Where to stay in New Zealand? The choice is difficult because all regions offer breathtaking scenery. Below is my guide to help you decide the best places to stay in New Zealand for you: the best destinations if you want to unpack in one hotel or suggestions of the best towns or locations to overnight on your road trip. I wish you a wonderful trip!
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Short answer - Best places to stay in New Zealand
Where to stay in New Zealand - Map of destinations
To help you get oriented, let's start with a map of almost all the places I list in this article as my selection of wonderful places to stay in New Zealand.
Where to stay in New Zealand - Map
Best place to stay in New Zealand - FAQ
And if you don't want to read the complete article (with photos), below are my short answers to your questions:
- Where to stay in New Zealand for a one week holiday (fixed-base)?
North Island - Auckland - see the best rated accommodations
South Island - Queenstown - see the best rated accommodations - What is the best 5 star resort in New Zealand?
There is a large choice of 5 star accommodations around New Zealand. I have not stayed at any, but the one I really would like to try is Blanket Bay in Glenorchy because I can't get enough of the mountains in this area - check out photos and book - What are the best cities to visit in NZ and overnight?
New Zealand is more of a Nature destinations. But there were a few towns that stood out for me which deserve at least a one-night stay:
Paihia (North Island), your getaway to the Bay of islands - Such as nice relaxed vibe! - see accommodation options
Napier (North Island) was a great surprise with its Art Deco buildings and cool vibe - see accommodation options
Akaroa (South Island) has a lot of charm and beautiful surroundings - see accommodation options
Wanaka (South Island) because the town does not overtake the scenery - see accommodation options
Sunrise on South Island
Tips for choosing your New Zealand Accommodations
Types of accommodations in New Zealand
There is a very large choice of accommodations in New Zealand - You can find something for everyone's taste: Hotels, Motels, Rentals, Resorts, Lodges, B&Bs, Campsites...
I personally like the practicality of motels. They are mostly quite good, with a minimum kitchen, easy parking and easy access.
You can find a lot of choice on Booking.com. This is where I booked almost all my stays.
B&B in Rotorua (Rotorua City Homestay)
Things to remember when booking your accommodations in NZ
- When to book - the earlier you book, the more choice you will have with great prices. In some areas you should book quite early because of the lack of accommodations (e.g. Arthur's pass, Moeraki boulders) or the high demand (e.g. Tekapo / Pukaki around Chinese New Year)
- Water - Tap water is safe to drink
- Paiement - almost all accommodations accept credit card. Make sure you check your booking confirmation to see if you need cash. I had to pay cash at only one place. However you do need cash for many campsites which have trust-boxes.
Camping in New Zealand
Camping is a great way to explore New Zealand. You can enjoy:
- Campsites and Holiday parks near all the touristic attractions. They provide safe and well-equipped stays with powered or unpowered sites
- Camping areas managed by the Department of Conservation - Those 250+ campsites with very basic amenities and managed on a trust basis. There is a box to check in and pay.
- Freedom Camping - you can freedom camp in NZ but you can't do it everywhere. There are 'no camping' zones and private land where you can't. Plus some areas allow freedom camping but only with an approved vehicle. Check out the website Freedomcamping.org for more info.
Camping in New Zealand
Below in this article, I have 4 different sections describing the best places to stay in New Zealand:
- The best cities for a fixed-base holiday - for both North and South Islands
- And if you do a road trip: the best towns to overnight and the places worth staying for specific sights. Skip directly to what you need:
Best New Zealand destinations North Island - for a fixed-base holiday
Where to stay in New Zealand North Island - Intro
If you are choosing a fixed-base holiday in New Zealand North Island but still want to visit a lot, I recommend choosing one of the major towns for a large choice of activities and day trips.
Below is a map of North Island with the main towns and the main attractions to get your oriented and to help you realise the driving distances:
Best places to stay in New Zealand North Island - Map
Where to stay in Auckland
- Why stay in Auckland?
Auckland is the largest town in New Zealand. And it has the largest airport, so there is a big chance that you will arrive through here.
It is known as the city of sails.
You can enjoy activities on land and on water.
My favorite attraction is the hike up the Mt Eden volcano for great views of the city. - Best places to see from Auckland -
During your stay in Auckland, you can enjoy a lot of day trips to see different wonders of New Zealand:
- Hobbiton and the caves of Waitomo with their glowworms - check out program and book
- Express drive to the famous Bay of islands with a cruise around - check out program and book
- Discover the beautiful coastline of thee Coromandel peninsula and Hot water beach - check out program and book
- Be amazed by the geothermal wonderlands around Rotorua! - check out program and book
- Best areas to stay in Auckland -
The CBD is in the heart of town and a great place to have access to everything from the harbour to the museums and attractions. So it is ideal for first-time visitors.
If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife you can head to Ponsonby, just West of the CBD (2 to 3km from the city center)
Or head East of the city center to the Parnell neighborhood. It has a different vibe with greenery, waterfront walks and a village look in some places. - Auckland Accommodation suggestions -
Luxury - The M Social Auckland right on the waterfront - Check out photos and availability
Charming - The Ponsonby Manor Guest house in a beautiful house - Check out photos and availability
Rental - The Heritage apartment close to the Sky Tower - Check out photos and availability
Hostel / Backpackers - The Attic Backpackers with a great location for the price - Check out photos and availability - or check out the best rated accommodations in Auckland
Where to stay in Rotorua
- Why stay in Rotorua?
In under 3h drive South from Auckland, you can reach the touristic center of Rotorua.
It is at the heart of the geothermal activity and offers a lot of attractions about the beauty and power of Nature. This is why I think, it's the best places to stay in New Zealand North Island.
The city is easy to navigate but you should know that there is frequent sulphur smell because of the volcanic nature of the area. - Best places to see from Rotorua -
You can enjoy a lot of attractions close to the town - Maori villages, geysers, geothermal wonderlands, redwood forest, crystal clear springs... there is so much to do! Some of my favorites:
- For Lord of the Rings fans, you can enjoy a guided tour to the movie set and combine it with the Waitomo caves - check out program and book
- See some off the most beautiful geothermal features close to Rotorua with a combination of Wai-o-tapu, Te Puia and Waimangu - check out program and book
- and if you like to see the Earth from above, check out this scenic flight above White Island and Whale Island - check out program and book
Or check out the many activities in Rotorua
- Best areas to stay in Rotorua -
Rotorua is a flat city with a square grid. It is very easy to navigate around. If you have a car, you can be in many places under 5min.
If you don't have a car, you can find restaurants in most parts of the city center and tours will pick you up at your place so no worries. - Rotorua Accommodation suggestions -
MOTEL - Aura Accommodation is only 3min from the Lake and offers access to a pool - Check out photos and availability
HOTEL - The Regal Palms Resort with studios, suites and apartments - Check out photos and availability
B&B - I stayed in a room at a B&B (Rotorua City Homestay) They were very welcoming and I enjoyed the breakfast a lot - Check out photos and availabilities
Hostel / Backpackers - the Rotorua Central Backpackers has a fantastic location- Check out photos and availability - or check out the best rated accommodations in Rotorua
Where to stay in Wellington
- Why stay in Wellington?
Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand. It offers a vibrant culture famous for its food and drink scene. - Best places to see from Wellington -
However Wellington is actually further from many of the touristic regions so you have less of a variety for the day trips
You can explore the Wineries of Martinborough - check out program and book
If you are fan of Lord of the Rings, you can visit some of the filming locations - check out program and book
Try finding Kiwi birds in an ecosanctuary during the Zealandia Night Tour - check out program and book
And if wildlife is your thing, head to the Seal Coast to see them closer - check out program and book
- Best areas to stay in Wellington -
Wellington is very hilly. So if you are on foot, I recommend you stay downtown not far from the waterfront. - Wellington Accommodation suggestions -
Luxury - The Intercontinental by the waterfront - Check out photos and availability
Charming/Unique - The U Boutique Hotel is for those looking for something different - Check out photos and availability
Rental - The Bellagio City Central is very central and has a great kitchen - Check out photos and availability
Hostel / Backpackers - The YHA Wellington has a great location with lots of options - Check out photos and availability - or check out the best rated accommodations in Wellington
Best New Zealand destinations South Island - for a fixed-base holiday
Where to stay in New Zealand South Island - Intro
If you head to New Zealand South Island and want to explore it from one place, once again the best places to stay are the larger cities. You can reach them by plane and they offer a lot of day trips to see the variety of the NZ landscapes.
Below is a map of South Island with the main towns and the main attractions to get you oriented and to help you realise the driving distances:
Where to stay in Queenstown
- Why stay in Queenstown?
Queenstown is a fantastic choice. The best place to stay in New Zealand South Island to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
It is very touristy but it is you gateway to mountains, lakes, fjords, glaciers... and many other adventures - Best places to see from Queenstown -
So much to choose from! For example:
The most famous day trip is to the Milford Sound fjord. An unforgettable journey! - check out program and book
Or head to your Milford Sound cruise on a plane to admire the magnificent scenery - check out program and book
Enjoy a scenic drive to Glenorchy and Paradise (with Lord of the Rings filming locations) - check out program and book
Head North to the impressive Mt Cook (NZ tallest mountain) and its surrounding - check out program and book
or check out the large choice of activities in Queenstown
- Best areas to stay in Queenstown -
Queenstown is not big there is no real 'better neighbourhood' but I recommend you consider the following points:
Tip1 - pick a place that has private parking and is within walking distance of the city center. Because parking in Queenstown is a nightmare.
Tip2 - the accommodations very close to the center don't have the best views as they are in a nook of the lake - Queenstown Accommodation suggestions -
I stayed at the Earnslaw lodge. The decor was not modern, be aware, but otherwise it was perfect. Spacious room, parking and a balcony with 180° views over the lake (the reason why I chose this place). Probably one of the best views of all accommodations - Check out photos and availability
Luxury - The QT Queenstown is right by the water and offers large modern rooms - Check out photos and availability
Boutique - Browns Boutique Hotel is only 3min walk from the center - Check out photos and availability
Rental - Villa Two at Vailmont, very spacious and a great view - Check out photos and availability
Hostel / Backpackers - The Jucy Snooze in the heart of town and recent - Check out photos and availability - or check out the best rated accommodations in Queenstown
Where to stay in Dunedin
- Why stay in Dunedin ?
Dunedin is a wonderful place to stay in New Zealand South Island for those looking for wildlife encounter and a more relaxing vibe. It is the oldest city in NZ.
Nestled at the end of the harbour, the town offers a lot of delicious coffee shops and charming Victorian buildings.
However it is a little more isolated from some of the most famous landmarks in the country. - Best places to see from Dunedin
Head to Oamaru to see the penguins come back to shore at dusk - check out program and book
Enjoy the Taieri Gorge Railway - check out program and book
Discover the highlight of the region: The Otago peninsula and its Albatros colony - check out program and book
However if you want to explore more, I recommend renting a car.
- Best areas to stay in Dunedin -
Dunedin is not that big, stay in the city center - Dunedin Accommodation suggestions -
Luxury - The Distinction Hotel in the old post office - Check out photos and availability
B&B - the charming Bard House Bed and Breakfast in a 19th century building - Check out photos and availability
Rental - The serviced apartments of The Terminus have a lot of charm - Check out photos and availability
Hostel / Backpackers - The Hogwartz backpackers with a central location - Check out photos and availability
For something different, why not spend a night in the Larnach castle? - Check out photos and availability - or check out the best rated accommodations in Dunedin
Where to stay in Christchurch
- Why stay in Christchurch?
Christchurch is the largest city in South Island.
It is well located to enjoy both the coast and the mountains. - Best places to see from Christchurch -
Head to lake Pukaki to see the magnificent mountains including Mt Cook - check out program and book
Or choose wildlife and go to Kaikoura for some whale watching - check out program and book
The Banks peninsula (ancient volcanoes) is breathtaking so head to Akaroa for the day - check out program and book
And go up to see the region from above thanks to the Gondola - check out program and book
- Best areas to stay in Christchurch -
Christchurch is in a grid around the Cathedral
You can stay in the city center or head towards the beaches (if you rent a car) - Christchurch Accommodation suggestions -
I stayed at the Sumner Bay Motel by the beach - I enjoyed the decor and the easy walk to the sea - Check out photos and availability
Luxury - THe Distinction Hotel is on Cathedral square with spacious rooms - Check out photos and availability
Charming B&B - The Eco villa is centrally located ins a charming house - Check out photos and availability
Rental - Madras Street apartment 2 is practical for large families - Check out photos and availability
Hostel / Backpackers - Chester Street Backpackers offers a unique environment - Check out photos and availability - or check out the best rated accommodations in Christchurch
Best cities in New Zealand to stop on your itinerary
In this section, let me show you some of my favorite towns around New Zealand.
NZ is more of a nature destination and most towns and villages don't have a lot of charm. But there are a few exceptions that I really enjoyed:
Paihia
- Where -
North Island, North East Coast
North of Auckland - 3h drive away - Why stay overnight -
People rave about the Bay of islands. Personally that was not my favorite coastal area. However the town of Paihia is in my Top 3. It has a lot of charm, a cool vibe, some great restaurants... I wish I had stayed a little longer. If you need a place to take a break on your road trip, I recommend it. - Accommodation options -
There is a large choice of accommodations - Check out the best rated accommodations in Paihia
I stayed at the Admirals View lodge which was nice and under 1 walk from the center - Check out photos and availabilities
B&B - Every time I walked in front of the Paihia Beach House I thought it was a great place to stay - Check out photos and availability
Luxuous apartments - The Abri Apartments offer a nice retreat with great views and lush vegetation - Check out photos and availability
Backpacker - There are several great options - The saltwater Lodge recognised for the cleanliness - Check out photos and availability
Napier
- Where -
North Island, East Coast
Auckland to Napier = 5h30 - Why stay overnight -
I was pleasantly surprised by Napier. It is a really relaxed place with a lot of charm.
Some older buildings, a long waterfront to walk, run or bike and some great eateries. The region is known for its Art Deco style. - Accommodation options -
There is a large choice of accommodations in Napier with some fun options! - check out the best rated options and book
I stayed in Fernhill nearby because a house there really inspired me. And it was beautiful. A house with a soul and surrounded by a beautiful garden - It is the Meadowood House. It is one of my favorite places where I stayed in NZ - check out photos and availability
B&B - right by the sea, have a look at the Sea Breeze B&B - Check out photos and availability
Art Deco - to travel a little back in time (at least in style), have a look at the Art Deco Masonic Hotel right the center - Check out photos and availability
Luxury - The County Hotel is rated 5 star and is located in a building built in 1909 - Check out photos and availability
Meadowood House - garden
Meadowood House
Raglan
- Where -
North Island, West Coast
South of Auckland - 2h drive away - Why stay overnight -
It is not your typical tourist town in New Zealand. It is a surf town, with the vibe that goes with it.
There are lots of water based activities to choose from and a cute center - Accommodation options -
Best to stay in the charming surf town of Raglan - Check out the best rated accommodations
The place I stayed in was not really good, so I won't list it.
Motel with greenery - The Bow street Studios are apartment set up in a beautiful garden - Check out photos and availability
Hostel - The Raglan Backpackers with a lot of options to get around and enjoy the water - Check out photos and availability
Akaroa
- Where -
South Island, East coast
South of Christchurch - 1h30 drive - Why stay overnight -
The peninsula with the old volcano is magnificent. And at the end of your journey is the "French" settlement of Akaroa. The old buildings are charming, the town is by the water, the views are stunning... And some street names are in French! - Accommodation options -
Stay in the little town of Akaroa, there are many well rated accommodations - Check out the options and Book
Motel - The Akaroa Criterion offers beautiful rooms by the waterfront - Check out photos and availability
Charming B&B - Blythcliffs is set in a beautiful garden in the center - Check out photos and availability
... I wish I had spent a night...
Kaikoura
- Where -
South Island, North East Coast
Christchurch to Kaikoura = 2h30 drive North - Why stay overnight -
This time I have not chosen the place for the town itself but for how it is surrounded. This is a place where the Kaikoura mountain range (highest point at 2608m - 8556ft) drops directly into the ocean. And off shore is a deep canyon, so it is the best place in NZ to see whales. This is where to stay in New Zealand for Nature lovers. - Accommodation options -
There is a large choice of accommodations in Kaikoura with motels, resorts and rentals - Check out the best rated options and book
I stayed at Barnacle Bills. It is not in the center, but I opted for accommodation on higher grounds, close to the lookout to go at sunrise. I was really satisfied - check out photos and availability
B&B - The Hamptons is right by the beach and only a 15min walk to the center. It offers a serene environment - Check out photos and availability
Motel - Anchor Inn Motel, also right by the waterfront with quality rooms - Check out photos and availability
Hostel - The Dusky Lodge backpackers has a really good location - Check out photos and availability
Wanaka
- Where -
South Island
North of Queenstown - 1h drive away - Why stay overnight -
Wanaka is one of the best towns in the mountainous center of New Zealand South Island.
Right by the lake, it offers a nice beach a lots of delicious restaurant options. - Accommodation options -
There is a large choice of accommodations in Wanaka - check out the best rated options
I stayed at the YHA - the private room with bathroom was sad-looking and I did not feel very welcomed but it was in a very practical location - check out photos and availability
B&B - Stonebroke B&B is close to the famous Wanaka tree - Check out photos and availability
Motel - The Wanaka view Motel is close to the waterfront - Check out photos and availability
Apparthotel - The lakeside Apartments are stunning with great views of the lake and a swimming pool - Check out photos and availability
Planning a road trip around New Zealand?
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- Tips to plan + make the most of your time
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- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- 6 easy-to-plan Maps
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- Tips to plan + make the most of your time
- 190+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
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- They were very nice and responsive, they pick you up and drop you off at the airport
- The car I rented was in perfect condition
- In addition, they have all-inclusive insurance packages with AAA roadside assistance, which means I didn't have to worry (I think it's worth the price)
Where to stay in New Zealand during your road trip & Why
And in this section, I list all the places that also deserve an overnight stay for specific reasons:
- Ideal for sunset or sunrise
- Doubling your chance of seeing without clouds
- Stargazing
- ....
Pukaki / Tekapo
- Where -
Center of South Island
Queenstown to Tekapo = 3h - Why stay overnight -
Both Lake Pukaki and Tekapo are beautiful to explore during the day. They are glacial lakes surrounded by mountains.
But they are also in the Dark Sky Reserve. There is no light pollution at night and, if it is not cloudy, you can enjoy some magnificent views of the stars.
You can even do a tour that includes the observatory - Book your stargazing tour - Accommodation options -
The closest to the observatory is Tekapo - Check out the accommodations
Otherwise, Twizel is a good location to explore the region - See the best rated accommodations in Twizel.
I stayed at the Mountain Chalets Motel. The decor was tired but spacious, and the location was practical. Check out photos and availability
Mountain Chalets Motel
Mountain Chalets Motel
Gisborne
- Where -
North Island, East Coast
Auckland to Gisborne = 6h30 drive - Why stay overnight -
Gisborne is know to be the first official town to see the sun rise everyday 🙂 - Accommodation options -
Gisborne is a great central town to visit the region - Check out the best rated accommodations
I stayed at the Captain Cook Motor Lodge, only 2 min walk to the Gisborne beach - Check out photos and availabilities
Captain Cook Motor Lodge
Captain Cook Motor Lodge
Moeraki
- Where -
South Island, South East Coast
Christchurch to Moeraki = 3h - Why stay overnight -
The Moeraki Boulders are one of the most fascinating geological wonders in New Zealand (see my article).
If you enjoy photography, they are even more magnificent at sunrise. So I recommend to stay nearby to be up really early and appreciate the moment. - Accommodation options -
There are no accommodations at the beach itself. However there are some in Moeraki and Hampden. They are only 5 to10 min drive away.
If you want to stay close to the boulders to see them at sunrise, I recommend booking early.
I stayed at the Moeraki Boulders Motel: It was clean and spacious. The owners are really nice. Not very modern but conveniently located - Check out price and availability
Otherwise Dunedin is only 1h (check out accommodation options) away and Oamaru 30min away (check out accommodation options)
Moeraki Boulders Motel
Moeraki Boulders Motel
Piha Beach
- Where -
North Island, West Coast
Just West of Auckland - Why stay overnight -
You should stay there because this is one of the best places to watch the sun setting in North island with the lion rock in the middle of the black sand beach. - Accommodation options -
There are a few accommodations in Piha, mostly rentals (but limited and it gets busy, so book early) - Check out options and book
I stayed at the Piha Beachstay. I enjoyed the decor, the communal area and my patio with views of the forest - Check out photos and availabilities
Piha Beachstay
Piha Beachstay
Arthur's Pass
- Where -
South Island
Inland from Christchurch - Why stay overnight -
The road from Christchurch to Hokitika via Arthur's pass is, in my opinion, the most beautiful in New Zealand. However the weather can be uncertain.
Therefore I recommend spending one night in Arthur's Pass to double your chances of seeing its beauty.
I was lucky to see it under the blue sky on the first day as the next morning is was completely in the fog and clouds. - Accommodation options -
Note that there are not that many options so book early. Check out the accommodations in Arthur's Pass
I stayed at the Arthurs Pass Motel. It was really nice and practical, with a warm welcome - Check out photos and availability
Arthurs Pass Motel
Arthurs Pass Motel
Mt Taranaki (New Plymouth)
- Where -
North Island West Coast
Auckland to New Plymouth = 5h drive - Why stay overnight -
Mt Taranaki is one of the most beautiful volcanic cones in the World. But it can often be in the clouds;
So like for Arthur's Pass, I recommend spending the night to double your chance of seeing the summit during your New Zealand road trip.
On the day I arrive, clouds were stuck at the top, but the next morning it had cleared and I enjoyed my favorite view in NZ. - Accommodation options -
New Plymouth has a wide range of accommodations - check out the best rated options
I stayed at the Ratanui Villas. Really nice out the town is a big park - Check out photos and availability
Ratanui Villas
Ratanui Villas
Fox Glacier
- Where -
South Island, West Coast
Christchurch to Fox Glacier = 5h30 - Why stay overnight -
For the same reason as the 2 previous spots, the glaciers of Fox Glacier and Franz Josef can be in the clouds. So you are doubling your chances of seeing the magnificent mountains.
Plus near Fox glacier, there is Lake Matheson, famous for its reflection especially at sunrise.
Sadly it did not clear up when I was there... - Accommodation options -
Franz Josef has more options than Fox Glacier. But I preferred the town of Fox Glacier (especially if you want to go to Lake Matheson at sunrise)
See the best rated accommodations in Franz Josef
See the best rated accommodations in Fox Glacier
I stayed in Fox Glacier at the Rainforest Motel. The room was well equipped, clean, large and easy to walk to the main street - Check out photos and availability
Rainforest Motel
Rainforest Motel
Te Anau ou Manapouri
- Where -
South Island
South of Queenstown - 2h drive - Why stay overnight -
Te Anau is the perfect getaway to the fjords of Milford sound and Doubtful Sound. You should really book 2 nights there.
Milford Sound is a big detour and the is plenty to see along the road but no accommodations. So it will take all day.
Book your Milford Sound Cruise - Accommodation options -
There is a large choice of accommodations in Te Anau - Check out the best rated options
I stayed at the Alpine View Motel in Te Anau. The room was large and nice, the motel well located in the center - check out photos and availabilities
For a less crowded town, you can also stay in Manapouri just 20min away. This is where the cruise for Doubtful sound departs.
I stayed at the Manapouri Lakeview Motor Inn and the views of the lake were fantastic - Check out photos and availability
Accommodation in Te Anau - Alpine view Motel
Accommodation in Manapouri - Lakeview Motor Inn
Oamaru
- Where -
South Island, east Coast
South of Christchurch = 3h15 drive - Why stay overnight -
Oamaru is a Victorian town with some beautiful buildings.
But the reason to stay in Oamaru is because of the whole settings to see the penguins come back to shore at dusk. - Accommodation options -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Oamaru and book
Collingwood
- Where -
South Island, North West tip - Why stay overnight -
Because of Wharariki beach, which is my favorite beach in New Zealand.
But you have to visit it at low tide (and if low tide is at sunset you are sooooo lucky!)
At low tide you can see the reflections of the giant sea stacks as well as seal pups playing in tidal pools!!!! watch the video in my article - Accommodation options -
Near the beach there is only a campsite.
Collingwood is a cute little town at the northern end of the Golden bay and the closest place to find accommodation.
I stayed at the Collingwood Park Motel. I loved the studio and the warm welcome of the owner - Check out photos and availabilities
Or check out the accommodation options in Collingwood.
Collingwood Park Motel
Collingwood Park Motel
Best areas to stay in New Zealand for special activities
Wine destinations in New Zealand
If you enjoy wine and vineyards, there are also several regions in New Zealand where you can enjoy stays with charm:
- In the Marlborough region (the most famous) - located in the North of South Island on your way to Kaikoura
The region is around the town of Blenheim - check out the best rated accommodations - In the Martinborough region - located North of Wellington on North Island
Check out the best rated accommodations in Martinborough
I stayed at the Martinborough Experience B&B - the owner was charming and the decor was too - it is another one of my favorite stays in New Zealand - check out more photos and availability - There is also Hasting near Napier and the Waipara valley, North of Christchurch
Martinborough Experience B&B
Martinborough Experience B&B
Hiking destination in New Zealand
There are many destinations that are great for hiking in New Zealand. We already talked about Mt Taranaki, Arthur's pass, and the South Lakes (Pukaki, Queenstown, Wanaka, Te Anau...).
I am now introducing 2 others:
One of the most famous areas for hiking in Tongariro National Park.
It is a volcanic park with incredible views. The most famous hike in the Tongariro Alpine crossing.
You can stay in the heart of the park in the Whakapapa village - check out the accommodation options
Or your can find more choice of accommodations around Lake Taupo. You don't have to head to the main town North of the lake. There are great options in the South in Turangi - see options
I stayed at Creel lodge in a beautiful park with trees. The wood cabin was stunning - check out more photos and availability
But if you want a bigger town, head to Taupo - there is a large choice of accommodations - see the best rated
I stayed at Sail on the Lake with a large room and beautiful views of the lake - check out more photos and availability
Creel lodge
Sail on the Lake
Hiking and Kayaking destination
Another famous place to walk and kayak is the Abel Tasman National Park.
It is located on the North shore of South Island.
You can do easy short walks (using the cruise/ferry to start and stop wherever you want) or multi-day tours.
You can stay in Kaiteriteri where the cruises depart - Check out options
Or you can stay in Marahau where the hiking trail departs - Check out options
I stayed in Marahau at the Abel Tasman Haven. Simple but nice and practical - see photos an availabilities
Abel Tasman Haven
Abel Tasman Haven
Unique places to stay in New Zealand
Historical places to stay in New Zealand
If you enjoy sleeping in historical buildings, here are a few suggestions for you:
- B&B in Dunedin - the charming Bard House Bed and Breakfast in a 19th century building - Check out photos and availability
- Castle - there is only one castle in New Zealand: Larnach near Dunedin and there is lodge on the grounds - Check out photos and availability
- Jail - The Jailhouse in Christchurch is located in a building from 1874 which used to be the prison of Addington. The style is gothic. - Check out photos and availability
- The County Hotel in Napier is rated 5 star and is located in a building built in 1909 - It has kept the old style elegance - Check out photos and availability
- The Princes Gate Hotel in Rotorua dating back to 1897 - Check out photos and availability
- The Victoria railway hotel in Invercargill (south of South Island) dates back to 1896 - check out photos and availability
- I stayed at the Fellworth House for solo travellers in Nelson - what a unique stay! - Check out photos and availability
Fellworth House
Fellworth House
Other unique accommodations in NZ
- The Hapuku Carriages in Kaikoura - sleep in a train wagon - Check out photos and book
- The Woodlyn Park Motel in Waitomo offers a wide range of weird accommodations - bateau, train, avion, hobbit... check them out and book your favorite
- The Lighthouse & The Keep near Wellington
- The Boot B&B - a tiny house in the shape of a boot
- The Silostay in Little River, South of Christchurch in beautiful rooms created inside Silos - check out photos and availability
Luxury New Zealand Hotels & Resorts
New Zealand Beach resorts
Even though I think New Zealand is made to be road tripped to see all the amazing landscapes, you may be looking for a beach vacation.
If that's the case, below are a few beach resorts to consider:
- North Island, east Coast - The luxury Lodge at Kauri cliffs with exceptional views of the Matauri Bay - Check out photos and book
- North Island, east Coast - Papamoa Beach Resort, not far from Whakatane (and the cruise to White Island) - Check out photos and book
- North Island, North east Coast - Paihia Beach Resort and Spa, your getaway to the bay of islands - Check out photos and book
- South Island - The White Morph Heritage Collection in Kaikoura - Check out photos and book
- North Island, North east Coast - Ramada Resort by Wyndham Reia Taipa Beach in Doubtless bay - Check out photos and book
Beautiful Doubtless Bay
5 stars hotels in New Zealand surrounded by nature
There are quite a few 5 stars hotels in New Zealand. I listed a few above when they are close to beaches.
You can also find some in all the major towns: Queenstown, Auckland, Wellington...
But below are a few other options surrounded by nature:
- Glenorchy in South Island - Breathe and relax at the sight of breathtaking mountains at Blanket Bay, an exceptional experience - check out photos and book
- The Kinloch Manor on the shore of Lake Taupo (North Island) - close to many attractions surrounded only by green - check out photos and book
- Bay of Many Coves isolated in the fjords of Northern South Island - absolutely mesmerizing views. You reach is by ferry - check out photos and book
- The Fiordland Lodge on the shores of Lake Te Anau with views of the abrupt mountains - check out photos and book
Glenorchy
Be overwhelmed by the Beauty, not the Planning!
Plan your perfect trip to New Zealand!
- 12 easy-to-plan Maps
- 200 scenic locations in NZ
- Tips to plan + make the most of your time
- 285+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
Want to see more of NEW ZEALAND?
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it looks that was an amazing trip, your guide is really good, great contribution.