Looking for the best places to stay in New Zealand? From magical glamping spots to lush hotels to Airbnbs with the most thoughtful touches, this list of the best New Zealand accommodation providers will help you find some epic places to rest your head during your Aotearoa adventure.
You should know that I’m a self-confessed accommodation obsessive. Whether my budget is $10 or $500, whether I’m solo or with friends or family, and whether I’m somewhere totally exotic or planning a staycation in my hometown, I have to find a good place to stay.
Accommodation is so much more than where you spend the night, and staying somewhere special can make all the difference to your holiday. Bye bye boring business hotels that look the same in every country, hello accommodation that actually reflects the destination you’re visiting and makes an impact on you after you leave.
You can see my definitive list of the best places I’ve stayed around the world right here, but there were so many worthy New Zealand accommodation spots that I had to give them their own blog.
So without further ado, here are all the best places to stay in New Zealand!
What makes a New Zealand accommodation provider special?
The best accommodation in New Zealand for you will depend on your personal preferences, whether your priority is value, luxury, location or something different entirely.
Before you click out thinking that these places are going to blow your budget, good doesn’t have to mean expensive! Good accommodation to me means somewhere unique, somewhere that takes your trip to the next level, somewhere that’ll give you a decent night’s sleep.
It might be a boutique hostel with cooking classes each night, or a geodesic dome with insane stargazing views, or a quaint little B&B with fresh farm eggs and friendly owners.
Each of the places on this list has been vetted, photographed and reviewed by me personally. I’ve stayed at more than 80 different accommodation providers in New Zealand, most of which have been in the past year since returning home as the pandemic kicked off. This list is full of the New Zealand accommodation providers that are a step above the rest, and I’d highly recommend adding them to your New Zealand bucket list.
New Zealand Accommodation: The Best Places to Stay in the North Island
Auckland
LyLo Auckland
Type of accommodation: Pod hostel
Why it’s amazing: LyLo is an epic hostel offering great value accommodation in Auckland’s CBD. You can book cheap and cheerful pods in dorm rooms (both co-ed and female-only available), and they also have private rooms with comfy beds and a decent amount of space. It’s giving upmarket backpacker vibes, there’s a pizza bar with great food, events to meet other travellers and it’s in an ideal location with easy access to public transport.
Address: 54 Cook St, Auckland, NZ 1010
Check your travel dates and book online here.
The Cordis
Type of accommodation: Luxury hotel
Why it’s amazing: The Cordis is a 5* hotel right in the middle of Central Auckland, with luxurious rooms, incredibly city views, a beauty spa, a sun-soaked pool and on-site bars and eateries. I recommend booking a high tea at the Chandelier Lounge, simply divine, and the cocktails at Our Land is Alive are well worth a stop too.
Address: 83 Symonds Street, Grafton, Auckland 1010
Check your travel dates and book online here, and read my full hotel review here.
M Social (temporarily closed)
Type of accommodation: Designer hotel
Why it’s amazing: M Social is a new designer hotel right by the water in Central Auckland, in the bustling Viaduct entertainment district. Rooms are large and funky, beds provide a brilliant night’s sleep, the location is ideal for easy access to the city and public transport, and there’s a brand new shopping mall, Commercial Bay, that just opened a short walk down the road.
Address: 196-200 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Taupo
Taupo’s Treat
Type of accommodation: Homestay on Airbnb
Why it’s amazing: Taupo’s Treat is a quaint little cottage homestay just a few minutes’ drive from the lake. There’s space for a couple or a small family, with a superking bed, a fold out couch that turns into another superking, and a toddler’s bed. There’s also an outdoor bath, access to a vege garden and fruit trees, and free-range araucana fluffy chickens that might lay you some eggs if you’re lucky!
Address: 188 Tamamutu Street, Taupo 3330
Check your travel dates and book online here.
The Coromandel, North Island
Slipper Island
Type of accommodation: Glamping & lodge
Why it’s amazing: This hidden gem in the North Island’s Coromandel Peninsula deserves way more hype than it gets, but that’s because even some locals don’t know about it! It’s a short boat ride from the small coastal town of Tairua, and the island is basically private, with a shallow bay perfect for kayaking and easy access to fishing and diving spots. There’s a lodge with a full kitchen and bunk rooms or two safari-style glamping tents if you’re feeling flash.
Bonus tip: You can book for just a couple or a family, but if you want to head over for a special occasion, you only need 30 people to rent out the entire place and have your own private island for a ridiculously low price!
Address: Slipper Island (Whakahau)
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Tairua Airbnb
Type of accommodation: Airbnb
Why it’s amazing: Full disclosure: this beachfront Kiwi bach is actually owned by my parents. But that means I’ve spent a lot of time there and can vouch for it personally!
Tairua is a quaint little town that many tourists pass through on the way to Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach, but it’s not a hot spot in itself and that’s what makes it great. It has a warm, local feel, there are some excellent eateries, and it’s super chill. I’ve spent almost every NZ summer there and it’s one of my favourite places in the world.
Address: 13 Manaia Road, Tairua
Check your travel dates and book online here.
The Bay of Plenty, North Island
Trinity Wharf, Tauranga
Type of accommodation: Hotel
Why it’s amazing: Trinity Wharf is a business-style waterfront hotel in Tauranga, with stunning views overlooking the harbour. But what really sets it apart from other hotels is that it has an infinity pool (!!!) AND rooms start from less than $250 a night.
Infinity pools in New Zealand hotels are hard to come by, with most setting you back a minimum of $500 per night. Believe me, I made a spreadsheet of all the options.
The rooms at Trinity Wharf are modern and comfortable, the onsite restaurant has a great menu and delicious cocktails, and it gives you easy access to all the adventures at the Mount and in Tauranga.
Address: 51 Dive Crescent, Tauranga 3110
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Finesse Luxury Glamping, Rotorua
Type of accommodation: Glamping
Why it’s amazing: Finesse Luxury Glamping has the largest safari tent I’ve ever stayed in, and the owners have thought of every little detail to make your stay amazing. It’s my top pick for the best Rotorua glamping spot, and I can’t wait to go back!
You get a HUGE bed, comfy couch, outdoor kitchen with gas stove, solar-powered lanterns, hot tub, brazier complete with marshmallows and toasting sticks, bean bags and a hammock amongst the trees. Paradise.
Address: 53 Endean Rd Rotorua, New Zealand 3072
Check your travel dates and book online here.
New Zealand Accommodation: The Best Places to Stay in the South Island
Nelson, South Island
Pepin Island Farmstay, Cable Bay
Type of accommodation: Glamping
Why it’s amazing: This gorgeous glamping spot is located in the middle of a farm on a private island just a short drive from Nelson. Pepin Island has three different huts available, two have outdoor baths and all three have insane views.
A brilliant option if you need an off-grid getaway!
Address: 875 Cable Bay Road, Nelson
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Rabbit Island Huts, Mapua
Type of accommodation: Glamping huts
Why it’s amazing: These well-equipped cosy huts on stilts are about 20 minutes away from Nelson towards Abel Tasman. You’ll get a comfy bed, fridge, tea & coffee-making facilities and you can choose between private ensuite or (very nice!) shared bathrooms. All huts have access to a shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor dining area, as well as an outdoor bath perfect for stargazing on a clear night.
Rabbit Island Huts are also eco-friendly, they were built using sustainable materials and paint, are almost totally plastic-free and the owners are focused on restoring the wetland that surrounds the property.
Address: 305 Redwood Road, Rabbit Island 7081
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Blenheim, South Island
The Nineteenth
Type of accommodation: Luxury holiday home
Why it’s amazing: Who wouldn’t want to wake up in a lush designer home surrounded by vineyards? This two bedroom house is soaked with natural light, stylishly decorated and comes with all the mod cons you need (full kitchen, washing facilities, outdoor BBQ, mountain bikes and golf clubs).
The views are just stunning, I highly recommend getting up early to watch the sun slowly rise over the valley’s wineries.
Address: 131 Marlborough Ridge Drive, Fairhall, Blenheim 7272
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Kaikoura, South Island
Manakau PurePods
Type of accommodation: Glamping
Why it’s amazing: This sustainably-built glass box is set amongst a working farm in rural inland Kaikoura, about 20 minutes from the town centre. You’ll be off the grid but not without home comforts, like a comfy bed, heating, gas stove, flushing toilet and hot shower.
Cross your fingers for a clear night because stargazing through your glass ceiling is out of this world, it needs to be on your New Zealand accommodation “to-stay” list!
Address: 300 Blunts Road, Inland Road 7373
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Christchurch, South Island
Britten Stables
Type of accommodation: Boutique B&B
Why it’s amazing: Staying at the Britten Stables rocketed to the top of my bucket list as soon as I saw photos of the Moroccan-tiled pool and lush conservatory. The home was owned and renovated in the 70s by legendary motorbike engineer + inventor John Britten, and after being heavily damaged in the Christchurch earthquakes, it’s ben fixed up and is now managed by John’s daughter Isabelle and her husband Tim.
There are a few different guest suites available depending on your needs, all guests have access to the indoor pool and outdoor spa pool plus a guest lounge, and you’ll get fresh bread delivered to your door in the morning. Divine.
Address: 48 Matai Street West, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011
Check your travel dates and book online here.
The Tack Rooms
Type of accommodation: Boutique B&B
Why it’s amazing: The Tack Rooms offer brilliant value for a fully self-contained studio apartment with easy access to Christchurch’s central city. You get loads of space with a full kitchen, washing machine, bath tub and comfortable furniture, and the location is ideal for exploring the best restaurants, shops and nightlife. There’s private off-street parking and you even get access to the fitness centre at the hotel next door.
Address: 365 Montreal Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Akaroa & the Banks Peninsula
Te Wepu Intrepid Pods, Akaroa
Type of accommodation: Glamping
Why it’s amazing: Another stunning New Zealand glamping spot to add to your list, Te Wepu Intrepid Pods have three wooden pods on a Banks Peninsula farm overlooking Akaroa Harbour. Each pod has a comfy bed, an outdoor woodfire hot tub, BBQ and bio-loo.
The views here are seriously impressive, make sure you wake up early to catch the sunrise.
Address: Top Of Bantry Lodge Road, French Farm, Akaroa 7582
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Tekapo & Twizel, South Island
YHA Tekapo
Type of accommodation: Hostel
Why it’s amazing: It’s got the best view of any hostel in New Zealand! Located right on the lakefront of the magical Lake Tekapo, this hostel has basic but comfortable rooms (privates and dorms), a huge kitchen and 5GB free WiFi a day. It’s always my go-to for a cheap and cheerful Tekapo visit.
Address: 5 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo
Check your travel dates and book online here.
High Country Cabin
Type of accommodation: Luxury cabin
Why it’s amazing: This cabin has to be up there with New Zealand’s most ~aesthetic~ places to stay. It’s rustic with a flare of luxury, equipped with a full kitchen, laundry facilities and log burner, and it can fit up to five guests.
You can read my full High Country Cabin review for more details or to see more photos.
Address: 412 Manuka Terrace, Twizel
Check your travel dates and book online here.
SkyScape, Twizel
Type of accommodation: Tiny house
Why it’s amazing: This glass pod is hidden in rural Mackenzie Country with minimal light pollution, making it the ultimate location for a night in the International Dark Sky Reserve. Powered by solar panels and with an earth roof, it’s off the grid while keeping you warm in winter, cool in summer and comfortable all year round.
There’s a kitchenette, full bathroom, outdoor bath tub and deck chairs to lie back and enjoy sunrise, sunset or the night sky.
Address: 47 Ben Ohau Road, Ben Ohau
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Other Canterbury, South Island
Valley Views Glamping Domes, Waitaki Valley
Type of accommodation: Glamping
Why it’s amazing: These geodesic domes are set amongst the rolling hills in rural Canterbury, with a backdrop of mountains behind them. The domes themselves are kitted out with super comfy beds, fairy lights, portable phone chargers and some have a small wood fire, and the shared kitchen has everything you’d need to cook up an off-the-grid feast.
It’s unique, eco-friendly, and the Valley Views team have thought of every single detail to make your glamping trip super special.
Address: 161 Domett Road, Otiake, Waitaki
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Nest Treehouse, Hakataramea Valley
Type of accommodation: Glamping/tiny house
Why it’s amazing: This is literally the tiny treehouse of my dreams, complete with an outdoor bath and forest sauna. With a luxurious bed, modern bathroom, a bluetooth speaker and a TV that pops out from the ceiling, this is the perfect glamping option for those who don’t want to sacrifice home comforts.
Bring your own food to cook in the outdoor kitchen, or order one of the incredible platters or breakfast hampers to upgrade your stay.
Check out my detailed Nest Treehouse review for more info.
Address: 388 Hayes Road, Hakataramea Valley
Search your travel dates and book online here.
Otago, South Island
Cascade Creek Retreat, Milton
Type of accommodation: Luxury cabin
Why it’s amazing: Set in an ultra-private location amongst a working farm in Milton, about an hour from Dunedin, the Cascade Creek Retreat is a luxurious lodge with space for up to six people. The cabin comes complete with super comfortable beds, a huge living area, fireplace, board games, full kitchen and two outdoor bath tubs overlooking a valley.
The retreat is also fully accessible, which is rare for boutique accommodation in the countryside.
Address: Glen Road, Milton 9291
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Queenstown & Wanaka (both of which are in Otago but they deserve their own spot)
Kamana Lakehouse, Queenstown
Type of accommodation: Boutique hotel
Why it’s amazing: Kamana Lakehouse is a newly-renovated luxury hotel with stunning views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. The rooms are simple but stylish, with huge beds and eco-friendly toiletries, and the on-site restaurant serves up world-class dishes with one of the most impressive outlooks I’ve ever seen.
Kamana also has private hot tubs exclusively bookable for guests, cheaper than Onsen Hot Pools and much easier to get a spot.
Address: 139 Fernhill Road, Fernhill, Queenstown 9300
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Holiday Inn Remarkables Park, Queenstown
Type of accommodation: Value hotel
Why it’s amazing: The Holiday Inn at Remarkables Park is a recent addition to Queenstown, opening in 2021 in the up-and-coming Remarkables Park development just a two minute drive and 20 minute walk from Queenstown Airport.
The hotel offers absolutely brilliant value, with rooms available from just $100-$130 per night for the cheapest options! If you want to upgrade your view though you’ll be treated to a stunning show of the Remarkables range right outside your window.
Spacious rooms, thoughtful amenities considering the hotel’s price (like soft + firm pillows to choose from), a delicious and varied buffet breakfast, and easy access to the mountains, it’s my go-to for a budget-friendly Queenstown stay.
Address: 28 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9371
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Glendhu Bay Motor Camp, Wanaka
Type of accommodation: Holiday park
Why it’s amazing: If you’re travelling the South Island in a campervan, you have to visit Glendhu Bay Motor Camp, purely for the location. It’s a ten minute drive from the centre of Wanaka, right on the lake with magical views for every van. Wake up early to catch the sun pop up over the mountains, you won’t regret it!
Address: 1127 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, Glendhu Bay 9382
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Goodstays Queenstown
Type of accommodation: Apartment
Why it’s amazing: Goodstays Queenstown manages loads of self-contained apartments and homes in Queenstown, ranging from studios for a solo traveller or couple, through to entire houses fit for large families or a group.
We stayed at a three-bedroom luxury penthouse on Hallenstein Street, a quick walk into the centre of town. The apartment was brilliant, modern furnishings and a decent-sized living area along with a massive balcony that overlooks the town and the lake. It also included free secure parking which is a huge bonus in Queenstown!
Address: All through Queenstown
Check your travel dates on Goodstays here.
Cross Hill Domes, Lake Hawea
Type of accommodation: Glamping
Why it’s amazing: Combining the community vibe of camping with impressively luxurious décor and facilities, Cross Hill Domes are the perfect example of glamourous camping.
Each dome has a lush super king bed, a fridge and tea/coffee-making facilities, a gas heater, a mirror and changing area, and a full bathroom. Then at the Cross Hill Lodge, shared between the six domes, you’ll find a chef (cooked breakfast is included, dinner is optional), a TV and an outdoor hot tub.
Address: Haast Pass-Makarora Road, Lake Hawea
Check your travel dates and book online here.
Fiordland
Radfords on the Lake, Te Anau
Type of accommodation: Luxury motel
Why it’s amazing: By far my favourite motel in New Zealand, Radfords feels like a home away from home. Perfectly located right on the lakefront in Te Anau, this is the perfect spot to base yourself for exploring the gems of Fiordland.
Read my full Radfords on the Lake review here.
Address: 56 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau
Check your travel dates and book online here.
I hope you found somewhere epic for your upcoming holiday, or at least have added some New Zealand accommodation to your bucket list!
I’ll be adding places here as I manage to visit more of the country so bookmark this page or save it on Pinterest to remind yourself to check back later.
Happy travels!
More blogs about New Zealand:
- The Ultimate New Zealand Bucket List
- The Best Glamping Spots in New Zealand
- The Ideal South Island Road Trip
Like this blog? Pin it!
If you are looking for a unique setting, Fiordland Lodge is in a prime position and ideal for a special occasion dinner or group gourmet gathering. The Fiordland Lodge dining room is the only restaurant in Te Anau and Fiordland which over looks Lake Te Anau into the Fiordland National Park so arrive early to soak in the lodge and location. Each evening before dinner we serve pre dinner canapes in our Great Room, a striking natural timber room with a latticework of huge log trusses which soar to over thirty-six feet above and surround a large open fire, clad with local river stone.