The Hotel Guru
The 16 Best Hotels in Canterbury

The 16 Best Hotels in Canterbury

Canterbury is a beautiful region famed for its snow-capped mountains, lakes and vineyards. Beautiful and serene, many of the best hotels in Canterbury are eco-retreats set in gorgeous surroundings. And of course, most of Canterbury's best hotels have the sort of homely comfort you come to expect from Kiwi hospitality. And we've covered every last one of Canterbury's best hotels: romantic adults-only getaways, fishing lodges, luxury villas, working farms and urban boltholes - you name it! So don't miss out, browse this collection of the best hotels in Canterbury and start planning your trip.

For a Romantic Stay

The Lindis is one of Canterbury's most romantic hotels. Situated in the breathtaking Ahuriri Valley, flanked by hills and mountains, this luxury lodge boasts gourmet, locally-sourced dining, and stables for horseriding trips. A daringly modern architectural statement, with its rolling slatted roof, wood, masonry and glass, it's beautiful and bold.
Simple and serene, Matuka Lodge is an adults-only getaway. With a lovely garden setting in the shadow of the Southern Alps, nestling quietly by a pond, this intimate four room property is a snug den of cream-white, contemporary rooms. Remote, secluded and peaceful.
A charming adults-only guesthouse on the outskirts of Akaroa, Beaufort House is a secluded property surrounded by vineyards. A whitewashed wooden house with cherry doors and North-Sea-blue windowframes, this cosy B&B sits in a lovely garden. Expect log fires, chintzy fabrics and antiques in the rooms.
Eco-friendly, homely and welcoming, The Classic Villa is a great pick for a romantic break in Christchurch. Housed in a pink Italian-style villa, the rooms are warm and inviting, with fur throws, antiques and marble fireplaces.

For a fishing holiday

Glendeer B&B Lodge sits a few kms outside Timaru, at the epicentre of 30 rivers and streams. Run by Glendeer Fly Fishing Guides, it's the only choice for fisherfolk. The smart and homely rooms are furnished in nature art, taxidermy and floor-to-ceiling windows, all set within a leafy garden.

Luxury villas

For adults-only 5-star luxury villas, Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is unbeatable. Here you can expect classy-yet-snug interiors, private hot tub, three course dinners, tennis, heli-skiing and bike hire. The spellbinding location of lake and mountains makes it perfect for couples.
Annandale has something for everyone. A working coastal farm in a quiet cove by the sea, the five seperate residences are set amid 6000 acres, and the largest sleeps up to 12 people. The rooms are warm, rustic and Alpine-chic affairs. There's tennis, two swimming pools, a mature garden, boats-for-hire, quadbikes and kayaks. Simply stunning!
Otahuna Lodge is one of Canterbury's best luxury hotels. A true escape-pad set in a 19th century mansion, surrounded by its nationally-renowned gardens to the south of Christchurch, it is a haven of traditional sophistication. The elegant rooms have high ceilings, oil paintings, antiques and fireplaces. Plus there's tennis courts, croquet on the lawn, and sweeping views of the Canterbury plains and the Southern Alps.

Back to nature

Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses, raised high above the trees, staring out towards the sea, is the perfect back-to-nature getaway just outside Kaikoura. The food is locally sourced and free range; the property is powered by solar panels, while the rooms are smart, rustic affairs, with handcrafted furniture and wood-burning stoves. And the whale-watching opportunties from this epicentre of Maori culture are fantastic!
Manakau Lodge is where you dream of writing your novel. In the shadow of trees and mountains, the cosy minimalist rooms are filled with high-tech amenities and come with a private patio. A charming B&B in beautiful surroundings, near Whale Bay and Kaikoura, it's a simple, picturesque escape.
Luxury living is found at Lakestone Lodge, one of the best eco-retreats in Canterbury. On the shoreline of Lake Pukaki, framed by mountains crowned with snow, the chic, minimalist rooms promise intimacy and relaxation. It uses sustainable methods of water and power generation, and there's a helicopter on the 2 acre property offering tours of the mountains.
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel enjoys an enviable location right on the seafront in Kaikoura. Bright rooms are simple but chic, best come with wonderful seaviews. Make the most of this fabulous location, after all, Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin spotting.

For a vineyard stay

Set on the Black Estate Winery, the B&B is an architecturally striking construction housing one smart studio apartment. The onsite organic restaurant has won accolades, the terrace BBQ is a godsend and the hotel bikes give you a chance to explore this working winery!

For a B&B

Hotel 115 is a chic B&B in the heart of Christchurch. The super cool rooms have large domed windows, and are coloured in metals, bubblegum blues and banana yellows. Simple, trendy, modern, it makes a lovely base-camp for exploring the city.

Urban bolthole

Hotel Montreal is a stylish urban bolthole in Christchurch. The minimalist, contemporary rooms are snug and intimate, themed around the city's favourite pastime - polo. Wide open terraces, a croquet lawn and a seriously nice bistro, it ticks all the boxes.
Chic nostalgia is the name-of-the-game at The Vicarage in Geraldine. Offering smart, stylish rooms, there's also an on-site coffee house and historic collection detailing the building's 100-year-old history, and the 15 vicars who lived here. The views are enchanting, the food is tasty, the vibe is cosy and the history is compelling.

Still not sure?

Try our list of 5-star hotels on North Island;
Or our collection of the best hotels in Southland;
For something gourmet, try this guide to the best wine hotels in Canterbury, or New Zealand;
Expand your serch to include all our properties in New Zealand;
Contact one of our Gurus for advice.
- Glendeer B&B Lodge Timaru 3 rooms from $118
  
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  Fishing  -  Exceptional fly-fishing in over 30 clear headwater rivers, streams, spring creeks with an expert guide
  Trekking  -  Hike along the South Beach Coastal Track or through the surrounding hills
  Back to Nature  -  An off-the-beaten track escape for adventurers and nature enthusiasts
  Kayaking  -  Thrill-seekers will adore kayaking on pristine rivers or out at sea
  
  Run by Glendeer Fly Fishing Guides, this lodge has three ensuite rooms with underfloor heating, unlimited wifi and continental breakfast included in the stay. Use of fully equipped kitchen. Centrally located close to over 30 rivers and streams, making it ideal for the avid angler. See More
  
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- Lakestone Lodge South Island 6 rooms from $410
  
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  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'
  
  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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- The Lindis Omarama, South Island 8 rooms from $1466
  
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  Foodies  -  With a gourmet restaurant onsite offering dishes curated from locally sourced ingredients, foodies are well-catered to here
  Romantic Break  -  With luxurious suites, a romantic restaurant and stand-out location, book this hotel for an induglent couples' break
  Country Escape  -  Set in the spectacular landscape of the Ahuriri Valley, book this hotel for a contemporary country getaway
  Fishing  -  Go fly fishing on the the Ahuriri River, one of the best stretches of water for the sport in the world
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A unique luxury lodge set in the breathtaking Ahuriri Valley on South Island. The custom-designed property reflects the landscape inside and out, with an undulating slatted roof, Spotted Gum wood panelling and masonry detail. With its own stables, the landscape is best seen from horseback. See More
  
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- Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat Lake Pukaki, South Island 4 rooms from $843
  
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  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.
  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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- Matuka Lodge Twizel, South Island 4 rooms from $290
  
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  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
  
  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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- The Vicarage, South Island South Island 7 rooms from $314
  
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  Active Holiday  -  The area offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, with excellent walking and riding trails and canoeing on the river
  Country Escape  -  The countryside town of Geraldine boasts excellent access to walks through beautiful, tranquil scenery
  Romantic Break  -  Rooms are sized perfectly for couples, with king sized beds and cosy decor setting a romantic scene
  Local markets  -  Geraldine Farmers Market and Craft Market are both a few steps away
  
  Quaint and comfortable; this wood-panelled, two storey Tudor style construction is the perfect cosy retreat for couples looking to explore one of New Zealand's most charming towns. Relax with huge sink-into double beds, en-suite bathrooms and a warm communal lounge. See More
  
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- Annandale Akaroa (Pigeon Bay) 6 rooms from $1057
  
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  Romantic Break  -  With a tranquil location, first-class facilities and beautifully appointed villas, book this hotel for an idyllic romantic break
  Families  -  With spacious self-catering villas that can accommodate up to twelve people, book this hotel for a unique family getaway
  Country Escape  -  Set in the beautiful landscape of Annandale on a working farm, book this hotel for an authentic escape to the country
  Great walks  -  Beyond the farm, the greater Banks Peninsula is renowned for its hiking trails, with routes ranging from 10 minutes to 3 hours
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Exclusive getaway set on a working coastal farm, midway between picture perfect Akoroa and Christchurch. A series of secret private residences are peppered around the estate, ranging from a classic cottage to a contemporary seascape retreat plus the original Homestead, updated for the 21st century. See More
  
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- Beaufort House Akaroa 7520 5 rooms from $263
  
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  Great walks  -  Follow the 'Village Walks' series through the Akaroa reserves, visiting key sites inc. the French Cemetery & Britomart Monument
  Local exploring  -  Explore the scenery on land and water. Harbour cruises, fishing, diving, horse treks, hikes and mountain bikes are popular
  Historic  -  Built in 1878, the house was originally named 'The Wilderness', and has been a guest house for over 100 years
  Wine tasting  -  Sample Beaufort House Pinot Noir or Chardonnay during your stay
  
  An historic and secluded lodge set in beautifully manicured gardens, surrounded by vineyards. Interiors are cosy and traditional with antiques, chintz fabrics and roaring log fires. A charming base from which to engage in the various outdoor activities this picturesque region has to offer. See More
  
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- Kaikoura Boutique Hotel Kaikoura 12 rooms from $115
  
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  Local exploring  -  Set on Kaikoura's Esplanade, this is a great pick for explorers eager to discover the town and enjoy activities out on the water
  Wildlife Area  -  Winter is the best time for whale watching by boat, helicopter or small plane
  Historic  -  Set in an 1880s building, just 10 minutes' walk from Kaikoura Town
  Great walks  -  Hike a portion of the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
  
  A chic boutique property offering a spectacular coastal position in Kaikoura. Bright bedrooms are simply decorated in grey and white hues while the picture windows spectacularly frame the views. With friendly hosts, indulgent breakfasts and even a champagne bistro-bar, this property is hard to beat. See More
  
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- Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses Kaikoura (RD 1) 10 rooms from $504
  
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  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
  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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- Manakau Lodge Kaikoura 4 rooms from $205
  
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  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
  
  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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- Black Estate B&B North Canterbury, South Island 1 rooms from $160
  
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  Romantic Break  -  A chic intimate stay with the added advantage of access to the estate's restaurant - the perfect couples' escape
  Foodies  -  The superb restaurant offers an ever changing menu using local organic produce paired with the estate's wines
  Country Escape  -  Set within the grounds of a winery with far reaching views across the vineyards and mountains
  Great walks  -  Head out on long walks right from the front door
  
  An architecturally striking building housing a contemporary studio apartment and an acclaimed organic restaurant set on the Black Estate winery. Ideal for a romantic escape - the studio is chic and secluded with far-reaching views across the vineyard from its floor to ceiling windows. Superb! See More
  
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- Otahuna Lodge Christchurch 7 rooms from $822
  
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  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
  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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- Hotel 115 Christchurch 37 rooms from $145
  
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  Local exploring  -  Well positioned in the heart of Christchurch with many of the main attractions within walking distance
  Sights nearby  -  Take the little ones to Orana Wildlife Park or to see alpacas & dolphins in Akaroa’s french colony
  Other Activities  -  Hop aboard a Lord of the Rings tour to visit various filming locations in the Canterbury area
  Families  -  A brilliant family choice, with bunk beds, teepees and games for little ones
  
  A chic boutique hotel in the heart of Christchurch. Spacious rooms have large domed windows, sink-into beds and luxurious bathrooms. With the welcoming service, child-friendly spaces and proximity to the city's major attractions, this is a smart choice for a city stay as a couple or family. See More
  
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- The Classic Villa Christchurch Arts Centre 12 rooms from $192
  
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  Cycling  -  Enjoy 60km of cycleways, including along the Avon River - this is NZ's most popular city for cyclists
  Museums  -  Stroll to The Christchurch Art Gallery, The Christchurch Museum & other nearby cultural highlights
  Local exploring  -  A historic villa in central Christchurch, perfect for culture buffs and keen on-foot explorers
  Historic  -  Built in 1899, this Italian-style villa won a heritage award for its tasteful restoration
  Recommended by  -  Fodors
  
  Boutique B&B in a bright pink Italian-style villa in Canterbury. The 12 rooms have top amenities, and delicious Mediterranean breakfasts of fresh tropical fruits and local produce set guests up for the day. Eco-friendly and close to sights such as Botanic Gardens and Christchurch Arts Centre. See More
  
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- Hotel Montreal Christchurch 26 rooms from $374
  
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  City Style  -  With contemporary interiors that nod to the city's favourite past-time, this hotel has plenty of local Christchurch style
  Designer Shopping  -  Hit the boutiques of The Colombo, the Arts Centre and New Regent Street, or shop at the legendary Ballantynes
  Romantic Break  -  Offering cosy, well-appointed guestrooms with sit-out balconies, book this hotel for a romantic city break
  Great walks  -  Discover downtown Christchurch on foot with a long walk, starting with a cocktail on the celebrated Victoria Street
  
  This boutique bolt-hole is nestled in the heart of Christchurch. The stylish, contemporary guestrooms have homely touches and light references to Christchurch's favourite sport, polo. Guest balconies offer great city views, the perfect place to unwind after sightseeing. See More
  
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