A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

South Island Hotels from S$54

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

A modern building with a large patio area, a mountain in the background, and a body of water in the foreground.
A 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.
A modern hotel room with a large sliding glass door leading to a scenic view, a sofa, a chair, and a coffee table with a remote control and glasses on it.

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Antoniette
S$206
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Peppers Bluewater Resort
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.
A modern interior with large windows offering mountain views, comfortable seating, and a patterned floor.
A modern interior with a sofa and chairs facing large windows with a mountain view.
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring purple chairs and round tables.

2. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Australia
Natasha
S$280
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a television, a chair, and a balcony with a view.
A view from a balcony overlooking a lake with mountains in the background.
A modern living room with a sofa, armchair, and a coffee table. There is a large window offering a view of mountains and a building.

3. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Lucie-Catherine
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
A lakeside view with chairs and a picnic table, surrounded by trees and mountains.
A modern restroom with three sinks, a large mirror, and a decorative wall piece.
A modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains through a glass door.

4. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Declan Dechawut
S$146
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
A modern building with multiple windows and a staircase leading to an upper level.
A person standing by a window with a night sky view, including stars and a visible mountain range.
A person in a robe by a window with a starry night sky view.
Two people seated at a round table with a bottle and glasses, overlooking a mountainous landscape through large windows.

5. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Clara
S$427
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.
A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.
A restaurant interior with a bar area, seating arrangement, and a view of the outside.
A spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, wooden seating, and a large window.

6. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
S$137
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
The Godley Hotel
A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.
A modern living room with a sofa and armchairs, a sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a view of mountains.
A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.
A modern multi-story building with large glass windows and stone pillars.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Fleur
S$673
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
A playground with swings and a slide, a gravel area, and a lake with mountains in the background.
A residential area with houses, a swimming pool, and a lake with mountains in the background.
A residential area with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and houses with similar architecture.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Dominic
S$356
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Mantra Lake Tekapo
A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.
A compact kitchen with a microwave, kettle, and a small refrigerator. There is a sink with a faucet, and a cabinet with drawers. A dark door is visible on the right side.
A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.
A reception desk with a wall displaying city names, two clocks, and a TV screen.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
David
S$526
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Aoraki Court Motel
Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.
A room with a large window offering a view of mountains and a lake.
A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains through a balcony, and a table with chairs outside.
A dining area with a view of mountains and a lake, a painting on the wall, and a modern interior design.

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
S$509
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.
A modern bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white vanity with a mirror, and a towel rack with two towels.
A modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a blue armchair.

11. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
Woolshed Suites
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a wardrobe, and a kitchenette.
A spacious living area with a wooden ceiling, a dining table with chairs, a sofa, and a kitchen in the background.
A modern living room with a large sliding glass door, a sofa, a coffee table, and a small side table with a plant.
A modern house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

12. RodmanStar Apartment

RodmanStar Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Michael
RodmanStar Apartment
A modern mobile home with a patio area featuring a wooden bench, a table, and potted plants.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a fireplace.
A living room with a fireplace, a television on a stand, and a bookshelf.
A modern living room with a sofa, a wooden table, and a TV on a stand.

13. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Natasha
S$123
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Mackenzie Motels
A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.
Front of property
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.
A scenic landscape with a road, grassy areas, and mountains in the background.

14. Three Rivers Lodge

Three Rivers Lodge
Lake Tekapo
United States
Janice
Three Rivers Lodge
A neatly made bed with a dark headboard, two bedside lamps, and a window with curtains.
A motel sign with the name 'Aorangi Motel' and contact information.
A room with two beds, a sofa, a coffee table, a desk, and a wall-mounted lamp.
A compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, a sink, and a window overlooking a garden.

15. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
S$136
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Aorangi Motel
Exterior
A tranquil lakeside scene with a mountain range in the background and a small building near the water's edge.
A rural outdoor setting with a wheelbarrow, wooden fence, and trees.
A residential driveway with a stone wall, a wooden gate, and a house in the background.

16. Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa

Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Melanie
S$358
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
A modern house with a glass door entrance, white brick walls, and a dark roof.
A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a window with curtains.
A living room with a sectional sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and a table.
A building with a white brick exterior, large windows, and a paved entrance area with a rock garden.

17. Jero Apartment

Jero Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Marc
Jero Apartment
A modern building with a metal roof and a gravel pathway leading to the entrance.
A modern living room with a sofa, a flat-screen TV, and a sliding glass door leading to an outdoor area.
A modern building with a sloped roof, large windows, and a wooden deck.

18. Sky Valley

Sky Valley
Lake Tekapo
New Zealand
Jayde
S$179
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Sky Valley
A wooden desk with a lamp, a potted plant, and a power outlet.
A hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a leather armchair, and a window with curtains.
A modern house with a wooden deck and large windows, set against a night sky with stars.

19. Alpine Studio Coulson

Alpine Studio Coulson
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Gurbagh
S$179
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Alpine Studio Coulson
A pool area with steps leading to a deck overlooking a lake and snow-capped mountains.
A room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, a fire feature, and a view of a deck with outdoor furniture.
A dining table with breakfast items and a view of mountains and a lake.
A modern bathroom with a bathtub, a large mirror, and a view of the outdoors.

20. Lakestone Lodge

Lakestone Lodge
Pukaki
United States
Adrian
S$1,050
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Lakestone Lodge
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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel
A row of waterfront cottages with balconies, wooden decks, and a mountain backdrop.
A waterfront property with a row of houses, a dock, and a calm lake reflecting the buildings.
A clear view of a swimming pool with a glass barrier, wooden deck, and a backdrop of mountain ranges.
A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a water body and buildings.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Lake Resort by Marsden
Mount Pisa
"We had a beautiful view of the mountains and the lake below our room. The staff was friendly and helpful."
Lake Resort by Marsden
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 Luxury Apartments
Wanaka
"Great location"
Wanaka Luxury Apartments
Aparthotel
A modern building with a large patio area, a mountain in the background, and a body of water in the foreground.
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.
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.

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
"Great location, lovely property with incredible views."
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Treehouse
Room
Living area
Living area
View from room

Rainforest Deluxe

Rainforest Deluxe
Franz Josef Glacier
"Beautiful hotel"
Rainforest Deluxe
Aparthotel
A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.
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.
A modern living room with a stone wall, a fireplace, a television, a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of a mountain and buildings through large windows.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and chairs, a kitchen area with appliances, and a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a mountain view.

Quest Queenstown

Quest Queenstown
Frankton
"Great place to stay"
Quest Queenstown
Aparthotel
A multi-story hotel with outdoor seating areas and a well-maintained lawn.
A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand, a window with a view, and a ceiling light.
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 sign for 'Clearbrook' with an arrow pointing left, indicating the direction to the property.

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka
Wanaka
"Staff and location was great."
Clearbrook Motels Wanaka
Camping
A bedroom with a large window, a wooden ceiling, and a view of a lake and mountains.
A bedroom with a large window, a bed, a desk, and a chair.
A modern bedroom with a large window, a bed, a TV, and a hot tub on a wooden deck overlooking a lake and mountains.
Two modern cabins with large windows and wooden decks, set in a field of purple flowers.

The Huts at Lakes Edge

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."
The Huts at Lakes Edge
Aparthotel
A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
A modern kitchen with built-in appliances, a central island, and a view of the outdoors.
A modern bar area with a glass enclosure, bar stools, and a seating area with a sofa and a small table.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

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 ๐Ÿ™Œ"
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Aparthotel
A modern building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.
A modern living room with a black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.
A modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A modern living room with a large sofa, a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, a fireplace, and a scenic view through large windows.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Awesome, will stay here again!"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Villa
Exterior
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.
A row of modern cabins with large windows, a gravel driveway, and a fenced vineyard in the background.

Suncrest Villas

Suncrest Villas
Cromwell
"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."
Suncrest Villas
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 hotel room with a large bed, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and a view of a mountainous landscape through the window.

Skyrim Lodge

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."
Skyrim Lodge
Aparthotel
A modern outdoor terrace with a glass balustrade overlooking a lake and mountains.
A modern building with large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains.
A hotel with a view of a lake and mountains.
A modern living room with a fireplace, blue sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a large window offering a scenic view of a lake and mountains.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Avani Queenstown Hotel
Queenstown
"Great spot , beautiful rooms"
Avani Queenstown Hotel
Aparthotel
A hotel entrance with a sign reading "Village Lake" under a twilight sky.
A cozy living room with a fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and a round coffee table with a bottle of wine and a plate of food.
A modern living room with two sofas, a coffee table, and a kitchen in the background.
A balcony with a table and chairs, overlooking a mountainous landscape with houses.

Village Lake Apartments

Village Lake Apartments
Hanmer Springs
"Super friendly staff, apartment was beautiful and clean with a gorgeous view."
Village Lake Apartments
Aparthotel
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of snow-capped mountains.
A modern two-story house with a stone facade, a wooden front door, and a garage.
A swimming pool with a view of mountains and a lake.
A modern living room with a large window offering a mountain view, a flat-screen TV, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a purple sofa.

Alpine Resort Wanaka โ€“ A THC Hotels and Resorts

Alpine Resort Wanaka โ€“ A THC Hotels and Resorts
Wanaka
"Great location especially if you are planning to ski at Cardrona or Treble Cone."
Alpine Resort Wanaka โ€“ A THC Hotels and Resorts
Aparthotel
A modern outdoor hot tub area with a view of a lake and mountains.
A modern room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, furnished with a sofa, table, and chairs.
A spacious living room with a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and a large window offering a lake view.
An indoor swimming pool with large windows offering views of mountains and a lake.

Marina Terrace Apartments

Marina Terrace Apartments
Wanaka
"Unobstructed view of the lake and a very easy 5 minute walk to the CBD"
Marina Terrace Apartments
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Stay near popular South Island attractions

A mountain path with snow-capped peaks and green vegetation.

Aoraki / Mount Cook

9.6/10 (613 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Aoraki / Mount Cook and enjoy the stunning glacier views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.
See properties
A snow-capped mountain range with a turquoise lake in the foreground.

Mount Cook National Park

9.8/10 (179 reviews)
Ski on a glacier, enjoy hot springs and tackle the peak where Sir Edmund Hillary trained for Everest in this spectacular part of New Zealand.
See properties
A mountain range with a lake reflecting the peaks.

Milford Sound

9.6/10 (22 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Milford Sound during your travels in Fiordland National Park. Discover the area's waterfalls and glaciers.
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A coastal town with a harbor, mountains in the background, and a clear sky.

Lyttelton Harbour

8.6/10 (1,052 reviews)
Enjoy cafรฉs, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
See properties
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.
See properties

Learn more about South Island

Larger, less populated and harder to reach than the northern โ€œMain Island,โ€ this area features New Zealandโ€™s longest glacier, its highest mountain and much more.

See all hotels in South Island
A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Pinewood Queenstown

Pinewood Queenstown

8/10 Good
"Nice clean accomodation. Better for 2 adults thsn 4, as the actual.bed is really comfortable and as usual the sofabed is better for 1 adult than 2 , but would be fine with kids."
Jo 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Pinewood Queenstown
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

10/10 Excellent
"Very comfy beds. Fantastic location"
Charmaine 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile
Mi-pad Queenstown

Mi-pad Queenstown

8/10 Good
"Nice one to stay, very close to city center."
Yujia 4-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Mi-pad Queenstown
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Just what we needed as a crash pad for one night near the airport (but could have stayed longer), great room layout for a young family with a bunk bed, nice views, good breakfast and super helpful staff. Would definitely recommend!"
Amber 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG
Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent
"Staff was most helpful. We never did get a reservation to eat dinner in the hotel. Grab bars in showers would be welcomed."
Jeffrey 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Kamana Lakehouse
Wyndham Garden Queenstown

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Clean, convenient, efficient"
Ruth 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Wyndham Garden Queenstown
Garden Court Suites And Apartments

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"
Georges 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Garden Court Suites And Apartments
The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"๐Ÿ˜†"
Cameron 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Godley Hotel
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"Best location, clean and affordable."
Alvaro 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka
S$54
12 Oct - 13 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
S$90
9 Oct - 10 Oct
includes taxes & fees
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
S$97
12 Oct - 13 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)
Carnmore Hagley Park
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
S$146
16 Oct - 17 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
S$147
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
S$226
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Hotels in South Island with star rating

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

  • Breathtaking Scenery: South Island boasts stunning landscapes, from majestic mountains to serene lakes, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Adventure Activities: Ideal for thrill-seekers, the region offers skiing, hiking, and exploring ice features.
  • Charming Cities: Discover vibrant towns like Queenstown and Christchurch, rich in culture and hospitality.
  • Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing hot springs, providing a perfect escape for relaxation.
  • Idyllic Natural Attractions: Enjoy leisurely strolls around picturesque spots like the Marlborough Sounds and Lake Tekapo.

Find great hotels near South Island

Explore the stunning South Island of New Zealand, where a range of accommodation options awaits you, from cosy motels to luxurious hotels. Ideal for adventure seekers, the region offers unique experiences such as hot springs and skiing. Whether you seek the best hotels, detailed reviews, or a memorable ski vacation, youโ€™ll find the perfect lodging to enhance your stay amidst South Island's breathtaking landscapes.

  • Lake Tekapo Village Motel: This charming 3.5-star motel, rated 8.6 out of 10, is ideally situated in Lake Tekapo Village, just 11.3km from South Island. The motel offers a unique ski and hot spring-themed experience, making it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind in nature's thermal waters after a day on the slopes. Guests can enjoy the nearby natural hot springs and have easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, ensuring a convenient and adventurous stay amidst stunning alpine scenery.
  • The Godley Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, The Godley Hotel is a 3-star establishment located 11.3km from South Island, catering to adventure-seekers and hot spring enthusiasts alike. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this hotel provides access to thrilling outdoor activities such as snowboarding, kayaking, and hiking. The nearby natural hot springs offer a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration, making this hotel an appealing choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
  • Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Rated 9.0 out of 10, Lakes Edge Holiday Park is a budget-friendly option just 11.3km from South Island, perfect for eco-conscious travellers. This eco-certified accommodation embraces sustainable practices, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritise environmental responsibility. Set against the backdrop of picturesque landscapes, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay while connecting with nature, making it a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, offering breathtaking scenery and friendly locals. Explore charming cities like Queenstown and Christchurch, or unwind in picturesque spots like the Marlborough Sounds and Lake Tekapo. With its stunning harbours and diverse attractions, South Island promises unforgettable experiences, whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or intimate getaways amidst nature's splendour.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11.3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor experiences. This charming suburb draws visitors year-round, with peaks in travel during April and the December to January holiday season. Known for its romantic atmosphere, Lake Tekapo offers a range of activities including leisurely walks around the picturesque lake, body treatment options for relaxation, and local shopping. The nearby national state park and mountains provide breathtaking backdrops, making this a perfect destination for nature lovers and couples seeking a tranquil escape.
  • Tekapo: Located about 12.9km from South Island, Tekapo is another appealing suburb that shares similar attractions with its neighbour. With a steady stream of travellers, the peak season occurs from November through to January. This suburb is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, indulge in body treatments, or explore local shops. Tekapo is surrounded by magnificent lakes and mountains, ensuring that every moment spent here is filled with the beauty of nature and opportunities for adventure.
  • Mount Dobson: Situated roughly 16.1km from South Island, Mount Dobson is a well-loved suburb, particularly during its peak season in March and the December to January holidays. This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a romantic getaway, featuring a ski field for winter sports lovers. In addition to skiing, visitors can explore the local shopping area and enjoy the cultural centre nearby. The breathtaking landscapes, including lakes and the national state park, make Mount Dobson a delightful spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

In Christchurch, the Westfield Riccarton offers a range of local and international brands, while the Re:START Mall features unique shops in colourful shipping containers. For artisan crafts, visit Nelson's Saturday Market, where you'll discover handmade goods and local produce, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

In Queenstown, the Aroha Wellness Retreat offers personalised wellness programmes amidst breathtaking mountain views, focusing on holistic health and rejuvenation. In Wanaka, indulge at the Spa at Criffel Peak, where you can enjoy soothing treatments inspired by the surrounding nature, creating a serene escape from daily life.

Adventure

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Queenstown with cocktails at the lively Bunker Bar. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Cow Pizza Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious pizza in a relaxed setting. Donโ€™t miss out on the energetic atmosphere at the infamous Loco Bar for dancing and late-night fun.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

For an economical trip to South Island, consider visiting during June or August to September, when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Saturdays are the cheapest nights to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. Use Expediaโ€™s filters to find budget-friendly, eco-certified options, and arrange your trip as a package to save further. Also, explore free outdoor activities such as hiking, which is abundant on the South Island, to maximise your experience without breaking the bank.

  • 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: Book your hotel around South Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • 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 Expediaโ€™s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable rates and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money 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 perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a romantic getaway. With stunning lakes, soothing hot springs, and charming churches, the region offers a variety of attractions that cater to adventure seekers and culture lovers alike. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature or explore local heritage, South Island promises a memorable experience filled with breathtaking scenery and engaging activities.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled amidst stunning mountainous scenery, Lake Tekapo boasts a striking turquoise hue that captivates visitors. Its serene beaches provide an idyllic setting for romantic strolls or picnics, making it a popular spot for couples and nature enthusiasts alike.
  • Tekapo Springs: A sanctuary for relaxation, Tekapo Springs offers rejuvenating hot pools set against a breathtaking backdrop. Visitors can unwind in the soothing waters while taking in the surrounding beauty, making it an excellent choice for wellness seekers.
  • Church of the Good Shepherd: This charming church stands as a testament to the region's cultural heritage. With its picturesque location overlooking Lake Tekapo, the church is a serene place for reflection and appreciation of the area's history and architecture.

Best time to go to South Island

The best time to visit South Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January57.2ยฐF (14.0ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February57.0ยฐF (13.9ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March58.8ยฐF (14.9ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5ยฐF (12.5ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May50.4ยฐF (10.2ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June46.8ยฐF (8.2ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July45.0ยฐF (7.2ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August46.2ยฐF (7.9ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September48.6ยฐF (9.2ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October51.8ยฐF (11.0ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.2ยฐF (12.9ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December59.7ยฐF (15.4ยฐC)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island

Flying into South Island, New Zealand, you have several major airports to consider. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is approximately 170.6km from the heart of the island, with nearby accommodation options like the 5-star Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both around 8.0km away, offering accessible airport shuttles. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is 186.7km away, featuring hotels such as the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1.1km from the airport. Finally, Nelson Airport (NSN), located 365.3km from South Island, has excellent hotels like Palazzo Motor Lodge, which is 4.8km away, providing easy access to the airport.

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