South Island Hotels from S$39

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.

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 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, 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.