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

South Island Hotels from S$87

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

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Singapore
Aloysius
S$206
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Peppers Bluewater Resort
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.
A modern hotel with multiple buildings, large windows, and snow-covered surroundings.
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring purple chairs and round tables.
A modern interior with large windows offering mountain views, comfortable seating, and a patterned floor.

2. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Australia
Natasha
S$332
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.
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.
A multi-story building with balconies, a covered entrance, and a parking area.

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 building with a covered outdoor area, a car parked in front, and a starry night sky.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains through a glass door.
A modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.

4. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Declan Dechawut
S$136
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 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.
A woman relaxing in a bathtub with a view of a bedroom through a window.

5. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Clara
S$426
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.
A couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.
A spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, wooden seating, and a large window.
A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.

6. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
S$142
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
The Godley Hotel
A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.
A modern bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a sliding glass door to the outdoors, and a mounted TV.
A modern multi-story building with large glass windows and stone pillars.
A modern living room with a sofa and armchairs, a sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a view of mountains.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Suresh
S$696
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
A residential area with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and houses with similar architecture.
A kitchen with a granite countertop, a sink, and a dining area with a table and chairs.
A residential area with houses, a swimming pool, and a lake with mountains in the background.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Dominic
S$413
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Mantra Lake Tekapo
A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.
A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.
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 row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
David
S$497
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 dining area with a view of mountains and a lake, a painting on the wall, and a modern interior design.
A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains through a balcony, and a table with chairs outside.
A room with a large window offering a view of mountains and a lake.

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.
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.
A compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.

11. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
Woolshed Suites
A modern living room with a large sliding glass door, a sofa, a coffee table, and a small side table with a plant.
A spacious living area with a wooden ceiling, a dining table with chairs, a sofa, and a kitchen in the background.
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a wardrobe, and a kitchenette.
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 wooden table, and a TV on a stand.
A living room with a fireplace, a television on a stand, and a bookshelf.
A row of compact, modern mobile homes with a gravel driveway and a wooden deck.

13. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Natasha
S$135
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Mackenzie Motels
A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.
Front of property
Front of property

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 compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, a sink, and a window overlooking a garden.
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.

15. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
S$137
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
Aorangi Motel
A modern house with a glass door entrance, white brick walls, and a dark roof.
A living room with a sectional sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and a table.
A modern kitchen with a central island, white cabinetry, and pendant lighting.
A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a window with curtains.

16. Jero Apartment

Jero Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Marc
Jero Apartment
A pool area with steps leading to a deck overlooking a lake and snow-capped mountains.
A modern bathroom with a bathtub, a large mirror, and a view of the outdoors.
A dining table with breakfast items and a view of mountains and a lake.
A room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, a fire feature, and a view of a deck with outdoor furniture.

17. Lakestone Lodge

Lakestone Lodge
Pukaki
United States
Adrian
S$1,049
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Lakestone Lodge
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Holiday Rentals in South Island

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

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
"This was beautiful place that was walkable to the cafes and lake!"
Peppers Bluewater Resort
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
"Amazing place to stay!!"
Lake Resort by Marsden
Aparthotel
A modern house with a glass facade, outdoor seating, and a view of the mountains.
A modern living room with a large gray sofa, a TV, and a fireplace. There is a kitchen area with a white island and pendant lights.
A serene park with a gazebo, a pond, and a mountain backdrop.
A modern building with a sign that reads "THE FAIRWAYS accommodation."

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura
Kaikoura Flat
"The room was excellent. Staff were very friendly and helpful"
The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura
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 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.

Quest Queenstown

Quest Queenstown
Frankton
"Great place to stay"
Quest Queenstown
Apartment
A modern room with a large window overlooking a waterfront, a fireplace, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.
A room with a wooden ceiling, a large window, a potted plant, a chair, and a table.
A bedroom with a brick wall, wooden beams, a bed with pillows, a nightstand, a vase with flowers, and a window with a view.
A modern kitchen with dark cabinetry, a wooden island with stools, pendant lighting, and artwork on the walls.

The Thomas Gregg Apartments

The Thomas Gregg Apartments
Dunedin City Centre
"Was an awesome stay amazing room and awesome location will stay again"
The Thomas Gregg Apartments
Treehouse
Room
Living area
Living area
View from room

Rainforest Deluxe

Rainforest Deluxe
Franz Josef Glacier
"Beautiful hotel"
Rainforest Deluxe
Aparthotel
A modern room with a large glass door leading to an outdoor area with palm trees and a covered seating area.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a desk, and a view of the outside.
A modern room with a dark wooden accent wall, a blue sofa, and two yellow pillows.
A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a TV, and a dining area with chairs and a table.

Sumner Bay Motel & Apartments

Sumner Bay Motel & Apartments
Sumner
"Excellent location. The host is awesome. Check in included a tour of the room, ammenities & an offer of help with our luggage. We went with the split level appartment which was great but you need to carry your bags up stairs. Location is close to the beach, shops & restaurants."
Sumner Bay Motel & Apartments
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.
A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and stone fireplace. Large windows offer a view of a lake and mountains.

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
Aparthotel
A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.
A sign for Alpine Motel with a mountain backdrop.
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

Alpine Motel
Wanaka
"Comfortable rooms, good playground for the kids and just a short walk into town"
Alpine Motel
Aparthotel
A hotel with a modern design, featuring a central staircase, a parking area, and a view of a forested hillside.
A room with a large mural of a mountainous landscape, a desk with a chair, a bed, and a door.
A modern living room with a round mirror reflecting the space, a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV.
A kitchen with white tiles, a wooden cabinet, a coffee maker, two white cups, and a vase with flowers.

Beechwood Boutique Accommodation

Beechwood Boutique Accommodation
North Dunedin
"Nice stay and friendly staff member on check in. Room was clean and the amenities were great. Awesome location and easy to get into town"
Beechwood Boutique Accommodation
Aparthotel
A modern building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.
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 modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A balcony with a table set for breakfast, overlooking a road and a lake with mountains in the background.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Awesome, will stay here again!"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Aparthotel
A modern building with a flat roof, large windows, and a balcony.
A modern building with a glass balcony overlooking a parking area and a mountainous landscape.
A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.
A modern building with a sign for 'Central Park Apartments'.

Central Park Apartments

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"
Central Park Apartments
Aparthotel
A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
A modern interior with a sofa, a staircase, and a wall-mounted shelf with plants.
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.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Frankton
"Best stay"
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
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

SiloStay
Little River
"Great place to stay - very funky. would recommend "
SiloStay
Apartment
A balcony with two wooden chairs and a small table, overlooking a calm lake with boats and mountains in the background.
A row of townhouses with balconies, a gated entrance, and a clear blue sky.
A bedroom with a bed, a window, and a door.
A gated entrance with a clear view of the sky and trees.

Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa Village Inn
Akaroa
"Was great place to stay"
Akaroa Village Inn
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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 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.
See properties
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.
Photo by Paolo Corrales

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.
See properties

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

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"I’ve booked this place a few times during my stay in Queenstown. Apartment is always clean, staff is friendly and helpful. My room had a big smart TV on an adjustable arm which is a bonus. I love the location, everything is a few minutes drive away."
Alice 7-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

8/10 Good
"Nice clean room. Helpful staff. Limited onsite parking."
Wayne 2-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Carnmore Hotel Christchurch
LyLo Christchurch Airport

LyLo Christchurch Airport

8/10 Good
"Very close to the airport 6-7 min walk perfect for an early flight if you live outside of Chch."
Steph 1-night trip
Posted 20 hours ago
LyLo Christchurch Airport
Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent
"Our stay at Kamana Lakehouse was absolutely incredible! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the breathtaking views, beautiful atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. What truly made our stay special was the amazing staff. Every staff member we encountered was genuinely warm, welcoming and incredibly helpful. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and their kindness and attention to detail made us feel so well looked after. They really went above and beyond to make our experience memorable. The property itself is stunning, with spectacular mountain and lake views, beautiful rooms and such a peaceful, luxurious atmosphere. It was the perfect place to relax after exploring Queenstown. We absolutely loved every moment of our stay and genuinely didn’t want to leave! Kamana Lakehouse was a highlight of our New Zealand holiday, and we cannot thank the wonderful staff enough for making it so special. We would return in a heartbeat and couldn’t recommend it more highly! ❤️"
Alana 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Kamana Lakehouse
Mi-pad Queenstown

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"It was a great stay. Being on a central location made the walk to the waterfront very accessible. Great amenities, a room full of board games, coffee machines and wonderful views from the deck!"
Priyankkumar 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Mi-pad Queenstown
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

8/10 Good
"."
Annaliese 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Airport Gateway Christchurch

Airport Gateway Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"Friendly and helful"
Elizabeth 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Airport Gateway Christchurch
Bealey Quarter

Bealey Quarter

10/10 Excellent
"Very clean and comfortable and affordable and peaceful ."
Malina 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Bealey Quarter
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

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."
Renee 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka
S$87
8 Nov - 9 Nov
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (80 reviews)
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
S$90
17 Oct - 18 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (322 reviews)
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
S$93
19 Oct - 20 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
S$100
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Carnmore Hagley Park
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
S$136
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
S$239
20 Oct - 21 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (123 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, you’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. Don’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 Expedia’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 Expedia’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
January57.2°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 (8.2°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

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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