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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 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
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 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$478
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 building with a covered outdoor area, a car parked in front, and a starry night sky.
A modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains through a glass door.

3. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
United States
Robyn
NZ$168
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
A modern building with multiple windows and a staircase leading to an upper level.
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.
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$659
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.
A multi-story building with balconies, a covered entrance, and a parking area.
A view from a balcony overlooking a lake with mountains in the background.
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.

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 couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.
A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.

6. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
NZ$219
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
The Godley Hotel
A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.
A modern bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a sliding glass door to the outdoors, and a mounted TV.
A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.
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
Suresh
NZ$938
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 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 playground with swings and a slide, a gravel area, and a lake with mountains in the background.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Dominic
NZ$621
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Mantra Lake Tekapo
Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.
A modern building with a wooden facade and metal roof, situated by a body of water with mountains in the background.
A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains through a balcony, and a table with chairs outside.
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 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.
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a dining table with chairs, and a view of mountains through large windows.

10. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Mount Cook
United States
Jurgen
NZ$329
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 modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.
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 row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.

11. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
David
NZ$838
includes taxes & fees
24 Oct - 25 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 bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white vanity with a mirror, and a towel rack with two towels.

12. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
Woolshed Suites
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.

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 bed with a quilted mattress, pillows, and a wooden headboard.
A modern living room with a sofa, a wooden table, and a TV on a stand.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a fireplace.

14. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Natasha
NZ$209
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Mackenzie Motels
A neatly made bed with a dark headboard, two bedside lamps, and a window with curtains.
A room with two beds, a sofa, a coffee table, a desk, and a wall-mounted lamp.
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
20 Oct - 21 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
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.

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 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.
A dining table with breakfast items and a view of mountains and a lake.

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 balcony with a table and chairs, overlooking a mountainous landscape with houses.
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 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
Villa
Exterior
A compact kitchen with a dining table, chairs, a stove, and a microwave.
A neatly made bed with a dark blue bedspread and pillows, two bedside lamps, a window with a dark blind, and a small wooden nightstand.
A modern building with a gravel driveway and a speed limit sign.

Suncrest Villas

Suncrest Villas
Cromwell
"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."
Suncrest Villas
Aparthotel
A modern building with a flat roof, large windows, and a balcony.
A modern building with a glass balcony overlooking a parking area and a mountainous landscape.
A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.
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
Aparthotel
A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.
A multi-story hotel with balconies, a parking area, and a mountainous backdrop.
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 modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and chairs, a kitchen area with appliances, and a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a mountain view.

Quest Queenstown

Quest Queenstown
Frankton
"Great place to stay"
Quest Queenstown
Aparthotel
A modern house with a glass facade, outdoor seating, and a view of the mountains.
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.
A serene park with a gazebo, a pond, and a mountain backdrop.
A modern building with a sign that reads "THE FAIRWAYS accommodation."

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura
Kaikoura Flat
"The room was excellent. Staff were very friendly and helpful"
The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura
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 modern living room with a fireplace, blue sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a large window offering a scenic 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.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Avani Queenstown Hotel
Queenstown
"Great spot , beautiful rooms"
Avani Queenstown Hotel
Apartment
A balcony with two wooden chairs and a small table, overlooking a calm lake with boats and mountains in the background.
A gated entrance with a clear view of the sky and trees.
A round wooden table with a woven centerpiece, positioned by a window overlooking a marina with boats and mountains.
A bedroom with a bed, a window, and a door.

Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa Village Inn
Akaroa
"Was great place to stay"
Akaroa Village Inn
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 large bed, a sofa, a television, and a balcony with a view of the outdoors.
A two-story building with balconies, large windows, and a paved courtyard.
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 building with outdoor seating and blue lights.
A modern building with a sign listing amenities like affordable luxury apartments, a conference center, and a licensed restaurant.
A reception desk at Brinkley Resort with a map, brochures, and a framed fern decoration.
A modern living room with a flat-screen TV, a sofa, and a dining area with a table and chairs.

Brinkley Resort

Brinkley Resort
Methven
"Great place to stay, "
Brinkley Resort
Apartment
A hotel with a stone facade, multiple windows, and a parking area.
An outdoor patio with a glass table and metal chairs, surrounded by a well-maintained garden and a view of mountains.
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.

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 large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.
A modern living room with a black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.
A modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A balcony with a table set for breakfast, overlooking a road and a lake with mountains in the background.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Awesome, will stay here again!"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Chalet
A scenic outdoor area with a gravel path, wooden posts, and a rope barrier.
A kitchen with a coffee machine, toaster, and wooden shelves with kitchen utensils.
A hot tub with a clear view of the surrounding landscape, including trees and a distant mountain range.
A bedroom with a large window offering a view of mountains and greenery.

Hanmer Glamping

Hanmer Glamping
Hanmer Springs
"Beautiful, peaceful and worth every cent. We had a wonderful stay at Hanmer Glamping and would happily book again. The dome was beautifully decorated, with lovely touches throughout that made it feel really special rather than just a place to sleep. It was also much more spacious than we expected, so we had plenty of room to spread out and unwind. The highlight was waking up to the mountain views each morning. It's so peaceful out there, and we had complete privacy for our whole stay, which...
Hanmer Glamping
Aparthotel
A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
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.
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
"Best stay"
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
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 garden with various plants and flowers, a pathway, and a building with a sign indicating 'Apartment 1B'.

March Apartments

March Apartments
Wakari
"Excellent place to stay."
March 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

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Very friendly and helpful staff"
Franz 1-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

10/10 Excellent
"Great location and friendly staff"
Jennifer 2-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
Bealey Quarter

Bealey Quarter

8/10 Good
"Restaurant had amazing food and friendly staff, room was clean and had everything we needed. Pool tables available is a huge bonus, (annoying how it takes $2 a game). Courtyard area is peaceful with plenty of seating dining and hammocks."
Ollie 2-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
Bealey Quarter
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

8/10 Good
"X"
John 1-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"Our room was very comfortable and the entire hotel was very clean. The building itself is very modern and looks almost brand new. We really liked the attached restaurant/bar as well. We received excellent and helpful service at both the hotel and the restaurant. For us, the location worked very well and allowed us to walk to many areas for shopping, dining and even the Botanical Gardens. The city itself is beautiful with many artistic features and murals, stunning architecture and beautiful gardens."
Orville 2-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch
Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

8/10 Good
"Great hotel nice big rooms but dated. Balcony was water logged so had to enjoy the fantastic view from the room."
Catherine 4-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview
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 2 days 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 2 days ago
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG
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 4 days ago
LyLo Christchurch Airport

More cheap accommodation in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka
NZ$119
8 Nov - 9 Nov
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (81 reviews)
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
NZ$125
20 Oct - 21 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (323 reviews)
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
NZ$133
21 Oct - 22 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
NZ$134
27 Oct - 28 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (494 reviews)
Carnmore Hagley Park
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
NZ$168
20 Oct - 21 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (454 reviews)
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
NZ$329
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.