8 Best Holiday Houses In New Zealand

Faith
Faith 
Updated
| 4 min read

Are you looking to take a break from the chaos of city life and slow down a little? We have the perfect solution for you! Welcoming and diverse, New Zealand is a top tourist destination. With its various cultures as well as scenic road trip routes, it is no wonder that many come to New Zealand for a breather every year! New Zealand is also known for their national rugby team, Maori culture, and hot springs. In this article, we uncover some of the most peaceful homes that bring you scenic and relaxing seaside views surrounded by nature and greenery in New Zealand. There is definitely something for everyone here, whether you’re on vacation with your significant other, your extended family, or even your group of friends. Scroll down to find out about the best holiday houses in 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 March 13, 2023.

1. Coastal home with panoramic views in Auckland (from USD 275)

Have you ever dreamt of waking up to the crashing sound of waves and opening your eyes to panoramic views of a beautiful beach? With this coastal home, you can fulfil that very dream! Situated in Waiheke Island, Auckland, this apartment can fit six persons - and even more with an additional single bed and a baby cot available. Aside from the majestic views, this is in close proximity to Oneroa Village, restaurants, shops, and the Artworks Gallery Music museum. You would also find a bus stop nearby.

Stayed at this property?
Oneroa, Auckland, NZ
77 reviews  
House 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lots of room and amazing views
beautiful house with stunning views very comfortable and perfect location easily accessible to and from town
Location:
great location walking distance to town
great location thoroughly enjoyed our stay
easy 5min walk to the main shops and restaurants
fantastic location to walkways oneroa village wineries and the beach
great location- easy to walk down to shops and beach
Read more reviews

2. Modern beachside abode in Whangamata (from USD 65)

This home is situated in Whangamata and houses up to six people. It is an affordable option for those seeking to live by the seaside while also being in close proximity to the city. Amenities include a kitchen, dishwasher, microwave, heating, and free Wi-Fi. Do note that you would need to bring your own sheets, pillowcases, towels, and more. There is a washing machine if you need to do the laundry as well. For such an affordable price, this location is definitely a steal!

Stayed at this property?
236 reviews  
House 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy :

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wouldn’t recommend sofa bed though - it’s not even a very comfy couch
great shower heating and fully stocked kitchen
Cleanliness:
clean very well appointed bach
i had to vacuum clean the bathroom and wash the duvet cover on one bed
Host:
easy to communicate with owner
owner was very efficient with communication and gave detailed information prior to arrival
Location:
great bach great location to beach easy walk to shops
location super close to beach and reserve
ideal location and bach for families
great location right at the beach
easy walk to town for shopping and cafes
Read more reviews

3. Iconic seaside cottage in Dunedin (from USD 113)

This cozy seaside cottage is situated in Dunedin, Otago. Though this cottage is 140 years old, it is definitely modern and well furnished. There is even electric heating and electric blankets for you in the winter! This is perfect for some peace and quiet. You can lounge on the porch and watch the sunset over the horizon. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can visit the historical Motutapu and its secluded beach. Orokanui Sanctuary is also five minutes’ drive away. Facilities include free Wi-Fi, heating, television, and more. Pets are welcome as well!

Stayed at this property?
305 reviews  
House 5 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 5
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Exactly as shown in the pictures - will be back
Beautiful historic feel to the place
Like It the perfect place to rest and recharge
The property is as amazing as the photos show
I recommend bringing a head torch or two with you to find your way to the bathroom and bedrooms at night
Host:
Serene setting with so much interest - historical wildlife landscape trains
walks with the area steeped in history and beautiful beaches
charming cottage with lovely history
the owner very kindly ensured the coal was topped up on the cold weekend
What an amazing and special place wonderful family time
Location:
Gorgeous Bach in a very special location
the cottage is ideally suited for bird watching venturing into the district's extensive historical landmarks the Orokonui sanctuary and great eating out just a few minutes drive at Port Chalmers
Really enjoyed the peaceful surroundings and the quirky accommodation Complete getaway experience
All details as explained in booking system Loved every minute of stay would stay again
We loved the closeness to the water; loved walking in the area and especially loved the accommodation
Read more reviews

4. Magical beachfront kiwi bach in Manawatu - Wanganui (from USD 97)

This magical apartment is situated in Waitarere Beach and houses up to six people. It is modern and well furnished, allowing you to watch the sunset from the kitchen, living room, or bedroom. If you’re staying in and looking for some entertainment, Netflix, board games, and free Wi-Fi are available too. Do note that no smoking is allowed indoors and pets are welcomed!

Stayed at this property?
381 reviews   Wifi Available
House 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
this was a comfortable clean house with stunning sea views and sunsets
Location:
lovely location and close to the beach
superb location - ideal to relax and chill
great location- so close to the beach (loved the boogie boarding )
a wonderful place to relax
would recommend this place to all
Read more reviews

5. Modern and warm holiday home in Hanmer Springs (from USD 122)

Situated in Hanmer Springs, this home is perfect if you’re coming with your extended family as it houses up to four adults and four children. It is a very well-equipped home with an LCD television, a leather lounge suite, a kitchen, laundry facilities, and more! What’s amazing about this place is that you’ll get to enjoy panoramic views of the mountains from this quiet location. The city center is just eight to ten minutes’ walk away too. Hanmer Springs is also perfect if you’re looking to engage in outdoor activities like mountain biking, skiing, and more!

Stayed at this property?
265 reviews  
House 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
looks like someone got sick outside the second bedroom and in the 3rd bedroom made a fail attempt of cleaning it properly Other than that will go back again
I would definitely want to stay at this lovely property again but would want to organize it directly with the owners next time
Exactly as described great house with lots of room for the whole family
Host:
Was a great house with all the appliances needed and some Pity the people that were before us
We had a great few days in your lovely holiday home A handy walk into town and the pools Exceptionally clean with all the mod cons
great quiet street and lovely yard for our toddler to run around during the sunny days Very warm place
Warm spacious well equipped quiet location would highly recommend Would definitely love to stay here again some time
We absolutely loved this property as soon as we walked in the door Beautiful house
Location:
Lovely house and excellent for families - lots of toys
A really great house to stay Well equipped and
The property was in a lovely location and well presented
We had a great trip to Hanmer Springs made simple by this house 4 adults and a 3 year old house felt spacious and warm Great location close enough to walk into town but far enough out to be qu...
Great stay in a lovely home
Read more reviews

6. Rustic contemporary home in Earnscleugh (from USD 85)

Situated in the heart of Earnscleugh, this is a cozy and rustic home ideal for relaxation. Continental breakfast is also provided upon request! You can expect to be surrounded by greenery as this home is located in the wine and fruit growing area. This is great for outdoor activities as you can cycle or walk the nearby Clyde Clutha river track or embark on the Central Otago Rail Trail. There are also many fishing rivers and dams if you like fishing. If golf is your thing, this is practically a golfer’s paradise with five golf courses within an easy thirty-minute drive.

Stayed at this property?
Alexandra, Central Otago, NZ
75 reviews  
House 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
perfectly clean and tastefully decorated
super clean cosey bach and friendly
spacious clean relaxing accommodation
really well kept and clean
Host:
owners warm and friendly
Location:
we chose this property also because of its proximity to many of the central otago attractions
we enjoyed visiting the vineyards nearby and doing the bike ride that goes close by
slightly rural but still easy 40 minute walk to alexandra along the river
beautiful outlook lovely river walk at the doorstep
great place to stay and well recommendedrgds mark
Read more reviews

7. Beautiful beachfront property in Porpoise Bay (from USD 128)

This home boasts fantastic views of the pristine coastline at Porpoise Bay that is rich in wildlife, scenic beauty, and heritage. Nearby attractions and activities include visiting a Jurassic petrified forest, going on bush walks, swimming, surfing, and kayaking. If you’re looking for a cafe to chill at, you can visit nearby Niagara Falls Cafe. Facilities include a washer, dryer, fireplace, and more.

Stayed at this property?
132 reviews  
House 5 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 5
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
gorgeous view and plenty of room
cosy fire, super comfy beds, lots of great couches covered with sheepskins and well equipped kitchen with new fridge
one night was definitely not long enough to appreciate it all
our own track to the beach and incredible views
kitchen tidy and functional
Cleanliness:
the view is breath taking and pictures don't do it justice
great location amongst grand views, wildlife and fresh air
there were extremely unhygienic dish washing utensils and we had to wash dishes before we used them
as the whether was very cold when we arrived, we really appreciated the fireplace which warmed the whole house
everything needed was supplied and lots of firewood to keep it warm
Host:
we would have liked more welcoming household and local information
the next day it was extremely rainy with no breaks in sight so we ended up packing up and moving on early
melissa was a great help and the house was tidy, clean and cozy
beautiful location, very well appointed beach house, very helpful hostess
:) and also remember to bring sandfly repellent, especially for the backyard and beach (not a problem in the house)!! would happily stay again and definitely for longer than one night!
Location:
beautiful wee bach in a beautiful location!
location and view world class
the outlook was fantastic and location to the information centre great
we had a really nice time here, curio bay is a fantastic location
the petrified forest in curio bay is really close by too
Read more reviews

8. Spacious double-storey holiday home in West Coast (from USD 105)

This spacious home is situated in Lake Brunner and is perfect for you if you’re on holiday with friends and family as it sleeps up to nine. Some activities in close proximity include bush walks, boating, and golfing. There is also the famous Blackball Hilton Pub nearby. If you’re coming with young children, do be careful as the property is surrounded by high decks with two flights of stairs from the ground level. Facilities include free Wi-Fi, television, fireplace, parking, and more. Pets are welcomed too!

Stayed at this property?
Moana, West Coast, NZ
41 reviews  
House 9 Guests 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
plenty of room and excellent views
Cleanliness:
very clean everything we needed beauiful location
Host:
owners very good to communicate with
special mention for the owner so reactive and involved in the booking process
Location:
nice tidy property lovely location
good parking good location
a truely brilliant location with plenty of space
what an amazing place located in such a serene peaceful part of the world
Read more reviews

Surround yourself with nature

In today’s busy day and age, we’re always rushing to keep up with our deadlines at school or work. It is always important to detox from our everyday life to let loose and let our minds relax. That is why these houses are the perfect places for you to stay if you happen to be on vacation in New Zealand! So, do yourself a favor and switch up your usual hotels for these wonderful and scenic homes. You won’t regret it!

Stayed at this property?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Faith embarked on a transformative odyssey as a freelance writer and avid traveler. Her wanderlust ignited during a memorable exchange program in Lund, Sweden, where creativity and the passion for...Read more

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