The following are some of the more unique Airbnbs in New Zealand.
How did I decide what makes this list?
As a member of various NZ Travel Facebook groups, I’ve come across some of these places before, like the wine barrels, pirate ship, and the boot. They’re definitely some of the most fun Airbnbs in New Zealand.
For the rest, I wanted to pick a type of accommodation and then searched for that specific type of place on the website. For example, I typed in Hobbit Hole Airbnb which had a couple of results, and I took the most enticing looking one from there.
Note 1: I have not been to the NZ Airbnbs. That said, I may earn a commission if you book an experience through the links below. This won’t alter the price you pay.
Note 2: With pricing, it’s not going to perfect as the hosts can alter the prices…but in general: $ = under $250, $$ = $251 – $500, $$$ = $501+.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. The Boot – Fairytale Accommodation
2. Pirateship Treehouse
3. A great night’s sleep in our dreamy wine barrel
4. The Glasshouse
5. Luxurious Lake View Penthouse on Queenstown Hill
6. The Lighthouse in Island Bay
7. The Lodge at Mudbrick Vineyard
8. Valley Views Glamping – ‘Mt Domett’ Geodesic Dome
9. Stunning views from warm cosy yurt
10. “Lake End” Retreat
11. Apollo 11 space ship with view of mt cook
11 COOL AIRBNBS IN NEW ZEALAND TO CHECKOUT
1. The Boot – Fairytale Accommodation
Type: Tiny house
Location: Tasman
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
At some stage in our lives, we’ve all dreamt of living life like a real-life fairytale. And at The Boot, you can make this dream come true. For a short while at least.
You’ll feel like you;re off the beaten track given The Boot is located in the courtyard of a decent sized property at the top of the South Island. Yet you’ve got the Jester Cafe nearby (same owners) meaning you don’t need to worry about sorting out food before you arrive.
The coastal location is stunning, with both rugged coastline and mountains close enough to explore. There’s also a hill on the property where you can get a sweet view if you aren’t keen on venturing far.
What’s in The Boot itself? An awesome queen bed, shower, treats, open fireplaces, and of course the unique architecture.
What Past Guests Have Said: Lovely stay. Everything we needed and more. Highly recommend the food from the cafe and the platter delivered to the boot was one of the best we’ve ever had!
Thanks for having us to stay at the Boot. We had an amazing weekend, the boot was fun, quirky, peaceful and lovely. Cosy fire and well equip with cute extra touches. The heated bathroom floor was a great bonus. It’s a lovely place and the hosts were friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend it!
2. Pirateship Treehouse
Type: Private room in treehouse hosted by Stace (1 bed, 1 shared bath)
Location: Waimauku, Auckland
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
It’s not just a treehouse, it’s also a pirate ship! This has to be one of the coolest New Zealand Airbnbs.
This doesn’t mean it’s all childhood like with the treehouse “Hinemoana” in a forest a short distance from Muriwai.
Inside the treehouse is a double bed and entertainment area. The shared bathroom and shower facilities are eco friendly, yet modern with fancy composting toilets and greywater shower systems. A much-appreciated commodity in the Auckland where water shortages can be an issue.
What Past Guests Have Said: Brilliant experience, kids loved it. Dressed as pirates all weekend. I just drank Rum and sad aaaagh a lot.
Such a fun and quirky stay! So much fun! The chest of pirate-y clothes was a cute addition that had us laughing!
3. A great night’s sleep in our dreamy wine barrel
Type: Private room in hut hosted by Sebastian (1 bed, 1 bath)
Location: Hawkesbury, Marlborough
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
Now, this is pretty cool, right?
If you’re a wine fiend, you’ve surely got to experience staying in a wine barrel surrounded by Marlboroughs beautiful vineyards and olive groves.
Can you see yourself pouring a glass of wine enjoying the sunset from the garden? I can.
This place is easy to get to, just 15 minutes from Blenheim, and as the owners live on the property (not in a wine barrel) are happy to share their local knowledge.
There are two wine barrel cabins on the property. The two share a fridge for your wine and snacks (there are no cooking facilities). In a perfect world, you’d end up making a couple of awesome new friends during your stay in this unique setting.
The barrels contain:
- double bed
- wardrobe
- living space
- TV
- toaster
- tea and coffee making stuff
Note: there are no cooking facilities.
You’ll be sharing a modern bathroom, but with only the two barrels, you certainly won’t be queueing all day.
What Past Guests Have Said: Thank you so much for the hospitality! This was the perfect place for us! It’s a beautiful barrel & you are a great host. Mirella and Julaine 🙂
We stayed in the wine barrel with a view and loved it! Everything was so well thought out and beautifully styled, and it felt so private and secluded. We can’t wait to come back here one day!
&
CLICK HERE FOR BOOKING.COM
4. The Glasshouse
Type: Entire house hosted by Susanne And Paul (1 bed, 1 bath)
Location: Whangarei, Northland
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$$
The name of this place isn’t there for clickbait. Click through to the list below and check out how much glass there is with the floor-to-ceiling windows!
The small touches are accounted for in this Airbnb that’s full of privacy surrounded by mother nature on the peninsula sticking out along the east coast North of Auckland (you still get wifi).
Love fishing and/or swimming? You’re welcome to bring your own gear to do both. And you’ve got the cove below, along with walking tracks in the immediate area with views for days.
Note: Semi or full catering available.
What Past Guests Have Said: The Glasshouse is a very special place indeed. It’s wonderfully remote, totally private, perfectly laid out and the perfect spot for a couple to relax. The outside shower and toilet is fabulous and a great feature. Susanne is a great communicator and perfect host.
Just wow. This place is unbelievable. I highly recommend picking up groceries on the way because you will never want to leave the property during your stay. Our favorite feature was the private rock pool. Susanne and Paul were so helpful when we arrived even though we missed our original flight into Auckland. They also helped to arrange a chef on the first night of our stay. Probably the best meal we had in New Zealand. Trust me, you need to book a stay at the Glasshouse at least once in your life. Susanne and Paul – Thank you so much for hosting us!
&
CLICK HERE ON BOOKING.COM
5. Luxurious Lake View Penthouse on Queenstown Hill
A view from the top of Queenstown Hill (not from the Penthouse)
Type: Entire townhouse hosted by Kaye (1 bed, 1.5 baths)
Location: Queenstown
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
It’s not hard to get amazing views in Queenstown (especially on walks around town), but you don’t even need to go anywhere when you wake up to get them from this Penthouse.
This Penthouse backs onto Queenstown Hill, and you’ll have the entire upper floor to yourself. It’ll contain:
- roomy master bedroom
- ensuite
- open plan living area
- wood fire
- heating
- private deck
- kitchen
You’ve also got access to the outdoor courtyard where you can cook a BBQ and enjoy the hot tub and spa pool.
The washing machine and dryer are on the ground floor (you’ve fot a double access garage too).
And it’s all just a short walk away from the center of Queenstown. The perfect place for a romantic getaway.
What Past Guests Have Said: This place is stunningly beautiful. The views are exceptional, whether you’re in bed, in front of the fire, in the kitchen, or in the hot tub. The open fire was lovely on a cold winter night. Lovely 20 minute walk to town, though as it’s pretty steep I’d recommend a taxi back!
Stunning penthouse with amazing views, Kaye was great and welcomed us with a honeymoon gift which was very special. We had the most amazing stay and we would come back in a heart beat.
6. The Lighthouse in Island Bay
Type: Lighthouse (1 bed/1 bath)
Location: Island Bay, Wellington
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
There’s something magical romantic about lighthouses, right?
Before I saw this listing, located a short distance from the Wellington CBD (and less than 10 minutes from Wellington Airport) it had never crossed my mind you could stay in a lighthouse before!
Located right across the road from the sandy beach, you can explore the rock pools to see what you can find. The southern coast of Wellington is great for walking (checkout the Red Rocks walk), with nearby cafes, restaurants, and shops.
The views will change massively depending on the day. If you happen to book your stay with a wild southerly rolling in, you’ll see the angry side of the Cook Strait, but on the other hand, you can have epic sunsets and see the ferries going to/from Picton.
What Past Guests Have Said: The lighthouse is a great experience and beautiful views of island bay. We really enjoyed sitting up on the top level looking out on the water. No curtains in the sleeping area so you’ll wake with the sun. Easy walk down the road to a great breakfast cafe. Also easy to park right out front.
This is my second visit to the Lighthouse. I love how relaxing it is to sit at the top level of the lighthouse reading my book and listening to the ocean. I would recommend to stay for a relaxing getaway.
RELATED POST: UNIQUE AIRBNB EXPERIENCES TO DO IN NEW ZEALAND
7. The Lodge at Mudbrick Vineyard
Type: Entire villa hosted by Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant (3 bed, 3.5 bath)
Location: Waiheke Island, Auckland
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$$
Located on a vineyard, this lodge has some amazing views looking towards both Auckland and the Coromandel from Waiheke Island.
Each of the 3 bedrooms features an ensuite, and the kitchen, dining, and living area are the epitome of indoor outdoor flow. You can see how mindful they were in the design of the lodge.
And of course, as you’re staying on a vineyard, there’s a path leading straight to the restarant and tasting room leaving you a short walk stumble home.
What Past Guests Have Said: The Lodge was the most beautiful air bnb we have ever stayed in. Everything about this place is amazing and we can’t wait to come back.
Amazing, must be one of the better accommodations on Waiheke Island. Will definitely be returning.
&
CLICK HERE FOR BOOKING.COM
8. Valley Views Glamping – ‘Mt Domett’ Geodesic Dome
Type: Private room in tent hosted by Amber And Patrick (1 bed, 1/2 shared bath)
Location: Otiake, Otago
Superhost: Yes
Price: $$
If you enjoy an epic glamping view, this property has views for you. You’ll look out over the Waitaki Valley, the surrounding hills and mountains.
Located on a working beef cattle farm, the camping experience will still be peaceful and has non of the usual sacrifices in comfort you have to make with camping.
The dome tents (you can book multiple tents for larger groups) are fully furnished with gorgeous:
- beds and bedding
- seats and table
- lighting
- decks, and more
You can cook your food in the shared off-grid lodge which has a kitchen (and a BBQ), bathroom, fireput and dining area. Or, you can request dinner for your stay at an additional cost (breakfast is included in the stay).
What Past Guests Have Said: It was our first time glamping and loved every minute of it! Tent was clean and cozy, beautiful interior of the kitchen! Amber & Patrick were such a lovely couple, they made us feel very welcomed. Wish we could stay longer, but we will definitely be back and tell it to our friends. Plus, your dogs are adorable! Thanks again Amber & Patrick 🙂
It was an amazing accommodation. We will never forget it. Even as the weather wasn’t good it was a great experience and fun to stay one night in the tent. It is lovely decorated with nice details. Amber and Patrick are wonderful hosts and they took care about everything. Thank you for the great time at this peaceful place.
9. Stunning views from warm cosy yurt
Type: Yurt (1 bed, 1 bath)
Location: Motueka Valley
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
The Chocolate Yurt is a little bit more luxurious than the traditional yurts of the nomads (having stayed in one in Mongolia they’re surprisingly comfortable).
This yurt is located in native bush and features:
- a skylight
- an outdoor kitchen
- an outdoor bath/shower
- views
- handcrafted furniture
- woodburner
Located 15 minutes from Motueka, this yurt is in an eco-village. The off the grid location uses alternative power sources meaning you’ll be doing your business in a compost toilet. It’s not as gross as it sounds, and you might find it weird going back to your normal toilet after your stay.
Given the location is 15 minutes from town, if you want to stay where you are for your entire stay, bring plenty of food.
What Past Guests Have Said: What can you expect from this stay? Expect it to be better than what you imagine. Such lovely and on to it hosts. Such a well laid out kitchen bathroom and yurt. I felt like I was in my own private little forest world. I never return to an Airbnb twice as I like to try something new every time but this one I am already making plans to go back! Even with the rain falling heavily it just made it all the more magical =]
Wow, it was an amazing place with beautiful views. Cant recommend it enough. Tessa is a great host. My partner and I felt very comfortable around the premises. The Yurt is comfy and warm, and kept clean. We will definitely be coming back.
10. “Lake End” Retreat
Type: Tiny house hosted by Sally (1 bed, 1 bath)
Location: Hurworth, Taranaki
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
I’m not sure why Hobbit Hole isn’t mentioned in the title!
Overlooking a lake, bush, and farmland, you’ll fee like you’re on your own little Hobbiton paradise here.
The building is primarily made of recycled materials which is great. And the eco-friendly property means there’s a Swedish composting toilet (separate to the bathroom) and a grey water disposal system.
In the mornings you’ll be served a continental breakfast in the garden where birds galore can be seen (there are 30+ species around).
The owners have one small dog on the property but he won’t be a bother. Keep in mind they recommend that children and/or pets don’t come here as the facilities don’t suit them.
What Past Guests Have Said: An incredible place. Sally is incredibly welcoming and made sure we had everything we needed. It is truly a sanctuary; the lake is stunning and filled with birdlife, the outdoor shower is incredible, and the hobbit house itself is cozy and comfortable. We couldn’t have picked a better place to stay.
Sally has created a beautiful, private retreat from the world. The quirky hobbit house is beautiful with so many lovely touches. You will enjoy feeling at one with nature but are still close to town for events and eating out. I highly recommend this accommodation and Sally is the perfect host.
11. Apollo 11 space ship with view of mt cook
Type: Home hosted by Sally (1 bed, 1 bath)
Location: Near Twizel, 45 minutes from the Hooker Valley Track
Superhost: Yes
Price: $
What a unique Airbnb!
Located in the Dark Sky Reserve is the replica of the Apollo 11 Command Module. A rocket in the Dark Sky Reserve just makes sense.
But it’s the details that make this place great. The ceiling is see through so you can see the stars from your bed. There’s also memorabilia from the mission. But life in an actual rocket isn’t always convenient so they’ve made sure this Airbnb has a flush toilet, and heating. You’ll love this stay!
What Past Guests Have Said: A great experience – the clouds lifted and there were the stars! I tucked myself into the really comfortable bed and just drank it all in! Highly recommended. A great experience – the clouds lifted and there were the stars! I tucked myself into the really comfortable bed and just drank it all in! Highly recommended.
Very unique stay which we really enjoyed. Ended up being a beautiful, still night so could make the most of sitting outside at night and star gazing from our bed! Would recommend for a fun stay.
And there we go, 10 cool Airbnbs in New Zealand for your inspiration.
Which one will (or would) you stay in? Or maybe you’re ready to browse other accommodation options on these NZ Airbnb alternatives.
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Hey, it’s Jub here. I’m the guy behind Chur New Zealand, helping you have the best time hiking, trekking, walking…whatever you want to call it…in NZ. I’m based in Queenstown and am always out and about exploring trails, old & new. If you have any questions, reach out.