Entire home

Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park

Photo gallery for Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park

Exterior
Fireplace, DVD player
Outdoor dining
2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access
2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue
The current price is AU$147
includes taxes & fees
12 June - 13 June

Explore the area

View map
Makarora, OTA
  • Place, Blue Pools
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, Fantail Falls
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Place, Peter Fraser Park
    ‪39 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Makarora

At this cottage, you'll be 0.1 km (0.1 mi) from Te Wahipounamu and 8.6 km (5.3 mi) from Blue Pools. .Accommodation features free WiFi, a fireplace and a patio. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A DVD player and a coffee/tea maker are also available. Change of bedsheets is available on request

What's nearby

  • Blue Pools - 16 min drive - 11.7 km
  • Fantail Falls - 17 min drive - 27.5 km
  • Peter Fraser Park - 39 min drive - 61.0 km
  • beach near Beacon Point - 57 min drive - 82.5 km

Getting around

  • Wānaka Airport (WKA) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Makarora country cafe - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park

This original stone cottage is nestled on a bushy section between Mt Aspiring National Park and land owned by the Makarora Wonderland Lodge. We live in the Octagonal house next to you. The bird life is incredible with Kaka, Tui and Kereru frequently landing in the trees around us. It is a spacious, self-contained, 2 bedroom abode (choice of singles or King bed in second room) with lounge. There is a collection of DVD's and board games. Fully equipped kitchen. Outside is a garden entertaining area with table and chairs, BBQ, and views up to Mt Shrimpton. The Nature Walk and Shrimpton Track join up to our property. Go for a night wander to see the glow worms!
The Cottage is a 2 minute walk from the Wonderland Cafe/Restaurant/Bar and a 10 minute drive from the must-see Blue Pools. There are a number of epic short walks and multi-day hikes including the Gillespies Pass Circuit right at your door-step. We recommend staying a few nights to enjoy the wilderness, hiking, trout fishing or jumping on a fixed wing plane, heli or jet boat for an adventure up the Wilkin River Valley and beyond.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • DVD player

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Designated smoking areas

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Garden

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:30 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a smoke detector in all accommodation.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property Makarora
Vrbo Property Private vacation home
Vrbo Property Private vacation home Makarora

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park?

The closest beach to Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park is Haast Beach (45.9 km).

How much does it cost to stay at Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park?

As of 4 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park on 12 June 2026 start from AU$147, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park have a pool?

No, this cottage doesn't have a pool.

Is Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a playground, a BBQ and children's dinnerware, it's no surprise that Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park?

No, Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park?

Check-in begins at 3:30 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park?

No, pets are not allowed.

Birdsong Cottage - nestled up against Mt Aspiring National Park Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 46 out of 76 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 23 out of 76 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 76 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 76 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 76 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bridget P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location for exploring Mt Aspiring. Beds were very comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nikki W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous one night stop over at Bird Song Cottage. We were lucky enough to see our favourite birds:)
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was lovely and helpful. This rustic cottage is a wee gem. Peaceful and comfortable. Lovely place to spend a few days.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Jane

Liked: Communication
This was a comfortable, rustic place, a true cottage feel. Close to many walking trails. Restaurant available a very short walk away.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The loveliest hosts and a beautiful traditional cottage made for a great stay at Birdsong Cottage.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Delightful quirky cottage away from the Christmas madness - just what we needed to relax.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Stuart D.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location
Disliked: Check-in
Plenty of room, all neat and tidy
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alec Sherman C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very rustic , very quaint , clean and quite. Beautiful.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful garden and cozy cottage! Lovely to have games and dvds for both adults and kids. And interesting books about the local environment and alpine region. Wish we could have stayed another night.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful cottage, wonderful views, great hot tub!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeric D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house is very cozy and clean. We had a wonderful time with the spa while enjoying the spectacular views of the mountain.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lana

Fantastic, cosy and atmospheric place in an amazing location. We loved absolutely everything about our stay here. Such a gem and the spa bath was incredible. Go in after dark, don't use the jet streams (so there will be no noise) and enjoy the stars and the sounds of the Ruru, the frogs and other creatures of the night.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a beautiful setting and the bird sounds were wonderful! I loved the cabin. The beds were super warm
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
If you love New Zealand bush especially silver beech forest, glacial pools, mountain views, peace and quiet - you’ll love it here! Such a good base to explore the area.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Neil W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
pleasant greeting upon arrival, room clean and warm - was a wet, cold day - Host brought over dry kindling for the fire.authentic rustic building with all required conveniences
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Yeh H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Check in was suprr easy , and the house is so cozy , we feel right at home straight away ! Have full kitchen ware and oven , we had no problem cooking meals. We loved it here !
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Damien B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

We had a great time Cheers
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Lynnette C.

Disliked: Communication
never saw the host.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Brett M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Great stop over and accommodation style for touring cyclists. Close to facilities.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melissa K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing little cabin for a getaway in the bush. Older property with classic kiwi batch vibes.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing, would stay again

Lovely hot tub, area, ground, cottage, fireplace, kitchen, bedrooms, everything amazing 10/10
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Michele M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot for hiking in the park.

Rustic and comfortable place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

wonderful wee cottage

good spot, lovely back garden, great birdlife
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a lovely stay at the cottage. Host was very welcoming. Had the best nights sleep the beds were very comfortable. Movie selection was great and the bbq worked well. Unfortunately the hot tub wasn’t working which we only found out when we went to use it but completely understand. The only other thing was also the door to the property only locked form the outside. Not a big issue but as two young girls travelling alone we did get a bit anxious about this. Overall loved our stay and would recommend.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pene W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Birdsong Cottage is a delightful, charming and quirky property at Makarora, with a real old time kiwi crib/ bach feel. The birds’ song was constant during the day and we also heard a ruru (morepork) one night.This was a fantastic base for us to explore parts of the tracks along the Haast Highway and both Mount Aspiring National Park and Hāwea Conservation Park. A real bonus was the extension to the nearby Makarora Bush Track with a recently constructed Charteris trail through a QEII covenanted forest area meaning a lovely walk up to an hour if you doubled back.The cottage had a power outage the first two nights - not the hosts’ fault - and they were fantastic in their communication and management of this problem.Absolutely recommended and we would like to go back!
View from the back up to the mountains
Constant tui, korimako (bellbird), kereru (wood pigeon) and other birds
Makarora Bush Walk 5 minutes away
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026