Snowy mountains, sandy beaches, and impressive landscapes are among South Island’s most distinctive features. The Southern Alps form the island’s central spine. For the finest beaches, head to Golden Bay and Nelson. And then there’s Larnach Castle, a magnificent structure that you shouldn’t miss, and it is renowned for being the only castle in the country. After a day full of exciting tours, head to Queenstown to experience the island’s local and international flavors.
Indeed, there is a great variety of fun things to do around here. You can get away from the noise and chaos of the city for a while and try to experience rural life at a farm. For great options, scroll down for the top farm stays in South Island, New Zealand.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
1. Rabbitte Ranch Farmstay; Mill Road (from USD 60)
This self-contained unit will provide comfortable accommodation with light, modern, and airy interiors. Inside, carpeted spaces, a spotlessly clean bathroom, and a room with a queen bed are available for you. The wooden walls and large windows contribute to the cozy ambiance of the property.
While here, you can request pony or donkey rides from the host. You can also enjoy a fun time feeding or petting guinea pigs, hens, and Kunekunes of the farm.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable farm stay in a quiet neighbourhood and serene surroundingsa simple comfortable and spacious place that was perfect for us (a couple)very comfortable room with a great bed and a great showerCleanliness:
very clean and cheerfuleverything was clean and tidysuper clean cozy and easywonderful clean comfortable and peaceful staythe place was clean and quietRead more reviewsLocation:
great spot close to townlovely quiet spot in a great locationreally enjoyed our stay great rural location just a few minutes out of townvery beautiful place tucked away from busy city and all in word experience it yourselfit was a lovely opportunity for our children to get closer to farm animals
Superhost
2. Cozy farm stay with a relaxing vibe; Tapawera (from USD 86)
This unique rental is tucked away on well-kept grasslands and has beautiful mountain views. It’s perfect for lone adventurers or couples looking for a laid-back vacation in the countryside. Once you’re here, all you’ll do is unwind in tranquility. You may relax at the end of a long day of sightseeing with an outdoor bath. Afterward, prepare an outdoor dinner for yourself or your partner. You can also request authentic farm cooking from the host.
A private yoga deck is also accessible here, perfect for morning stretches or quiet time alone.
Top guest reviews
Host:
friendly farm animals aroundawesome friendly and thoughtful host who we enjoyed getting to knowthe host was super friendly helpful and made us feel right at homefriendly host too throughly recommend to visitvery friendly and helpful hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
had a fantastic stay great location super quiet peaceful and comfortablegreat place to stay if you just want to get away from it alla great place to stay for a weekend getaway
3. Hawk Hut; Waimumu (from USD 108)
Those looking for a vacation with a close-knit group of friends will find this property ideal. Historic farm buildings and an orchard surround Hawk Hut, and it is situated on a peaceful meadow close to a fishing river. The interiors are inviting and homey, providing a cozy place to rest while on the farm.
You’ll have a worry-free stay because cleaning is already included in the rate. For a more memorable experience, you can also arrange a guided day trip with the host. After your day tour, plan an outdoor barbecue dinner with your pals with the provided grill.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds comfortable all welcomingHost:
amazing country feel and awesome hostshost and hostess very friendly and helpfulthe were really helpful nice and friendlybrief but enjoyable interactions with the hostsawesome wee place to stay fantastic hosts quirky place and really close to gore and amenitiesRead more reviewsLocation:
this is a fantastic place to stay
4. The Barn; Waitati (from USD 120)
The Barn is the place to be if you’re looking for a cozy retreat in a secluded location. Here, the only sounds you’ll hear are the pleasant chirping of birds and the soft rustling of nearby greenery. The local beaches are situated nearby, so you can easily enjoy a day out in the sun.
On chilly afternoons, enjoy a cup of tea on the patio, after which you can plan your subsequent activities with your friends. You can indulge in fishing and hiking while staying here. Cap off the day by whipping up a sumptuous meal in the well-appointed kitchen.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very quiet great views comfortable accomodationCleanliness:
the beds are super comfortable and it’s all very cleanHost:
comfortable accommodation and obliging hostsvery friendly hosts and the dogs were the icing on the cakeRead more reviewsLocation:
accommodation exceeded expectations and location was amazing
5. Silverstream Alpaca Farmstay; Clarkville (from USD 183)
Adorable alpacas await you at this lovely farm stay. You can stroll along with these animals while marveling at the lush grounds, or interact with them at the farm while taking photographs for you to cherish. These alpacas are sheared in October, while their birthing season is January and March, so plan your stay accordingly.
Two cozy cottages with complete kitchens are offered for guests to use as lodging. The beds in each room have electric blankets to keep you warm on colder nights. If you want to stay indoors, you can curl up in the lounge and watch Netflix shows all day.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice touch of a breakfast trayHost:
kit and sheryl are lovely people and great hostshost sheryl is a very nice ladykit and her husband are lovely and very helpful and supportivegreat place wonderful host and awesome surroundings and locationgreat place and friendly alpacasRead more reviewsLocation:
lovely rural setting remarkably close to christchurch
6. Koromiko Farm Stay; Little River (from USD 183)
Koromiko Farm Stay is a genuine countryside retreat. It is on a functioning farm with poultry, sheep pasture, and a small woodland. It was constructed in the 19th century and has been updated with a modern kitchen.
You’ll appreciate your stay here when you sit on the patio and gaze at the scenery. You can soak in the bathtub or read a book near the fireplace for further relaxation.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable place with plenty of spacegreat location - nice modern interior including efficient bathrooms and kitchencomfortable beds and roomswarm and comfortable bedspacious rooms and reasonably neat and tidyCleanliness:
spotless and very comfortablethe house was clean and comfortable; the kitchen was well stockedHost:
the hosts are so welcoming and personablegreat people / hoststhey were so friendly and helpfulgreat host very attentive and hospitablemarie and rob were gracious hosts and made us all feel welcomeRead more reviewsLocation:
great location easy drive from christchurchthe house at little river is such a wonderful getaway in a lovely locationthe house is in a beautiful location a comfortable house overlooking a gorgeous lakethis is a lovely place to staya wonderful place to stay
7. Stonehaven Farm Farmstay; North Bank (from USD 74)
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, this farm stay is for you. In addition to guided trout fishing, you can also participate in outdoor activities such as hunting and hiking here. Afterward, create a nutritious meal from your fresh catch in the well-equipped kitchen. At the end of a day full of adventure, you can unwind on the patio while taking in the mountain views.
The renovated cottage is located on a working farm, so you can expect to see dogs running around or pigs rooting in the mud.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
good shower cozy deck warm stove wifi and friendly companies:)it's a cozy comfortable cottage in a beautiful settingif you want a simple comfortable and relaxing farmstay you won't find betterCleanliness:
very clean and comfortableit is indeed an old house but we found it to be clean and comfortableHost:
) anna is a super nice host having made us feel really welcomeanna is a wonderful host and i felt relaxed and at homeanna was an awesome host that thought of everythinggreat place and awesome hostanna is an amazing host and really made our stay specialRead more reviewsLocation:
chrming farmhouse in a beautiful locationstunning location if you’re after something remote quiet and tranquilthe farm stay is a lovely place to visit and the location is ideal for outdoor adventuresan awesome place to get away from it allwonderful farm experience in a quiet location
8. Blackbird's Nest Farmstay; Fairlie (from USD 74)
You will enjoy your time at Blackbird’s Nest Farmstay due to its tranquil environment and plenty of animals. The host says the property is perfect for solo travelers, business travelers, and couples who want to spend time together. You’ll wake up to a continental breakfast provided by the host. Shops and restaurants are easily accessible from the property, as are natural attractions such as mountains and rivers.
Long-term stays are acceptable here as well, and with the level of comfort that this farm stay provides, you’ll surely be tempted to extend your vacation here.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
they also provide amazing breakfast and kept the room warm with electric blankets and heatersthe place was just as it’s been described and the breakfast quantity was also perfectbron and drews place was awesome with the nice room and animalsthe room is surronded by lot of lovely animalsroom was in perfect condition and had all that one could need for a sleepoverCleanliness:
place was very clean and tidythe room is clean and cozythe room is clean and cosy the animals are so cutethe room and bathroom were well decorated clean and had everything we neededplus the studio was very clean and comfortableHost:
maximum hospitality is provided by the super kind hostslove the hospitality of hostsuper friendly hosts and animalsdrew was so welcoming and friendlylovely property with fantastic hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
great stay in a central locationmain street well within walking distance as well so give it a trywe enjoyed the peace and quiet of the location and having our own drivewaybron and drew's blackbird's nest is the ideal place if you want to slow down from city lifethe neighbourhood has great pies and dinner spots as well
9. Tiromoana; Owaka (from USD 225)
Tiromoana is close to many of the Catlins’ most beautiful attractions and offers a peaceful retreat for everyone. While here, you’ll also be in awe of the sweeping views and fantastic wildlife scene.
You can use the WiFi and dedicated workspace if you’re traveling for work. You can also work in the dining area in front of the inspiring scenery. Wrap up the day with a relaxing soak in the private hot tub.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it is warm comfortable well stocked and has the most stunning viewsbeautiful large space that was so comfortable to live ina lovely house with great facilities and a stunning viewfantastic views that can be enjoyed from the comfort of a spa pool -idealbeautiful house gorgeous views hot tub comfy beds and awesome water pressureCleanliness:
it was spotlessly clean and the kitchen was really well appointedthe house was stunning and immaculately clean and tidyit was very clean and the kitchen is very well equippedmagnificent place - clean very relaxing & beautifulthe house is equipped with every single thing you need & is so clean & comfortableHost:
host v helpful with tourist infothank you tracey for being a great hostawesome accommodation in the catlins host was greatsuperb host with an excellent propertytracey is a wonderful hostRead more reviewsLocation:
fab location for catlins sightsamazing location better than any expectation close to many of the attractions in catlinsgreat accomodation in a beautiful locationcouldn’t recommend the place morethe place is very well stocked with everything you need for little getaway would definitely visit again
10. Shear-Vue Farmstay; Fairlie (from USD 170)
Shear-Vue Farmstay is the perfect venue to recharge your batteries for the weekend. It has a private hot tub where you can loosen up while having a drink. You can roam around the farm in the morning and hand-feed the alpacas, hens, and pigs. Afterward, enjoy the hearty continental breakfast courtesy of the host.
Each room has a bed with electric blankets to keep you warm during chilly nights. Thanks to the instant water heating unit, you can take a hot water bath whenever you desire it. At night, spend time gazing at the stars with your loved ones. Due to the property’s rural position, there is less light pollution, making for spectacular stargazing sessions.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cottage is wonderful with a living space full kitchen bathroom and two bedroomsjulie has a great cottage and provides plenty of food for breakfastit was so nice to have a fully stocked kitchen with spices for making dinnerCleanliness:
the place was very clean and homey with all the bells and whistlespeaceful clean and very comfortable place with very well equipped kitchenthe guest house is very clean very niceinside the house was so cute and cleanHost:
julie is an outstanding hostthe hosts julie and tony were wonderful hosts and are down-to-earth nice peoplethe farm animals were absolutely adorable and friendlythanks for being such a great hostyou won’t be able to find a better host we were truly spoiledRead more reviewsLocation:
fantastic location and experience for the familyso many beautiful vistas farm life and a great walk up the mountain with our host
Experience a relaxing stay on a farm in South Island
Spending time on a farm in South Island is a great way to get away from it all and unwind in the countryside. You’ll have many options on the island, but pick one that offers fantastic experiences. Go through this list of the top farm stays in South Island, New Zealand, for an exceptional stay.
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