Waterfront holiday rentals in Canterbury

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Top-rated waterfront accommodation in Canterbury

Guests agree: These waterfront accommodation options are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top Guest favourite
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
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 100 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 favourite
A charming villa is positioned on a gently sloping landscape overlooking Children's Bay. Lush greenery surrounds the property, complemented by the serene waters reflecting the soft hues of the sunset, while distant mountains can be seen enhancing the tranquil setting.
Villa in Akaroa
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 289 reviews

Stylish Seaview Villa perched above Akaroa

This beautifully renovated villa overlooking Children's Bay and the Akaroa township was the original farmhouse for the land surrounding her. While retaining the character of the villa, the house has been lovingly restored to create thoughtful sunny spaces in a home away from home. 5 minute stroll down the hill and you are in the village of Akaroa where you will find an abundance of fine local restaurants, unique shops and activities. Free Wifi, comfortable beds, Hot Tub/spa, BBQ, Tv Streaming.

Guest favourite
An open-plan living area showcases large windows offering panoramic views of the ocean. A light-colored couch and a wooden coffee table are positioned on a textured rug, with sunlight illuminating the space. Lush green plants add a touch of nature to the inviting interior.
Home in Charteris Bay
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 198 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!

Guest favourite
A serene waterfall is observed flowing gently over a rocky ledge into a calm pool. Lush greenery and vibrant ferns frame the scene, highlighting the natural beauty of the surrounding native bush.
Farm stay in Little River
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviews

Unwind and relax amongst stunning native bush

Let your feet hang over the veranda and get lost in the wonderful sound of the flowing stream, wrapped in 101ha of protected native flora and fauna. Cosy-up with a book beside the fireplace within this serene cabin or gaze far into the Milky Way, void of any light pollution from the city you've left behind. Then wake up to native birdsong in full symphony with an optional delicious homestyle vegetarian breakfast. It's a secluded place where time disappears, yet right on ChCh's doorstep!

Guest favourite
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, 854 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.

Top Guest favourite
A serene pond reflects the surrounding greenery, with ducks peacefully swimming. In the background, a rustic cottage with a metal roof is visible, complemented by wooden fencing and a gravel pathway. Lush plants border the pond, enhancing the tranquil setting.
Cottage in Rolleston
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 319 reviews

Travellers Oasis

Relax & unwind at this unique and rustic getaway. This stand alone cottage which is centrally located in Rolleston, is an ideal place to stopover between the bottom and top of the South Island or a couple wanting to see the sights of Selwyn. The cottage has a self contained kitchenette, separate bathroom, shower, toilet, wood burner, heater, heated towel rail. Private courtyard with laziboy chairs, breakfast area in/outside, Bbq and French doors opening up to a lovely pond with trout

Guest favourite
The cottage is situated against a backdrop of lush green hills, with a gentle stream meandering in the foreground. Smooth stones are visible in the water, reflecting sunlight, while the cottage features a sloped roof and windows that face the serene landscape.
Home in Ataahua
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 559 reviews

Banks Peninsula Cottage-Paradise near Christchurch

Banks Peninsula cottage, Peaceful, private and self contained nestled in the beautiful Kaituna Valley near Christchurch on Banks Peninsula. Enjoy birdsong, the sound of the stream and stunning views. Visit Akaroa, hike the Pack horse track, fossick for stones at Birdlings Flat, bike the rail trail or just relax. Heatpump, free fast unlimited WiFi. Decorated with a retro vibe. Only 45 minutes from Christchurch airport but you are in another world.

Guest favourite
The modern architectural design of the home is highlighted by large glass windows reflecting a sunset. A neat pathway leads to the entrance, surrounded by manicured shrubbery and a contrasting wooden façade. The serene evening sky enhances the elegant appearance of the residence.
Townhouse in Pegasus
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 154 reviews

Architectural Retreat with Spa and Lake views

Experience luxury in our architecturally designed home. This exquisite lower-floor apartment offers breathtaking lake views and abundant sunlight. Enjoy two spacious, fully furnished bedrooms…one with a super king bed, the other with a queen. Unwind in your private outdoor area with a soothing spa pool. Perfect for relaxing. The location, space offers so much for a memorable holiday. Unfortunately this space is not suitable for tradesmen.

Guest favourite
A tranquil bay is framed by lush green hills, with numerous sailboats anchored on calm turquoise waters. The mountains in the background rise gently, showcasing a serene landscape under clear blue skies.
Cottage in Diamond Harbour
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

Pocket of Paradise

This is a great place to relax and admire the views into Purau Bay and out to Lyttelton Heads. The cottage is hidden in the bush and very private (not a roof in sight) with spectacular views. Tranquility and peace are keywords here. Wake up to the song of the bell bird and the sun streaming in. It's a 5 minute walk to a cafe and restaurant and a 10 minute walk to the ferry to Lyttelton from which you can access Christchurch by bus.

Top Guest favourite
Cottage in Ashburton
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 710 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.

Guest favourite
Cabin in Franz Josef / Waiau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 282 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 favourite
Home in Ruatapu
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 134 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.

Popular amenities for Canterbury waterfront rentals