Waitaki District: pousadas

We had a great stay! Nadine and her family were incredibly welcoming while also being respectful of our privacy, which we really appreciated. The room and bathroom were very comfortable, and the whole place was thoughtfully set up. They were such kind and hospitable hosts. The location is also excellent—just a short drive to Lake Tekapo and all the main attractions. Highly recommended!

Our stay here was nothing short of perfect. The location is great if you want a little more privacy and peace, but not too far that you feel cut off from the busier towns. The home was clean and inviting, the breakfast foods provided were a lovely touch and getting to see the animals was also great. Nicola was an incredible host, even offering to help us get items back that we foolishly left behind! My partner and I would highly recommend staying here and if we are ever back in this part of the world, we wouldn’t hesitate to book again. Not a bad word to say. Just wonderful.

Doug was an absolute delight. He was lenient with the check-in time when I updated him something came up. Provided great advice for the penguins and a delicious breakfast. He is great company and lovely to chat with!

We had a wonderful stay at Big Sky in Lake Tekapo. Even though we didn’t meet Graham and Vicki in person, they were incredibly thoughtful and attentive hosts. Before we arrived, they provided clear and helpful details about the stay, which gave us real peace of mind. During our time there, they checked in to make sure everything was going smoothly—something we really appreciated. The space itself was cozy, spotless, and felt very homely. It’s in a peaceful and convenient location, close to town and the lake. Thanks again, Graham and Vicki, for such a welcoming and well-organized experience. We’d definitely love to come back!

We loved our stay here it was a truly beautiful place and Drew and Bron had thought of everything to make us feel at home. A unique experience having animals at the window in the morning! Would highly recommend.

Rob is very friendly and the castle is awesome, definitely worth visiting. The house is very old and looks live in movie. There is big garden too.

Cathy and Mark are incredible and delightful hosts. We could have talked with them all evening. The house is a beautiful restored gem. It feels like we stepped through a Time Machine. Book this place for the experience and quiet time in the country. The location is so peaceful yet is just 15minutes from downtown Oamaru. This is the perfect spot if you are on a cycling holiday as there are km’s of open country road. The home itself is so unique. It’s octagonal with a huge living space and each room is lovingly restored. We loved the parlour with its fireplace and games. The breakfast was phenomenal as well with farm fresh eggs and fresh bread. But by far the best thing was being greeted like a long lost friend by both of them. It made our holiday really special!

We spent 3 nights at Colin and Colleen's place. Their home overlooks beautiful mountains, close to town and absolutely peaceful. Large private room. Lovely breakfast, we had a relaxing Easter weekend and wouldn't think twice about going back there. Thank you, Colin & Colleen, for your warm hospitality. Cheers Mahesh & Dev

We stayed at Nikki’s while doing the Central Otago Rail Trail. It was a short ride to her place in historic Ophir and we enjoyed looking around. She is about 1km from an historic bridge. The accommodation was very lovely in an old stone cottage that had been lovingly restored. It had good heating and very comfortable bed and a slow combustion stove if you want to stay in. 2 great venues to eat. Highly recommended.