Motueka vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Motueka vacation rentals

Stay near Motueka's top sights

Toad Hall66 locals recommend
New World Motueka31 locals recommend
The Smoking Barrel31 locals recommend
The Gecko18 locals recommend
Sprig & Fern Motueka18 locals recommend
Motueka Sunday Market18 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Motueka

  • Total rentals

    140 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $10 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    8K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    60 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    20 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    10 properties have a pool

Your guide to Motueka

All About Motueka

Located on the northwestern coast of the South Island, Motueka is a lively town that serves as the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most popular national parks. The town center, just steps from the stunning shoreline of the Tasman Bay (in Māori, Te Tai-o-Aorere), is bustling with boutique shops, mom-and-pop restaurants, galleries, and artist collectives. Just outside downtown you’ll find aquamarine waters, lush forests, and one of the world’s longest sand spits, making Motueka a great place for hiking, swimming, wildlife spotting, and photography.

During your visit, you can take a walk to the Riuwaka Resurgence, a sacred underground spring surrounded by native forest, or explore the lively rapids and hidden pools along the Motueka River. Even more spectacular terrain can be found in Abel Tasman National Park and Kahurangi National Park, both a short drive from town.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Motueka

With cool and pleasant weather throughout the year, all four seasons are a great time to seek out Motueka accommodations. Remember that seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are opposite to those in the US. During the summer (November through February), take advantage of the comfortably warm temperatures by taking a kayak onto the bay or hopping on one of the many boat tours that explore the coastline. January and February are generally the driest months of the year. The rains pick back up in March, and while the winter months (May through September) are rarely cold, they do get wet and overcast, and the town quiets down. This is still a wonderful time to explore Motueka, but you may want to check with activity operators to see if they are still running tours. All year long, you can join the locals shopping at Motueka’s Sunday market and pick up freshly baked goods, artisanal products, and vintage and hand-crafted clothing.


Top things to do in Motueka

Motueka District Museum

Located in the center of the city in a former highschool building, the Motueka District Museum features permanent and rotating exhibits dedicated to the history of the Motueka region and its peoples. The museum honors the town’s Māori roots while exploring its history of European settlement, and pays homage to the importance of the horticultural and fishing industries to the region.

Abel Tasman National Park

Located just a 20-minute drive from Motueka, this national park is located along the shore of Te Tai-o-Aorere (Tasman Bay). It is famous for its untouched forests and golden-sand beaches. The Abel Tasman Coastal Track, which takes three to five days to hike, leads you over headlands and through lush native forests before reaching a series of pristine beaches. You can also explore the park by water in a sea kayak or on a boat tour.

Tasman Great Taste Trail

This 100-mile-long cycling trail connects Nelson with Motueka and the surrounding region, and the section near Motueka makes for an ideal day trip. Cycle along narrow lanes through verdant valleys, stopping at fruit stands to recharge. If you make it as far as Kaiteriteri Mountainbike Park, 8 miles north of town, you’ll unlock a whole new adventure: Its 25 rolling mountain-bike trails wind through open terrain as well as dense forests.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Motueka?

    The weather in Motueka is typically mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 1°C (34°F) in winter or exceeding 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is evenly spread throughout the year, allowing for lush, green surroundings.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Motueka?

    Popular activities in Motueka include hiking in the Abel Tasman National Park, soaking up the sun at Kaiteriteri Beach, and exploring local art and culture at the Motueka Artisans Market. A visit to the historic Motueka Wharf is also well-liked by many visitors.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Motueka?

    The summer months, from December to February, are often recommended as the most popular time to visit Motueka. Local events, such as the Motueka Kai Fest in April and the Motueka Apple Fair in March, also attract numerous visitors.

  • What are the best places to stay in Motueka?

    Popular areas to stay in Motueka include the city center, with its shops and cafes, or closer to the coast, where there are numerous accommodations with beautiful sea views. The area around the Motueka River is also a popular choice for its peaceful vibe and natural beauty.

  • What are the best places to visit in Motueka?

    Popular places to visit in Motueka include the Motueka Sunday Market for local produce and crafts, the Jester House Cafe and Tame Eels for a unique dining experience, and the Riwaka Resurgence for its natural beauty. The Ngarua Caves on Takaka Hill are also a popular attraction.

  • What are some hiking trails in Motueka?

    Motueka is home to numerous hiking trails. The coastal track in Abel Tasman National Park is a popular choice, as is the trail to Harwoods Hole, one of the deepest vertical shafts in New Zealand. The Riwaka Resurgence Walk, leading to the source of the Riwaka River, is also a frequently suggested trail.

  • What are some family activities to do in Motueka?

    Families can explore the Motueka Sunday Market, visit the Riwaka Resurgence to see where the Riwaka River emerges from underground, or enjoy a picnic at Kaiteriteri Beach. The Ngarua Caves, filled with unique stalagmites and stalactites, are also frequently suggested for family outings.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Motueka?

    Day trips from Motueka often include a visit to the Abel Tasman National Park, a scenic boat trip to Split Apple Rock, or a drive to Nelson, known for its arts and crafts markets. A journey to the Golden Bay area, with its spectacular beaches and wildlife, is also frequently suggested.

  • Are there pet-friendly house rentals in Motueka?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Motueka. Choose from more than 10 house rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • Are there house rentals with a dedicated workspace in Motueka?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 20 house rentals in Motueka featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

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