Best Lodges in South Island

Wanaka ( Lake Hawea)

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.

• 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

Picton (Queen Charlotte Sound)

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.

• 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

Queenstown

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.

• 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

Dunedin (Otago Peninsula)

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.

• 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

Hokitika (Rimu)

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.

• 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

South Island (Abel Tasman National Park)

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.

• 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

Kaikoura (Kaikoura)

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.

• 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

Te Anau (Patience Bay, Te Anau)

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.

• 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

Nelson

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.

• 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

Wanaka (Wanaka 9305 )

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.

• 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.

South Island

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.

• 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

Wanaka (Wanaka 9382 )

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.

• 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

Manapouri (Manapouri )

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.

• 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

Wanaka (Wanaka )

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.

• 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

Queenstown (569 Glenorchy Road)

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.

• 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

Kaikoura (RD 1)

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.

• 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

Te Anau (Te Anau)

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.

• 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

South Island (Lake Pukaki)

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.

• 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'

Queenstown

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.

• 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

Picton (Queen Charlotte Track)

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.

• 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

Tasman (Stanley Brook, Nelson )

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.

• 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!

South Island

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.

• 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.

Tasman (Golden Bay)

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.

• 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

Tasman (Nelson)

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.

• 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

Christchurch (Christchurch)

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.

• 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

Blenheim

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.

• 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

South Island

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.

• 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