If you’re looking for an authentic New Zealand South Island holiday then don’t miss a stay in one of New Zealand’s unique baches.
You may also hear them called cribs in Otago. This is how the locals spend their holidays in low-key style accommodation, surrounded by the South Island’s spectacular wilderness.
A bach holiday means turning off your technology and relaxing. Play scrabble, read a book, take a long walk, enjoy the tranquility, or head out for adventure and wildlife spotting. Read on for inspiration with these four unique baches…
Destination: South Island | New Zealand
Accommodation Type: Bach
Price Range: Cabin/Hostel $ | Economy $$ | Mid-range $$$ | Luxury $$$$ | Super Luxe $$$$+
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1. Gunado – Cosy Kiwi Bach in Golden Bay – Collingwood
Best for: Near the Beach, Kayaks, Children Welcome, Garden, Affordable. 2 bedrooms for up to 4 people, $$
What’s Unique?
Gunado Bach is an affordable and fun Kiwi stay in ravishing Golden Bay.
Overview
At the top of the South Island, Gunado Bach sits in a unique position between a rich estuary and a sheltered beach. This is a beautiful territory in the footsteps of the Kahurangi National Park and Farewell Spit Nature Reserve.
Sheltered by great Totara trees, home to many native birds, the bach is a popular spot to relax on the deck, take out the kayaks, or collect shellfish.
The first bedroom has a queen-size bed, the second bedroom has two single beds. The kitchen is well-equipped for an escape to the beach. The lounge has a fireplace (and wood) for the cooler months.
Popular Places to Eat in Collingwood: Mussel Inn Pub and Restaurant, The Old School Cafe, The Courthouse Cafe (most popular on Trip Advisor), Mad Cafe Golden Bay, and Collingwood Tavern.
Good to Know
- In the high summer season, a minimum 2-night stay is required
- Children welcome
- Washing machine and dryer
- Enjoy a coffee at the Mad Cafe in Collingwood
- Explore Golden Bay and swim at the beautiful beaches
- Book your Beach Stay at Gunado with Expedia
2. Woodpecker Bay Bach – Life on the Edge of a River – West Coast
Best for: Wild Location, Privacy, Marine Life, Paparoa National Park, Couples, Up to 3 Guests $$
What’s Unique?
Why not experience true retro ‘baching’ on the wild West Coast at Woodpecker Bay Bach!
Overview
Kick back at this retro New Zealand bach on the wild West Coast just 15 minutes north of Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. At high tide, the sea laps at Woodpecker Bay Bach, but it’s stood the test of time.
Built in the 1940’s the loo (toilet) is a dash down the garden just like the old days! This is the Department of Conservation land with seals and penguins as your neighbours.
The bach has one bedroom, with a queen-size bed and a sofa bed. Bring food – the nearest supermarket is 30 minutes away at Westport.
Good to Know
- Minimum 2-night stay
- Not suitable for small children
- WIFI but no phone reception so phone in bach is free for local calls
- A portion of each booking goes to the West Coast Penguin Trust
- See more at the bach’s website
Travel Resources:
- Looking for travel insurance? For New Zealand domestic and overseas travel Cover-more Travel Insurance has an excellent range of policies.
- Driving around the South Island? Compare car rental prices at Discover Cars
- Book the best tours and guides at GetYourGuide and let someone else do all the organising!
- Get the best flight deals with WayAway which offers cashback deals. Join WayAway Plus now and get a 10% discount.
3. Surfinn Eco Cottage, Snorkelling and Surfing in The Catlins
Best for: Wildlife, Penguins, Sea lions, Surfing, Snorkelling. Couples, Friends, Families, Groups, 2 Bedrooms for up to 4 Guests, $$
What’s Unique?
For adventurers and wildlife lovers, Surfinn is the ideal spot in the spectacular Catlins.
Overview
The Catlins is one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets! In the southeast of the South Island, you’ll discover ancient rainforests, waterfalls, stunning coastlines, rare marine life, and plenty of adventure.
Surfinn Cottage is a great spot to base yourself for all your activities and relaxation. You can easily walk to the beach.
The Cottage
The cottage is two-storied with two bedrooms and is set in the quaint village of Papatowai near Lake Wilkie and Cathedral Caves. With incredible views over the estuary, surrounding hills, and Tahakopa Bay it’s just you and nature.
The cottage’s open-plan living area seamlessly blends the comforts of home with the allure of the outdoors. As you cook in the fully equipped kitchen, let the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Tahakopa Bay ignite your imagination. Visit in summer or winter, the state-of-the-art heat pump ensures your comfort throughout your stay.
Sleep peacefully in one of the comfortable bedrooms. You have a king bed in one room and a queen bed in the other.
Guest Review
Would definitely recommend! The bach catches a lot of sun too, so it’s bright and cheerful during the day.
Good to Know:
- Space for a boat outdoors
- Outdoor living space and gardens
- See more at Expedia for the latest deals
4. Wildside Lodge – Romantic Off-Grid Cabin for Two – West Coast
Best for: Country, Off Grid, Outdoor Bath, Organic Produce, Campfire, Couple, 2 Guests, $
What’s Unique?
You’ll have to drag yourself away from this peaceful retreat on the West Coast!
Overview
Switch off in this tiny off-grid house for two in Hari Hari Village. Wildside Lodge is halfway between Hokitika and Franz Josef Glacier.
This handcrafted idyllic bach is set on an organic homesteading property so you can wander around and enjoy the country lifestyle. In the evening soak away your worries in the outdoor bath under the stars.
What’s on Offer?
Unwind in the cosy cabin, where a queen bed with French doors frames breathtaking views. Gather ’round the potbelly stove, which doubles as a water heater, and savour the rustic charm of candlelit showers.
Outside, a well-equipped kitchen, covered deck, campfire, and BBQ await your culinary creations and stargazing adventures.
Good to Know
- Hari Hari Coastal Walkway nearby
- 10-minute drive to secret local hot springs
- Organic eggs and milk available from your friendly hosts
- See more at Expedia
