South Island Hotels from €63 - Fully Refundable Options

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

A lodge with a prominent mountain backdrop, a large entrance, and solar panels on the roof.

A bedroom with a wooden bed, a nightstand, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.

A building with a sloped roof and large windows, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and dense forest.

A hotel lobby with a reception desk, a dining area with a table and chairs, a lounge area with sofas, and a large wooden wall with a mounted deer head.

1. Alpine Lodge

St. Arnaud

andrew

€70

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

A balcony with a glass railing overlooking the sea, two pine trees, and a white table with chairs.

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a microwave, and a stove. There is a dining area with a table and chairs, and a view of trees through large windows.

An aerial view of a coastal town with a beach, residential buildings, and a mountainous backdrop.

A spacious living room with a large window, a sofa, a wooden table, and a television mounted on the wall.

2. Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments

Kaikoura

Rachel

€84

includes taxes & fees

28 Oct - 29 Oct

A rustic garden with a stone building, wooden benches, and a gravel path.

A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a large window with a view, and a mounted deer head on the wall.

A garden with a stone bench, a building with red windows, and a mountain in the background.

A bedroom with a wooden headboard, a small wooden stool, a hanging light fixture, and a window with blinds.

3. Cardrona Hotel

Cardrona

Pedro

€84

includes taxes & fees

3 Nov - 4 Nov

A hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a small table with chairs, and a view of the mountains through a large window.

A restaurant interior with multiple dining tables, chairs, pendant lighting, and large windows with decorative lattice.

A room with wooden walls, a black carpet, a bench with helmets, and bicycles mounted on the wall.

4. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Shreyas

€99

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A modern building with large windows and a stone pathway leading to it, situated on a pebbled beach with driftwood in the foreground.

A spacious lounge area with a stone fireplace, large windows offering ocean views, and comfortable seating arrangements.

A room with large windows overlooking a beach, a table with chairs, and a potted plant.

A coastal resort with beachfront villas, a road leading to the beach, and lush greenery.

5. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Punakaiki

Evan

€90

includes taxes & fees

27 Oct - 28 Oct

A modern dining area with a high ceiling, large windows, and a view of mountains and a lake.

A modern lounge area with a stone wall, a fireplace, sofas, and a bar with a bartender.

A bedroom with a large bed, a coffee tray, a chair, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern bathroom with a wooden bathtub, a wooden shelf with towels, and a view of mountains and a lake.

6. Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

Mingjun

€217

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

A modern hotel entrance with a stone facade, large potted plants, and a well-lit interior visible through the glass doors.

An aerial view of a hotel with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a covered patio area.

A stone structure with a rectangular opening, surrounded by greenery and a parking lot with cars.

A restaurant with a pool view, dark wooden tables, red patterned chairs, and a fire exit sign.

7. Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

Blenheim CBD

Tarek

€77

includes taxes & fees

24 Oct - 25 Oct

A swimming pool with a wooden deck, surrounded by a fenced area with a lawn and various shrubs.

A reception desk with a sign reading "ANDORRA".

A motel with a green roof, a central parking area, and well-maintained landscaping.

8. Andorra Motel

Geraldine

Jim

€90

includes taxes & fees

22 Oct - 23 Oct

An outdoor patio with wooden tables and chairs, umbrellas, and a view of the sunset over the ocean.

A reception desk at Ocean View Restaurant & Bar with a view of parked cars outside.

A modern room with large floor-to-ceiling windows offering a view of the ocean. There are two chairs and a small table in the room.

A hotel room with a large window offering a view of the beach and ocean.

9. Beachfront Hotel

Hokitika

Andrew

€80

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

A covered outdoor area with a gravel path leading to a wooden structure, surrounded by greenery and a mountainous backdrop.

A conference room with round tables, chairs, and a view of a garden through large windows.

A pool area with lounge chairs, a wooden deck, and a mountain backdrop.

An outdoor patio with tables and chairs, potted plants, and umbrellas.

10. Edit Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs

Sarah

€70

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A row of cabins with a mountain backdrop and a hot air balloon in the sky.

A bedroom with a large bed, a TV, a view of mountains, and a window with curtains.

A rustic lodge with a stone wall and a pond in front.

11. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Peter

€322

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A group of people seated on wicker furniture facing a lake with mountains in the background.

A hotel room with a large bed, a bedside table with a lamp, and a window with curtains.

A golf course with a pond, surrounded by buildings with dark roofs and a mountainous backdrop.

A rocky shoreline with a large tree and a smaller tree in the water, surrounded by mountains.

12. Edgewater

Wanaka

Sunny

€165

includes taxes & fees

30 Oct - 31 Oct

A riverside hotel with modern architecture, a walking path, and a view of mountains.

A modern outdoor seating area with a stone fire pit, overlooking a lake and mountains.

A modern hotel room with a stone fireplace, a sofa with red cushions, a desk with a chair, and a large window offering a scenic view.

An indoor swimming pool with a clear view of the pool area, a lounge with seating, and a stone wall in the background.

13. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Kawarau Falls

Kacie

€196

includes taxes & fees

31 Oct - 1 Nov

A hotel room with a large window, a bed, a chair, and a painting on the wall.

A hotel room with a wooden wall panel, a black bench, a small wooden cabinet with a microwave, and a coffee maker.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a balcony with a view of trees.

A buffet with various food options including fruits, cheeses, and meats.

14. Sudima Kaikoura

Kaikoura

Maree

€103

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A modern house with a covered patio, a stone pathway, and a view of mountains.

A stone fireplace with a fire, a wooden ceiling, and a view of lush greenery outside.

A modern lounge area with a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and large windows offering a view of greenery.

A spacious bar area with a high ceiling and skylights, a bar counter with stools, and a variety of bottles on shelves.

15. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier

Kelly

€109

includes taxes & fees

31 Oct - 1 Nov

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 compact kitchen with a dining table, chairs, a stove, and a microwave.

A row of modern cabins with large windows, a gravel driveway, and a fenced vineyard in the background.

16. Suncrest Villas

Cromwell

Willie

€101

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

A modern house with a glass door entrance, surrounded by lush greenery and a mountain in the background.

A hotel room with a sliding glass door, a bed with white linens, a bedside table with a lamp, and a view of the interior.

A reception area with a reception desk labeled "Waiyoto" and "Haast New Zealand," a reception counter, patterned chairs, a small table, and a mirror on the wall.

A river with a bridge, surrounded by mountains and dense forest.

17. Heartland Hotel Haast

Haast

jignesh

€72

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

A balcony with a table set for breakfast overlooking a mountain and lake.

A modern stone house with a stone facade, a sloped roof, and a view of mountains in the background.

A hotel with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a mountain backdrop.

A dining area with round tables, chairs, and a view of the sea through large windows.

18. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Queenstown

Mark

€138

includes taxes & fees

31 Oct - 1 Nov

A hotel room with a large window offering a view of a marina and mountains.

A hotel with a view of a marina, a grassy lawn, and a parking area.

A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a potted plant, a nightstand, and a view of a marina and mountains.

A dining table with a view of a marina and boats, set with plates of food, wine glasses, and cutlery.

19. Picton Beachcomber Inn

Picton

Graham

€70

includes taxes & fees

22 Oct - 23 Oct

A modern hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a large window with curtains.

A historic building with a classic architectural style, featuring multiple stories, large windows, and a prominent entrance.

A modern bathroom with a round mirror, a vanity with a marble countertop, and a blue bench.

A modern hotel room with a blue sofa, a matching armchair, a coffee table, a dining area with a small table and chairs, and a view of the city through large windows.

20. Fable Dunedin

Dunedin City Centre

Rebecca

€102

includes taxes & fees

23 Oct - 24 Oct

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Holiday Rentals in South Island

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 spacious living room with a large window overlooking a pool and mountains, a wooden dining table, and comfortable seating.

A clear view of a swimming pool with a glass barrier, wooden deck, and a backdrop of mountain ranges.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Mount Pisa

"Amazing place to stay!!"

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 modern living room with a fireplace, sofa, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

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.

Village Lake Apartments

Hanmer Springs

"lovely stay"

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 wooden pathway leading to four cylindrical structures with green supports, surrounded by rocks and plants.

SiloStay

Little River

"Great place to stay - very funky. would recommend "

Villa

Suncrest Villas

Cromwell

"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."

Aparthotel

A modern building with a flat roof, large windows, and a balcony.

A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.

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"

Aparthotel

A modern house with a glass facade, outdoor seating, and a view of the mountains.

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 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

Kaikoura Flat

"The room was excellent. Staff were very friendly and helpful"

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

Motueka

"Fantastic friendly host, lovely room, a great place to stay!"

Aparthotel

A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.

A picnic area with tables and chairs, a barbecue grill, and a small building with a sloped roof.

A boat docked at a rocky shore with mountains in the background.

A modern, well-lit living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a kitchen in the background.

Alpine Motel

Wanaka

"Comfortable rooms, good playground for the kids and just a short walk into town"

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 swimming pool with multiple lanes, a water park with slides, and a surrounding area with lounge chairs and umbrellas.

A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a staircase leading to a kitchen.

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"

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 living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a TV, a fireplace, and a sliding glass door to a balcony.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a view of the city, and a woven wall hanging.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Albert Town

"Good location"

Aparthotel

A modern hotel lobby with a wooden floor, an elevator, a reception desk, and a large forest mural on the wall.

A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains, a dining area, and a sliding door leading to another room.

A modern interior with hanging pendant lights, a rustic wall, and a decorative rope and deer head on the wall.

A modern reception area with a wooden floor, a grey sofa, a round mirror, and a plant arrangement.

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

Frankton

"Great location, views and room as described. Easy check-in and check-out and handy facilities."

Holiday Home

A living room with a large TV, a glass coffee table, a grey sofa, and a view of a mountain landscape through open doors.

A kitchen with a large island, stainless steel appliances, and a view of the outdoors.

A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and a fireplace.

Manata Lodge

Lower Shotover

"Lovely stay Very comfortable Great accommodation Peaceful setting Warm and welcoming"

Aparthotel

A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.

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.

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 multi-story hotel with balconies, a parking area, and a mountainous backdrop.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Cabin

A compact kitchen with a washing machine, microwave, and refrigerator.

A house surrounded by a well-maintained garden with various flowering plants and a lawn.

A log cabin interior with a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV mounted on the wall.

Central Chalets

Alexandra

"Excellent place to stay with the family. Comfortable chalet. The spa pool was a bonus!"

Apartment

A balcony with two wooden chairs and a small table, overlooking a calm lake with boats and mountains in the background.

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.

A row of townhouses with balconies, a gated entrance, and a clear blue sky.

Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa

"Was great place to stay"

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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 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.

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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 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 calm river with trees and grass on both sides.

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

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"Room was as expected but bathroom a bit too small. Bed was very comfortable and breakfast also great. Within walking distance to shops."

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

8/10 Good

"Great resting lodge. Close to waterfront. Cool Motel"

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Right in the centre of QT."

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Very friendly and helpful staff"

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

10/10 Excellent

"Great location and friendly staff"

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."

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."

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."

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"

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

€63

21 Oct - 22 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (323 reviews)

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

€70

26 Oct - 27 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (494 reviews)

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

€72

26 Oct - 27 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8/10 Very good! (81 reviews)

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

€110

26 Oct - 27 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.2/10 Very good! (779 reviews)

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

€112

22 Oct - 23 Oct

includes taxes & fees

9/10 Wonderful! (457 reviews)

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

€175

21 Oct - 22 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (125 reviews)

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

Stunning Scenery: South Island boasts breathtaking landscapes, from serene lakes to majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Adventure Activities: Experience thrilling pursuits like skiing at Roundhill Ski Area and a variety of water sports.
Charming Cities: Explore picturesque towns like Queenstown and Nelson, rich in culture and local attractions.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in rejuvenating hot springs, ideal for those seeking tranquillity and relaxation.
Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from charming hotels to luxury stays, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels near South Island

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options across South Island, New Zealand, from charming hotels to convenient motels. Ideal for adventurers, ski enthusiasts, and those seeking rejuvenation in hot springs, the region boasts a selection of the best hotels, complete with luxury amenities and excellent reviews. Whether you’re after a cosy retreat or an upscale experience, South Island has the perfect lodging to make your stay unforgettable.

The Godley Hotel: A 3-star retreat situated 11.3km from South Island, The Godley Hotel offers guests an adventure-themed experience with a distinctive hot springs focus. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for those seeking excitement, featuring nearby adventure sports such as downhill skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, snowboarding, and waterskiing. The on-site natural hot springs provide a soothing complement to the exhilarating activities, ensuring a balanced holiday. Ideal for adventure enthusiasts, The Godley Hotel invites you to unwind in nature while pursuing thrilling outdoor escapades.
Lakes Edge Holiday Park: With a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Lakes Edge Holiday Park stands as a budget-friendly option for eco-conscious travellers. Located 11.3km from South Island, this eco-certified holiday park promotes sustainability while providing comfortable lodging. Guests can enjoy a serene environment surrounded by nature, perfect for relaxation and exploration without compromising on environmental values. Whether you’re camping or opting for a cabin, Lakes Edge Holiday Park is a fantastic choice for those looking to connect with nature in an eco-friendly manner.
Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Offering a blend of comfort and adventure, Lake Tekapo Village Motel is a 3.5-star property rated 8.6 out of 10, located 11.3km from South Island. This motel features a hot springs theme, with natural hot springs available nearby for a rejuvenating experience. In addition, guests can easily access ski shuttles and lifts, making it an appealing option for winter sports enthusiasts. The welcoming atmosphere and convenient facilities make Lake Tekapo Village Motel a splendid choice for those wanting to enjoy both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a paradise for travellers seeking stunning scenery and romantic getaways. Explore charming cities like Queenstown, known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities, or the picturesque harbours of Nelson. With friendly locals and a family-friendly atmosphere, you'll find plenty of attractions, from serene lakes to majestic mountains. Whether you're enjoying a sunset by the coast or indulging in local cuisine, South Island offers an unforgettable experience for every type of visitor.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11.3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a charming suburb renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences. With a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, peak times are often in April and during the festive months of December to January. Travellers flock to this picturesque locale for its stunning lakeside views, romantic ambience, and numerous recreational activities. Highlights include the stunning Lake Tekapo, the expansive national state park, and the majestic mountains that surround the area, making it perfect for hiking, stargazing, and relaxation. The local shopping area and wellness centres also provide opportunities for indulging in body treatments.
Tekapo: Located a mere 12.9km from South Island, Tekapo shares a similar allure with its neighbouring suburb. This delightful area attracts visitors year-round, with the highest numbers seen from November to January. Known for its outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, Tekapo offers a romantic escape for couples and families alike. With easy access to recreational areas and shopping spots, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the lake, explore the national state park, and take in the impressive mountain views. The charm of Tekapo lies in its ability to offer both adventure and tranquillity.
Mount Dobson: Situated about 16.1km from South Island, Mount Dobson is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of stunning vistas. Visitor numbers peak in March and during the festive season of December to January, providing ample opportunities for skiing and other winter sports. This suburb is particularly popular for its ski fields, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned skiers and novices. Nearby attractions include serene lakes, a cultural centre, and the expansive national state park, ensuring a well-rounded experience for those seeking adventure and culture in one trip.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

In Christchurch, visit The Colombo for unique shops and local artisan products. If you're in Dunedin, the Meridian Mall offers a variety of retail options. For a more eclectic experience, check out the Otago Farmers Market for handmade crafts and regional delicacies.

Recreation

Experience the serene surroundings of Lake Tekapo Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural mineral pools while admiring the stunning alpine landscape. For relaxation, indulge in spa treatments that utilise local ingredients, enhancing your wellness journey with a touch of nature's beauty.

At Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, immerse yourself in a holistic experience combining yoga, nutritious cuisine, and guided hikes through breathtaking scenery. Engage in mindful practices designed to rejuvenate both body and spirit in a tranquil and inspiring environment.

Visit the stunning Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools, where you can relax in thermal baths surrounded by lush scenery. Complement your visit with a massage or treatment at the spa, providing a perfect balance of relaxation and rejuvenation in a picturesque setting.

Discover the tranquil surroundings of the Sounds Wellness Retreat, offering yoga sessions and meditation amidst stunning landscapes. Enjoy wholesome meals made from local produce, enhancing your wellness experience while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds.

Adventure

Explore Queenstown for thrilling activities like bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge, or take a jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons. Experience the stunning scenery while hiking the Ben Lomond Track, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wakatipu.

Nightlife

In Queenstown, Fergburger’s lively atmosphere and late-night bites attract night owls, while the Ice Bar offers a unique experience with its frozen décor. Christchurch's The Piano provides a more relaxed vibe, showcasing live music in an intimate setting, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

*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 trip to South Island, consider visiting in June or August to September, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a hotel about one month in advance can yield better rates, especially on Saturdays, while Mondays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and compare prices. Look for last-minute deals and consider package bookings that combine hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings. Exploring free attractions and utilising the affordable public transport system can further enhance your budget-friendly experience.

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 preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your hotel reservations on the South Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking stunning scenery and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore picturesque lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and charming churches, catering to those interested in culture and nature. Whether you're looking for adventure or a tranquil escape, South Island offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences to make your holiday unforgettable.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled amidst stunning alpine scenery, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters and picturesque beaches. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline, indulge in romantic picnics, or simply soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
Tekapo Springs: A sanctuary of wellness, Tekapo Springs offers rejuvenating hot springs set against a stunning backdrop. The outdoor pools provide a tranquil environment for relaxation, while the spa treatments and wellness amenities enhance the experience, allowing visitors to unwind amidst nature's beauty.
Church of the Good Shepherd: This charming church stands as a testament to the region's culture, with its unique stone architecture and stunning views of Lake Tekapo. A visit offers a moment of reflection and appreciation for the area's rich heritage, as well as an opportunity to capture beautiful photographs.

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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island

Flying into South Island, New Zealand, offers three major airports: Blenheim (BHE-Woodbourne), Christchurch (CHC-Christchurch Intl.), and Queenstown (ZQN-Queenstown Intl.). Blenheim Airport is approximately 383.0km from the island, with nearby hotels like Vintner's Retreat and The Marlborough offering various transport services. Christchurch Airport is about 170.6km away, with the Novotel Christchurch Airport being a prime choice just 322m from the terminal. Queenstown Airport, located 186.7km from South Island, features excellent accommodations such as Stoneridge Estate and Kamana Lakehouse, both ensuring easy access to the airport. Each location provides convenient access to stunning landscapes and attractions throughout the region.

South Island Hotels

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. Alpine Lodge

2. Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments

3. Cardrona Hotel

4. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

5. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

6. Kamana Lakehouse

7. Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

8. Andorra Motel

9. Beachfront Hotel

10. Edit Hanmer Springs

11. Millbrook Resort

12. Edgewater

13. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

14. Sudima Kaikoura

15. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

16. Suncrest Villas

17. Heartland Hotel Haast

18. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

19. Picton Beachcomber Inn

20. Fable Dunedin

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Lake Resort by Marsden

Village Lake Apartments

SiloStay

Suncrest Villas

Central Park Apartments

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

Avalon Manor Motel

Alpine Motel

Hanmer Apartments

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

Manata Lodge

Quest Queenstown

Central Chalets

Akaroa Village Inn

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Lyttelton Harbour

Sumner Beach

Hagley Park

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

Mi-pad Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Bealey Quarter

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Carnmore Hagley Park

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

Find great hotels near South Island

Where to stay near South Island

Things to do in South Island

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

Find the best attractions near South Island

Best time to go to South Island

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island