6 BEST Motels in Stewart Island 🏘️ [2023]

1. Kaka Retreat Motel – The Best Motel on Stewart Island

Nestled in native bush just a 5 to 10-minute walk from Oban town centre, Kaka Retreat Motel provides an idyllic stay for solo travellers, couples, groups and families. There are plenty of room options at this well-presented motel, including basic studios sleeping up to two or four and multi-bedroom cottages with all the essential facilities at your fingertips. Cottages have a well-equipped kitchenette, where you can enjoy dining in your open-plan lounge or out on your private verandah while watching the kaka (bush parrots). A complimentary shuttle to the motel is also included. See more family-friendly stays like this in the 7 Best Family Accommodations in Stewart Island.

Check Kaka Retreat Motel out:

• Kaka Retreat Motel on Booking.com

© Kaka Retreat Motel

2. Bay Motel – Stewart Island Motel in Oban with Spa Baths

A worthy motel option, especially well-suited to couples and adult groups, Bay Motel offers a tranquil motel experience just a short walk from Oban town centre. Enjoy a bit of pampering in your studio or one-bedroom unit with a spa bath or stick to something more affordable in the studios with or without cooking facilities. There are double and twin set-ups available, as well as a two-bedroom apartment for families, while all units include free WiFi, electric blankets, an ensuite, radiator heating, tea, coffee and either a bay or bush view. There’s also a barbecue on-site should you want to cook up your “catch of the day”. For more couple-centric stays, check out the 10 Most Romantic Accommodations on Stewart Island.

Check Bay Motel out:

• Bay Motel on Booking.com
• Bay Motel on Trip.com
• Bay Motel on Expedia

© Bay Motel

3. Anchorstone – Stewart Island Motel at Horseshoe Bay

While advertised as “luxury boutique accommodation”, we see Anchorstone as more like a motel due to its collection of self-contained units. Ideal for couples or a couple of friends travelling together, Anchorstone’s hill-perched units have either super-king or twin beds, kitchen facilities, an ensuite, TV and a balcony with outdoor furniture. They also boast a tranquil location among the native forest with views of Horseshoe Bay, just a short drive from Oban where transfers are included and car rental is available on request. For more boutique stays, see the 8 BEST Boutique Accommodations & B&Bs on Stewart Island.

Check Anchorstone out:

• Anchorstone on Booking.com
• Anchorstone on Trip.com
• Anchorstone on Expedia

© Anchorstone

4. South Sea Hotel – Cheap Motel on Stewart Island

The waterfront hotel that greets visitors when they first arrive off the ferry not only offers hotel accommodation but nine more modern motel units adjacent to the hotel. However, don’t expect your full kitchen facilities usually found in New Zealand motel units, as the South Sea Hotel‘s units simply offer more of a private hotel experience with an ensuite bathroom and breakfast-making facilities, unlike the hotel rooms they have above their restaurant. Nevertheless, prices are very reasonable and you can always go to their restaurant for food! See more accommodations like this in the 5 Best Budget Accommodations in Stewart Island.

Check South Sea Hotel out:

• South Sea Hotel on Booking.com
• South Sea Hotel on Trip.com
• South Sea Hotel on Expedia

© South Sea Hotel

5. Rakiura Retreat – Stewart Island Motel with Car Rental

Rakiura Retreat offers self-contained accommodation that comes with a rental vehicle and fuel included in the rate, as well as complimentary transfers to/from the ferry or airstrip! The motel complex offers comfortable units, which are maybe a little old-school in the decor but provide all the useful facilities like a full kitchen, bathroom and a spacious living and dining area. There are one-bedroom and two-bedroom units available.

© Pixabay

6. Jimmy’s Cottages – Self-Contained Motel Cottages on Stewart Island

While not strictly a motel, Jimmy’s Cottages offer a similar experience in the two self-contained units available. Get the Kiwi bach experience in these quirky cottages with striking decor yet all you need for a convenient and comfortable stay. One cottage sleeps two to six guests, while the other sleeps up to eight. Enjoy the ease of having your own kitchen and barbecue area in the garden, while being only a short walk from the town’s amenities should you need supplies or a cheeky fish and chips. Check out more holiday home-style stays in the 10 Best Holiday Homes on Stewart Island.

© Jimmy's Cottages