Family-friendly vacation rentals in South Island

Find and book unique family-friendly homes on Airbnb

Top-rated family-friendly rentals in South Island

Guests agree: these family-friendly homes are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A private hot tub is seen in the foreground, surrounded by lush greenery and a well-kept lawn. The charming cottage in the background is softly illuminated from its windows, highlighting the welcoming outdoor space as twilight begins to settle.
Cottage in Fairlie
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 243 reviews

Cricklewood Farmstay, Alpaca walk and hot tub

Just under 10 minutes from Fairlie, 40 min from Lake Tekapo and only 1.5 hr from MT Cook, is our super cute historic Farmers cottage. Watch and pet our friendly animals from the cottage and experience some of the best star gazing in New Zealand from our beautiful hot tub. During your stay we offer a free animal tour of 1 hour, whereby you will visit some of our friendly animals incl bottle feeding our pet lambs (Aug-Dec), an Alpaca walk 🦙, and our friendly horses, cats, dogs and chickens 🥰

Guest favorite
The living area features a light-colored sofa facing a wall-mounted television. Large glass doors provide stunning views of the surrounding hills and harbor. A small coffee table sits on a light area rug, and a ceiling fan facilitates airflow while natural light fills the space.
Home in Diamond Harbour
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviews

Black Diamond

Kick back and relax in this calm, stylish space at the end of a private laneway. Accessed by external steps, the house is split into two pods connected by an external deck. Lofty ceilings and timber walls create a warm bach-like interior with large ceiling fans in each room and a log burner fire. Glass sliders open out to dramatic views of the harbour and hills. Enjoy a drink or BBQ on the large deck or unwind with a hot outdoor bath. Just a 5-minute walk from the local supermarket and brew bar.

Top guest favorite
The cabin's exterior is illuminated softly against a backdrop of a star-filled night sky. The stars shimmer brightly, with the Milky Way visible overhead, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the rustic charm of the wooden structure.
Cabin in Ben Ohau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 1,068 reviews

High Country Cabin. Country getaway near Twizel.

High Country Cabin is a stylishly decorated cabin in the heart of the Southern Alps on the South Island of New Zealand. Inspired by the Backcountry huts throughout the area, it provides a rustic country-style experience. Situated 15 minutes outside of Twizel in the heart of the Mackenzie, it has direct access to all of the natural amenities that the area is world famous for including snow sports, mountaineering, hiking & tramping, mountain-biking, hunting & fishing among many other activities.

Top guest favorite
Guesthouse in Little Akaloa
5 out of 5 average rating, 170 reviews

Luxury Ocean View Retreat | Private Beach

Big Hill Luxury Retreat Ocean views across the Pacific Private walking track to secluded beach Large two-person bath Adults-only romantic retreat 90 minutes from Christchurch Rural escape nestled amongst native bush, Banks Peninsula farmland and dramatic coastline. Its elevation and isolation provide complete privacy and panoramic ocean views. 90 mins to Christchurch and 35 mins to Akaroa—close enough to explore, yet a world away to escape. Experience seclusion and connect with nature.

Top guest favorite
The cabin is surrounded by trees, with warm string lights illuminating a spacious outdoor patio area. A private hot tub is visible nearby, enhancing the cozy atmosphere created by the natural foliage and evening sky.
Tiny home in Christchurch
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 240 reviews

THE BIRD'S NEST - Secluded getaway!

The Birds Nest is a secluded and boutique cabin nestled amongst the tree tops and away from other houses. This luxury hideaway provides the peace and quiet of nature, whilst maintaining close proximity to all that the city and suburbs has to offer. Some highlights include relaxing in our private hot tub watching the sun set, strolls along the banks of the Heathcote river, and afternoon gelato just around the corner. Find us on social media to see a video tour: birdsnestchristchurch

Top guest favorite
A spacious deck extends out from the house, featuring steps leading down to the lush green landscape. A hot tub is positioned on the deck, providing a view of the rolling hills and the Pacific Ocean in the background, under a clear blue sky.
Home in Dunedin, Karitane
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 320 reviews

An isolated retreat in a movie like setting.

See the curve of the planet while treating yourself to the best of N Z in a stylish designer house overlooking the Pacific ocean. Nestled among native trees, farmland and a landscaped kiwi styled backyard, is this charming home in a romantic location with a view that will take your breath away. If your looking to relax in comfort, in an isolated setting surrounded by the sea and rolling hills, with the odd Whale in winter and occasional Aurora, then this place will be perfect for you.

Top guest favorite
A modern dwelling is framed by lush gardens and a rocky path, with the scenic hills rising in the background. Soft lighting captures the building's sleek exterior, highlighting its vibrant entrances and large windows, while the surrounding flora adds natural texture.
Home in Kaikōura
5 out of 5 average rating, 253 reviews

Black Mountain Rukuruku

Black Mountain is nestled in the foothills of the Kaikōura Seaward Ranges, 6 km north of Kaikōura township. Designed for short and longer stays, the home is private, peaceful, and set in a beautiful rural landscape. The bedroom, living and dining spaces, bathroom, and deck enjoy mountain and garden views, with glimpses of the ocean from the grounds. On arrival, you’ll find a small selection of freshly prepared provisions — enough for a simple breakfast or two, with our compliments.

Top guest favorite
The modern hut rests on rolling green hills, surrounded by clusters of trees. The soft golden light of sunset casts warm tones over the landscape, creating a serene and secluded environment. The distant mountains provide a tranquil backdrop.
Hut in Hawkesbury
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 500 reviews

Omaka Valley Hut

Omaka Valley Hut is nestled in the Marlborough hill country, 20 minutes from Blenheim, New Zealand. This hut offers you a secluded and private retreat to relax, unwind and recharge in the country. Wake up to stunning views overlooking farmland, vineyards and the southern valleys. Explore the local world class wineries, sample delightful local produce, take a trip to the Marlborough Sounds, or bring your mountain bike or walking shoes and trial the track located behind the hut!

Top guest favorite
Two wooden chairs are positioned on a wooden deck, facing a stunning coastal sunset. The horizon displays vibrant colors as the sun descends, with gentle waves visible in the distance. A lantern sits on a barrel between the chairs, providing a cozy ambiance.
Home in Purakauiti
5 out of 5 average rating, 330 reviews

Tahakopa Bay Retreat, Catlins, South Otago

Takahopa Bay Retreat is in the heart of the Catlins and offers sweeping panoramic coastal and established native Forest views. The Retreat was established by the Clark family who live on, and farm the surrounding land. The Clark's have been farming the 685 hectare coastal property in the Catlins for the last 25 years. Cameron and Michelle would love to share their secluded retreat with you to enjoy the privacy and peacefulness it provides.

Top guest favorite
A modern home is showcased at night, its expansive glass windows warmly lit from within. The silhouette of the structure is framed by a starry sky and softly illuminated outdoor areas, creating an inviting ambience amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Home in Manapouri
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews

Kahikatea House

Escape to our stunning modern home situated right next to beautiful Lake Manapouri. This tranquil retreat offers the perfect blend of luxury and nature, with expansive windows that invite the beauty of the outdoors inside. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful getaway, our lakeside haven is the perfect base for your South Island experience. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the beauty of Fiordland!

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Ben Ohau
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

Luxury Dark Sky Hideaway Cabin A - with Hot Tub

Dark Sky Hideaway is a secluded, luxury retreat set deep in the breathtaking Ben Ohau landscape. Surrounded by dramatic peaks and a vast rugged valley, it’s more than a place to stay - it’s a chance to slow down and reconnect. Soak under the stars in the private hot tub, in one of the world’s top dark sky reserves. Located just 15 mins from Twizel, 4 hrs from Christchurch, and 2.5 hrs from Queenstown.

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Franz Josef / Waiau
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 359 reviews

Luxury Wilderness Cabin on Private Lake

Luxury off-grid cabin nestled on the edge of a small lake fed by a pristine mountain stream a 3-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier village. Sensational views of snow-capped mountains, the lake, glacier, Fritz Falls & rainforest. Super King bed, sunsets, outdoor stone bath, cedar barrel sauna with panoramic window & nature's swimming pool on your doorstep. Experience luxury amidst nature.

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