South Island Hotels from €27 - 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 rustic garden with a stone building, wooden benches, and a gravel path.

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

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

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

1. Cardrona Hotel

Cardrona

Justin

€83

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A bedroom with a bed, a window, and a bathroom with a sink.

A bar area with wooden tables and chairs, antler decorations on the ceiling, and a bar counter with various bottles.

A hotel dining area with round tables and pink chairs, a jukebox, and a large window.

2. Hotel Hari Hari

Hari Hari

€27

includes taxes & fees

30 Sept - 1 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 covered outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, overlooking a beach and ocean.

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

3. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Punakaiki

Karen

€72

includes taxes & fees

30 Sept - 1 Oct

A modern balcony with a glass railing, a potted plant, and a sofa.

A room with a view of the ocean, a wooden deck, and a table with a flower vase.

A coastal town with a prominent building featuring large windows and a flat roof, situated near a body of water with boats and trees.

4. Sudima Kaikoura

Kaikoura

Maree

€113

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

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

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

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

5. Edgewater

Wanaka

Drew

€189

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, two blue armchairs, a round table with a vase, and a ceiling with hanging plants.

A modern restaurant with high ceilings, large windows, and a variety of seating arrangements including tables and chairs.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, and a glass partition.

A modern hotel with a prominent 'NOVOTEL' sign, featuring a sleek, contemporary design with large windows and a structured facade.

6. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

jignesh

€165

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A modern hotel with a glass facade, parking lot, and a mountainous backdrop.

A couple embracing on a boat with a cityscape in the background.

A couple walking along a lakeside path with mountains in the background.

7. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Frankton

Jason and Josephine

€120

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 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.

8. Andorra Motel

Geraldine

Jim

€91

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

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

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

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

9. Beachfront Hotel

Hokitika

Andrew

€79

includes taxes & fees

8 Oct - 9 Oct

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

A marina with boats, a grassy area, and a building with balconies.

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.

10. Picton Beachcomber Inn

Picton

Prabodini

€63

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

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

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

11. Alpine Lodge

St. Arnaud

Karen

€70

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

A two-story building with a sign reading "The Boathouse Lodge" and amenities listed such as family rooms, shared dorms, private rooms, in-room bike storage, and free breakfast.

A bedroom with a bed, a hanging plant, and a window.

A hotel hallway with a staircase, a blue exit door, a plant, and a painting on the wall.

A kitchen with a stove, oven, and various kitchen utensils on the wall.

12. The Boathouse Lodge

Picton

Luciano

€43

includes taxes & fees

7 Oct - 8 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 spacious restaurant with high ceilings, exposed beams, and a central bar area.

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

13. Heartland Hotel Haast

Haast

jignesh

€67

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

A modern hotel entrance with a glass facade, a wooden ceiling, and a visible outdoor area.

A modern restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, a bar area, and shelves with dishes.

A cozy room with a white sofa, a grey chair, wooden wall panels, and a glass cabinet with items on top.

A modern reception area with a wooden reception desk, seating area with a curved bench, and a reception counter.

14. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Amitkumar

€125

includes taxes & fees

10 Oct - 11 Oct

A terrace with white bar stools and tables overlooking a mountainous landscape and a body of water.

A modern interior with wicker furniture, a round table, and a large TV screen on the wall.

A modern lounge area with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a large window offering a scenic view.

A building with a sign reading "mi-pad" in front of a mountain range.

15. Mi-pad Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Luke

€122

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A couple dining at an outdoor restaurant with a view of a modern building and lush greenery in the background.

A modern hotel room with a dining area, kitchenette, and a large TV.

A bartender pouring a drink into a martini glass at a bar with a variety of liquor bottles in the background.

A modern kitchen with a stainless steel sink, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a view of the garden through large windows.

16. Commodore Airport Hotel

Burnside

Faye

€150

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A modern motel with a sign indicating it is the Airport Palms Motel.

A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a built-in oven, and a coffee maker. There is a dining area with a black table and chairs, and a vase with flowers on the table.

A street view of a motel with two-story buildings, a clear directional arrow on the road, and a sign indicating the entrance to the Airport Palms Motel.

A living room with a sofa, a chair, a dining table, and a lamp.

17. Airport Palms Motel

Burnside

Michelle

€104

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

A modern interior with stone walls, a wooden ceiling, and large windows offering mountain views.

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.

18. Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

Mingjun

€196

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A room with a bed, a wooden headboard, a small table with chairs, a view of the outdoors through large windows, and a wall-mounted light fixture.

A building with a garage door, a bicycle rack with multiple bicycles, and a stack of firewood.

A restaurant interior with wooden tables and bar stools, hanging light bulbs, and potted plants.

19. Sherwood Queenstown

Queenstown

Ben

€94

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

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

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

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

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

20. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Queenstown

Casey

€127

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 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 spacious living room with a large window overlooking a pool and mountains, a wooden dining table, and comfortable seating.

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

Mount Pisa

"We had a beautiful view of the mountains and the lake below our room. The staff was friendly and helpful."

Aparthotel

A swimming pool with a stone accent wall, a hot tub, and a patio area with chairs and an umbrella.

A living room with a stone fireplace, red sofas, and a wooden coffee table.

A swimming pool with a stone surround, lounge chairs, and a view of mountains.

A modern two-story house with a stone foundation, large windows, and a prominent chimney.

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Wanaka

"Great location"

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 two sofas, a coffee table, and a kitchen in the background.

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

Village Lake Apartments

Hanmer Springs

"Super friendly staff, apartment was beautiful and clean with a gorgeous view."

Camping

A bedroom with a large window, a wooden ceiling, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, a round table with a chair, and a bench with cushions.

Two modern cabins with large windows and wooden decks, set in a field of purple flowers.

A modern bedroom with a large window, a bed, a TV, and a hot tub on a wooden deck overlooking a lake and mountains.

The Huts at Lakes Edge

Lake Tekapo

"New Build Accommodation. Nice and warm. Amazing views of Lake Tekapo. Great facilities. No easy parking outside of unit."

Aparthotel

A modern building complex with a central courtyard, surrounded by mountains.

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

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

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

A modern living room with a stone wall, a fireplace, a television, a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of a mountain and buildings through large windows.

A 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 hotel room with a large bed, a TV, a balcony with a view of mountains, and a dining area with chairs and a table.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Holiday Home

A building named 'Skyrim Lodge' on Jimmy's Lane with a starry night sky.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.

A modern living space with a dining area, sofa set, kitchen, and built-in appliances.

A modern kitchen with a grey door, black cabinets, a white countertop, and a built-in oven.

Skyrim Lodge

Lake Tekapo

"Great stay. The room was very clean, comfortable and well equipped, with a great location. Perfect for a short stay and I would happily stay again."

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

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 "

Cottage

A bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a view of mountains, and a sliding glass door.

A compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, oven, and microwave shelf.

A compact kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. There is a dining table with chairs and a black leather chair.

A wooden deck with a bench, overlooking a valley with mountains in the background.

Shotover Country Cottages

Lower Shotover

"The accommodation was in good location views were great, just outside the hustle and Brussel of Queenstown was only a fifteen minute drive.Supermarket etc only a 5 minute drive"

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 hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a lake and mountains.

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

"The staff were very friendly and helpful we would definitely stay there again"

Villa

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

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

Cromwell

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

Aparthotel

A multi-story hotel with outdoor seating areas and a well-maintained lawn.

A reception area with a reception desk, a phone, and a sign indicating after hours phone availability.

A modern hotel room with a flat-screen TV, a dining area with a table and chairs, a sofa, and a large window offering a mountain view.

A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand, a window with a view, and a ceiling light.

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Wanaka

"Staff and location was great."

Aparthotel

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

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

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

Alpine Motel

Wanaka

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

Aparthotel

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

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

A modern building with a glass balcony overlooking a parking area and a mountainous landscape.

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"

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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 fountain with three swans and water spouting from the top.

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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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

Lake Pukaki

9.6/10 (937 reviews)

Be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook as you hike, drive or ride through this incredibly picturesque landscape.

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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

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

10/10 Excellent

"Studio was great and well equipped. Location is perfect for walking into Queenstown. All staff are friendly and welcoming"

The Godley Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"😆"

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

8/10 Good

"property was central to everything. nice and tidy. washing and drying machine were a big help. room serviced everyday."

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"Best location, clean and affordable."

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent

"Amazing views for breakfast and even had a wee view from our room that I wasnt expecting"

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

10/10 Excellent

"Very good location"

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Great location, clean rooms, and nice amenities. Location was perfect but also the rooftop and free coffee made it better."

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Beautiful location with plenty of nice hangout spaces and a fire in the reception area as well as in the bar/ restaurant. The lake with snowcapped mountains in the background is a stunning backdrop. The breakfast was exceptional but dinner not as much. We got a family suite with 2 bedrooms, a living area, and kitchen and it was just right. Hot tub wasn't very hot and was right under a very bright neon light- so not a great atmosphere there. But otherwise we really enjoyed this hotel. Maybe a bit expensive for what it is and parking was $15/ day, but would definitely consider staying again"

Pinewood Queenstown

8/10 Good

"Small but neat and fine for one night. Easy to walk into Queenstown & bed comfortable. Pretty small room & tiny shared toilet downstairs and tiny shared shower outside our room upstairs but price was good for Queenstown so all good."

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

€47

18 Oct - 19 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

€62

6 Oct - 7 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

€65

27 Oct - 28 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

€105

16 Oct - 17 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

€108

6 Oct - 7 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

€173

20 Oct - 21 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (121 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. Cardrona Hotel

2. Hotel Hari Hari

3. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

4. Sudima Kaikoura

5. Edgewater

6. Novotel Christchurch Airport

7. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

8. Andorra Motel

9. Beachfront Hotel

10. Picton Beachcomber Inn

11. Alpine Lodge

12. The Boathouse Lodge

13. Heartland Hotel Haast

14. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

15. Mi-pad Queenstown

16. Commodore Airport Hotel

17. Airport Palms Motel

18. Kamana Lakehouse

19. Sherwood Queenstown

20. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Lake Resort by Marsden

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Village Lake Apartments

The Huts at Lakes Edge

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Quest Queenstown

Skyrim Lodge

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

SiloStay

Shotover Country Cottages

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Suncrest Villas

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Alpine Motel

Central Park Apartments

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Lyttelton Harbour

Hagley Park

Lake Pukaki

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

The Godley Hotel

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Kamana Lakehouse

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Mi-pad Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Pinewood Queenstown

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Carnmore Hagley Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

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