With towering mountains and icy glaciers, South Island is the place to be if you’re a nature lover with a taste for adventure. You can scale the Southern Alps or go bungee jumping and skiing in Queenstown. South Island also happens to be home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak, where visitors can admire views of a glacial lake. Speaking of records, Stewart Island is home to the largest, most varied bird population in New Zealand.
But that’s not all that South Island has to offer. Spread across its length and breadth are excellent accommodations that are a class apart thanks to various quirks and amenities they offer. Eager to know more? Check out our comprehensive list of the most unique accommodations in South Island, New Zealand.
Unique attractions in South Island:
- Check out the vibrant street art in Christchurch, which features various themes such as city heritage and tributes to Indigenous culture.
- If I were going to Aoraki/Mount Cook, I'd book a sailing adventure in Tasman Glacial Lake and watch icebergs floating in the water.
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 November 21, 2024.
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Your options at a glance
| Accommodation | Unique Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Central Private Hotel by Naumi Hotels | Quirky, artistic rooms | from USD 310 |
| The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi Hotels | Built in the 1920s as the city's first corner store | from USD 219 |
| The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments | Exclusive lakeside location and private beach | from USD 267 |
| Cardrona Hotel | Originally built in 1863; considered the most photographed building in the country | from USD 117 |
| Galaxy Boutique Hotel | Located in Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve; offers opportunities for stargazing | from USD 248 |
| The Observatory Hotel Christchurch | 33 individually designed rooms | from USD 209 |
| Novotel Christchurch Airport | Design inspired by local landscape | from USD 182 |
| Edgewater Hotel | Lakeside hotel located in an area tied to local legends | from USD 174 |
| Stoneridge Estate | Boutique vineyard with amazing views | from USD 453 |
| The Bealey Hotel | Secluded alpine location with great views | from USD 228 |
Why you should stay in a unique accommodation
Cultural immersion: Some accommodations are designed to provide a deep dive into local culture, offering authentic experiences like traditional meals, cultural performances, and local tours.
Connection to nature: Many unique accommodations provide a more secluded and peaceful environment than large hotels, perfect for relaxation. Options such as treehouses, cabins, and glamping sites bring you closer to nature, letting you fully appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
Thematic experiences: From pirate-themed ships to medieval castles, unique accommodations can transport you to a different time or place, providing a fun and memorable experience.
Instagram-worthy moments: Many unique accommodations offer picturesque backdrops, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, staying somewhere distinctive enhances your travel story and makes your trip stand out.
How we choose the best unique accommodations
When selecting the best unique accommodations, we consider various factors to ensure that each recommendation aligns with the preferences and expectations of discerning travelers. Our criteria include:
Regional uniqueness: We prioritize accommodations that are rare or uncommon, offering something distinct that sets them apart from the typical hotel experience.
Architecture and design: We look for properties with unique structures, themed rooms, custom-made decor, artistic elements, or integration of local cultural influences that differentiate the property from typical buildings in the region.
Special experiences: We evaluate the unique experiences offered by the property, including bespoke services, exclusive dining options, as well as extraordinary amenities like underwater spas or private art galleries.
Exclusive location: We seek accommodations situated in unusual or extraordinary settings, such as remote, scenic, or culturally significant areas, providing guests with immersive cultural experiences and extraordinary views.
Overall value: We also evaluate each property’s accessibility, guest experiences, service quality, comfort, and overall quality relative to its price.
By considering these factors, we aim to recommend accommodations that offer an unforgettable stay.
1. The Central Private Hotel by Naumi Hotels; Queenstown (from USD 275)
What makes it unique?
- Vibrant rooms: Guests can choose either the Oasis room with an abstract treetop-inspired design or the Junior Suite, which is swathed in hues of green
- Eclectic interiors: Hotel features fascinating elements such as jewel-toned interiors and a lounge with a fireplace that will catch the eyes of visitors
- Artistic elements: Rooms have special headboards designed by local artist Deborah Moss
Potential trade-offs
- Some guests have noted that the lighting in the rooms was a bit too dim for them
- Smaller breakfast quantity has also been highlighted by past guests as a possible issue
Insta-worthy corners
- Visit the warm lounge to take glowing selfies next to its fireplace
- The rooms will add a pop of color to your Insta feed
- Take a stroll in the hotel's garden and get some snapshots surrounded by pretty flowers and lush greenery
The Central Private Hotel by Naumi Hotels This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
2. The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi Hotels; Queenstown (from USD 219)
Lovely breakfast room, complimentary continental breakfast, and happy hour with NZ wines.
Reasonably priced boutique hotel with free happy hour and complimentary snacks.
Excellent central location, within walking distance to cafes, restaurants, and attractions.
Quirky decor, outdoor spa, 24-hour dairy treats, and free happy hour drinks.
What makes it unique?
- Historic charm: Built in the 1920s as Queenstown's first corner store
- Blend of nature and modernity: Situated between The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu, and a two-minute walk from Queenstown city center
- Boutique rooms: Choose from the vibrant Habitat rooms, Oasis rooms with views, or the Junior Suite with private balcony and skylight
Potential trade-offs
- Not suitable for families with children under 12 years old
- Limited availability during peak season
Insta-worthy corners
- The intricate room designs are perfect for indoor shots
- If I were here, would take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu and get some landscape shots
The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi Hotels This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
3. The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments; Queenstown (from USD 267)
What makes it unique?
- Lakeside luxury with panoramic views: Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with views of the lake and the Remarkables
- Award-winning dining: True South Dining Room is the on-site award-winning restaurant serving the best of Central Otago; Bordeau Lounge Bar has lake and mountain views
- Exclusive amenities: Hotel amenities include a library filled with rare books and art, in-room spa treatments by Indulge Mobile Spa, private beach and wharf, and "Cycle The Rees" airport transfer
Potential trade-offs
- No pool, but guests can swim in the lake
- The lake's temperature stays at 11 - 13°C (51.8 - 55.4°F), which might be too cold for some guests
Insta-worthy corners
- As a bookworm, I'll take advantage of the hotel's library as it is perfect for book lovers and those looking for an elegant indoor setting
- Take advantage of the hotel's exclusive access to the lakefront for serene shots by the water
4. Cardrona Hotel; Cardrona (from USD 115)
What makes it unique?
- Storied past: Built in 1863 during the gold rush and is said to be the most photographed building in the country
- Gateway to activities: Four major ski fields nearby, including Cardrona Alpine Resort, just 5 minutes away
- Culinary excellence: In-house restaurant serves traditional pub grub with the freshest seasonal produce from Central Otago
Potential trade-offs
- Some of the old hotel might not have the mod cons of newer places
- No spa, pool, or fitness center
Insta-worthy corners
- Take photos of the hotel's famous rustic exterior, considered one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand
- Capture the relaxed vibes in the hotel's famous beer garden—perfect for daytime or evening shots with friends
Cardrona Hotel
Address: 2312 Cardrona Valley Road
5. Galaxy Boutique Hotel; Lake Tekapo (from USD 227)
What makes it unique?
- Unique location: Hotel is situated within Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of only 8 in the world and the only one in the Southern Hemisphere
- Stargazing opportunities: Clear views of the night sky with minimal light pollution so you can see stars and constellations; Deluxe Lake View Rooms have skylights, so you can lie in bed and look up at the stars
- Harmony with nature: Hotel's minimalist exterior highlights its commitment to preserving the surrounding landscape and causing minimal disturbance
Potential trade-offs
- Free breakfast but no lunch/dinner
- May not suit travelers looking for a more urban environment
Insta-worthy corners
- If you book the Deluxe Lake View Room, be sure to take lots of pictures of the night sky through your skylight
- Step outside and take pics of the night sky within the Dark Sky Reserve with millions of stars, the Milky Way, and constellations unique to the Southern Hemisphere, and make sure to share it with us
6. The Observatory Hotel Christchurch; Christchurch (from USD 209)
What makes it unique?
- Historic charm: Hotel is situated within the Gothic Revival walls of Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, a precinct rich in history
- Uniquely designed rooms: Each of the 33 rooms is individually crafted, featuring handpicked furniture made in Canterbury, fittings from Aotearoa, and artworks by distinguished local artists
- Stargazing skylight suites: Prestige Skylight Rooms and the Royal Skylight Room (The Malachite Room) feature expansive skylights, allowing guests to sleep under the night sky
- Drawing Room Lounge: The stylish Drawing Room Lounge is adorned with a curated selection of books and offers complimentary tea and coffee
Potential trade-offs
- Hotel may have limited availability during peak seasons
- Guests who prefer minimalist interiors might not like the opulent vintage interiors of the hotel
Insta-worthy corners
- Each room's design, featuring local artwork and bespoke furniture, provides a stylish backdrop for interior shots
- The expansive skylights in the Prestige Skylight Rooms and The Malachite Room offer magical settings for photos
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch
Address: 9 Hereford Street The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora
7. Novotel Christchurch Airport; Christchurch (from USD 259)
What makes it unique?
- Design inspired by South Island landscape: Hotel's interior features materials such as grey tundra marble, exposed concrete walls, and custom-designed rugs, which represent the changing landscape of the region
- Impressive architectural features: Double-height lobby with a timber ceiling and large windows offers an open and airy atmosphere
- Bespoke furnishings: Hotel showcases custom-designed furnishings, such as hand-tufted wool rugs, and unique lighting fixtures like the copper pendants in the lobby café; rooms feature large graphic prints of New Zealand scenery by photographer John Doogan
Potential trade-offs
- Located in a busy area, so there might be noise issues, especially from air traffic
- No pool
Insta-worthy corners
- The double-height lobby with its grand timber ceiling, exposed concrete walls, and custom-designed rugs offers a dramatic backdrop for photos
- The café features eye-catching copper pendant lights and stylish seating arrangements, perfect for chic interior shots
Novotel Christchurch Airport This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 30 Dury Road Christchurch Airport
8. Edgewater Hotel; Wanaka (from USD 180)
Good restaurant and bar on site, friendly staff, delicious and economical breakfast
Reasonable pricing for room and breakfast, additional charges for full breakfast
Conveniently located by the lake, walking distance to town, close to 'That Wanaka Tree'
Tennis courts, bike hire, buffet breakfast, room service, washing machine/dryer
What makes it unique?
- Lakeside location: Situated right at the edge of Lake Wānaka, the hotel offers uninterrupted views of the pristine waters and the majestic Southern Alps
- Rich cultural heritage: According to local lore, Chief Rākaihautū of the Waitaha tribe created the lake and surrounding mountains with his paddle
- Locally inspired cuisine: Menu at the on-site restaurant changes every season in accordance with what ingredients are available at the time in the Central Otago region
Potential trade-offs
- While we think it's a good thing, the hotel's emphasis on slowing down and connecting with nature might not appeal to travelers seeking a vibrant nightlife or urban excitement
- No spa, pool, or fitness center
Insta-worthy corners
- Explore the hotel's park-like surroundings along the water's edge, offering picturesque spots for nature-inspired photography
- Take photos of the breathtaking views of Lake Wānaka from the outdoor dining areas
Edgewater Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
9. Stoneridge Estate; Queenstown (from USD 1000)
What makes it unique?
- Artisan-crafted alpine retreat: This is a luxury lodge, wedding venue, and boutique vineyard located just 15 minutes from Queenstown and is on the shores of Lake Hayes, offering panoramic lake and mountain views
- Accommodations with character: The estate features three stay options—The Lodge, The Cottage, and The Retreat—each thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the natural landscape and featuring soaring timber beams, native Otago schist stone, hand-forged iron, and custom-crafted furnishings
- High-end dining: Guests can savor exceptional New Zealand fine dining with the estate's 'Trust the Chef' five-course degustation menu, hosted in a private dining room with spectacular views
Potential trade-offs
- Higher price point
- The estate is a popular wedding and event venue, which might mean that during certain times, there will be noise issues
Insta-worthy corners
- The romantic stone chapel set amidst the gardens provides a picturesque backdrop with its unique architecture and serene surroundings
- Take photos with the dramatic scenery in the background to create artistic shots
- Stroll through the boutique vineyard and snap photos among the vines, showcasing the lush landscape
Stoneridge Estate
Address: 756 State Highway 6, Lake Hayes, RD1, Queenstown, New Zealand
10. The Bealey Hotel; Arthur's Pass (from USD 228)
What makes it unique?
- Alpine location: Situated in the heart of New Zealand’s high country, with views of the Southern Alps, snow-capped mountains, bush-clad mountains, and rocky riverbeds
- Versatile accommodation options: Choose from a range of accommodations to suit your needs: luxury apartments, spacious villas with private spa pools, studio units, and a backpacker lodge
- Rich heritage: Established in 1865, the hotel was once a stopover for horse-drawn coaches and has been a destination for travelers for over 150 years
- Gateway to adventures: Hotel’s location is perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, snowboarding, horse riding, and bird watching
Potential trade-offs
- May be less accessible for those without a vehicle
- No spa or fitness center
Insta-worthy corners
- If you're staying in the Superior Villa Suite, don't miss the opportunity to snap photos while relaxing in your private spa pool overlooking the breathtaking scenery
- Share action shots from your hiking, biking, or skiing adventures in Arthur's Pass National Park
The Bealey Hotel
Address: State Highway 73, 12858 West Coast Road
Marvel over South Island's beauty
The stunning landscape of New Zealand is something that must be seen to be believed, and it looks just as good in real life as it does in photos. Our unique hotels put you smack in the middle of some of the best sites in South Island while adding beauty of their own through amazing amenities. To experience it for yourself, simply book any of the properties listed above!
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