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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 person at a table with a view of mountains and a body of water.
A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a lake and mountains.
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
Singapore
Aloysius
NZ$286
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Peppers Bluewater Resort
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.
A modern interior with large windows offering mountain views, comfortable seating, and a patterned floor.
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$462
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
A lakeside view with chairs and a picnic table, surrounded by trees and mountains.
A modern restroom with three sinks, a large mirror, and a decorative wall piece.
A modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.
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
Australia
Declan Dechawut
NZ$175
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
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 woman relaxing in a bathtub with a view of a bedroom through a window.
Two people seated at a round table with a bottle and glasses, overlooking a mountainous landscape through large windows.

4. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Clara
NZ$584
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Galaxy Boutique 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 view from a balcony overlooking a lake with mountains in the background.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a television, a chair, and a balcony with a view.

5. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Lucie-Catherine
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
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 spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, wooden seating, and a large window.
A couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.

6. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
NZ$198
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
The Godley Hotel
A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.
A modern multi-story building with large glass windows and stone pillars.
A modern living room with a sofa and armchairs, a sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a view of mountains.
A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Suresh
NZ$938
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
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.
A kitchen with a granite countertop, a sink, and a dining area with a table and chairs.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Dominic
NZ$575
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Mantra Lake Tekapo
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.

9. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
A modern building with a glass facade, a covered outdoor area, and a mountainous backdrop.
A modern kitchen with marble flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a buffet area with various food items.
A balcony with a view of a parking area and mountains.
A staircase leading to a room with a mountain view through large windows.

10. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Mount Cook
United States
Jurgen
NZ$317
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.
A compact kitchen with a microwave, kettle, and a small refrigerator. There is a sink with a faucet, and a cabinet with drawers. A dark door is visible on the right side.
A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.
A reception desk with a wall displaying city names, two clocks, and a TV screen.

11. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
David
NZ$717
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Aoraki Court Motel
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 compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.
A modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.

12. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
Woolshed Suites
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 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 house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

13. RodmanStar Apartment

RodmanStar Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Michael
RodmanStar Apartment
A modern mobile home with a patio area featuring a wooden bench, a table, and potted plants.
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.
A living room with a fireplace, a television on a stand, and a bookshelf.

14. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Natasha
NZ$209
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Mackenzie Motels
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 compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, a sink, and a window overlooking a garden.
A motel sign with the name 'Aorangi Motel' and contact information.

15. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
NZ$190
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Aorangi Motel
A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.
A scenic landscape with a road, grassy areas, and mountains in the background.
Front of property
Front of property

16. Three Rivers Lodge

Three Rivers Lodge
Lake Tekapo
United States
Janice
Three Rivers Lodge
A pool area with steps leading to a deck overlooking a lake and snow-capped mountains.
A dining table with breakfast items and a view of mountains and a lake.
A room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, a fire feature, and a view of a deck with outdoor furniture.
A modern bathroom with a bathtub, a large mirror, and a view of the outdoors.

17. Lakestone Lodge

Lakestone Lodge
Pukaki
United States
Adrian
NZ$1,459
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Lakestone Lodge
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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel
A row of waterfront cottages with balconies, wooden decks, and a mountain backdrop.
A clear view of a swimming pool with a glass barrier, wooden deck, and a backdrop of mountain ranges.
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.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Lake Resort by Marsden
Mount Pisa
"Amazing place to stay!!"
Lake Resort by Marsden
Aparthotel
A hotel entrance with a sign reading "Village Lake" under a twilight sky.
A cozy living room with a fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and a round coffee table with a bottle of wine and a plate of food.
A modern living room with two sofas, a coffee table, and a kitchen in the background.
A modern living room with a fireplace, sofa, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

Village Lake Apartments

Village Lake Apartments
Hanmer Springs
"lovely stay"
Village Lake Apartments
Aparthotel
A modern hotel room with a balcony, a sofa, a bed, a kitchen area, and a dining table.
A modern hotel room with a kitchenette, a dining area, a bed with a view, and a sofa.
A modern kitchen with a central island, built-in microwave, and a large window offering a view of the landscape.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a television, and a balcony with a view of the outdoors.

Avalon Manor Motel

Avalon Manor Motel
Motueka
"Fantastic friendly host, lovely room, a great place to stay!"
Avalon Manor Motel
Aparthotel
A modern building complex with a central courtyard, surrounded by mountains.
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.
A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a TV, a fireplace, and a sliding glass door to a balcony.
A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a black sofa with decorative pillows.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Albert Town
"Good location"
Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Aparthotel
A hotel with a modern design, featuring a central staircase, a parking area, and a view of a forested hillside.
A room with a large mural of a mountainous landscape, a desk with a chair, a bed, and a door.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a stainless steel dishwasher, an oven, and a microwave. There is a window with blinds, a shelf with kitchenware, and a potted plant.
A modern living room with a round mirror reflecting the space, a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV.

Beechwood Boutique Accommodation

Beechwood Boutique Accommodation
North Dunedin
"Nice stay and friendly staff member on check in. Room was clean and the amenities were great. Awesome location and easy to get into town"
Beechwood Boutique Accommodation
Aparthotel
A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.
A modern living room with a stone wall, a fireplace, a television, a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of a mountain and buildings through large windows.
A hotel room with a large bed, a TV, a balcony with a view of mountains, and a dining area with chairs and a table.
A multi-story hotel with balconies, a parking area, and a mountainous backdrop.

Quest Queenstown

Quest Queenstown
Frankton
"Great place to stay"
Quest Queenstown
Apartment
A hotel with a stone facade, multiple windows, and a parking area.
A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a staircase leading to a kitchen.
A swimming pool with multiple lanes, a water park with slides, and a surrounding area with lounge chairs and umbrellas.
An outdoor patio with a glass table and metal chairs, surrounded by a well-maintained garden and a view of mountains.

Hanmer Apartments

Hanmer Apartments
Hanmer Springs
"newly renovated, spacious, clean and friendly, drive to town but not far, easy check in, easy parking, quiet and comfortable, we liked staying there"
Hanmer Apartments
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 apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.

Central Park Apartments

Central Park Apartments
Cromwell
"Beautiful rooms and really comfortable and quiet. A little out of the main part of town but still very close. The hosts were very friendly and made the stay quite pleasant"
Central Park Apartments
Apartment
A balcony with two wooden chairs and a small table, overlooking a calm lake with boats and mountains in the background.
A row of townhouses with balconies, a gated entrance, and a clear blue sky.
A bedroom with a bed, a window, and a door.
A round wooden table with a woven centerpiece, positioned by a window overlooking a marina with boats and mountains.

Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa Village Inn
Akaroa
"Was great place to stay"
Akaroa Village Inn
Holiday Home
A patio with wooden furniture, a stone wall, and a glass door leading to a garden.
A modern dining area with a wooden table and chairs, a sofa, and a television on the wall.
A modern living room with a glass coffee table, leather sofas, and a dining area with chairs.
A living room with a glass coffee table, a leather sofa, a fluffy rug, a mirror, and a shelf with plants.

40 Warren Street

40 Warren Street
Wanaka
"super Location, sehr stilvoll eingerichtet, super sauber. ein perfekter Aufenthalt!"
40 Warren Street
Aparthotel
A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.
A sign for Alpine Motel with a mountain backdrop.
A modern, well-lit living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a kitchen in the background.
A boat docked at a rocky shore with mountains in the background.

Alpine Motel

Alpine Motel
Wanaka
"Comfortable rooms, good playground for the kids and just a short walk into town"
Alpine Motel
Aparthotel
A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.
A modern bar area with a glass enclosure, bar stools, and a seating area with a sofa and a small table.
A modern kitchen with built-in appliances, a central island, and a view of the outdoors.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Frankton
"Best stay"
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Aparthotel
A modern building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.
A modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A modern living room with a large sofa, a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, a fireplace, and a scenic view through large windows.
A modern living room with a black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Awesome, will stay here again!"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Aparthotel
A modern outdoor terrace with a glass balustrade overlooking a lake and mountains.
A hotel with a view of a lake and mountains.
A modern room with two patterned armchairs, a small round table, and a large window offering a view of a lake and mountains.
A modern building with large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Avani Queenstown Hotel
Queenstown
"Great spot , beautiful rooms"
Avani Queenstown Hotel
Apartment
A modern room with a large window overlooking a waterfront, a fireplace, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.
A bedroom with a brick wall, wooden beams, a bed with pillows, a nightstand, a vase with flowers, and a window with a view.
A modern kitchen with dark cabinetry, a wooden island with stools, pendant lighting, and artwork on the walls.
A wooden staircase with a brick wall and a floral mural.

The Thomas Gregg Apartments

The Thomas Gregg Apartments
Dunedin City Centre
"Was an awesome stay amazing room and awesome location will stay again"
The Thomas Gregg Apartments
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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.
See properties
A snow-capped mountain range with a turquoise lake in the foreground.

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.
See properties
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 sandy beach with a windmill, rocky outcrops, and a hillside with houses.

Sumner Beach

8.8/10 (648 reviews)
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.
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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 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.
See properties

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 town nestled between mountains and a large lake with several islands.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in South Island

voco Queenstown by IHG

voco Queenstown by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Our corner room had an amazing view of the mountains and gondola. The room was very comfortable and everything was very clean. I have to give a shoutout to the dining room hostess, Shaila, as her service was outstanding. She is clearly a hard worker and always greeted us each morning for breakfast, making us feel very welcome. The lobby of the hotel was beautifully decorated and the front wall of glass really gave us a great view outside."
Orville 3-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
voco Queenstown by IHG
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Very welcoming staff. Lovely evening meal even though we arrived not long before restaurant closed. Rooms clean and quiet. Lovely view to wake up to"
Richard 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG
Pinewood Queenstown

Pinewood Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Overall, it was fine, but the water temperature kept fluctuating between hot and cold while I was showering."
SHIN 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Pinewood Queenstown
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"I’ve booked this place a few times during my stay in Queenstown. Apartment is always clean, staff is friendly and helpful. My room had a big smart TV on an adjustable arm which is a bonus. I love the location, everything is a few minutes drive away."
Alice 7-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

8/10 Good
"Nice clean room. Helpful staff. Limited onsite parking."
Wayne 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch
LyLo Christchurch Airport

LyLo Christchurch Airport

8/10 Good
"Very close to the airport 6-7 min walk perfect for an early flight if you live outside of Chch."
Steph 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
LyLo Christchurch Airport
Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent
"Our stay at Kamana Lakehouse was absolutely incredible! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the breathtaking views, beautiful atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. What truly made our stay special was the amazing staff. Every staff member we encountered was genuinely warm, welcoming and incredibly helpful. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and their kindness and attention to detail made us feel so well looked after. They really went above and beyond to make our experience memorable. The property itself is stunning, with spectacular mountain and lake views, beautiful rooms and such a peaceful, luxurious atmosphere. It was the perfect place to relax after exploring Queenstown. We absolutely loved every moment of our stay and genuinely didn’t want to leave! Kamana Lakehouse was a highlight of our New Zealand holiday, and we cannot thank the wonderful staff enough for making it so special. We would return in a heartbeat and couldn’t recommend it more highly! ❤️"
Alana 6-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Kamana Lakehouse
Mi-pad Queenstown

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"It was a great stay. Being on a central location made the walk to the waterfront very accessible. Great amenities, a room full of board games, coffee machines and wonderful views from the deck!"
Priyankkumar 3-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Mi-pad Queenstown
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

8/10 Good
"."
Annaliese 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

More cheap accommodation in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka
NZ$123
26 Oct - 27 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (81 reviews)
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
NZ$124
19 Oct - 20 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
NZ$125
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (323 reviews)
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
NZ$135
27 Oct - 28 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Carnmore Hagley Park
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
NZ$175
21 Oct - 22 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
NZ$317
21 Oct - 22 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (125 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.