Experiences
My Plans

The Best Spa Hotels in Canterbury, New Zealand

Canterbury provides the ideal landscapes for travellers looking to relax and recharge
Canterbury provides the ideal landscapes for travellers looking to relax and recharge | Courtesy of MT Cook Lakeside Retreat / Expedia
Photo of Alexis James
Alexis James
4 January 2021

From the whale-hosting shores of Kaikoura to the alpine serenity of Lake Tekapo, Canterbury provides the ideal landscape for travellers looking to relax. We’ve put together a list of the best spa and wellness hotels in this laid-back region of New Zealand’s South Island.

Braemar Lodge and Spa

Hotel, Spa Hotel
Map View
Courtesy of Braemar Lodge and Spa / Expedia
Breathe in the fresh air from your private balcony overlooking the geothermal landscape of Hanmer Springs. All suites feature open-plan sleeping and living areas, super-king beds, gas fires and marble bathrooms with double spa baths. With the view arguably even better at night, don’t miss the option of an outdoor hot tub for a front row seat of the starry sky.
Everything you need to know

Revive on Oakview Boutique Accommodation and Spa

Hotel, Spa Hotel, Boutique Hotel
Map View
Courtesy of Revive on Oakview Boutique Accommodation and Spa / Expedia
A 10-minute drive south of Ashburton leads to this secluded retreat, run by Nicky and Simon on their 32-acre (13ha) plot. Overnight packages see guests stay at the Oakview Suite while enjoying a choice of spa treatments including facials, electrolysis and massage. Home-cooked meals including breakfast and dinner platters are served in your suite, while a wood-fired hot tub is among the optional extras.
Everything you need to know

Heritage Christchurch

Hotel, Spa Hotel
Map View
Courtesy of Heritage Christchurch / Expedia
Opened in 1913, this Category I-listed building south of the Avon River brings the Italian Renaissance to New Zealand’s second city. In the shadows of Christchurch Cathedral, accommodation comprises one- to three-bedroom self-contained suites, all of which offer kitchen facilities with fridge, oven and dishwasher. You’ll also have access to a well-equipped gym, jacuzzi, sauna and heated lap pool.
Everything you need to know

Sudima Christchurch City

Spa Hotel, Hotel
Map View
Courtesy of Sudima Christchurch City / Expedia
The yoga mats provided in its spacious rooms hint at the tranquil vibe at Sudima. Other neat touches include an Amazon Echo Dot in each room, complimentary streamed movies and a babysitting service for kids. You’ll wake up each morning to a cooked breakfast at the hotel’s Vices and Virtues restaurant, where the locally sourced menu, including sustainable line-caught fish, persuades many to return for dinner.
Everything you need to know

Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses

Hotel
Map View
Courtesy of Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses / Expedia
Sleep among the canopy of kanuka groves overlooking the Pacific Ocean in one of five treehouses at the base of the Kaikoura Mountains. Located on a deer farm and only 10 minutes from Kaikoura’s whale-watching and dolphin-spotting excursions, nature takes centre stage. Food is another passion, as chefs cook vegetables, venison and crayfish that are all grown, reared and caught within metres of where they are served.
Everything you need to know

Why Book With Culture Trip?

  • Free cancellation

    In these uncertain times, cancel or change for free on select properties.

  • Price-match guarantee

    Find a better price on your booking and we’ll match it. Simple.

  • Unbiased & trustworthy

    Book from recommendations handpicked by travel experts.

    • Mantra Lake Tekapo

    Hotel, Spa Hotel
    Map View
    Courtesy of Mantra Lake Tekapo / Expedia
    The underfloor bathroom heating is a welcome feature during the winter ski season at Mantra Lake Tekapo, as is the outdoor stone fireplace near the BBQ and pool. Each of the 28 apartments comes with a private balcony and magnificent alpine view. There’s also a sizeable kitchenette, though guests preferring to dine out can tuck into a three-course set menu at the nearby Rakinui Restaurant, including Canterbury rack of lamb.
    Everything you need to know

    Otahuna Lodge

    Hotel, Lodge
    Map View
    Built in 1895 for Victorian gent Sir Heaton Rhodes, this regal estate offers you a choice of seven luxury suites. Formerly the master bedroom, the highlight is the Rhodes Suite, with its stained-glass windows, grand fireplace and private balcony overlooking the Canterbury plains. The wine cellar is a sommelier’s dream, set into a hillside in what used to be the game house, ensuring ideal temperatures and humidity.
    Everything you need to know

    Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

    Eco Hotel, Lodge, Luxury
    Map View
    Courtesy of Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat / Expedia
    Photograph the clouds caressing the tip of Aoraki (Mount Cook) from these two villas on the water’s edge of Lake Pukaki. The views can also be enjoyed from the outdoor hot tub, part of a private spa that also includes a sauna, workout room and massage room. Holistic therapies can also be experienced al fresco, and the retreat even puts on mind-bending stargazing events from its wine-cellar observatory.
    Everything you need to know

    Lakestone Lodge

    Eco-Lodge
    Map View
    Courtesy of Lakestone Lodge / Expedia
    Sat on the southernmost shore of Lake Pukaki, these six lodge guest rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows, taking full advantage of the breathtaking Southern Alps. An on-site chef serves up a cooked breakfast delivered to your lodge every morning. If the view of Aoraki brings out the adventurer in you, bike hire is free, and access to the Alps 2 Ocean trail is within easy reach.
    Everything you need to know
    These recommendations were updated on January 4, 2021 to keep your travel plans fresh.
    Give us feedback

    Cookies Policy

    We and our partners use cookies to better understand your needs, improve performance and provide you with personalised content and advertisements. To allow us to provide a better and more tailored experience please click "OK"