation in choice of 2 cottages; or luxury boutique adult-only B&B in the main lodge.
    GardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A luxury B&B lodge (adult only) and a family-friendly self catering cottage set in a stunning location with mountain views, close to Wanaka Lake. Rural chic interiors are charming. Spend the day in the great outdoors before returning to relax in the hot tub under the stars. See More

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  • Matuka Lodge Twizel, South Island 4 rooms from €260

    Active Holiday  -  From hiking to cycling or fishing to observatory tours there's plenty to keep busy with here both night and day
    Back to Nature  -  Boasting a remote location right on its own trout pond, and overlooking the Southern Alps
    Cycling  -  Borrow one of the hotel's bicycles to explore the region at your own pace
    Great walks  -  Spend a day hiking in Mount Cook National Park
    Air conditioningGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A modern lodge boasting a spectacular and remote location overlooking the Southern Alps. With just four rooms this is an intimate stay. Bedrooms are bright and spacious with floor to ceiling windows allowing for guests to enjoy the views from the bed and bath. A luxury choice for a rural escape. See More

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  • Wanaka Haven Wanaka 5 rooms from €217

    Back to Nature  -  Appreciate the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island. Mountains merging into lakes, sunny crisp air and crystal clear waters
    Eco break  -  Geothermal underfloor heating throughout the lodge and the highest environmental practices adhered to
    Sights nearby  -  Puzzling world- regularly voted one of New Zealand’s best family attractions, experience the eccentric maze or Illusions room
    Fishing  -  Brown trout, rainbow trout and salmon can all be found in the local waters. Shoreline fishing or take a boat to the best spots
    Swimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A luxurious and well-appointed lodge with beautiful views. Interiors are chic and contemporary yet still with a cosy lodge feel. Expect expanses of glass, wood-burning stoves, pale wooden floors and plush leather sofas. A warm property perfect to return to after a day spent outdoors. See More

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  • Cabot Lodge Manapouri 4 rooms from €346

    Local exploring  -  Packages available featuring active exploration of the local area, there are hiking, cycling and climbing options for everyone
    Back to Nature  -  Set in glorious countryside, guests can reconnect with the natural world on expeditions or at the property on the farm
    Views  -  The real centerpiece of this property, the views at the Cabot Lodge are simply astounding
    Fishing  -  Take advantage of the 2 day trout fishing package and explore idyllic lakes and rivers on a guided tour of the best spots around
    GardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    These attractively rustic yet supremely comfortable suites are set in some of New Zealand's most beautiful landscapes. Spacious interiors feature working fireplaces and large picture frame windows to take in the views. With numerous once-in-a-lifetime experiences in the area, this is a unique stay. See More

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  • Whare Kea Lodge Wanaka 6 rooms from €400

    Weddings  -  A gorgeous venue for intimate weddings with up to 25 guests, complete with gourmet dining & spectacular views
    Groups  -  Families or groups can book the whole house for a luxury escape, with easy access to myriad outdoor sports
    Trekking  -  Explore Mt. Aspiring National Park or tackle an overnight hike from the Whare Kea Chalet
    Riding  -  Enjoy horse trekking through gold mining valleys or amidst the vines of Rippon Vineyard
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Luxury accommodation for up to 12 guests on Lake Wanaka. Ensuite rooms have under-floor heating, walk-in double-headed showers and contemporary art on walls. With a private chef, hot tub and ski storage, as well as yoga classes available. Ideal for intimate weddings or fun-filled group trips. See More

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  • Matakauri Lodge Queenstown (569 Glenorchy Road) 16 rooms from €408

    Wine tasting  -  Private tastings at Mondillo Vineyard & Valli Wines, with lunch at Mt Difficulty or Carrick wineriesare exceptional
    Honeymoons  -  Enjoy an intimate wedding or kickstart your honeymoon in a deluxe suite with dreamy lake views & gourmet fare
    Golf  -  Arrive by helicopter for the unique part 3 golf experience atop Cecil Peak - expect amazing views!
    Groups  -  Book the Owner's Cottage - with space for 8 guests - for an unforgettable family or group trip
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Luxury lodge with wow factor in stunning location just seven minutes drive from Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu. Range of villas and suites available, all with private balconies and decks with views to distant mountains. Heated outdoor infinity pool, gym and spa. Blissful country escape. See More

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  • Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses Kaikoura (RD 1) 10 rooms from €453

    Foodies  -  Chat to chefs as they prepare delicious dishes from garden-grown herbs and vegetables, paired with locally sourced fish & meat
    Back to Nature  -  A nature lover's dream, set on a deer farm with rare birds and chances to go whale, dolphin and seal-spotting on the water
    Wildlife Area  -  Marine safaris take place on water or air, offering sightings of dusky dolphins, sperm whales, fur seals & giant albatross
    Other Activities  -  Help pick olives (May & June) or watch the harvesting of the stag's antlers on the farm
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Contemporary country hotel in Kaikōura, one of NZ’s top whale watching areas. Tree house style rooms with handcrafted wooden beds and furniture, rainforest showers and great views. With a pool, sauna and library, on a deer farm. A great base to explore local wildlife, walks and Maori culture. See More

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  • Fiordland Lodge Te Anau 12 rooms from €461

    Great walks  -  Follow a private guide on nature walks through some of the 500km of trails criss-crossing the Fiordland National Park area
    Other Activities  -  Marvel at the Te Anau Glow-Worm Caves, take to the skies with a heli tour or take a private cruise on Doubtful Sound
    Back to Nature  -  A beautiful lodge from which to explore the wilderness of the Fiordland National Park & to enjoy outdoor activities
    Families  -  Families or groups can book a charming log cabin for the ultimate escape
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Ten rooms in a charming lodge & two self-contained loft-style log cabins with views to Lake Te Anau. Rooms are clad in muted natural colours and textures reflect the landscape, and have outdoor seating areas. Next to Fiordland National Park, with great walking trails, adventurous activities & food. See More

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  • Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa Queenstown 24 rooms from €473

    Foodies  -  Renowned chef Anthony Gradiska has created a sumptuous fine dining experience accompanied by the best local wines.
    Other Activities  -  Enjoy a picnic for two with a bottle of regional wine especially prepared by the hotel's chef
    Wine tasting  -  Tour the Gibbston Valley's own vineyard, chat to winemakers & taste wines in the cellar
    Spa breaks  -  Winner of New Zealand's Best Resort Spa 2020 & 2021 at the World Spa Awards
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    A small luxury hotel boasting an enviable setting within a Pinot Noir vineyard in Queenstown. Stylish villas offer private sundecks with spectacular views, indulgent bathrooms and open-plan living spaces. With both a spa and private dining on offer, nothing has been missed here. See More

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  • Lakestone Lodge South Island 6 rooms from €369

    Active Holiday  -  In prime hillwalking country, with ski storage, free to use bikes and a range of walks, hikes and activities for guests to enjoy
    Back to Nature  -  The lodge's eco conscious design and ethos supports guests to get back in touch with the natural world
    Eco  -  Every detail of the lodge is designed with energy saving and consumption in mind
    Sights nearby  -  Overlooking one of the most beautiful vistas on the South Island, dominated by Lake Pukaki and the 'Southern Alps'
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    An eco-conscious retreat offering luxury accommodation in a breathtaking position on the banks of Lake Pukaki. Chic rooms are minimalist in design with the real pièce de résistance being the freestanding baths with unbeatable lake views. A luxurious choice for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. See More

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  • No Road Inn Picton (Queen Charlotte Track) 5 rooms from €594

    Great walks  -  A perfect starting point for the 60km Queen Charlotte Track, which passes through the backyard
    Sailing  -  Boat trips to Motuara Island, Long Island, Kokomohua Marine Reserve and Ship Cove are superb
    Groups  -  A five-bedroom luxury lodge for exclusvie group or family trips to Queen Charlotte Sound
    Exclusive use  -  A private lodge with space for ten guests
    GardenPet friendlyViewsNo pets

    Accessible only by water taxi, helicopter or on foot, this exclusive-use lodge is the first night's stay along the Queen Charlotte Track. 5 light, airy rooms with private outdoor decks, showers and baths. With an outdoor hot tub, native forest garden, restaurant and wifi. Luxury in the wilderness. See More

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  • Stonefly Lodge Tasman 8 rooms from €558

    Fishing  -  In one of the world's top fishing regions, the lodge offers guided fly fishing for all levels in a multitude of rivers & streams
    Back to Nature  -  On 150 acres of private forest, offering a world-class stay for fly fishing and exploring the Abel Tasman National Park
    Eco  -  Built from natural stone and timber acquired from the property and powered by alternative energy sources built on-site
    Families  -  The private Falcon Brae Villa sleeps up to six adults and four children - ideal for families or groups!
    RestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A secluded riverside lodge & private villa, set in 150 acres of unspoilt forest. Interiors are traditional, with high ceilings, exposed beams, stonework and plenty of wood. The views are undeniably impressive. A charming base to enjoy the region's natural wonders, and a top spot for fly fishing. See More

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  • Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat Lake Pukaki, South Island 4 rooms from €758

    Romantic Break  -  Think outdoor hot tubs and absolute privacy - the perfect spot to run away for a romantic break
    Country Escape  -  With five star services and a fabulous lake side positioning this is a luxurious rural escape
    Tennis  -  Use a hotel raquet and play a game of tennis on the outdoor court
    Private Hot Tub  -  Each villa comes with its own private outdoor hot tub.
    Air conditioningTennisSpaParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    Four luxury villas set in an outstanding lakeside location. Each spacious villa is minimalist in design with large picture windows spectacularly framing the views. The service is second to none and the location is ideal for adventure enthusiasts. Perfect for a romantic break. See More

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  • Westhaven Retreat Nelson-Tasman area, Tasman 7 rooms from €798

    Back to Nature  -  The 350 hectare private peninsula is a natural wilderness sanctuary located beside a marine wildlife area and a national park!
    Romantic Break  -  With fine-dining, a spa, and a very remote location - it doesn't get much more romantic than this
    Beach Life  -  The property boasts its own stretch of deserted beach
    Great walks  -  Take day long hikes along the coast and find secluded beaches, incredible rock formations and the largest Nikau Palm forest
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A luxury lodge in a truly epic location - set on the coast within a 1000-acre private natural wilderness sanctuary. Spacious interiors are made of natural materials with large picture-frame windows. A highly acclaimed restaurant and expansive spa are a welcome respite after a day spent outdoors. See More

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  • Eleven Owen River Lodge South Island, Tasman 6 rooms from €800

    Fishing  -  Fly fishing for brown trout is the real draw, with 29 rivers & streams nearby. Tuition, equipment & heli-fishing are arranged
    Foodies  -  Head Chef Ryan uses exceptional local produce to create high end fine-dining
    Active Holiday  -  A breathtaking setting for an active holiday, with a focus on fly fishing
    Great walks  -  Take the hotel's dogs and head out on a long ramble
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParking

    A luxury collection of wood-built fishing lodges in picturesque surroundings. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with en-suite bathrooms and verandas. Meals are prepared with fresh ingredients sourced locally or from the garden, served with excellent wines in a warm and cosy communal dining room. See More

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  • Otahuna Lodge Christchurch 7 rooms from €739

    Cooking classes  -  A cooking lesson with Chef Jimmy McIntyre provides an overview of the philosophies behind the Lodge’s celebrated food and wine
    Garden  -  Stunning 118 year old gardens laid out by A.E. Lowe who trained at Kew Gardens & include a lovely potager, lake and Dutch garden
    Back to Nature  -  The song of native birds invites guests to discover hidden glades, ponds and organic fruit, vegetables and nuts in the gardens
    Other Activities  -  Embark on the TranzAlpine, which traverses the South Island’s majestic landscapes, arriving into Arthur's Pass National Park
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Relais & Chateaux

    An historic mansion set in lush gardens at the foot of the cone of an ancient volcano. All suites have private sitting rooms and en-suite bathroom. Breakfast and 5-course dinner included using home-grown organic ingredients. A quiet country retreat, with many walking trails and sights close by. See More

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  • The Marlborough Lodge Blenheim 10 rooms from €762

    Country Escape  -  Nestled on a beautiful, heritage estate in the Marlborough region, book this hotel for an authentic New Zealand country escape
    Romantic Break  -  With elegant suites, a gourmet restaurant and endless grounds, this hotel makes an exceptional setting for romantic getaway
    Foodies  -  Marlborough is famous for its gourmet food and good wine; enjoy both at the hotel's romantic Harvest Restaurant
    Restrictions on children  -  Children eight years and older are welcome to stay when the hotel has other guests
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    This hotel offers accommodation on a luxury country estate in New Zealand's Marlborough wine region. The individually designed guest suites are elegant and contemporary, with views across the parkland from a private balcony. Sample the region's gourmet cuisine at the hotel's Harvest Restaurant. See More

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  • Minaret Station Alpine Lodge Wanaka, South Island 4 rooms from €1456

    Local exploring  -  Choose from a range of hotel packages to help you explore the area, with helicopter access to surrounding sites of interest
    Active Holiday  -  This hotel offers an excellent programme for active guests, from mountain biking to trekking and fly fishing
    Families  -  The hotel chalets are perfect for a family stay, with additional roll-out beds available for children
    Fishing  -  Enjoy a day of backcountry fishing with a hotel package; enquire with your room reservation for more details
    RestaurantViewsNo pets

    This luxury lodge is set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks in Wanaka, New Zealand. Accessible only by helicopter, the hotel offers unique vistas across an alpine meadow from cosy guest chalets. Try your hand at heli biking, a fresh way to explore the mountains. See More

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