Twenty of the Most Unique Stays You Can Book Around New Zealand

Spend a few nights in a leafy treehouse, a beautifully restored truck perched right on the bay or even a mountaintop cabin with views for days.
Libby Curran
September 30, 2020

It's been quite the year and if ever there was a time to treat yourself to a vacation, it's now. And while far-flung overseas trips are off the cards for the time being, you'll still find scores of memorable holiday destinations located right here on home turf. No long-haul flight required. What's more, if you're after a true break from reality, New Zealand is brimming with unique stays that'll transport you blissfully far from your everyday. Indulge in a few nights in a leafy treehouse, a beautifully restored truck perched right on the bay, or even a mountaintop cabin with views for days.

Here, we've taken care of the hard bit and pulled together 20 of the most unique stays you can book in New Zealand. Pick your favourite, pack those bags and embark on a holiday that's worth writing home about.

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GLAMCAMPING, WHANANAKI

A secluded waterfront cabin and campsite set among untouched wilderness, with hiking trails, clear blue ocean and private sandy beaches right on its doorstep.

How much? From $104 a night, sleeps 12.

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THE GROVE FARM STAY, THORNTON

With features like a hot tub and king size bed, this comfy yurt makes for an idyllic farm stay. All just metres from the beach.

How much? From $295 a night, sleeps four.

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PISA CABIN, BENDIGO

Nab your own slice of Central Otago wilderness with a stay at this eco-friendly designer cabin. Nifty mod-cons, outdoor tub and endless views included.

How much? From $169 a night, sleeps two.

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MUD HUT AT WELCOME ROCK TRAILS, GARSTON

Dose up on serenity at this rustic high-country hikers' hut, kitted out with a cosy fireplace, outdoor tub and some of the best views going around.

How much? From $120 a night, sleeps four.

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FAIRYTALE TREEHOUSE, WHANGAREI

Your own magical treehouse escape, complete with cosy interiors, leafy wraparound deck and 28 lush acres to explore at your leisure.

How much? From $250 a night, sleeps two.

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GRAND DESIGNS EARTHSHIP, HIKUAI

Made famous by Grand Designs, this eco-luxe hillside abode makes for a unique holiday pad. Tranquility and stunning architecture, just a short drive from the beach.

How much? From $779 a night, sleeps eight.

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ALPINE POD, ARTHURS POINT

A sleek designer cabin, primed for getaways any time of year. Expect lots of contemporary features, a sunny private courtyard and idyllic alpine backdrop.

How much? From $176 a night, sleeps two.

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THE AMAZING HOUSE TRUCK, WAINUI BAY

This former truck has been transformed into a comfy bayside getaway, complete with wood fire and outdoor bath. Spend your days swimming, hiking or soaking up those views.

How much? From $85 a night, sleeps four.

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THE MUDCASTLE, NELSON

Fancy holidaying like royalty? Try this picturesque castle retreat, complete with fairytale features, a private pool and sweeping countryside views.

How much? From $1360 a night, sleeps 16.

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ALPINE CUBE, BEN OHAU

Check out of reality and into this architecturally designed nature cabin, featuring zero wi-fi, a luxe openair spa and all the tranquility you could dream of.

How much? From $270 a night, sleeps six.

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BLACKPOOL HOUSE, AUCKLAND

This contemporary couples' retreat boasts a lush, leafy setting, with stunning architecture, a cosy mezzanine library nook and a sun-drenched deck that's primed for relaxing.

How much? From $290 a night, sleeps two.

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WARM COSY YURT, MOTUEKA VALLEY

Al fresco drinks among the treetops and stargazing through the rooftop skylight — enjoy it all at this kitted-out yurt overlooking the Motueka River.

How much? From $95 a night, sleeps three.

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ROCKY POINT HUT, PEPIN ISLAND

A cosy hideaway for two with an outdoor tub offering epic panoramas, this clifftop hut is the stuff of holiday dreams.

How much? From $190 a night, sleeps two.

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LANTERN HOUSE, WAIHEKE ISLAND

Perched overlooking Onetangi Beach, this architectural delight boasts dreamy indoor-outdoor living, a plunge pool and sublime views from every angle.

How much? From $1395 a night, sleeps six.

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THE TREEHOUSE, WAIHEKE ISLAND

Hidden among the treetops, this contemporary cabin will charm you with its romantic loft bedroom, leafy gardens and blissful outdoor spa.

How much? From $280 a night, sleeps four.

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THE GALLERY, PUHOI

An architectural stand-out featuring its own sculpture garden. This striking abode is all kinds of luxurious, with designer furniture, ocean views and six acres of beautiful grounds.

How much? From $840 a night, sleeps four.

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WOODPECKER BAY BACH, PUNAKAIKI

Wake to the sound of crashing waves at this quaint beachfront stay. It's rocking a charmingly kitsch style and a bathtub with views to swoon over.

How much? From $187 a night, sleeps three.

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AWAY TREEHOUSE, AUCKLAND

Blissful treehouse vibes abound at this secluded forest retreat. Unplug and recharge, while enjoying the cosy wood fire, outdoor spa and peaceful treetop setting.

How much? From $350 a night, sleeps four.

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THE BRAKE HOUSE, TITIRANGI

A mid-century modernism classic, you'll find this light-filled stunner located majestically in the rainforest. Enjoy luxe furnishings, sweeping vistas and gorgeous outdoor spaces surrounded by nature.

How much? From $1500 a night, sleeps six.

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ROMANTIC BUSH CHALET, AUCKLAND

In the heart of the bush, this secluded chalet makes for a tranquil couples' escape. Hiking trails abound and the beach is just a short drive away.

How much? From $163 a night, sleeps two.

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FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.

Images: courtesy of Airbnb.

Published on September 30, 2020 by Libby Curran
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