12 Unique Airbnb Vacation Rentals In New Zealand - Updated 2024

Leonora
Leonora 
Updated
| 5 min read

Located in the southwestern part of the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is an island country with stunning landscapes and wonderful Maori culture. This beautiful country has lots to offer and things to do. There are tropical beaches and verdant wilderness, as well as alpine deserts. There are fantastic national parks, amazing hiking trails, beautiful wellness retreats, and world-class surfing and skiing spots all over the country. It is famous for Manuka honey, which is made by bees foraging the flowers of the Manuka plant that only grows in New Zealand. Movie buffs will know that Lord of the Rings was filmed entirely in the country. For the foodies, New Zealand lambs, seafood, pavlova, and barbecues are quintessential. Stay a few days to explore this travel destination and don’t worry about accommodation. For a memorable trip, read on for the list of unique Airbnb vacation rentals 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 April 11, 2024.

1. Beautiful geodesic dome with outdoor hot tub access, Otago (from USD 366)

While staying in this geodesic dome, which will undoubtedly take your holiday getaway to the next level, treat yourself to a memorable experience. Temperature control, such as air conditioning and heating, ensures a pleasant environment at all times. There is free WiFi available so that you can stay connected online.

Breakfast will be provided for you to get an excellent start to the day. You can enjoy the refreshing atmosphere while sipping a beverage outside on the patio, furnished with comfortable outdoor seating. You can unwind with a soothing soak in the outdoor hot tub, which is ideal for intimate moments for the couple and is available to all guests staying in this property.

Stayed at this property?
Albert Town, Otago, New Zealand
582.05 km (361.7 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
130 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in dome 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the views were absolutely stunning the interior is clean comfortable and feels incredibly luxurious
Cleanliness:
it was very clean in amazing condition
Host:
the hosts were amazing
wonderful hosts the domes are beautiful & a smashing breaky
welcoming friendly and relaxed hosts
the hosts are very hospitable and we really enjoyed our stay
worth the money worth the experience and such lovely hosts
Location:
glorious location amazing atmosphere and incredible hospitality
can’t recommend this place more
Read more reviews

2. Lovely historic abode with a picnic area, Northland (from USD 139)

This wooden chapel was built in the 1870s, but it has been renovated into a lovely vacation home with a view of Orongo Bay, where you can relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy your home-cooked meal prepared from the kitchenette in a cozy indoor dining space with the church pews and a custom-made macrocarpa table.

There’s no need to panic if you have some urgent business to take care of while staying here, thanks to the availability of both WiFi and a designated workspace. Have fun lounging inside to the tunes of your choice on the Bluetooth speaker system. Spending time outdoors in the picnic area and enjoying a barbecue is a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery and feel the revitalizing breeze.

Stayed at this property?
Russell, Northland, New Zealand
670.93 km (416.9 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
75 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cottage 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable and had everything we needed
fabulous stay at the chapel comfortable & stylish with everything you could need
Cleanliness:
the chapel is sparkling clean and has everything you need
this is a magical little spot super clean and the kitchen set up was perfect
Host:
kelly is a great host and made us feel very welcome
would highly recommend this property and kelly is a fantastic host
kelly was a great host who was responsive and had very clear communication
Location:
a really cute little character place
wonderful quiet location but very close to russell town too
perfect location peaceful and quiet
charming little place in a beautiful location
this is a lovely location and right near some cool spots in russell
Read more reviews

3. Te Pahika, West Coast (from USD 88)

This historic carriage of a train that crashed at Moana in 1963 now stands as a relaxing and tranquil accommodation. Called Te Pahika, this unusual Airbnb accommodation is perfect for couples who want to escape from stressful city life. The carriage converted into a cozy room has one bed and one bath, a fully equipped kitchen, a fridge, and a two-burner stove. There is an outdoor bath area as well.

Spray for bugs and flies are provided. Wake up to the singing of the birds and watch the stars on clear nights.

Stayed at this property?
Greymouth, West Coast, New Zealand
327.73 km (203.7 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
521 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Train 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
charming and cozy - but equipped with all the modern amenities
the train carriage is very unique comfortable and private
breakfast is very well set up and peaceful to enjoy on the patio overlooking the sheep
it was so charming and comfortable and we had everything we needed
sarah and david's train was absolutely stunning and the breakfast left for us was delicious
Cleanliness:
the train itself was spotless including a very clean bathroom and kitchen
everything is new and clean
very cozy and clean and nice and tucked away
it was spacious clean private quiet and adorable
everything was so well thought out/planned and extremely clean everything you need
Host:
sarah and david were great hosts
sarah and david were lovely hosts and were keen to ensure we had a pleasant stay
we loved being greeted by the friendly sheep when we arrived they also provided a lovely country breakfast
it truly is a one of a kind stay
Location:
adorable place to stay right near greymouth
it is very private and peaceful location
this is a great place to stay if you're in the greymouth vicinity
wonderful secluded location with lots of thoughtful comfortable touches
this place enchanted me when i first looked at our new zealand trip
Read more reviews

4. The Nest, Taranaki (from USD 187)

The Nest offers a dreamy off-grid ambiance as you bask in the natural beauty of your surroundings. While you stay at this unique Airbnb, you’ll have access to its one bed, bath, and kitchenette. Located at the top of the west coast cliffs, it overlooks the Tasman Sea. The soft and comfortable bed is a haven as the crashing waves lull you to sleep. You can also stretch on the couch and enjoy peace and quiet.

Cook and dine under the stars. The Nest uses solar power and natural gas. Note that the property only has enough electricity for essential amenities, including lighting, heating, refrigeration, and a few power sockets.

Stayed at this property?
Pihama, Taranaki, New Zealand
212.69 km (132.2 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
488 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Farm stay 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the small kitchen is great and everything was super clean and comfy
it was very clean and tastefully decorated for a peaceful and restful time
everything inside was perfect very spacious and clean
Host:
bailee and matt were wonderful and generous hosts
beautiful spot accommodation and good hosts made it a non-stressful experience
shannon’s favourite accomadation ever such a beautiful spot and awesome hosts
also had great communication with the hosts and checked in often
bailee was so great with communication and very helpful
Location:
unbeatable remote location perfect for a relaxing get away
set up in the perfect location
amazing location beautifully decorated comfortable cottage
loved the wee adventurous drive to the secluded location; added even more to the fun
we loved everything about the accommodation and location; breathtaking and so relaxing
Read more reviews

5. Farm stay with amazing view of Ica Valley, Wellington

This farm stay is located at the top of a hill in Ica, just 2 hours away from Wellington and 35 minutes away from the beaches. This unique rental has one bedroom, one bed, and one bath. The view of the valley below is stunning.

Glampers love this place because of the numerous daytime activities. Within the property, there are outdoor seating areas and barbecue facilities, as well as an outdoor hot tub. Guests can also take a stroll along the shore, go e-biking, play golf, or lawn tennis.

Stayed at this property?
Whareama, Wellington, New Zealand
114.07 km (70.9 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
583 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Farm stay 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
absolutely wonderful place farm fresh breakfast and hot chocolates are great
you can expect a view to die for on a good day a luxurious warm bed and rustic charm
incredible bath and super comfortable bed in the most peaceful location
Cleanliness:
clean quiet and thoughtful touches made it well worth it
amazing place clean quiet everything was beautiful amazing moment alex is very very nice thank you
Host:
alex is a great host
alex was great and very kind and helpful
thank you alex for hosting
simply amazing excellent communication and greeted by the friendly host alex
alex was such an amazing host i had a beautiful stay and the location is unbeatable
Location:
what a location perfect for a night away to completely relax and unwind
beautiful place in a stunning location everything was super well equipped
beautiful spot to escape from the city and spend some time close to nature
Read more reviews

6. The Lighthouse, Wellington (from USD 109)

If you’re wondering where to stay in New Zealand, book The Lighthouse in Wellington, which is in an oceanfront setting. It has one bedroom, one bed, and one bath, a perfect place to stay for couples. The space is relaxing and cozy. Guests can sit for hours admiring the changing seascape.

It has a kitchen but with many restaurants nearby, cooking might not be a priority. Take a walk on the shore and stop by one of the many eating places to sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Stayed at this property?
Wellington, New Zealand
6.42 km (4.0 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
641 reviews   Wifi Available
Lighthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
fruits coffee and fresh flowers plus the extra comfy bed were all we needed
cozy place with fabulous views checkin and checkout was very easy and bruce left great tips for the area
Cleanliness:
the lighthouse was clean and well-stocked
Host:
the friendly owner is aware of this and i believe he will fix this for future guests
bruce was an excellent host and made it easy to check into the lighthouse
it was great working with bruce he was responsive and made the check in process easy
bruce was easy to communicate with and was very accommodating with an early check-in
Location:
what a cool location wish we could have stayed longer
great location walking distance to a small town for food trails and red rocks park
this is a unique airbnb in an awesome location
the location of this place was really nice
a unique space in a fantastic location
Read more reviews

7. Charming cave motel beneath a hill, Waikato (from USD 179)

This unique stay was built after the film Lord of the Rings was released. Constructed in a similar style to the cave homes in the said film, this property was bermed beneath a hill. Scaled for humans rather than hobbits, the rental is spacious and features modern furnishings.

The accommodation has two bedrooms, five beds, and one bath. It is perfect for a family of six. It has a kitchenette with a refrigerator, electric hob, and microwave. Outside is a barbecue facility.

Stayed at this property?
Waitomo, Waikato, New Zealand
339.08 km (210.7 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
165 reviews   Wifi Available
Cave 5 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
really enjoyed our stay as lotr fans
Cleanliness:
clean enough just not my style of accom
great place to relax reslly clean
very clean and more spacious than i expected
we stayed in the hobbit unit which was clean but musty like everyone said
it was clean and had everything we needed for a nice stay
Host:
the owners were friendly and helpful and responsive
overall very nice jim was a great host
the staff at woodlyn park were really helpful and responsive
easy check in and helpful staff
our hosts were amazing gave us some really solid local recommendations - cannot rate highly enough
Location:
interesting deco and convenient location
great location so central to waitomo town center
the location and the hole were so awesome
great location with close proximity to the glow worm caves and various hikes in waitomo
very cool place great location for cave exploring and glow worms
Read more reviews

8. Apollo spaceship with mountain view, Canterbury (from USD 105)

Sleep in an Apollo spaceship, the only accommodation of its kind in Planet Earth. It has one bedroom, a queen-sized bed, and one bath. Couples will find this accommodation a perfect retreat. The spaceship is self-contained, featuring a shower, toilet, sink, and microwave.

Located at the Dark Sky Reserve at Pukaki Airport, guests can see the stars through the clear acrylic glass roof. Enjoy a barbecue outside during summer. There’s a bike track and bike storage as well.

Stayed at this property?
Pukaki, Canterbury, New Zealand
502.27 km (312.1 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
762 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Plane 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the heater works nicely at night if it gets too cold
special experience overall is ok just that the heater is quite noisy
very effective heater
the view from the bed (out through the skylight) is simply wonderful
super warm inside the space bed is very comfortable and soft
Cleanliness:
very clean and cozy place
the bathroom is clean
everything is really clean and the bed is comfy
clean easy to find and very fun
unique experience and clean space
Host:
peter is a gracious host and he even showed us his next project building another rocket
peter was a amazing host welcoming and friendly
peter is also a very helpful host giving good local tips
a very interesting stay which the spaceship model self-built by the owner himself
peter is really friendly
Location:
great location perfect for star gazing
great stay with a great location
the location was great for stargazing at night as it was near complete darkness
one of a kind accommodation in a great location for exploring the mount cook area
amazing room and location such a quiet place
Read more reviews

9. The Mud House, Canterbury

Take in the beauty and wonder of nature surrounding The Mud House. This unique property is made of mud brick and earth roof. It is perfect for couples with its one bed and one bath. This small house is powered by solar energy, but the fridge and hot water run on gas.

Guests can take a walk to the beach or sample fruits in season in the orchard. They can watch birds as they leave and return to the trees where they perch and listen to their lovely songs upon waking up.

Stayed at this property?
Pigeon Bay, Canterbury, New Zealand
308.25 km (191.6 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
137 reviews   Superhost
Earthen home 1 Bed 2 Guests

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the place was clean and had enough blankets pillows and kitchen items to make our lives easy
Host:
thanks anna for being a great host
getting off the grid but still having eco friendly luxury was amazing
Location:
the area is nice and close to akaroa
such a beautiful scenic location comfortable cleanly rustic but very modern
amazing location and hideaway house loved our stay especially the sauna will be back oneday for sure
beautiful tranquil place to stay hope to come back again soon
what an awesome place
Read more reviews

10. Rare and unique dome house, Warrington

This house resembles a spaceship, featuring a dome-shaped structure and circular fixtures. Boasting a rare type of accommodation, this Futuro spaceship is popular with UFO enthusiasts throughout the world.

This accommodation has one bedroom and one bath. It is perfect for a couple or a small family. Guests can enjoy the view from its portholes. The rental is comfortable and visitors can enjoy a delightful stay aboard.

Stayed at this property?

596.51 km (370.7 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
15 reviews  
Dome house 0 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we came in winter which was cold but a good heater and de-humidifier kept us cosy
Host:
a one of a kind experience
it's really kids friendly
Location:
beautiful location & views
Read more reviews

11. Wonderful treehouse for four, Waiheke Island

This beautiful treehouse rises among the bushes and trees in the eastern end of Waiheke Island. It has two beds and one bath and can accommodate four guests. In this treehouse, guests can enjoy peace and quiet, which can rejuvenate the body and soul.

The rental has a kitchen, a shared hot tub, and a bathtub. It has a patio and balcony where one can view the natural beauty of the surroundings. Guests can listen to the singing of the native birds, feast their eyes on the forest canopy, and experience restful sleep.

Stayed at this property?
Auckland, New Zealand
499.17 km (310.2 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
206 reviews   Superhost
Treehouse 1 Bed 4 Guests 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the workmanship was impeccable and it had everything we needed to make our stay comfortable
sue is a delight the facilities are fantastic
Cleanliness:
great communication clean tidy and really peaceful place
its stylish and clean with everything you need
the treehouse was clean and tidy and had a full kitchen which was great
top shelf stay comfortable clean and peaceful
strongly recommend for someone looking to hide from city and meditation in this lovely and spacious place
Host:
highly recommend to all lovely hosts
sue was a wonderful host and very helpful
sue was an attentive and friendly host and we enjoyed amazing massages
sue was an amazing host - she was really friendly
sue was such a lovely host & did the most relaxing massage
Location:
the location is just amazing
the perfect spot to close out our honeymoon
special place away from the busy-ness of life
the place is beautiful set in a remote location surrounded by trees and birds
cool as place for a get away 10/10 recommend
Read more reviews

12. Charming castle with romantic history, Auckland

This castle was built by a local for a South African girl he fell in love with. The castle has five bedrooms, five beds, three baths, and can host eight guests. The renovated kitchen features modern appliances, including a microwave and a two-door fridge. Tea and coffee are provided for free.

Outside, a swimming pool and a glass-covered yard can be found. There is also an outdoor spa and barbecue area. Parking space is provided for two cars.

Stayed at this property?
Auckland, New Zealand
489.84 km (304.4 mi) from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
177 reviews   Wifi Available
Castle 5 Beds 8 Guests 5 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
good kitchen and amenities
- the beds have electric blankets on them which was really nice as we stayed during winter
fun house to rent very unique and comfortable
Cleanliness:
beautiful clean palace highly recommended
spa was relaxing pool needed a bit of a clean
Host:
owner is very nice and helpful
she was kind and knowledgeable about the general area of half moon bay
wonderful attentive host and the castle was just amazing thank you kathy we loved our stay
winnie was an amazingly helpful host and accomodated us with anything we needed
one of a kind experience for my friends and i easy and fun
Location:
nice walking distance to the marina
the house is situated in a great location
be aware- the house is located in a quiet residential suburb a pretty fair distance from downtown
nice quiet neighborhood that felt very safe we were close to neighbors but never felt too close
very nice unique place to stay highly recommended
Read more reviews

Stay in unique Airbnbs in New Zealand

It is undeniable that New Zealand has the best Airbnb rentals. So if you have yet to ever sleep in a spaceship, a treehouse, or a cave, for your next adventure in this Pacific country, book these unique Airbnbs in New Zealand and count them as part of this country’s one-of-a-kind activities.

Frequently asked questions about the unique Airbnb vacation rentals in New Zealand


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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Leonora Puno, a passionate writer and traveler, is drawn to destinations abundant in natural beauty. Having explored numerous parts of the Philippines that showcase the wonders of nature, she...Read more

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