Vacation rentals in Ōkārito
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Ōkārito
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Kōtuku Cottage
Character cottage, perfect for those looking for something special with attention to comfort & style. Enjoy listening to the west coast waves & birdlife, with views of the Southern Alps. Just minutes walk from the beach, lagoon & bush tracks, & a firebath for relaxing at the end of the day. Enjoy the many activities Ōkārito has to offer - located in a World Heritage area - or simply enjoy & recharge in its peace & tranquility. Please message if you would like to see a video tour of the cottage.
Cosy Cabin in the Paddocks
- NO AIRBNB SERVICE FEE ON THIS LISTING - Welcome to Glacier Country! Nestled in the heart of the Tai Poutini Westland National Park and only a 7-minute drive from the Franz Josef township, our cosy little cabin in the paddocks offers stunning views of the Southern Alps and ample privacy in a rural setting. Relax after a fun day of hiking and sightseeing while enjoying our spectacular West Coast sunsets, listening to the native birds, stargazing on the deck or simply being lulled by the rain.
Highlander Haven
This new modern, fully equipped home is located a short 5 minute drive from the local village. As you step outside, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the majestic surrounding mountains. Whether you're looking to relax & unwind or embark on outdoor adventures, this is the ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of Glacier Country. Hiking trails & local attractions are all within easy reach, promising an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Okarito Cottage - Tigh Na Mara
Beautiful, small but comfortable cottage close to the Tasman sea, native bush and Ōkārito Lagoon. Open plan kitchen/living area with well equipped kitchen and a very efficient wood burning fire. Short stairs leading down to bathroom and bedroom. Queen bedroom with french doors leading out onto private deck area. Amazing views of the southern alps from different points in and around the house. This is a unique space with a homely feel by the sea in a friendly and welcoming community.
Franz Josef Gateway Townhouse
New spacious two bedroom property in peaceful Whataroa township only 25 km north of Franz Josef, Whataroa offers a quiet rural landscape with stunning mountain views. Hosts Kevin & Heather have 30 yrs experience in the tourism industry owning & operating a Helicopter glacier flight business. We offer special discounts on flights for guests interested in this activity. They welcome you to enjoy your stay in quality surroundings and peaceful environment.
Gibb’s Guesthouse
Charming 2-bedroom home in the heart of Franz Josef, Glacier Country. Set beside a peaceful wilderness area teeming with birdlife. Surrounded by native forest, fauna and mountain views, it’s a cosy, private retreat perfect for couples, friends, or small families. Fully equipped with a kitchen, heating, and comfy living space. Just minutes from glacier walks, Waiho hot tubs, world class restaurants and local cafés—ideal for a quiet West Coast getaway.
The Tower, Okarito
The Tower is a comfortable two storey, seperate building with an upstairs bedroom with ensuite bathroom. It has excellent views of the sea and the Southern Alps. A warm, cosy and quiet space with a private garden. Free Wifi Downstairs is the living room / kitchenette area. Upstairs and downstairs are connected by external stairs (see photos). Awesome outdoor bath - great for stargazing. There are balconies on three sides of the tower.
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.
Glacier Lake House
Peaceful mountain escape in the heart of the Southern Alps. Enjoy stunning views of the river and pond, soak in the private hot tub under the stars, and relax by the fire. Surrounded by nature, this cosy retreat is perfect for families, couples or solo travellers seeking rest and recharge. Close to hiking trails, glacier walks, and alpine villages—your ideal off-the-grid getaway.
Te Awa Cottages – Tahi Cottage
Te Awa Cottages is only a 2 minute drive from Franz Josef township, situated just off State Highway 6 on our private property, a short walk from the Tatare River, and surrounded by stunning views of the snow covered Main Divide and Melchior Glacier, and our handful of sheep and cattle. Free wifi, air conditioner & heat pump and plenty of parking space right outside your cottage.
Little Luxe - Intimate, Warm & Wonderfully Styled
Welcome to Little Luxe on Revell, a beautiful and luxurious two-bedroom beach house! Located in the charming seaside town of Hokitika, this small but vibrant community offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Our beach house is just steps away from the stunning untamed beach, making it an ideal getaway for beach lovers.
Franz Josef Villa
Come stay in our bright and spacious modern home located just 5 minutes from the town of Franz Josef. Take in the impeccable glacier country mountains and views of Lake Mapourika while lounging on the large deck or open the sliding doors and enjoy from the comfort of inside. This is a perfect 3 bedroom home away from home
Popular amenities for Ōkārito vacation rentals
Other great vacation rentals in Ōkārito
Bedford Hideaway - includes Breakfast & free Wi-Fi
The Church at FOX
Coulson Cottage
Private forest retreat with 3 super king en-suites
Snowgrass Hut - Above & Beyond
Alpine Escape - Two
Jumbuck Cottage
Yok's House
All about Ōkārito
On the western coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Ōkārito is home to one of the country’s biggest coastal lagoons, a popular destination for bird watching. Ōkārito Lagoon’s still, shallow waters are excellent for kayaking, and the surrounding lush rainforest and snow-capped mountains make for some spectacular scenery. Birders flock to the area hoping to spot the region’s diverse native birdlife, especially the white heron, known as kōtuku in Māori, and the Ōkārito kiwi, both of which are extremely rare in New Zealand.
Ōkārito is a wonderful place to absorb the natural beauty of the South Island, and you’ll find plenty of hiking opportunities nearby. The area is an ideal base for those keen to explore the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, less than 30 minutes away. There are no shops in this small town, but you will find the oldest remaining commercial building on the west coast, which now serves as a community center and library.
What are the top things to do in Ōkārito?
Ōkārito Lagoon
The coastal wetlands of Ōkārito Lagoon are the key attraction of this small town, and a popular spot with birders. You’ll have a chance to spot dozens of native bird species, including white herons, royal spoonbills, and brown kiwis. As well as offering some of the country’s best bird-watching, the lagoon is also an idyllic spot for kayaking.
Three Mile Lagoon Track
The area surrounding Ōkārito offers some scenic hiking trails. The Three Mile Lagoon Track is a three-hour round-trip hike through forests of rimu, rata, and silver pine trees. If you’re looking for something shorter, the Ōkārito Westland Walk takes just 20 minutes and leads to a viewpoint over the lagoon. The Ōkārito Trig Walk is another option, with a short but steep hike through lush forest to a panoramic deck.
Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere
Just 20 minutes from Ōkārito, you’ll find one of New Zealand’s most renowned attractions, and a World Heritage Site. The 7.5-mile-long Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere is one of the steepest glaciers in the country. It descends from the Southern Alps into the rainforest in Westland National Park and includes spectacular ice caves, tunnels, and crevasses. You can take guided hikes in the glacier valley.
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