26 Of The Best Lakefront Airbnbs For Your Next NZ Adventure

How about a pad with glistening lake views and a geothermal spa bath on the balcony you can soak in for a few hours? This lakefront New Zealand Airbnb sits right on the edge of Lake Taupō, and it’s got epic floor-to-ceiling windows through which you can gaze out at the wet stuff while you sip on something tasty. 

Settle in before toddling down to the lake path at the doorstep of your home away from home. It's a great place to wander while taking in the panoramic views of the lake and the mountains beyond.

Back at base, you can whip up a feast in the fully equipped kitchen (it's got an ice and water dispensing fridge, which is a bit swish). We love that this apartment gives you communal access to a large heated swimming pool which is open all year round, and there's an on-site gym too, in case you need a cardio fix.

Gather the fam and call this modern two-bedroom lakefront apartment your home away from home during your New Zealand getaway. Roam Taupō gives you the thrill of waterfront living, along with some fun extras: we’re talking complimentary kayaks peeps, so prep yourself for an adventure.

Pour yourself a Nespresso first thing, before taking to the deck to watch the sunrise over the water. Later, we reckon you might want to take the 15-minute lakefront stroll to the centre of Taupō for a mooch around the shops, before heading back for a sunset soaking sesh in your very own outdoor spa pool.

Multiple outdoor living spaces await when you book a stay at Lochside, a three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom architecturally-designed New Zealand Airbnb, sitting in a prime spot just steps from Lake Taupō.

If you love yourself some indoor/outdoor flow, this is the pad for you—the living space leads both to a lovely terrace (oh hello sunloungers) and to a gorgeous courtyard with a statement wood-fired chiminea and comfy chairs.

Add on the designer kitchen, epic lake views and the knowledge you’re within toddling distance of the marina, golf course, and walking and cycling trails, and we reckon this lakeside stay is well worth a click of the booking button.

Book a stay at this lakeside New Zealand villa and you’re gonna want to nab the master bedroom, because it comes with its own private deck, ensuite and an outdoor stone bath for soaking with swish-factor.

Your Airbnb sits directly above Whakamoenga Point on the shores of Lake Taupo, and its kid-friendly spaces (we’re talking a playroom with five beds, and a flat-screen TV) make it perfect for family fun.

Roll on out to the deck and enjoy an Aperol Spritz under the orange umbrella while you plan your next day, there’s an enclosed courtyard to do that in too, if you prefer, or you could just wander over to the communal tennis or pétanque courts and throw a ball around a bit. There’s boat ramps you can use, and private beaches you can snooze on too.

Pick a place where you get your own private pontoon to swim to with a stay at this absolute lakefront Airbnb in Acacia Bay. Your New Zealand stay is brand spanking new, and offers swanky stuff like an outdoor fireplace, two ovens and boat parking… just because.

Meander out to your own private beach and immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Taupō. There’s a big covered deck to retreat to with a G&T if you’re in the mood, plus a designer kitchen with mod cons like a hot and sparkling water tap.

Kids will love the bunk room with its wooden ladder for climbing come snooze-time. While adults might just be interested to know about the secret outdoor bath.

Picture the scene. You’re out paddling the serene waters of Lake Taupō before bringing your kayak ashore, and heading straight to the deck of your lakefront Airbnb where a glass of something refreshing awaits.

This delightful New Zealand stay has all the bits and bobs you need (and yes that includes the kayak) for the best family getaway—and the fact it’s got two lounges and two dining areas to roam around just adds to its appeal. 

Throw open the big glass doors off the living space and get ready to watch the sun set over Acacia Bay. We reckon firing up the barbecue at the same time sounds like a very good idea.

Just half an hour from the delights of Rotorua you’ll find this gorg lakeside spot, which comes with its own private jetty, beach and two kayaks to paddle Lake Rotoiti at your leisure (win!)

Perfect for a family or a small group of mates, this New Zealand Airbnb has a waterfront deck which is a pretty awesome place to get the barbecue fired up for a feast. There’s a picnic table at which you enjoy the fruits of your labour later, after which you might fancy retiring to the timber-lined living room with its retro energy for a little Netflixing.

Don’t feel an NZ vacay is right without some adrenaline-fuelled action? Okere Falls Rafting is just a 20-minute drive away.

Say yay to Lake Edge Retreat and expect 180-degree lake views, plus fruit and veggies you’re welcome to pick fresh from your hosts’ organic garden. Yum!

If you’re at home on the water, this is the New Zealand pad for you as you can take the supplied kayak out from the jetty or fish from it, if that’s more your thing (there are some impressive rainbow trout to be had from spring to autumn time).

Take to the lakefront path and enjoy the scenery, or bring your own boat and launch it from the ramp just minutes away. Come nightfall, you’re going to want to stick outside and discover why this spot attracts stargazers from around the world.

Give a wave to the mighty Mount Tarawera from this lakeside Airbnb, and you’ll get epic views across the water at the same time. Your New Zealand stay is split across two levels, and it’s pretty spacious—sleeping six or even more if you need, just ask.

Take the private staircase directly to the lakefront, and within 30 seconds you’ll find yourself at a serene bay known to locals only. Within a minute’s toddle in the opposite direction you’ll be at Stony Point Reserve, which has a fab kids’ playground and a boat ramp if they’re the sort of thing you need.

Back at base after a day’s adventure, you’re going to want to get the barbecue on the big deck nice and toasty. Afterwards, we reckon you’ll want to get all toasty too—in the tempting outdoor hot tub no doubt.

Got a big group to entertain during your New Zealand getaway? This lakefront Airbnb has a heap of stuff to keep peeps big and small happy—and that includes complimentary kayaks, a private jetty where you can moor a boat and an outdoor hot tub for chillaxing in once all the fun is done.

Sleeping eight across three bedrooms, there’s plenty of space here, and the living space is open plan so you can chop and chat at the same time. Need provisions? You’re three minutes from Okere Falls Store (where we think it’s only right you check out the craft beer garden while you’re at it). You’re just 13 minutes’ drive from the airport too, so getting home won’t be a hassle.

Wake to the chirping of native birds, then slide open the big door in the bedroom and pad on out to the deck to drink in some pretty epic lake views. The Lakes Edge is a NZ Airbnb with wow-factor thanks to its lakefront positioning close to Okere Falls, and it’s got charming touches like vaulted ceilings and timber-lined walls which simply add to its appeal.

Got a boat? There’s a private jetty here on which you can moor it (although it should be noted there’s no drive-on access to the lake from the property). But if you prefer paddle-power, your hosts do supply three adult kayaks, two kids’ kayaks and two adult SUPs which you’re welcome to use.

Later there’s all the good stuff to make use of: a lovely open-plan kitchen for snack-making, a barbecue to fire up and an outdoor fire pit for the mandatory marshmallow-toasting.

Grab yourself an authentic lakeside bach at Rotoiti Lake House—it’s a charming New Zealand Airbnb, reached via a 3km forestry road and situated a metre eight metres from the lake itself.

Built in 1961, this pad has character galore: we’re talking wood-panelling and retro touches, and it’s got the best deck that captures the sun from late morning to late evening. (Fun fact: it’s also got a claim to fame as the set of an international movie shoot).

Take a load off, inhale deep and prepare for a serene stay (oh, and Manupirua Hot Pools are close by in case you want to amp up the R&R even further).

Before you even open the front door of this lakeside New Zealand property, your champion hosts will have filled the private hot tub and got it heating up nicely for your stay. Black’s Hut is a gleaming ebony home sitting on the shores of Lake Te Anau, and sips out on the deck with a stellar view are basically mandatory.

Your Airbnb is modern and it’s handy for two couples, as it’s got two bedrooms and two bathrooms to make mornings a joy. Bring your bikes with you, as you might fancy taking the wheels out to the track and reserve that runs between the cottage and the lake. You’re just 15 minutes’ walk along the lakefront to all the shops and cafes too.

Later, a barbecue in the covered outdoor area sounds tempting. There’s an entertainment system so you can get those tunes on. Then, of course, it’s hot tub time, paired with a spot of stargazing perhaps?

Treat your fave one to a stay to remember at Lakeside Maisonette, a gorge New Zealand Airbnb where the sound of water lapping will accompany some epic views of The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak.

You’re right next to a lakeside walking track at this idyllic spot, so a mooch with your morning coffee or a sunset picnic can totally be on the cards.

Inside, this place is small but perfectly formed, with a Queen bed and a bathroom downstairs, and a living area with a little kitchenette and mezzanine platform upstairs. It’s worth noting that the kitchen suits simple meals as it has a two ring gas burner and microwave, but we doubt you’ll be cooking anyway, not with Queenstown just 6km away in all its deliciousness.

Queenstown getaway calling? Take it to the next level with a stay at this lakefront home which comes with unobstructed views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains.

A getaway here gives resort vibes, thanks to the spa pool on the lower deck, and the partially-covered outdoor entertaining zone, with its gas barbecue, huge table, and outdoor fridge for keeping those bubbles cold. 

Settle in for the weekend and relax, or head into Queenstown for a spot of retail therapy. There are more than 75 wineries within a 30-minute drive if you’re game for a tasting or two, plus of course there’s a whole heap of adrenaline-fuelled activities if you’re feeling in the mood.

Fancy yourself a Queenstown stay where it’s just a 30-minute flat walk to all the fun stuff? Us too. Fantail offers just that, thanks to its prime position on the lakefront at Lake Waktipu.

Of course, you get the views of the mountains— and we love the fact that here you can enjoy them from both inside or out depending on the weather. 

The open plan kitchen and living space has a mega window that lets the outside in. The balcony, on the other hand, is just the place for a summertime barbecue (paired with a local Pinot perhaps).

So close to the water you’ll almost feel like you’re floating on it, a stay at Taka Lakehouse makes for a memorable New Zealand vacay.

Your lakefront Airbnb is within toddling distance (or a four-minute drive) of Queenstown CBD and yet it’s oh so serene, with a jetty and a quiet beach out front from which you can do some full on chillaxing.

Groups will love the open-plan kitchen and living space. There’s a balcony too, for those sunset drinks. Time to get out and about? Meander through the garden to the Frankton Walking Track and you’ll be at a Queenstown bar for happy hour within 20 minutes.

Go all swish with a stay within a gated lakeside community at this beautiful lakefront home near Queenstown. A vacay here gets you superb lake and mountain views, plus access to shared community extras like the jetty, boat ramp, tennis court and park spaces.

Make a cuppa in your entertainer’s kitchen before taking the bush path down to the lake. From there, you can walk in either direction (your hosts recommend the 40-minute wander to Jacks Point Golf Clubhouse which is an epic spot for lunch or afternoon tea).

Back at base later, you can put your hosts’ racquets and pickleball gear to good use by heading for a game on the tennis court. Or you could get stuck into the stack of board games, toys, books and puzzles. Just remember to leave enough time for a soak in the outdoor hot tub.

Got littlies to keep happy during your New Zealand getaway? This lakefront home near Queenstown has a seriously impressive bunk room where the small peeps are going to want to stay.

It’s got a heap of appeal for the adults in the crew too: we’re talking bedrooms with stunning lake views, and direct access to the beach.

If you want Queenstown within spitting distance, but want to be away from all the noise, this is the space for you. (Oh, and parking is free, which just makes everything easier, right?)

With an entire glass wall that gives the most impressive views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, Whare Kea is one New Zealand Airbnb you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Once an award-winning lodge, it’s now a top spot for a lakefront large group stay, with six bedrooms, all with ensuites, five of which can be split into twin rooms which is pretty handy. 

This place is so swish the hosts ask you to contact them to check its availability. And if you’re lucky enough to lock it in, you can expect a striking timber and glass living space, manicured lawns, helicopter access available and a tempting spa pool to soak in after a day’s exploring. Wow.

You want to see some hot tub action during your New Zealand getaway, right? How about some lakefront wandering and a sauna to get all toasty in afterwards? At Roys Peak Farmhouse to get all this stuff in a pretty epic spot on a 50-acre farm, accessed via a winding gravel road.

Roll on up, open the door and get ready to be wowed by the living space with its mountain views. There’s a window seat where you can perch with a glass of something tasty, a media room for a movie later, and the main bedroom even has an office space in case you need to check those emails

We love that the hosts here provide bikes which you’re welcome to use. There’s a lakeside trail that gives you direct access into town. Oh, and there’s a guest suite here which is separate to the main house, with a pull-down Queen bed and two bunks - so if you’ve got the in-laws with you everyone can have their own happy space.

Go all retro with a stay in an architecturally-designed 1960s cottage right on the lakefront at Lake Hawea. This place is really charming, giving patterned floor tiles and quirky furnishes with the best lake view.

Grab one of the proper adult wine glasses and pour yourself a drop of New Zealand’s finest. There’s a common barbecue area where you can whip up lunch to enjoy it with if you fancy, or you could just head to the local pub which is 15 minutes away via the lakefront walking track.

If you’re one for wilderness adventures, then a stay at this lakefront New Zealand Airbnb won’t disappoint, but it gives you some fun stuff too, like an espresso machine and an outdoor hot tub, which might go down well with the wider crew.

Inside, you get cabin vibes (yes, there’s a deer head on the wall and a crackling wood-burning fireplace). You’re set for some astounding views from the living space too: we’re talking a lakefront vista leading to snow-capped mountains beyond.

The Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail is on your doorstep, and so is world-class fishing if that’s your vibe. Come nightfall, you’re going to want to take to that hot tub and do a spot of stargazing.

Base yourself in a sheltered cove on the lakefront at Lake Pukaki, with a stay at this New Zealand Airbnb, and we reckon you’ll be taking some picnic provisions out to the trestle table on the lawn and enjoying lunch with that stellar view.

This accommodation suits when you’ve got some Canterbury highlights you want to tick off your to-do list, as you’re just 35 minutes’ drive from Aoraki Mt Cook, half an hour from Lake Tekapo and 13 mere minutes from Twizel.

If you like peace and privacy, Cosy Cottage is the place for you.

Say yes to floor-to-ceiling windows and an epic living space that makes for the best large group stay. Isolation Bay is a spectacular New Zealand Airbnb sitting pretty on the shores of Lake Tekapo, 14km from the township itself.

Sink into the large leather sofas with the tipple of your choosing, and we think you might stay there awhile just drinking in that view. There’s a wood-burning fireplace to crank up later if the weather gets cool, plus underfloor heating for when the season needs it.

This place gets bonus points for the hot tub you’ll be unwinding in, and come nightfall, the perfect starry sky awaits.

Embrace the ski lodge vibes with a stay at Te Toka Villa in all its wood-panelled glory, and you’ll get views of Lake Tekapo to gaze at while you enjoy your first coffee of the day.

Designed for relaxed group stays, this New Zealand lakeside Airbnb has heaps of room for you all to spread out and enjoy, including two living spaces, a full kitchen, a dining area and a lovely patio with a table for long lunches with a view.

Our fave bit? The outdoor sunken hot tub which calls out to be lazed in for a few hours. There’s no light pollution at this serene spot, so the stargazing is quite simply unreal.