15 Most UNIQUE Accommodations on the South Island, New Zealand

Last Updated: 19 September, 2025

Want to Sleep in a Shoe?

A boot, a train carriage, a castle, a jail, a convent, a silo, a treehouse… you can stay in it all on the South Island of New Zealand! Whether you want to treat yourself to a stay in one of these weird and wonderful lodgings or, just want the pleasure of knowing these stays exist, we’ve listed the weirdest and most unique accommodations on the South Island.

Oh, and don’t miss our 10 Most UNIQUE Accommodations on the North Island!

1. Rockwood Station – The Carriage (Windwhistle)

In the heart of Canterbury’s stunning high country, Rockwood Station offers a truly unique glamping experience. The Carriage, lovingly restored from an old goods wagon, sits at the confluence of two streams forming the Hororata River. This idyllic retreat runs parallel to the water, boasting expansive views of Mt Hutt from its spacious deck.

Perfect for couples or families, the Carriage features two bedrooms: a queen-sized ensuite and a double with an additional built-in single bed. Large glass doors in the kitchen and lounge area seamlessly connect you to the breathtaking surroundings. In summer, cool off in the natural swimming hole; in winter, cosy up and use it as the perfect ski base, complete with a utility room for your gear.

Just 1 hr 15 mins from Christchurch, the Carriage at Rockwood Station offers a tranquil escape where you can unplug, unwind and immerse yourself in nature’s splendour. It’s also just one of the many utterly unique finds on Canopy Camping Escapes.

Check Rockwood Station out:

Rockwood Station on Canopy Camping Escapes

10 Most UNIQUE Accommodations on the South Island, New Zealand [2025]

2. French Peak Wagon (Banks Peninsula)

Another awesome addition to the Canopy Camping Escapes curation, the French Peak Wagon offers a truly unique accommodation experience with breathtaking ocean views. This thoughtfully crafted wagon is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway with a touch of luxury and comfort.

Step inside to find a beautifully designed interior featuring a queen-size bed facing the sea, a cosy seating area, and a well-equipped kitchenette. The bathroom boasts a shower separated by a timber divider, with a private toilet tucked away. On sunny mornings, savour your coffee at the breakfast bar while drinking in the stunning vistas. As evening falls, indulge in a soak in the cedar outdoor bath, watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Just a 20-minute drive from the charming town of Akaroa, the French Peak Wagon allows easy access to local attractions. Alternatively, unwind in the property’s beautiful gardens, listening to birdsong and admiring the views. Cap off your day by stargazing with a glass of wine in hand.

Check French Peak Wagon out:

French Peak Wagon on Canopy Camping Escapes

3. Washpen Falls – Shepherd’s Hut (Windwhistle)

A hut that was too good for the sheep, the Shepherd’s Hut at Washpen Falls – one of our favourite walks in Canterbury – offers a truly unique and immersive escape. This fully self-contained traditional English-style hut is perfectly positioned for those seeking a tranquil retreat or a convenient stopover on a South Island adventure.

Tucked away in a private oasis, the hut overlooks a picturesque wildlife pond, surrounded by majestic pines and rolling deer paddocks. During summer, guests can enjoy rowing on the pond or taking a refreshing dip. In winter, the landscape transforms into a mesmerising winter wonderland, with frost and occasional snowfall adding to the charm.

Inside, you’ll find all the comforts of home, including an ensuite bathroom and kitchen. Outside, a summer kitchen and dining area await, perfect for al fresco meals. The crowning glory? A luxurious wood-fired hot tub nestled on the pond’s edge, offering the ultimate relaxation experience.

Check Washpen Falls – Shepherd’s Hut out:

Washpen Falls – Shepherd’s Hut on Canopy Camping Escapes

4. Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay (Dunedin)

Feel like a prince or princess by staying in New Zealand’s one and only castle.

Perched on a hilltop location on the Otago Peninsula, Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay at Larnach Castle makes it easier to look down your nose at the peasants of the nearby Dunedin.

There are two styles of accommodations at Larnach Castle: the lodge rooms on the seaward side of the castle or budget accommodation in the historic stables.

Either way, you’re in a great base to explore the 15 Best Things to Do in Dunedin.

Check Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay out:

5. SiloStay (Christchurch)

One of the most unique accommodations on the Banks Peninsula, near Christchurch, SiloStay offers self-contained units in your own individual silo!

The silos sleep up to two guests and boast an innovative eco-friendly design in the heart of Little River – a small village on the way to Akaroa.

Make use of your silo’s kitchenette facilities and enjoy drinks on your private balcony. The accommodation has a Tesla charging station and bike hire too!

On your way out, be sure to check out the 15 Best Things to Do in Christchurch.

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6. Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses (Kaikoura)

Isn’t it everyone’s childhood dream to sleep in a treehouse? Hapuku Lodge combines this dream with adult comforts.

This contemporary luxury hotel on a deer breeding farm outside of Kaikoura not only boasts stunning countryside surroundings but is a work of art of its own.

Plus, it’s not the only weird accommodation in Kaikoura, as you’re about to discover…

Check Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses out:

7. Hapuku Carriages (Kaikoura)

For something else a little quirky and undoubtedly memorable in Kaikoura, check out Hapuku Carriages. That’s right, as the name suggests, this accommodation is a B&B in a restored railway carriage.

Experience this unique accommodation where you can enjoy your full-cooked breakfast in front of a warm log fire, along with real cafe-style coffee.

The main event, however, is the outdoor bath in your own private courtyard!

We know what you’re thinking: “Where do I sign?!” Start planning your stay along with the 15 Best Things to Do in Kaikoura.

Check Hapuku Carriages out:

10 Most UNIQUE Accommodations on the South Island, New Zealand [2023]

8. Hurunui Jacks (Hokitika)

You were probably wondering when we would start talking about glamping. Well, here it is in a private spot beside the Kaniere River in Hokitika! Hurunui Jacks offers a luxury canvas tent surrounded by 15 acres of ancient virgin forest, National Park and Conservation land, providing total peace and seclusion.

The glampsite is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Robins, fantails, tuis, bellbirds and native wood pigeons flit among the moss-covered rimu, matai and totara trees, creating a magical atmosphere.

Your accommodation includes a spacious canvas tent with a wood-burning stove, plus a fully covered and enclosed camp kitchen and bathroom just a few steps away. Cook on gas rings or embrace the camping spirit with open-fire cooking. As night falls, soak in an outdoor bath under the stars before retiring to your comfortable bed, where you’ll drift off to the soothing sounds of the river.

Check Hurunui Jacks out:

Hurunui Jacks on Canopy Camping Escapes

9. Lavericks Bay – Retreat (Banks Peninsula)

On a 1000-hectare sheep and beef farm that has been in the same family since the 1850s, Lavericks Bay – Retreat offers an escape that will have you hanging on the edge of a cliff – quite literally! This stunning accommodation option is part of a property rich in history and natural beauty, perfectly complementing the scenic bay it overlooks.

The Retreat is a masterpiece of design, perched high above the turquoise waters with sweeping views of rugged cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. Inside, warm timber tones and floor-to-ceiling windows create a light-filled space that seamlessly blends modern luxury with the surrounding natural beauty. The floating fireplace adds a cosy touch, whether you’re curled up in the king bed, sipping tea on the couch, or whipping up a meal in the kitchen.

Step onto the deck for breathtaking vistas, best enjoyed from the outdoor bubble bath as you soak in the view of the bay below, listen to the sheep, and gaze at the twinkling stars above. It’s an out-of-this-world experience that will leave you feeling truly rejuvenated.

Check Lavericks Bay – Retreat out:

Lavericks Bay – Retreat on Canopy Camping Escapes

10. Lavericks Bay – Camp (Banks Peninsula)

Another beauty in Lavericks Bay on the Banks Peninsula, just under two hours from Christchurch and 35 minutes from Akaroa, Lavericks Bay Camp offers a truly enchanting escape. We couldn’t help but share this additional gem on the property, where a leisurely 15-minute stroll (or quick three-minute drive) leads you to a secluded and breathtaking beach.

Set in a sunny spot on a working farm, this glamping experience features one thoughtfully decorated tent complete with a cosy wood burner. The camp kitchen and bathroom provide all the essentials, while the outdoor hot tub offers a luxurious touch for stargazing soaks.

As evening falls, gather your whanau for a picnic on the beach, toasting marshmallows around the campfire as you sip on a glass of wine. It’s the ideal spot to recharge, reconnect and discover the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

Check Lavericks Bay – Camp out:

Lavericks Bay – Camp on Canopy Camping Escapes

11. The Marlborough (Blenheim)

Make like a Victorian nun and stay in what was formerly the “Old Saint Mary’s Convent”.

Despite its intriguing history, the luxury accommodation of The Marlborough has been elegantly modernised, boasting five-star rooms that you’ll want to book for a special occasion.

On-site is also a swimming pool, spa, bar and restaurant.

Find this unique accommodation in Blenheim, along with the 15 Best Things to Do in Blenheim.

Check The Marlborough out:

12. Jailhouse Accommodation (Christchurch)

Ever wanted to spend the night behind bars like some hardened criminal? Well, you can in Addington Prison, which is now renovated into a backpacker hostel!

Jailhouse Accommodation in the South Island city of Christchurch offers dorms and private rooms in its unique building. There’s even a historical display room with photo booth props so you can get some funky photos.

Discover experiences nearby in the 15 Best Things to Do in Christchurch. Plus, check out more wacky hostels in the 15 Most Unique Backpacker Hostels in New Zealand.

Check Jailhouse Accommodation out:

13. SkyScape (Twizel)

Innovatively designed to capture all the beauty of Twizel and the Mackenzie Country, as well as the night sky of an International Dark Sky Reserve, SkyScape certainly offers something unique.

Perched on the foothills of the Southern Alps, this holiday home is almost entirely made of glass, but that’s not all. The stay-for-two also boasts a luxury cedar hot tub outside, giving you more ways to bask in the scenery.

When you’re not basking in the views at your accommodation, make the most of the surrounding area with the 10 Best Things to Do in Twizel and 20 Best Things to Do in Aoraki Mt Cook.

Check SkyScape out:

14. Little Paradise Lodge (Queenstown)

Between Queenstown and Glenorchy is Little Paradise Lodge, nestled perfectly within gardens and bush on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

The wooden shingles and stone cladding that the lodge is made from are not the weirdest thing about this accommodation. It is, in fact, the four different themed rooms, from the rainforest theme in the “Singing Frogs” room to romance in the “Whispering Swans” suite.

It’s certainly a unique place to retreat to after doing some of the 45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown.

Check Little Paradise Lodge out:

15. The Boot B&B (Nelson)

Do you love boots so much that you want to sleep in one? Then you are in luck! The Boot B&B is a cosy cottage for two in the sunny Nelson Tasman region.

Despite its small size, there’s plenty of room to snuggle by the fireplace both inside and out! Up the spiral staircase of your queen room with a Juliet balcony to complete the stay full of surprises.

Nearby, the Jester House Cafe is also where you can hand-feed tame eels in the Aporo Stream.

If you can pull yourself away from this accommodation, try the 15 Best Things to Do in Nelson.

Want to Make the Most of New Zealand’s Quirky Side?

There are plenty more unique places to stay on the North Island too – just check out the 10 Most Unique Accommodations on the North Island, as well as some funky backpacker hostels, as listed in the 15 Most Unique Backpacker Hostels in New Zealand. If you want to visit some of New Zealand’s quirkiest towns, take a look at the 22 Big Things in New Zealand for insane sculptures in small towns.

Finally, if that’s not enough, fill up your adventures with weirdness using the 10 Unique & Unusual Things to Do on the South Island.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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