2 Best Hotels in Mapua, Upper South Island and the West Coast

Three self-contained cottages on the shoreline of the Waimea Estuary began life as apple pickers' cottages and have been refurbished in a pleasing rustic style. Separated by high plantings for privacy, each has a full kitchen, ample decks, and a wood fire. Karaka has an outdoor bath on a private deck overlooking the estuary. You can wander the foreshore and do some bird-watching, or explore the 5-acre organic farm and vineyard. Only children over 12 years are permitted to stay. 

Nestled beside an estuary, this estate features pure, simple luxury. Guests in the four purpose-built villas and suites come together for champagne each evening. Te Koi is surrounded by mature gardens. At high tide, the lawn is lapped by the sea and at low tide you can walk onto the sand flats. Full breakfast hamper included. Play some pétanque (bocce) or tennis, then relax in the solar-heated pool.