The South Island is famous for its glaciers and dramatic mountain scenery, but the North Island offers some of the most beautiful beaches and a host of other attractions that make it worth visiting too. While you’re there, you might want to consider staying at Airbnbs – many offer kitchen facilities for cooking your own meals to save on dining out, along with a number of other perks. From budget-friendly options to luxurious retreats, you’re sure to find outstanding accommodation among these top Airbnbs.
Sunrise on Ridge - Tairua
This studio for two is the perfect romantic couples’ retreat, providing a spectacular quiet setting complete with jaw-dropping views of the coast and clear turquoise water. You’ll want to rise early for the gorgeous sunrises too. There’s a large deck and a private hot tub for relaxing with that vista along with a kitchenette that includes tea and coffee, Sky TV, and Wi-Fi.
Tree House Above Wellington Harbour - Wellington
Wellington is a beautiful city at the southern end of the North Island, and it happens to be home to this unique treehouse Airbnb that sits above Lowry Bay just steps from the beach. It accommodates up to three in two bedrooms, overlooks the harbor and comes with an outdoor bath. It has a fully-equipped kitchen, a TV, radio CD player as well as a large deck with a BBQ. There are also three bicycles provided for guest use.
The Nest, Coastal Escape - Pihama
A “dreamy off-grid sanctuary perched high on the rugged, west coast cliffs overlooking the Tasman Sea,” The Nest is aptly named with a super comfy king-size bed for two where you can fall asleep and wake up to the sounds of the crashing waves. It’s powered with solar and natural gas and includes a kitchenette with a gas burner, minifridge, and large sink. But you can always cook by a fire set up on the beach beneath a starry sky with the Milky Way often visible. Turn off your phone and enjoy.
Magic Cottage, Romantic, Chic Waterfront Seclusion - Kaeo
Nestled beneath ancient Pohutukawa trees above the banks of the Takou River, this secluded cottage offers a romantic escape for two. It sits on a 5-acre property with subtropical gardens and includes a private jetty and boathouse with deserted sandy beaches reached with just a short paddle. You’ll have wraparound decks and an outdoor clawfoot tub where you can soak together while enjoying the view of the river. While it includes a kitchen, this is an unplugged stay with Wi-Fi available at the guest office a 5-minute walk away.
West Coast Private Hilltop Hideaway - Bethells Beach, Auckland
This hilltop hideaway overlooks the west coast from Bethells Beach, putting you just a short walk from the stretch of black sands that spans nearly 1.25 miles. A cozy retreat for two, it’s nestled among lush greenery and although it’s partially off the grid, it includes many outstanding amenities for a mostly unplugged stay. You can wake up in bed and watch the surf break and after a day of adventure, come back to soak in the hot tub while enjoying the view. There’s a deck with a BBQ grill, a TV for watching movies with a DVD player and a collection of DVDs, books, and an iPod port.
River Belle Glamping - Egmont Village, Taranaki
You’ll be near it all by booking this glamping stay. A luxurious geodesic dome close to the island’s west coast that includes an amenities hut, it sits on 160 acres next to the Mangaoraka River, providing a wonderful soundtrack to fall asleep to with volcanoes and lush rainforest nearby. The hut includes your own private outdoor bath with a view of Mount Taranaki, a kitchen, and a separate bathroom. The dome stays toasty warm on chilly nights with a fireplace and electric blankets.
WoodyHanger Lodge, Luxurious Romantic Getaway - Whitianga
For New Zealand luxury, the WoodHanger Lodge on the Coromandel Peninsula, a five-minute drive from the city center of Whitianga, is a great pick. Enjoy views of Mercury Bay from multiple vantage points, including both indoor and outdoor spaces. There’s a private deck with outdoor sitting and an infinity pool, shared with only the owners, which provide a tasty complimentary breakfast. The suite sleeps up to two guests with one bedroom and includes a mini-fridge, mini BBQ, dining space and a lounge that offers a view along with a TV and DVD player. Free Wi-Fi is provided and the bathroom has both a double walk-in shower and a spa tub.
Wairua Lodge Double Room -Whitianga
Enjoy easy access to the lush rainforests and beaches of Coromandel from your en-suite double room at Wairua Lodge that includes a TV and free Wi-Fi. It overlooks 15 acres of temperate rainforest, offering a comfortable, secluded stay that includes access to the Treetop Bath House as well as a night-sky spa for unforgettable stargazing. There are trails through the rainforest for hiking and two swimming holes for refreshing dips right on the property too. A complimentary breakfast is provided daily as well.
First Cast Turangi - Turangi
First Cast Turangi is located in a quiet neighborhood near Lake Taupo, hot pools, a river, golfing and more. Enjoy a spacious open-plan layout with four bedrooms accommodating up to seven in four bedrooms along with free Wi-Fi, TV, a woodstove, outdoor fire and a pizza oven. You’ll be able to cook some of your own meals while being within walking distance of a number of great cafes.
Fantail Bush Chalet, Bush & Golf on the Doorstep - Wainui
The Fantail Chalet is like a treehouse, surrounded by nature with especially enchanting views from the bedroom which connects to a wooden deck for enjoying them among the fresh air and the songs of the native birds. It’s the perfect place to enjoy your homemade breakfast or an evening glass of wine. Nestled in the trees you’ll enjoy plenty of privacy along with all the necessities. It includes a rain shower with a clear wall where you can re-energize with a view of the bush, along with Wi-Fi, TV and a kitchenette that includes a fridge and kettle.
