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
New Regent Street featuring railway items and outdoor eating as well as a small group of people

Christchurch City Centre

4.5/5(126 area reviews)

Explore the picturesque and vibrant heart of the city that is getting back to normal after a series of devastating earthquakes.

Find hotels in Christchurch City Centre

Things to do near South Island

South Island offers an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, featuring stunning scenery and a range of activities. Visitors can indulge in leisurely strolls, embark on adventurous safari holidays, and explore the picturesque landscapes through scenic drive tours. For those seeking thrills, the ski fields provide excellent skiing opportunities, ensuring a memorable experience in this breathtaking part of New Zealand.

Shopping

Experience Christchurch's Westfield Riccarton, a bustling shopping centre with a variety of shops and eateries. In Queenstown, the Remarkables Park Town Centre offers a delightful mix of retail outlets and local boutiques. Don't miss the local markets for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the wonders of the universe at the Mount John Observatory, where stargazing beneath pristine skies brings relaxation. Unwind at Lake Tekapō Regional Park, a serene haven for wellness activities, or enjoy a round of golf at The Cairns Golf Course, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrilling slopes at Roundhill Ski Area, where you can ski amidst stunning alpine scenery. Enjoy the breathtaking views on the Cowans Hill Walkway, a perfect hiking trail for outdoor enthusiasts. For a more challenging adventure, explore the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead, where nature's beauty awaits.

Nightlife

In South Island, New Zealand, experience vibrant nightlife in Queenstown with lively bars along Shotover Street and the waterfront. Christchurch offers a mix of pubs and clubs in the central city, while Nelson boasts charming wine bars and live music venues, creating a unique atmosphere for a memorable evening.

*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, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, boasting breathtaking lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and charming churches. With an array of attractions that celebrate both nature and culture, visitors can indulge in scenic escapes and enriching experiences. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, South Island offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable vacation.

  • Tekapo Springs: Located approximately 11.3km from South Island, Tekapo Springs offers a unique experience of relaxation and wellness. Soak in the natural hot springs, surrounded by stunning alpine views, and indulge in various spa treatments for a rejuvenating escape.
  • Church of the Good Shepherd: This iconic church, also situated 11.3km away, showcases beautiful architecture and rich cultural significance. Nestled by the lake, it provides a serene atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of the surrounding landscape and its history.
  • Sheepdog Statue: Just 11.3km from South Island, this charming statue pays tribute to the working sheepdogs of New Zealand. It reflects the country’s pastoral heritage and offers a delightful photo opportunity amidst the picturesque scenery.

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.

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

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • 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 S$347 per night from 29 Mar to 30 Mar
S$347
29 Mar - 30 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (583 reviews)
Nice, clean room. The shower water wasn’t properly contained by a half glass wall so water gets on to the bathroom floor. That was a regular problem at other hotels where we stayed though. The restaurant is extraordinarily expensive. Breakfast was listed for $45 per person, which seemed excessive ...

Reviewed on 24 Feb, 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 S$348 per night from 29 Mar to 30 Mar
S$348
29 Mar - 30 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
Great room with lots of space

Reviewed on 26 Feb, 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 S$251 per night from 28 Mar to 29 Mar
S$251
28 Mar - 29 Mar
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,457 reviews)
Hotel looks brand new. Basically a small apartment. Close to the airport. Staff allowed for a room change to get a room with laundry. Thanks for being helpful

Reviewed on 25 Feb, 2026

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
See all 7,444 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 showing snow, mountains 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

5/5(1 review)

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
Sumner Beach showing rugged coastline

Sumner Beach

4.5/5(23 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.

Sumner Beach

What to do in South Island

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tours

Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour

S$45
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Stewart Island Village & Bays Tour
Stewart Island Fly Explore Fly

Stewart Island Fly Explore Fly with Glenorchy Air

S$649
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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.