Waterfront vacation rentals in Canterbury

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Top-rated waterfront rentals in Canterbury

Guests agree: these waterfront rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A panoramic view of the Kakanui Ranges showcases rolling hills bathed in soft morning light. Lush trees border the property, while a winding path leads through the landscape, enhancing the natural beauty of the area.
Hut in Danseys Pass
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviews

Danseys Pass Lavender Farm Retreat (shepherds hut)

Enjoy a unique stay at our little Lavender Farm nestled in the Kakanui Ranges. Sitting adjacent to the main house, you'll find comfort in your self-contained shepherd's hut, complete with a private outdoor bath and shower. Take the mountain e-bikes for a tour around the surrounding countryside, jump into one of the waterholes on the property. At the end of the day, unwind in your private 4-person spa opposite the rustic wood-fired sauna, or simply relax by the outdoor fireplace under the stars.

Guest favorite
A charming two-story cottage is framed by lush vegetation, with large windows allowing natural light to fill the interior. The Southern Alps rise majestically in the background, capped with snow, creating a striking contrast against the warm tones of the cottage.
Cottage in Ōkārito
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 311 reviews

Beautiful cottage with mountain and sea views

Watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea from the deck of this beautiful character cottage, or walk out the door directly across to the beach, with stunning views back to the Southern Alps. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the Ōkārito Lagoon, surrounding National Park, native forest walks and bird life, including tui, kōtuku (white heron) and kiwi. Listen to the sound of the sea & the call of ruru NZ's native morepork owl. High quality linen, towels, Free Wi-Fi, fridge/freezer, tea and coffee included.

Guest favorite
The house is nestled among lush greenery on a hillside, featuring a black exterior and large glass doors that open to a spacious balcony. A series of steps leads down from the balcony to the garden area filled with colorful plants.
Home in Charteris Bay
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 206 reviews

Church Bay Hideaway - Beach Access & Sea Views

Unwind in our peaceful retreat, just 30 mins from Christchurch, where you'll be captivated by breathtaking sea views and have access to a secluded beach and jetty. Enjoy the warm embrace of all-day sunshine in this north-facing paradise, offering a perfect blend of seclusion and convenience, with amenities a mere 2-minute drive away. Escape reality, nestled among native NZ trees serenaded by beautiful birdsong. Embrace endless activities or relish in doing nothing at all – the choice is yours!

Superhost
An outdoor deck features a luxury hot tub overlooking a lake and mountains. Large glass doors provide seamless access between indoor and outdoor spaces. A wooden chair is positioned beside the tub, inviting relaxation in this serene setting.
Cottage in Lake Tekapo
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 874 reviews

Stargazer’s Luxury Retreat

For those who fancy a luxury escape; Stargaze the Milky Way from your own luxury outdoor bath, then come inside to a toasty warm fire. Enjoy the comfort of a king size bed with luxury linen, looking directly through to the lake and mountains beyond. In the bathroom, relax in our freestanding bath or enjoy a rain shower for two. Take in unobstructed views of the lake and mountains from your lounge room by day, and cosy up on the couch or wool beanbag for a movie at night. This is paradise.

Guest favorite
An inviting living area features a cozy gray sofa and a daybed adorned with decorative cushions. A wooden coffee table sits on a rich red rug, while large windows offer stunning views of the turquoise waters and surrounding hills. A TV and telescope are also present.
Home in Wainui
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviews

Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront Haven

Step into a world where sparkling Akaroa Harbour is just steps away — Pīwakawaka Retreat, a sun-drenched haven where everyday worries drift away. Our waterfront sanctuary offers both relaxation and adventure: explore rock pools, swim at the sandy beach, fish on the harbour, or simply unwind on the deck as the sun sets. Whether exploring Banks Peninsula or watching the light shift over Purple Peak, our place, is the perfect place to slow down and connect with nature.

Top guest favorite
A cozy living area features a comfortable leather sofa and an armchair beside a wood burner, creating an inviting ambiance. A wooden coffee table is placed centrally on a soft rug, with books and a woven placemat arranged upon it.
Home in Twizel
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 317 reviews

Mountain View Abode - Spectacular Views In Twizel

Mountain View Abode is a spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with sweeping views of the Southern alps, on the edge of the picturesque high country town of Twizel. Set on 2 acres overlooking a private pond towards snow covered peaks, it’s also a stone's throw to the town square and shops, restaurants and cafes. Our home is situated in an exclusive position directly on the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, and is a perfect base for exploring Mount Cook National Park

Superhost
A wide panoramic view of Taylors Mistake beach showcases gentle waves lapping the sandy shore, framed by lush green hills. The golden light of dawn casts a warm glow over the tranquil water, highlighting the natural beauty of the coastline.
Apartment in Christchurch
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 321 reviews

Te Onepoto lodge Sumner, breakfast, spa, L8 chkout

The most relaxing break in CHRISTCHURCH city with spa. Early check in / late checkout ok. Enjoy complimentary breakfast overlooking Taylors Mistake beach in the affluent suburb of Sumner. This stunning 80 sq metre apartment set in a rustic bach environment is everything you need. Sleep to the sound of surf below and wake to the beauty of the sunrise and sound of native birds in the NZ bush. Enjoy the four metre window seat looking across the bay

Top guest favorite
Cottage in Ashburton
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 715 reviews

Lake Cottage , "Coniston" Ashburton

Lake Cottage is a small cottage which has a double bed is fully self contained set in 6.5 acres of woodland and formal gardens at "Coniston" Ashburton. In a quiet farm setting only 3 km from the centre of Ashburton and S.H. 1 to Christchurch, Dunedin or Queenstown. Continental breakfast provisions provided, selection of cereals, porridge, fruit, bread, milk, butter and selection of spreads. Selection of teas and coffees.

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Franz Josef / Waiau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 301 reviews

Luxury Wilderness Cabin on Private Lake

Luxury off-grid cabin in absolute wilderness nestled on the edge of a small lake fed by a pristine mountain stream a 3-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier village. Sensational views of snow-capped mountains, the lake, glacier, Fritz Falls & rainforest. Super King bed, sunsets, outdoor stone bath, cedar barrel sauna with panoramic window & nature's swimming pool on your doorstep. Experience luxury amidst nature.

Top guest favorite
Home in Ruatapu
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews

Big Heart Beach - Private Ocean to Alps Retreat

Welcome to Big Heart Beach - Your Peaceful Coastal Retreat. Nestled between the wild ocean and the majestic Southern Alps, Big Heart Beach offers the perfect retreat to relax, rejuvenate, and create cherished memories. Located just five minutes south of Hokitika, this haven of tranquility blends breathtaking natural beauty with the peace and quiet you’ve been seeking.

Top guest favorite
A hot tub is positioned on a wooden deck, overlooking calm ocean waters and a distant rocky island. The soft hues of the sky blend with the water, creating a serene and tranquil scene, perfect for relaxation.
Home in Motunau
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 191 reviews

Ocean View Bach

Escape to a modern and cozy holiday rental in Motunau, New Zealand. This charming two-bedroom retreat offers breathtaking ocean views, a well-equipped kitchen, and a luxurious master bedroom. Explore the picturesque village and relax on the safest beach in Canterbury. Whether you seek nature or romance, this rental has it all for an unforgettable stay.

Top guest favorite
A cozy eco-cabin is pictured with a wooden exterior and a slanted roof. A porch with a railing and a small table and chair set is visible, surrounded by lush greenery. The distant hills and sky create a serene backdrop.
Hut in Broomfield
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 140 reviews

Lime Hut with wood burning sauna - Waipara Narrows

Escape the noise and find true rest in our cosy, handcrafted eco-cabin, nestled among dramatic limestone formations and regenerating native bush. Access is via a short, steep bush track—a walk that leads you past your private wood-fired cedar sauna and hot outdoor shower. This is your chance to unplug from devices, talk, relax and recharge.

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