Home #WHERETONEXT Australia & New Zealand Unique South Island Stays in New Zealand

Unique South Island Stays in New Zealand

Two Tales Cabin – Fox Glacier – South Island

Two Tales Cabin is a brand-new unique stay on the West coast of New Zealand on the fringe of Fox Glacier Village. For those who love slow and immersive travel, these cabins take guests on a visual journey into the past, showcasing and honoring the legacies of local pioneers in aviation and alpinism.

The ‘Cotton Candy’ cabin is a tribute to the legendary aviator Jean Batten, who is celebrated as the finest woman pilot of the golden age of aviation. Batten’s remarkable achievements are beautifully captured in the interior of the cabin, inviting guests to embark on a journey that reflects her essence, personality and daring escapades. From the furnishings to the distinctive decor, the atmosphere is one of elegance and exploration.

The ‘Horace’ cabin honors the story of renowned mountaineer, Horace Walker. As guests enter, they will be immersed in a space that reflects their spirit of adventure, with expansive windows they are greeted by breathtaking views of the valley farmland that stretches towards the Southern Alps, where the peaks of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman stand tall.

Shortlands Station – Kakanui Range – South Island

Less than a 2.5-hour drive from Queenstown, the Shortlands Station is nestled at the base of the Kakanui Ranges on a 15,000-acre working high country sheep station. The design of this peaceful and scenic retreat takes inspiration from the classic corrugated iron farm buildings that can be seen across New Zealand.

This cozy stay includes a modern kitchen and bathroom, as well as a luxurious bedroom, where guests can experience 360 views of the stunning mountain range and surrounding rolling hills. The accommodation additionally includes a cedar wood-fired hot tub filled with fresh mountain water, while experiencing the most beautiful views of the night sky.

PurePod – Central Otago Taima and Haurapa – South Island

The PurePod concept comes from the deep love for nature combined with the desire to share that love in a memorable and intensely deep personal immersion into New Zealand.

The ever-expanding PurePod network has recently opened two new pods high on the hills in Bannockburn above the Lake Dunstan Trail and overlooking the surrounding mountains, lake, and vineyards. Just an hour’s drive from Queenstown and Wanaka, these pods offer an ideal vantage point to witness the breathtaking sunsets and majestic mountain views. With panoramic vistas of the rugged landscapes, guests are immersed in the tranquility of the Pisa Range. In this secluded setting, guests are encouraged to sit back and soak in the views, enjoy a glass of locally-produced wine and embrace the absence of the outside world.

Each PurePod is designed for minimalist luxury and environmental sustainability. Pods are created using sustainable energy sources, such as local water reserves. Conservation and reclamation of the natural environment is at the center of PurePods, as they partner with landowners who are committed to sustainability and the commercial returns from PurePods enable them to expand their conservation activities through the extension of nature covenants and the reduction of stock grazing sensitive areas.

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat – Aoraki / Mount Cook – South Island

Even in New Zealand, with its abundance of natural beauty and charm, Aoraki Mount Cook stands apart. The mountain and its region hold deep spiritual meaning for Kiwis as there is a cultural significance to the ancient landscape that has been sculpted and shaped through millennia by the gliding of surrounding glaciers.

On this special spot resides the Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat, where the wonder of this location is infused into every experience shared with guests. With the warm elegance of the luxury villas, the inspiring views, the restorative relaxation of their wellness treatments, and the local and seasonal prepared cuisine – this Lakeside Retreat is a space to rest and reconnect.

The retreat offers unique experiences, such as private stargazing from their wine cellar observatory that presents an unparalleled opportunity to gaze into the universe and experience a wonder of one of the World’s purest skies. Notably, the retreat is located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, which is World-renowned for its protection against light pollution, creating a spectacular and beaming night sky. To celebrate such a special experience, the Mount Cook Retreat has developed a purpose-built wine cellar and observatory where guests can intimately taste from their curated cellar and explore the Southern stars.