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

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

A modern building with a large patio area, a mountain in the background, and a body of water in the foreground.
A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a lake and mountains.
A circular window view of a balcony with a chair, a table with a red item, and a scenic lake and hills in the background.
A modern hotel room with a large sliding glass door leading to a scenic view, a sofa, a chair, and a coffee table with a remote control and glasses on it.

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
United Kingdom
Sophie
NZ$305
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Peppers Bluewater Resort
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring purple chairs and round tables.
A modern hotel with multiple buildings, large windows, and snow-covered surroundings.
A modern interior with a sofa and chairs facing large windows with a mountain view.

2. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Australia
Natasha
NZ$546
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
A lakeside view with chairs and a picnic table, surrounded by trees and mountains.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains through a glass door.
A modern restroom with three sinks, a large mirror, and a decorative wall piece.
A building with a covered outdoor area, a car parked in front, and a starry night sky.

3. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
United States
Damian
NZ$173
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
A modern building with multiple windows and a staircase leading to an upper level.
A person in a robe by a window with a starry night sky view.
A person standing by a window with a night sky view, including stars and a visible mountain range.
A woman relaxing in a bathtub with a view of a bedroom through a window.

4. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Clara
NZ$599
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.
A restaurant interior with a bar area, seating arrangement, and a view of the outside.
A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.
A spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, wooden seating, and a large window.

5. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
NZ$221
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
The Godley Hotel
A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.
A modern living room with a sofa, armchair, and a coffee table. There is a large window offering a view of mountains and a building.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a television, a chair, and a balcony with a view.
A multi-story building with balconies, a covered entrance, and a parking area.

6. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Ben
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.
A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.
A modern bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a sliding glass door to the outdoors, and a mounted TV.
A modern living room with a sofa and armchairs, a sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a view of mountains.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Chhavi
NZ$663
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
A kitchen with a granite countertop, a sink, and a dining area with a table and chairs.
A residential area with houses, a swimming pool, and a lake with mountains in the background.
A residential area with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and houses with similar architecture.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
United States
HARDIK
NZ$419
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Mantra Lake Tekapo
A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.
A row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.
A reception desk with a wall displaying city names, two clocks, and a TV screen.
A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
Leah
NZ$534
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Aoraki Court Motel
Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.
A dining area with a view of mountains and a lake, a painting on the wall, and a modern interior design.
A modern building with a wooden facade and metal roof, situated by a body of water with mountains in the background.
A room with a large window offering a view of mountains and a lake.

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a blue armchair.
A modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A modern bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white vanity with a mirror, and a towel rack with two towels.

11. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
NZ$370
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Woolshed Suites
A modern building with a glass facade, a covered outdoor area, and a mountainous backdrop.
A staircase leading to a room with a mountain view through large windows.
A balcony with a view of a parking area and mountains.
A modern kitchen with marble flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a buffet area with various food items.

12. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Mount Cook
Canada
Elaine
NZ$352
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
A modern mobile home with a patio area featuring a wooden bench, a table, and potted plants.
A modern living room with a sofa, a wooden table, and a TV on a stand.
A row of compact, modern mobile homes with a gravel driveway and a wooden deck.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a fireplace.

13. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Palitha
NZ$188
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Mackenzie Motels
A spacious living area with a wooden ceiling, a dining table with chairs, a sofa, and a kitchen in the background.
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a wardrobe, and a kitchenette.
A modern living room with a grey sofa, a coffee table with a plant, a TV on the wall, and a dining area with wooden chairs.
A modern house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

14. RodmanStar Apartment

RodmanStar Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Michael
RodmanStar Apartment
A neatly made bed with a dark headboard, two bedside lamps, and a window with curtains.
A patio with two metal chairs and a small table, a potted plant, and a window with white curtains.
A motel sign with the name 'Aorangi Motel' and contact information.
A room with two beds, a sofa, a coffee table, a desk, and a wall-mounted lamp.

15. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
NZ$175
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Aorangi Motel
A window with a view of a natural landscape, including trees and mountains.
A room with large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains. There is a wooden chair and a small table with bottles.
A living room with a wooden wall, a flat-screen TV, a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a chandelier.

16. Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa

Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Melanie
NZ$498
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
A modern house with a sloped roof, large glass windows, and a wooden exterior.
A modern hotel room with a sofa, a bed, a small round table, a kitchenette, and a large window with a view.
A modern building with a sloped roof and a small entrance.

17. Sky Valley

Sky Valley
Lake Tekapo
New Zealand
Jayde
NZ$249
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Sky Valley
A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.
A scenic landscape with a road, grassy areas, and mountains in the background.

18. Three Rivers Lodge

Three Rivers Lodge
Lake Tekapo
United States
Janice
Three Rivers Lodge
A modern house with a wooden deck and large windows, set against a starry night sky.
A modern kitchen with a stainless steel microwave, a brick-patterned backsplash, and a set of knives on the counter.
A hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a chair, and a wooden wall panel.
A modern bathroom with a wooden vanity, a towel rack, and a glass shower enclosure.

19. Alpine Studio Coulson

Alpine Studio Coulson
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Anonymous traveller
NZ$219
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Alpine Studio Coulson
A pool area with steps leading to a deck overlooking a lake and snow-capped mountains.
A bedroom with a large bed, a bathtub, and a view of mountains and water.
A modern bathroom with a bathtub, a large mirror, and a view of the outdoors.
A room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, a fire feature, and a view of a deck with outdoor furniture.

20. Lakestone Lodge

Lakestone Lodge
Pukaki
United States
Christy
NZ$1,129
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Lakestone Lodge
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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel
A wide beach with a clear sky and distant mountains.
A modern, clean hallway with a potted plant, glass railing, and a view of the outside.
A hotel room with a large bed, two black pillows, a wooden headboard, and two wall-mounted lights.
A modern, well-lit room with a blue carpet, a white sofa with black cushions, a small desk, and a chair.

Beaches Nelson

Beaches Nelson
Tahunanui
"Spacious room with large comfortable bed"
Beaches Nelson
Aparthotel
A modern hotel room with a balcony, a sofa, a bed, a kitchen area, and a dining table.
A two-story building with balconies, large windows, and a paved courtyard.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a television, and a balcony with a view of the outdoors.
A modern hotel room with a kitchenette, a dining area, a bed with a view, and a sofa.

Avalon Manor Motel

Avalon Manor Motel
Motueka
"Fantastic friendly host, lovely room, a great place to stay!"
Avalon Manor Motel
Aparthotel
A modern building with a flat roof, large windows, and a balcony.
A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.
A modern building with a sign for 'Central Park Apartments'.
A modern building with a glass balcony overlooking a parking area and a mountainous landscape.

Central Park Apartments

Central Park Apartments
Cromwell
"Our room was clean and so far the most easiest check in ever. We had booked the place for a couple of nights and it did not disappoint"
Central Park Apartments
Aparthotel
A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
A modern kitchen with built-in appliances, a central island, and a view of the outdoors.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.
A modern interior with a sofa, a staircase, and a wall-mounted shelf with plants.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Frankton
"Great staff, great location, great times."
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Aparthotel
A row of waterfront cottages with balconies, wooden decks, and a mountain backdrop.
A waterfront property with a row of houses, a dock, and a calm lake reflecting the buildings.
A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a water body and buildings.
A clear view of a swimming pool with a glass barrier, wooden deck, and a backdrop of mountain ranges.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Lake Resort by Marsden
Mount Pisa
"Wonderful stay of five nights! Awesome rooms, superb location, next level breakfasts, staff so friendly & accomodating! 4 mins to Cromwell & so close to all the other amazing places - Clyde, Bannockburn, Wanaka, Queenstown, Alexandra & lots of either quaint places. Will definitely be back!!!"
Lake Resort by Marsden
Treehouse

Rainforest Deluxe

Rainforest Deluxe
Franz Josef Glacier
"Absolutely beautiful location with well equipped rooms"
Rainforest Deluxe
Aparthotel
A modern building complex with a central courtyard, surrounded by mountains.
A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a black sofa with decorative pillows.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a view of the city, and a woven wall hanging.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a dining area with a white table and chairs, and a view of a backyard through large sliding glass doors.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Albert Town
"Good location"
Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Aparthotel
A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a small table, a TV, a fireplace, and a sliding glass door leading to a patio with outdoor furniture.
A hotel room with a large bed, a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a balcony with a view of greenery.
A modern kitchen with a built-in microwave, stainless steel sink, and a compact refrigerator.
A building with a flat roof and a small window, surrounded by dense greenery and a mountain in the background.

Punga Grove

Punga Grove
Franz Josef Glacier
"Great location,nice rooms. "
Punga Grove
Apartment
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, and two chairs. There is a window with curtains, and a plant on the desk.
A modern kitchen with a built-in washing machine, a sink, and white cabinetry.
A row of townhouses with a central courtyard, each with a small garden and a visible mailbox.
A living room with a black leather sofa, a round coffee table, and a dining table with chairs. There is a sliding glass door leading to a garden.

March Apartments

March Apartments
Wakari
"Excellent place to stay."
March Apartments
Aparthotel
A building with the sign "QUEST" at the top, featuring multiple windows and a modern architectural design.
A compact hotel room with a bed, a washing machine, a kitchenette, and a dining area.
A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a living area with green sofas.
A modern living room with a dining table, a sofa, a green armchair, and a lamp.

Quest Nelson

Quest Nelson
Nelson City Centre
"Very helpful and friendly staff with clean and neat rooms."
Quest Nelson
Cabin
A wooden cabin with a green roof, large windows, and a picnic table in front.
A wooden cabin with a porch, surrounded by snow-covered trees.
A log cabin interior with a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A compact kitchen with a washing machine, microwave, and refrigerator.

Central Chalets

Central Chalets
Alexandra
"Excellent place to stay with the family. Comfortable chalet. The spa pool was a bonus!"
Central Chalets
Aparthotel
A lush garden with a variety of trees and shrubs, a small patio area with outdoor furniture, and a view of distant hills.
A rural area with multiple cylindrical silos and a small building.
A modern hotel room with a curved ceiling, a bed with white bedding, two black pillows, and a white towel on the floor.
A kitchen with a stainless steel countertop, a kettle, a toaster, and a wooden shelf with kitchenware.

SiloStay

SiloStay
Little River
"Unusual property with clever use of space. Comfortable and quiet with restaurant next door. Hosts and information provided excellent!"
SiloStay
Aparthotel
A modern house with a glass facade, outdoor seating, and a view of the mountains.
A modern building with a sign that reads "THE FAIRWAYS accommodation."
A modern living room with a large sofa, a coffee table, and a TV. There is a kitchen area with a sink and cabinets.
A modern living room with a large gray sofa, a TV, and a fireplace. There is a kitchen area with a white island and pendant lights.

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura
Kaikoura Flat
"The room was excellent. Staff were very friendly and helpful"
The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura
Cabin
A modern building with a triangular glass facade, surrounded by trees and a paved entrance area.
A swimming pool area with transparent roof structures and a gravel ground.
A room with a television, a small kitchenette, and a wicker chair with cushions.
A playground with a playhouse and slides.

Rangiora Eco Holiday Park

Rangiora Eco Holiday Park
Fernside
"The unit was cold and damp. Everything was a bit run down although working."
Rangiora Eco Holiday Park
Aparthotel
A modern outdoor terrace with a glass balustrade overlooking a lake and mountains.
A modern building with large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains.
A calm lake with boats docked at a pier, surrounded by mountains and a town with buildings.
A modern room with two patterned armchairs, a small round table, and a large window offering a view of a lake and mountains.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Avani Queenstown Hotel
Queenstown
"restaurant was fantastic"
Avani Queenstown Hotel
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Stay near popular South Island attractions

A mountain path with snow-capped peaks and green vegetation.

Aoraki / Mount Cook

9.6/10 (613 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Aoraki / Mount Cook and enjoy the stunning glacier views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.
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A clear mountain stream surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks in the background.

Mount Cook National Park

9.8/10 (179 reviews)
Ski on a glacier, enjoy hot springs and tackle the peak where Sir Edmund Hillary trained for Everest in this spectacular part of New Zealand.
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A mountain range with a lake reflecting the peaks.

Milford Sound

9.6/10 (22 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Milford Sound during your travels in Fiordland National Park. Discover the area's waterfalls and glaciers.
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A coastal town with a harbor, mountains in the background, and a clear sky.

Lyttelton Harbour

8.6/10 (1,052 reviews)
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

Lake Pukaki

9.6/10 (937 reviews)
Be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook as you hike, drive or ride through this incredibly picturesque landscape.
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A calm river with trees and grass on both sides.
Photo by Paolo Corrales

Hagley Park

9.2/10 (2,450 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
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Learn more about South Island

Larger, less populated and harder to reach than the northern “Main Island,” this area features New Zealand’s longest glacier, its highest mountain and much more.

See all hotels in South Island
A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in South Island

Novotel Christchurch Airport

Novotel Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Nothing to say. Thank you"
Robert 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Novotel Christchurch Airport
LyLo Christchurch Airport

LyLo Christchurch Airport

8/10 Good
"Convenient for quick stays near the airport. Not the cleanest room or bathroom, but doable."
Andrew 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
LyLo Christchurch Airport
Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent
"Great all round accomodation with stunning views when having dinner lunch or breakfast to staff that are knowledgeable and a clean room with also stunning views in any room you stay in"
Aidan 2-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Kamana Lakehouse
The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Great choice for our one night stay in Lake Tekapo. Had an excellent dinner and Blaire was a fun bartender/server!"
Christine 1-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
The Godley Hotel
Sudima Christchurch Airport

Sudima Christchurch Airport

8/10 Good
"Was surprised to find out there is paid parking now"
Jamie 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Sudima Christchurch Airport
Lakes Edge Lodge

Lakes Edge Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"its nice and clean."
Amandeep 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Lakes Edge Lodge
Mi-pad Queenstown

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Really neat and tidy stay - great location and always clean and well presented. Staff were great and always available - highly recommended"
Luke 5-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Mi-pad Queenstown
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"First time staying here and it was a great experience all round."
Troy 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"Comfortable room"
Richard 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

More cheap accommodation in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
NZ$120
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
NZ$133
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Carnmore Hagley Park
Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

11 Aorangi Crescent Lake Tekapo
NZ$149
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (155 reviews)
Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
NZ$173
8 Sept - 9 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (438 reviews)
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
NZ$184
15 Sept - 16 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very good! (772 reviews)
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
NZ$352
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (120 reviews)
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

  • Stunning Landscapes: South Island boasts breathtaking scenery, from majestic mountains to serene lakes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Adventure Activities: Enjoy skiing at Roundhill, hiking in Fiordland, or exploring ice features for an adrenaline-filled experience.
  • Charming Towns: Visit delightful towns like Queenstown and Nelson, known for their friendly locals and picturesque harbours.
  • Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in rejuvenating hot springs, ideal for a tranquil escape after adventurous days.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cosy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveler's preference.

Find great hotels near South Island

Discover the charm of South Island's diverse hotel accommodations, from cosy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Whether you're after a relaxing hot spring retreat, an adventure-filled ski getaway, or simply seeking the best places to stay, South Island offers a variety of options to suit every traveler's preferences. Explore hotel reviews and find your perfect base for an unforgettable New Zealand experience.

  • Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Situated in the picturesque Lake Tekapo Village, this 3.5-star motel offers a serene hot spring-themed getaway just 11.3km away from South Island. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, it appeals to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The motel features nearby natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. Ski enthusiasts will appreciate the convenient access to ski shuttles and lifts, making it an ideal choice for a ski vacation experience. Guests have noted the comfortable accommodations and friendly service, contributing to a pleasant stay.
  • The Godley Hotel: This 3-star hotel, also located 11.3km from South Island, boasts a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, making it an appealing option for adventure-seekers. The Godley Hotel offers a unique hot spring experience and is surrounded by various outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy adventure sports such as snow tubing, waterskiing, horse riding, hiking, and windsurfing, all within easy reach. The hotel's atmosphere blends comfort with excitement, catering to those looking to explore the natural wonders of the region while enjoying the rejuvenating properties of the nearby hot springs.
  • Lakes Edge Holiday Park: For budget-conscious travellers, Lakes Edge Holiday Park offers an eco-certified accommodation option with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Located 11.3km from South Island, this holiday park is perfect for eco-friendly visitors who appreciate nature. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay while being mindful of their environmental impact. The park's commitment to sustainability is evident in its practices, making it an excellent choice for those looking to connect with the stunning landscapes of the South Island without compromising their values.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers an enchanting mix of stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, perfect for outdoor adventures or romantic getaways. Explore charming towns like Queenstown and Nelson, where friendly locals welcome you to experience breathtaking scenery and pretty harbours. Enjoy family-friendly activities in places like Akaroa, or indulge in the serenity of the Fiordland National Park. Whether seeking thrilling experiences or tranquil escapes, South Island promises unforgettable memories for every kind of traveller.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11.3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a picturesque suburb renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor experiences. Visitors are drawn here year-round, with peak arrivals in April and during the December to January holiday season. The area boasts a variety of activities, from serene lake views to recreational areas perfect for relaxation and adventure. Highlights include the sparkling turquoise waters of the lake, the nearby national state park, and breathtaking mountain scenery, making it a romantic getaway for couples and an outdoor haven for enthusiasts.
  • Tekapo: Located around 12.9km from South Island, Tekapo offers a charming escape with its captivating scenery and outdoor activities. Although visitor numbers fluctuate throughout the year, the summer months of November to January see the highest influx of tourists. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local recreational areas, explore shopping options, or indulge in body treatments. The area's attractions include the stunning lake, the expansive national state park, and majestic mountains, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a romantic retreat.
  • Mount Dobson: Situated about 16.1km from South Island, Mount Dobson is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. While visitor numbers remain fairly consistent throughout the year, the peak seasons are in March and the December to January timeframe. This suburb is ideal for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, featuring popular ski fields alongside opportunities for shopping. Local landmarks such as the beautiful lake, a cultural centre, and the national state park provide a rich backdrop for exploration and enjoyment, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

In Christchurch, visit the Cashel Street Mall for a mix of local shops and cafés. Don't miss the vibrant arts and crafts market at the Christchurch Arts Centre, where you can discover unique handmade souvenirs and gifts from local artisans.

Recreation

At the Aroha Wellness Retreat, immerse yourself in nature with yoga sessions and rejuvenating spa treatments. Explore the nearby Queenstown Trail for stunning scenery and invigorating walks or bike rides along the picturesque lakeside.

Experience the tranquility at the Lake Tekapo Day Spa, where you can indulge in soothing massages and soak in thermal pools with breathtaking mountain views. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the lake's edge for fresh air and relaxation.

Visit the Peppers Bluewater Resort's wellness centre for holistic treatments and guided meditation. Nearby, the Hooker Valley Track offers a scenic hike with views of icebergs and mountains, perfect for unwinding in nature.

Enjoy the serene environment of the Glendhu Bay Motor Camp, offering yoga classes and wellness workshops. The surrounding area boasts beautiful lakeside walks and mountain biking trails, ideal for those seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Adventure

In Queenstown, experience thrilling bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge, or take a scenic jet boat ride on the Shotover River. In Abel Tasman National Park, enjoy kayaking through picturesque bays and golden beaches, offering a unique perspective of the stunning coastline.

Nightlife

In Christchurch, the popular Riverside Market comes alive at night with food stalls and live music. In Queenstown, the bustling nightlife features bars like The Bunker, known for its intimate atmosphere and cocktails, while Arrowtown offers a charming pub scene with local brews and hearty meals.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

To save money on your South Island trip, consider visiting during the cheaper months of June and August to September. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, or check last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Saturdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. Make use of public transport, as buses are generally affordable and convenient. Don’t forget to explore free activities like scenic walks and parks. Additionally, consider bundling flights, accommodation, and activities for a better deal through package offers.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around South Island are June and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around South Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around South Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around South Island is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your South Island hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near South Island

The South Island of New Zealand is perfect for outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, and cultural experiences. Discover stunning lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and historic churches as you explore the region. Whether you're seeking breathtaking scenery or unique local attractions, South Island offers a variety of activities that cater to every traveller's interests, making it an unforgettable destination for your holiday.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled amongst the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo boasts stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain scenery. The area offers a serene beach setting ideal for romantic strolls, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
  • Tekapo Springs: Just a short drive away, Tekapo Springs features natural hot springs surrounded by alpine views. Enjoy outdoor thermal pools, wellness treatments, and relaxation spaces designed to rejuvenate the mind and body, making it a perfect retreat.
  • Church of the Good Shepherd: This charming stone church, set against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo, is a cultural icon. It offers visitors a glimpse into local heritage and stunning photography opportunities, particularly during sunrise or sunset.

Best time to go to South Island

The best time to visit South Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around South Island falls in December, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around South Island falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island

Flying into South Island, New Zealand is convenient with three major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is situated 170.6km from South Island, with nearby accommodations like Bealey Quarter and LyLo Christchurch, both offering shuttle services. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), located 186.7km away, features hotels such as Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa and The Rees Hotel, also with close access to the airport. Lastly, Nelson Airport (NSN) is 365.3km from South Island, with excellent options like Palazzo Motor Lodge and Century Park Motor Lodge, both within a short distance and accessible via local transport. Enjoy your travels in this stunning part of New Zealand.