South Island Holidays

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Where to stay in South Island

Find the best South Island areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about South Island
Queenstown Beach which includes skydiving, a lake or waterhole and a small town or village

Queenstown City Centre

The panoramic lake views and popular shops are just a few highlights of Queenstown City Centre. Make a stop by Skycity Queenstown Casino or Queenstown Mall while you're exploring the area.

Find hotels in Queenstown City Centre

Things to do near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking scenic getaways. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including leisurely strolls in breathtaking landscapes, exhilarating ski adventures, and thrilling safari holidays. For those keen on exploration, drive tours offer stunning views and access to recreational areas, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and relaxation alike.

Shopping

In Christchurch, visit the Westfield Riccarton, home to a variety of shops and eateries. For unique souvenirs, head to the Arts Centre, where local artisans showcase their crafts. Don't miss the vibrant Queenstown Mall, offering boutique stores and delightful cafés amidst stunning scenery.

Recreation

The Dark Sky Project offers a unique stargazing experience at its planetarium observatory, perfect for families and entertainment seekers. Meanwhile, Lake Tekapō Regional Park provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and wellness, while The Cairns Golf Course invites outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy its scenic landscapes and sports activities.

Adventure

Embark on the Cowans Hill Walkway for a scenic hike, immersing yourself in the stunning outdoors. Experience exhilarating skiing at Roundhill Ski Area, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Explore the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead for an adventurous trek surrounded by nature's beauty.

Nightlife

For an exciting nightlife experience in South Island, visit Christchurch's vibrant bars in the CBD, and explore Dunedin's lively octagon filled with pubs and live music. Queenstown offers a buzzing atmosphere with its late-night clubs and stunning lakeside views, perfect for an unforgettable evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore picturesque lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and historical churches, making it ideal for those seeking cultural and romantic experiences. Whether you're hiking through stunning landscapes or relaxing in natural springs, South Island promises memorable moments for every traveller. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this beautiful region's charm and allure.

  • Sheepdog Statue: Located 11.3km from South Island, this statue pays homage to the hardworking sheepdogs of New Zealand. Emanating cultural vibes, it offers a unique glimpse into the country’s pastoral heritage and is a great spot for photography and appreciation of the local history.
  • Lake Tekapo: Only 3.2km away, Lake Tekapo captivates visitors with its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery. Ideal for outdoor activities, romantic strolls, and beach relaxation, the lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a picture-perfect destination.
  • Tekapo Springs: Situated 11.3km from South Island, this hot spring offers a serene escape with its outdoor thermal pools. Renowned for wellness and relaxation, Tekapo Springs is perfect for unwinding while enjoying the spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June46.8°F (8.200000000000001°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to South Island

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to South Island.
  • Consider traveling to South Island during the low season (June and August to September) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Top hotels in South Island

Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

4.5 out of 5
139 Fernhill Road Queenstown
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €228 per night from 28 Jan to 29 Jan
€228
28 Jan - 29 Jan
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (556 reviews)
The staffs were very helpful and efficient. We loved the Soaking tubs. Comfortable beds and we could see the sun rise from our room.

Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026

Kamana Lakehouse
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

4 out of 5
24 Frankton Road Queenstown
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €189 per night from 29 Jan to 30 Jan
€189
29 Jan - 30 Jan
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,004 reviews)
Very clean and well equipped room. The staff were very friendly and helpful

Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

4 out of 5
16 - 18 Mountain Ash Drive Queenstown
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €173 per night from 29 Jan to 30 Jan
€173
29 Jan - 30 Jan
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,411 reviews)
This was a great stay with fantastix views. The hotel could benifit from a resturant but the reception was well stocked with things that could be prepared in your room. Shops were around 30 mims walk away. Stuidos have every thing to cook and prepare food. They have the added bonus of a wadhing nachine ...

Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
See all 7,417 properties in South Island
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Mount Cook National Park featuring mountains, snow and tranquil scenes

Mount Cook National Park

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.

Mount Cook National Park
Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand

Milford Sound

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.

Milford Sound
Lake Pukaki featuring a lake or waterhole, snow and mountains

Lake Pukaki

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.

Lake Pukaki

What to do in South Island

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tours

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour

€29
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour
Stewart Island Fly Explore Fly

Stewart Island Fly Explore Fly with Glenorchy Air

€419
per adult
Stewart Island Fly Explore Fly with Glenorchy Air
See all activities in South Island

Frequently asked questions

Can I cancel my flight booking to South Island due to COVID-19?
If you haven't booked yet, read the terms and conditions of the airline you're considering. If you've already locked in your flight to South Island, find your way to our Customer Service Portal. It will help you figure out which COVID-19 policies apply to your reservation and advise the next steps.
What's the best way to find cheap flights to South Island that have flexible change policies?
We know that plans can change in the blink of an eye, so reserving a flexible airfare with Expedia is always a wise idea. Simply mark the "No change fee" box under the "Flexible change policies" filter. Your well-priced and flexible flight to South Island is only a few clicks away.
What are some of the general tips for travellers to South Island during the COVID-19 outbreak?
The COVID-19 outbreak may have changed how we travel, but it hasn't stopped our zest for exploring. Here are a few tips on how to handle the new challenges of travelling:
  • Know the rules and restrictions in both your origin and destination. It may not be possible to travel depending on local circumstances, so make sure you check before you book your flight.
  • Keep your face mask on during airport screening. A TSA officer will require you to temporarily lower your mask for identification purposes.
  • To avoid cross-contamination, position your boarding pass on the scanner yourself and then hold it up for inspection. Do not hand your pass directly to a TSA employee.
  • One liquid hand sanitizer container is now permitted in your carry-on baggage. It must be no bigger than 12 oz (350 ml), and you'll need to take it out of your bag for X-ray screening.
  • Empty everything from your pockets, such as your keys, phone and wallet, and put them in your carry-on rather than into bins. This will reduce handling during screening.
  • If you're taking food on the plane, put it in a clear plastic bag and then into a scanning bin. This lessens the likelihood that a TSA officer will need to handle your food container or carry-on bag for closer inspection.

Which airlines fly to South Island?
Organise your seat with Air New Zealand and then begin working on your South Island itinerary. This popular airline runs 508 flights every month to Queenstown Intl. Airport (ZQN), a key gateway.
How can I find cheap tickets to South Island?
You'll always find an epic deal with Expedia, but our "flexible dates" feature makes it that much easier. Enter your preferred flight date, then check the flexible dates box above to see a list of prices for nearby days. was the best price for a flight to South Island in the last seven days.
How much is a flight to South Island?
There were lots of cheap fares for the taking in the last seven days, with the cost of a round-trip flight to South Island varying between and . Many lucky holiday makers scored one-way tickets from () for as low as .
What are the most popular airports to fly into in South Island?
South Island's main entryway is Queenstown Intl. Airport (ZQN). Get your next big journey underway by reserving a seat on one of the 803 flights every month to this destination.
When is the cheapest time to fly to South Island?
Fly out on a Tuesday to raise your chances of bagging the cheapest deal to South Island. Mondays are usually the second most affordable day to take off. Saturday is normally the priciest day to fly anywhere.
How much is a plane ticket to South Island?
In the last seven days, fares to South Island fluctuated from to .
Which airlines with flights to South Island employ COVID-19 cleanliness policies?
While travelling in a pandemic can be nerve-wracking, airlines are doing all they can to ensure the well-being of passengers and cabin crew. These are some carriers that have implemented changes:
  • Air New Zealand - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
  • Jetstar - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
  • Qantas - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.