The 10 best Ranches in New Zealand, New Zealand

May 1, 2023 Jana Sager

Forever remembered for its "The Lord of the Rings" legacy, New Zealand’s landscapes are deserving of their big screen fame—think lush rolling hills, volcano-sculpted moonscapes, UNESCO-listed glaciers, and white-sand beaches. Cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown follow suit, with photo-worthy scenery and a laid-back vibe.
Things to do in New Zealand

1. Oak Lodge Homestay

286 State Highway 6 Coal Creek, Greymouth 7802 New Zealand
Excellent
80%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 128 reviews

Oak Lodge Homestay

Greymouths best

Reviewed By sandmaitken

We spent two nights in the self contained unit. What a great space. Big bedroom with super king bed and ensuite attached. Lounge kitchen area was spacious and had fridge freezer and full sized range/oven. Unit had washing machine which was very useful. Great location only 5 mins from central Greymouth and supermarket. Oak Lodge has lovely rural views Hosts were lovely. Would definitely stay again if passing through. Thoroughly recommended

2. Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat

1299 Port Charles Road, 3584 New Zealand
Excellent
70%
Good
21%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 70 reviews

Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat

Nestled below beautiful Moehau Mountain, on the magestic Coromandel peninsula is where you will find Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat. Situated amongst beautiful native New Zealand bush with the Tangiaro stream flowing through it, Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat has stylish, well appointed cedar chalets and a restaurant/cafe/bar. The perfect place to hold functions, especially weddings. A few minutes’ drive away from some of the most breathtaking beaches in New Zealand, Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat is THE place to go to if all you wish to hear is the sound of birds & the breeze through the trees. Our alpine style chalets blend beautifully into the natural surroundings and make you feel as if you are a part of the bush. Fully appointed and designed with comfort in mind, your chalet will help you relax into your visit.

Gorgeous hidden gem

Reviewed By Lisa N

What a gorgeous hidden gem! Stayed here for a weekend with a group of friends and loved it. From the spacious, warm and very comfortable cottages to the beers at the bar, the friendly and helpful staff, Jan's the amazing masseuse, gorgeous walks, hot spa pools, kiwi's calling and just pure peace and quiet! Highly recommended to all - whether for a weekend away or a function or event - its perfect!

3. Wharepuke Subtropical Accommodation

190 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri 0230 New Zealand
Excellent
84%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 77 reviews

Wharepuke Subtropical Accommodation

Bay of Islands Accommodation Kerikeri Accommodation. 5 stylish cottages nestled amongst 5 acres of award winning "Garden of Significance"(NZGT). A restaurant/cafe awarded "Northland Cafe of the Year" and an Art Gallery of International Artworks are onsite. A new Sculpture trail of 40+ NZ and international artists work runs through the gardens (free for guests staying). Non-toxic printmaking courses and garden tours are run by our professionals. Located 1km from the boutique town of Kerikeri or walking distance to the historic Stone Store Reserve. 20 Min. Drive to dolphin watching, fishing, horse riding, wineries, and 6 golf courses within 30 min. Drive.

Some kind of wonderful...

Reviewed By Loulou0833

From the time we arrived generously hosted by Tania. This fabulous place developed by her clever father, we relaxed and felt peaceful. Great location, exceeded expectations regarding cottages and that we were nestled in the bush. Beds very comfortable and clean, could not recommend higher.

4. Ashcroft Gardens Bed & Breakfast

51 Jervois Road, Napier 4112 New Zealand
Excellent
64%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
0%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 42 reviews

Ashcroft Gardens Bed & Breakfast

Semi rural property on the outskirts of Napier.Pool room is separate from house with superking bed and Ensuite in pool and garden settingfamily room has own patio opening out into private garden setting through sliding ranch slider doors.has superking bed and two king singles as well as ensuite The third room the Cream room also has ensuite and superking bed,as well as door out to decking

Home from home and then some

Reviewed By emileee83

I really don’t know where to start, such an amazing place. We stayed for 5 nights whilst visiting family in the area. Gavin and Sally were welcoming, amazing, hilarious, beyond helpful and super sweet. Breakfasts every day were scrumptious with an amazing choice on offer. We had fresh fruit and yoghurt every day followed by toast and homemade Jam/marmalade. Others would have cooked breakfasts. Sally would go out of her way to make sure people had what they wanted. Both would check in about the previous day and provide helpful suggestions re the day ahead. The rooms are clean and spacious with lovely views. For the first 3 nights we had the garden room which was lovely. I loved watching the sparrows and sleeping cats (the gorgeous sugar and spice) living in harmony. On the last two nights we were upgraded to the pool room which was fantastic. The beds are large and really comfy. The bathrooms are spacious and well stocked with bathrobes etc. Aside from little storage there is everything you could possibly need. A lot of people would normally only stay for one night in the area so I would imagine storage is not an issue for most. The pool was a bit too cold for us because of the weather (personal choice and equal cowardice) but we did have the pleasure of trying out the hot tub. It was amazing, very luxurious. The gardens are really beautiful. Gavin and Sally went out of their way to book tables for us in the evenings (even when one restaurant showed as fully booked) and give us lifts out and back. As they says it’s not what you know of who you know. We really felt like part of the family and can not recommend this place enough. My advice.... one night is not enough for you to fully appreciate their charm or the area.

5. Hush Boutique Accommodation

425 Driving Creek Road, Coromandel 3506 New Zealand
Excellent
88%
Good
12%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 112 reviews

Hush Boutique Accommodation

Hush Boutique Accommodation offers a tranquil and peaceful escape for singles, couples and families. Offering six beautifully appointed cabins, with the options of modern en-suite bathrooms. Each cabin is private, sunny and modern. Relax with a cup of tea or coffee in your room or mingle with other guests in the stylish Alfresco outdoor kitchen/dining area. Enjoy listening to the abundant bird life and relaxing amongst the native bush. Located only 5 mins from Coromandel Town and directly across the road from Driving Creek Railway and Zipline Hush is a total escape from the busy pace of life. Hush also offers intimate weddings - perfect for elopements or small weddings.

Absolutely gorgeous!

Reviewed By Louise T

We spent a night at Hush and can’t fault it. The grounds are just gorgeous filled with native plants, wooden walkways and was a lovely place to sit and enjoy a drink. The rooms are all very private and ours was clean and pvery comfortable. Great water pressure in the shower was a real bonus! I fell asleep listening to birdsong including a morepork and some bell birds. Hugh was a great host. I’d highly recommend and hope we will be back again soon.

6. Ara Roa Accommodation - Whangarei Heads

54 Harambee Road RD1 Onerahi, Whangarei 0192 New Zealand
Excellent
95%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 95 reviews

Ara Roa Accommodation - Whangarei Heads

Welcome. Ara Roa Unique Accommodation is a collection of very distinctive accommodation retreats located along the Whangarei Heads glorious east coast, near the city of Whangarei, Northland. Private and secluded, contemporary, individual and professionally maintained retreats in Northland. Our opinion, and that of many of our guests, is that travelers wishing to explore less exploited destinations will find the best of Northland here. Our range of self-contained and serviced properties suit many different purposes such as family vacations, a romantic hideaway or a business, team building location. Not to mention a fantastic honeymoon option. Utilise as a clean and stylish base from which to explore the region, or simply rest and re-charge in your wonderful surroundings.

Tranquil accommodation

Reviewed By NZ_Travellergal

Our family of three stayed in Te Huia for a couple of nights for a long weekend. The house is located in a quiet, private location with stunning views to the sea and over rolling greenhills. We enjoyed the walking track around the property in the bush, thank you for another amazing stay.

7. Driving Creek Villas

21A Colville Road, Coromandel 3506 New Zealand
Excellent
97%
Good
3%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 160 reviews

Driving Creek Villas

Set in beautiful, private bush surrounds, our spacious, fully self-contained boutique villas offer the perfect accommodation to unwind - beside the meandering Coromandel stream where gold was first discovered in New Zealand over 150 years ago. Purpose-built to a high standard, Driving Creek Villas combine colourful pacific themes with modern styling, providing a Coromandel luxury accommodation experience.

Tranquil Getaway

Reviewed By mel365

The villas have everything you need, close to town but set in the perfect bush setting with a bubbling creek at the foot of the garden. We sat in the hot tub and sipped champagne after a long hard day and it was perfect especially with the sound of the creek, native bush, the fresh air and the stars. We didn't bring our kids but it had plenty of space outside to run around and a smart tv ap capable for entertainment. Beds were comfortable and the host responsive and helpful. I would definitely recommend coming here.

8. The Flying Fox

3081 Whanganui River Road, Whanganui 4576 New Zealand
Excellent
95%
Good
3%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
3%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 74 reviews

The Flying Fox

Three rustic self-contained, handbuilt cottages are nestled in a garden and bush setting overlooking the Whanganui River. Two 'Glamping' tents and a small number of camping pitches complete the accommodation choices. This piece of paradise has been lovingly developed into a truly unique place to stay. Access is only by aerial cableway or via the river by canoe or river taxi, making it the ideal 'get away from it all' retreat. All the cottages are fully equipped with bedding, towels, kitchens, music and book collections. For campers there is a bush shower, kitchen shelter and toilet facilities. There is also free wi-fi access for those who need to keep in touch with the outside world. Halfway between Pipiriki and Whanganui along the Mountain to Sea Cycle Trail and Te Araroa Walkway , this is a welcome overnight stay for cyclists, canoeist and walkers. Dinner and breakfast can be provided with advance notice, and 'The Store' at the Flying Fox has provisions for self-catering with our gardens providing organic in season fruit/vegetables along with local artwork and other products.

Always a fantastic getaway

Reviewed By katm73648

We have been to the flying fox a few times now and plan to re visit again, this is such a gem along a whangnaui river. Jane and Kelly really are great hosts, they have created such a wonderful escape. You feel cut off enough to really get away and out into the wildlife, but they have catered for every event no matter the weather or occasion, from simple camping to staying in a beautiful studio tree top setting. We haven’t joined in on any of the activities, but the stone carving looks amazing and we are hoping to book that and a fun kids day next time we visit

9. Braemar Station

Braemar Rd, Lake Tekapo 7945 New Zealand
Excellent
82%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 73 reviews

Braemar Station

Braemar Station is a working High Country Station located on the eastern side of Lake Pukaki at the foot of Mt Cook (New Zealand's highest mountain). We have 3 self contained houses available for short term stays. All have stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Mt Cook. We are located 30 minutes drive from Lake Tekapo township.

Hidden gem

Reviewed By harriet_travelling12

Our group of 8 stayed one night at the station's Shearers Lodge - gosh we wished we were there for longer! An amazing property with the most incredible view (despite the few clouds). The accomodation itself was dreamy and catered perfectly to our group. Julia's communication and understanding during covid was delightful. We hope to be back soon!

10. Hidden Valley Luxury Retreat

3205 State Highway 23 Te Uku, Raglan, Raglan New Zealand
Excellent
79%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 117 reviews

Hidden Valley Luxury Retreat

Hidden in a secluded valley ten minutes from Raglan, on thirty beautiful acres of picturesque farmland and native bush is Hidden Valley Raglan accommodation.We have two self contained Chalets, both with private outdoor forest edge spas, Perfect for a romantic and truly relaxing getaway. The decor and surroundings are all unique to Raglan.Our accommodation in the Waikato countryside connects with nature and we have preserved the natural environment for your enjoyment. Come and experience eco-friendly accommodation at its best - we are proud of what we have created at Hidden Valley and look forward to sharing it with you.

Nice place but wasn't easy to find the property

Reviewed By Adam P

We had a bit of a faff trying to find the place/owner but it was a decent accommodation with everything you would need. Only issue I'd say was having to drive into the the town (it's not really walking distance at night), but that's cos we both wanted to have a drink after a long day on the road.

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.