South Island Hotels from €63 - Fully Refundable Options

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Go beyond your typical stay in South Island

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

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.

A modern kitchen with a large island, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a view of the sea through large windows.

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

1. Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments

Kaikoura

Rachel

€77

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 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 coastal resort with beachfront villas, a road leading to the beach, and lush greenery.

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

A covered outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, overlooking a beach and ocean.

2. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Punakaiki

Huafang

€89

includes taxes & fees

27 Oct - 28 Oct

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

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

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 spacious dining area with multiple tables and chairs, large windows with a view, and a high ceiling with exposed beams.

3. Beachfront Hotel

Hokitika

Andrew

€79

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

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

A view from a window overlooking a natural landscape with a forested hill and a body of water.

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.

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

4. Alpine Lodge

St. Arnaud

andrew

€70

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 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 bedroom with a wooden headboard, a small wooden stool, a hanging light fixture, and a window with blinds.

A rustic cabin with stone walls, a metal roof, and wooden deck seating.

5. Cardrona Hotel

Cardrona

Andy

€83

includes taxes & fees

10 Nov - 11 Nov

A modern hotel with a two-story structure, outdoor seating with umbrellas, and a clear sky.

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, a building with large windows, and a view of a hilly landscape.

A modern hotel entrance with a sign reading 'Sudima Hotels'.

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

6. Sudima Kaikoura

Kaikoura

Maree

€102

includes taxes & fees

28 Oct - 29 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.

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

A modern living room with large windows, a fireplace, and a view of a lake.

7. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Kawarau Falls

Kacie

€195

includes taxes & fees

31 Oct - 1 Nov

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

A large, two-story building with a beige facade, multiple arched windows, and a central entrance with steps.

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

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

8. Edit Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs

Natalie

€77

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A modern building entrance with a glass door, a small outdoor seating area with metal chairs, and a gravel pathway.

A bedroom with a bed, a desk, and a chair. There is a door leading to a balcony.

A hotel entrance with a reception desk, a glass door, and a welcome sign.

9. Andorra Motel

Geraldine

Jim

€87

includes taxes & fees

15 Oct - 16 Oct

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

Two people toasting with drinks at an outdoor table with a view of parked cars and a building in the background.

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

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

10. Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

Blenheim CBD

Wendy

€72

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

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

A spacious living area with leather sofas, a wooden coffee table, and framed artwork on the walls.

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

11. Edgewater

Wanaka

Sunny

€190

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

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

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

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

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a computer, a chair, a small table, and a large window with a view of greenery.

12. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier

Kelly

€113

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

A modern building with a gravel driveway and a speed limit sign.

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.

13. Suncrest Villas

Cromwell

Willie

€100

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

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

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

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

A spacious balcony with a dining area, a sofa, and a grill, overlooking a mountainous landscape.

14. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Peter

€310

includes taxes & fees

27 Oct - 28 Oct

A room with a sofa, armchair, and a table with a lamp.

A hot tub with a mountain view, a table with a bottle of champagne, and wicker chairs.

A modern house with a patio, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and mountains in the background.

A modern two-story building with large windows and a flat roof, situated in a grassy field with mountains in the background.

15. Braemar Lodge And Spa

Hanmer Springs

Tracy

€137

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

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

A hotel room with a large window offering a mountain view.

A modern lobby with seating areas, a reception desk, and a wall with a unique pattern.

16. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Charmaine

€99

includes taxes & fees

19 Oct - 20 Oct

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

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

A conference room with a long table, chairs, and a view of mountains and water.

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

17. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Queenstown

Mark

€147

includes taxes & fees

30 Oct - 31 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 three-tiered dessert display on a round table with a woven coaster, accompanied by two glasses of white wine.

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

18. Fable Dunedin

Dunedin City Centre

Rebecca

€101

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

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

19. Picton Beachcomber Inn

Picton

Nicky

€63

includes taxes & fees

16 Oct - 17 Oct

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

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 spacious restaurant with high ceilings, exposed beams, and a central bar area.

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.

20. Heartland Hotel Haast

Haast

jignesh

€71

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

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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!!"

Villa

Suncrest Villas

Cromwell

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

Aparthotel

A modern building with a large patio area, a mountain in the background, and a body of water in the foreground.

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.

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 person at a table with a view of mountains and a body of water.

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

"This was beautiful place that was walkable to the cafes and lake!"

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 kitchen with a stainless steel countertop, a kettle, a toaster, and a wooden shelf with kitchenware.

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.

SiloStay

Little River

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

Aparthotel

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

A modern building with a sign for 'Central Park Apartments'.

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 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"

Aparthotel

A building with a red roof and large windows, featuring a gravel driveway and trees in the background.

A room with a wooden table and chairs, a leather sofa, and a view through a glass door to an outdoor area with a patio and a fence.

A compact kitchen with a built-in oven, microwave, and a window overlooking a wooden deck.

Pinewood Motels

Fairlie

"Nice and clean and friendly staff at check in ."

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 kitchen with white cabinetry, a dining area with a white table and chairs, and a view of a backyard through large sliding glass doors.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Albert Town

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 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

Wanaka

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

Holiday Home

A modern living room with a glass table, a sofa, and a view of the ocean.

A beach with a natural rock arch formation.

A modern bedroom with a large window overlooking a garden and the sea, a bed, a seating area with a TV, and a small table.

A cluster of modern houses with outdoor seating areas, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

Adrift In Golden Bay

Parapara

"friendly personal service, location, spotless unit"

Cabin

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.

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

Central Chalets

Alexandra

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

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

Frankton

"Fantastic spot, beautiful views and close access to public transport too. Rooms were very nice and pristine. Had a great stay and thank you 🙌"

Aparthotel

A modern room with a large window overlooking a marina and hills.

A modern room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, furnished with a sofa, table, and chairs.

An indoor swimming pool with large windows offering views of mountains and a lake.

A modern outdoor hot tub area with a view of a lake and mountains.

Marina Terrace Apartments

Wanaka

"Unobstructed view of the lake and a very easy 5 minute walk to the CBD"

Aparthotel

A modern living room with two grey sofas, a coffee table with a vase of flowers, and a kitchen in the background.

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 balcony with a table set for breakfast, overlooking a road and a lake with mountains in the background.

A modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Queenstown

"Awesome, will stay here again!"

Cottage

A rustic building with a red roof, a covered porch, and a gravel pathway leading to a wooden door.

A dining area with a table, chairs, and a window overlooking a well-maintained garden.

A garden with a pergola, green chairs, and a red-roofed building.

A bedroom with a large bed, a window with curtains, a radiator, and a television on a shelf.

Burn Cottage Retreat

Cromwell

"Lovely hosts and the cottage was well appointed. Plenty of nice touches to make our stay special. "

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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 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.

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

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

8/10 Good

"Very friendly staff. Great location for ski fields and lots of shops around. Easy access to QT and Arrowtown. Aviods QT traffic."

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

8/10 Good

"."

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

8/10 Good

"."

Airport Gateway Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"Friendly and helful"

Bealey Quarter

10/10 Excellent

"Very clean and comfortable and affordable and peaceful ."

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Loved the sticked mini bar and the view of the mountains, The room service pizza was burnt."

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"G"

Pinewood Queenstown

8/10 Good

"We had a pleasant stay. The room was clean and comfortable, and the Filipina staff member who assisted us was very kind, friendly, and helpful. The parking area was also well-organised and convenient. Overall, we had a good experience and would recommend this place to other travellers. Thank you for the great service!"

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

10/10 Excellent

"Stunning property, lake views were phenomenal! Family room was spacious and very well appointed, super comfy beds and cleaned beautifully. A little further out of town but still close enough to walk, worth it for the views! Would definitely stay here again."

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

€63

14 Oct - 15 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (322 reviews)

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

€65

26 Oct - 27 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (80 reviews)

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

€69

18 Oct - 19 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (492 reviews)

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

€69

19 Oct - 20 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

€86

15 Oct - 16 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

€174

21 Oct - 22 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (122 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. Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments

2. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

3. Beachfront Hotel

4. Alpine Lodge

5. Cardrona Hotel

6. Sudima Kaikoura

7. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

8. Edit Hanmer Springs

9. Andorra Motel

10. Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

11. Edgewater

12. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

13. Suncrest Villas

14. Millbrook Resort

15. Braemar Lodge And Spa

16. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

17. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

18. Fable Dunedin

19. Picton Beachcomber Inn

20. Heartland Hotel Haast

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Lake Resort by Marsden

Suncrest Villas

Peppers Bluewater Resort

SiloStay

Central Park Apartments

Quest Queenstown

Pinewood Motels

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Alpine Motel

Adrift In Golden Bay

Central Chalets

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Marina Terrace Apartments

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Burn Cottage Retreat

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Sumner Beach

Lyttelton Harbour

Hagley Park

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Airport Gateway Christchurch

Bealey Quarter

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Pinewood Queenstown

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Carnmore Hagley Park

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