Breathe in fresh air and reconnect with nature at these incredible eco-friendly places to stay in the South Island of New Zealand. Choose from beach cabins, a wellness retreat, luxurious glamping, and whimsical glass pods, all designed with sustainability in mind. Experience the magic of Aotearoa in a way that respects the environment.
See Also: Eco-Friendly Places to Stay in the North Island
Location: South Island | New Zealand
Accommodation Type: Eco-Friendly and Organic
Price Range: Cabin/Hostel $ | Economy $$ | Mid-range $$$ | Luxury $$$$ | Super Luxe $$$$+
Bookings can be made at: Agoda | Booking.com | Expedia
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1. Valley Views Glamping | Kurow – Waitaki
Best for: Luxury Domes, Forest Baths, Shared Kitchen, BBQ, Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, 2 Guests, $$$
At Valley Views Glamping, your stay takes on a new dimension of outdoor luxury. Insulated glamping domes, with big bay windows, sit on the hillside with the tranquility of South Island’s raw beauty, and the majestic Southern Alps as your backdrop.
Set on a holistic working farm, a shared off-grid lodge features a shared kitchen, dining, and bathroom amenities.
Stay cosy with a pot-belly stove for chilly evenings in winter, dine al fresco in two outdoor areas, or gather around the fire pit.
For a unique touch, soak in one of four outdoor forest baths, offering stunning valley views and a clear glimpse of the Milky Way.
The Space
The interiors offer natural fibres, luxurious down and linen duvets, pure woollen blankets, ambient lighting, and cellphone chargers.
Delight in the local wine on your private deck, gaze at a starlit sky undisturbed by city lights, and treasure the unique blend of serenity and adventure that’s yours to enjoy.
Good to Know
- Each tent accommodates two guests
- BBQ, Fire Pit
- Water-efficient shared toilets and showers
- Horse riding, hiking, and farm tours
- Unlock your deal at Agoda
See Glamping at one of these cool eco-friendly places to stay in the South Island
2. Greenstone Retreat | Kumara – West Coast
Best for: Rainforest Wellness Retreat, Pet Friendly, Yoga, Wilderness Cycle Trail, Families, Friends, Couples, Up to 8 Guests $$
At Greenstone Retreat, you’re stepping into a holistic haven where wellness is woven into every aspect.
With organic gardens, a historic villa, cosy cabins, and even a quirky caravan named Lolly, this special place offers a variety of accommodation.
Plus, the shared kitchen and dining areas make meals a time for connection, all at a price that won’t break the bank.
Guest Review
Stunning Gardens! The lantern lights that lit up in the evenings around the gardens was beautiful.
Things to Do at this Eco Retreat NZ
You can unwind with yoga sessions or indulge in a soothing massage, and if you’re itching for adventure, the nearby Wilderness Cycle Trail, as well as numerous walking and biking paths, are your gateways to exploration.
As night falls, the clear skies become a canvas for star gazing. This rainforest sanctuary is not just child-friendly but also welcomes your pets, so your whole family can join in the retreat experience.
Good to Know
- Villa for up to 8 guests, cabins for up to 5 guests, dormitories, camping, and a caravan for two
- Continental breakfast on request
- Book your heavenly stay with Booking.com or with Agoda
3. Hopewell Lodge | Keneperu Sound
Best for: Beach, Kayaking, Queen Charlotte Sound, SUPs, Fishing, Couples, Friends, Families, Cottage, $$$
At Hopewell Lodge, you dive into a treasure trove of nature activities and relaxation. Your first adventure is catching the historic Pelorous mailboat from Havelock, through the Sounds, to the Lodge.
The Accommodation
Hopewell Lodge is set on the water’s edge, where you can choose from a range of King or Twin rooms with sea views. Some come with en-suites and some use the shared bathroom facilities. A cute cottage is available for larger groups.
Things to Do
Laze in one of the hammocks, paddle a kayak, or take out a stand-up paddleboard in the turquoise waters, cycle the Queen Charlotte trail, or hike the Hopewell Loop Track.
You can even try your hand at fishing or gathering oysters for dinner. At night don’t miss the resident glow worms!
The Shared Spaces
The shared kitchen is a hub of hospitality, perfect for whipping up your meals with a side of conversation. And when the stars come out, sink into the outdoor hot tub, and let the Southern night sky dazzle you.
This eco-friendly spot is all about community and connection, with the bonus of unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi to keep you in touch with the world, if you really need to!
Good to Know
- Homemade Pizza nights
- Golf course nearby
- Besides the mailboat, you can arrive by plane, floatplane, or kayak
- See Agoda to unlock your deal
Check your dates here too…
4. Mohua Park Eco Accommodation | Catlins
Best for: 3-Star Eco Retreat, Bird Watching, Free Bikes, Fishing, Hiking, Catlins River Track, Up to 6 Guests, $$$
This 3-star eco-friendly South Island retreat was built with sustainable practices and minimal impact on the stunning Catlins region.
Mohua Park is set on 8 hectares of native forest with a focus on preservation. The property offers natural walking tracks for guests to enjoy the native bush and bird life, and they actively maintain habitats for a variety of rare bird species.
Even the historic Tawanui Railway buildings have been relocated to Mohua Park’s pond!
The Space
Staying at Mohua Park Eco Accommodation gives you a self-contained chalet, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and a cosy lounge space, all without the distraction of a TV.
You’ll have the essentials like bed linen and bathrobes right there for you. Free WiFi and private parking make your stay hassle-free.
And when you’re ready to step outside, bicycles are on the house for you to pedal around the scenic surroundings. With fishing and hiking spots close by, you’re all set for a day of adventure or chill vibes—it’s your call.
Good to Know
- Bring all your food, drink, and snacks with you
- Breakfast and BBQ hampers are available to order
- Escape to your forest retreat today! See more at Agoda
5. Pōhue PurePod | Purau
Best for: Luxury Glass Cabin, Privacy, Stargazing, Romantic, Near Dolphin Cruises, Hiking, Couples, $$$
Pōhue PurePod is a unique glass hideaway set in the isolated beauty of South Island’s rugged landscape. Yet you’re only an hour’s drive from Christchurch in the Banks Peninsula.
Designed to immerse you completely in the beauty of nature, blending luxury with the great outdoors and the comforts of a well-appointed hotel room.
Why is Pōhue PurePod Special?
Pōhue PurePod gives you an unobstructed 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.
With glass walls and ceiling, you can stargaze right from your bed or watch the sunrise without leaving the warmth of your cabin.
It’s a sustainable stay that minimizes human impact on the environment, with solar power, local water use, and an emphasis on leaving the smallest footprint possible.
Who’s it Suitable for?
This retreat is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, individuals looking to unplug and reconnect with nature, or eco-conscious travelers who prioritize sustainability.
Pōhue PurePod is also a hit with adventurers looking for a comfortable base after a day exploring the nearby trails, wildlife, dolphin cruises, and an Alpacas Farm Tour.
The Space
The interior of Pōhue PurePod is a blend of minimalist luxury and eco-friendly design. It features contemporary furnishings with a comfortable bed dressed in crisp linens, a fully-equipped kitchen with a gas hob, and an ensuite bathroom with a flush toilet.
The decor is understated, allowing the outside views to take center stage. Floor-to-ceiling glass ensures you’re always connected to the outside environment, with blinds available for privacy when needed.
Good to Know at this Eco-Friendly Accommodation
- The pod is 22m2 size
- BBQ, Camp chairs on the deck
- Games, books, and a telescope
- See more at Tripadvisor
Soar through the skies as you witness PurePods in dreamlike locations!
SEE MORE UNIQUE AND ECO-FRIENDLY PLACES
I hope you’ve been inspired by this post: Eco-Friendly Places to Stay in the South Island of New Zealand. See more unique and eco-friendly places here…
