A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

Cheap Hotels & Resorts in South Island from NZ$125

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Check availability on South Island Cheap Hotels

Tonight
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Tomorrow
13 Oct - 14 Oct
This weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct
Next weekend
23 Oct - 25 Oct

Our top choices for South Island cheap hotels

1. Lakes Edge Lodge

Lakes Edge Lodge
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Marites
NZ$121
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Lakes Edge Lodge

2. The Boathouse Lodge

The Boathouse Lodge
Picton
Australia
Luciano
NZ$94
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
The Boathouse Lodge

3. The Brown Pub

The Brown Pub
Methven
Australia
Angie
NZ$92
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
The Brown Pub

4. The Barn Cabins & Camp

The Barn Cabins & Camp
Marahau
Australia
Torin
NZ$93
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
The Barn Cabins & Camp

5. Gladstone Grand Hotel

Gladstone Grand Hotel
Fairlie
Australia
Brig
NZ$110
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Gladstone Grand Hotel

6. Raceway Motel

Raceway Motel
Addington
Australia
Richard
NZ$118
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Raceway Motel

7. Atlantis Backpackers

Atlantis Backpackers
Picton
Australia
Yu Chen
NZ$66
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Atlantis Backpackers

8. Haka House Lake Tekapo

Haka House Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
United Kingdom
Katie
NZ$291
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Haka House Lake Tekapo

9. Airport Gateway Christchurch

Airport Gateway Christchurch
Burnside
United States
Salmin
NZ$195
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
Airport Gateway Christchurch

10. Alpine Adventure Holiday Park

Alpine Adventure Holiday Park
Hanmer Springs
Australia
Charles
NZ$78
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park
View all properties

Find out more about South Island

Discover cheap things to do in South Island

For budget-conscious travellers seeking adventure on New Zealand's South Island, there are plenty of unforgettable experiences that won’t break the bank. Start your journey in Queenstown, known for its stunning landscapes and adrenaline-fuelled activities. While bungee jumping may cost a pretty penny, take a scenic hike to Queenstown Hill for breathtaking views without spending a dime. Another must-visit is the remarkable Fiordland National Park, where the iconic Milford Sound offers free walking tracks that let you immerse in nature's beauty. If you're a wine enthusiast, head to the Marlborough region, where you can join free vineyard tours and enjoy tastings at various local wineries without splurging. The vibrant city of Christchurch also has a lot to offer; explore the free botanical gardens or take a leisurely stroll along the Avon River. For accommodation, look for affordable hotels in central locations like Christchurch or Queenstown, where you can enjoy easy access to these attractions while benefiting from competitive rates. Staying in these areas not only maximises your sightseeing potential but also allows you to indulge in local eateries, where you can find hearty meals at reasonable prices. With the right planning, South Island can be a paradise of experiences that cater to your adventurous spirit without straining your wallet.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Room was very clean and nice balcony with views. Room was spacious and linen was very good. Small refridgerator and kettle. Nice toiletries and very comfortable bed."
Carmela 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

10/10 Excellent
"Stunning property, lake views were phenomenal! Family room was spacious and very well appointed, super comfy beds and cleaned beautifully. A little further out of town but still close enough to walk, worth it for the views! Would definitely stay here again."
Rachel 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels
Pinewood Queenstown

Pinewood Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"We would definitely stay at Pinewood again. Our only issue was that we didn't have anywhere to hang our wedding attire. Luckily I had my own hangers so I hung them on the bunk bars. However my other companions didn't. Loved the shower and the beds were so comfortable and warm. The staff were so helpful and happy. Cool place."
Paula 4-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Pinewood Queenstown
Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

10/10 Excellent
"Good location, excellent food all around great place to stay."
Eliot 2-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview
LyLo Christchurch Airport

LyLo Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Love the mix of accommodation options from pods to ensuite. Awesome community/kitchen room. Easy walking distance from airport. Fun to be able to socialise with travelers from all walks of life."
Cornelia 1-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
LyLo Christchurch Airport