South Island Holidays

Things to do near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways, boasting stunning scenery and a range of activities. Popular attractions include day trips, enchanting hiking trails, the skyline gondola, and thrilling heli biking. Visitors can also enjoy recreational areas and rejuvenating body treatments, alongside exhilarating experiences at ski fields, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.

Shopping

Discover Christchurch's Westfield Riccarton, a vibrant shopping mall boasting a wide array of shops and eateries. In Queenstown, visit the Remarkables Market, a lively spot offering local crafts and gourmet treats, perfect for unique souvenirs from your South Island adventure.

Recreation

Lake Tekapō Regional Park offers tranquil surroundings for relaxation and wellness, perfect for leisurely walks and meditation. The Cairns Golf Course provides a scenic backdrop for golf enthusiasts, while McLean Park is ideal for sports lovers seeking an energetic atmosphere amidst the stunning South Island landscape.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track, 38.6km from South Island, offers breathtaking scenery and an exhilarating hiking experience amidst alpine landscapes. Roundhill Ski Area, situated 14.5km away, promises thrilling skiing and snow sports. For a serene adventure, explore the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead, located 37.0km away, enveloped in nature.

Nightlife

In South Island, the Mount John Observatory offers a unique nightlife experience with its stunning stargazing opportunities and vibrant atmosphere. Similarly, the Dark Sky Project provides an enchanting setting to explore the cosmos, making both venues ideal for a memorable evening under the stars.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Visitors can explore stunning lakes, soothing hot springs, and charming churches, all while soaking up the region's rich culture. Notable attractions include the main island and the picturesque South Beach, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation amidst nature's beauty.

• Lake Tekapo: Experience the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, framed by the majestic Southern Alps. Known for its breathtaking scenery, it's a perfect spot for romantic strolls along the beach or outdoor adventures, surrounded by nature's beauty.
• Tekapo Springs: Unwind in the natural thermal pools at Tekapo Springs, where wellness meets relaxation. Set amidst picturesque landscapes, this outdoor hot spring destination offers a rejuvenating escape, ideal for soaking away your cares.
• Church of the Good Shepherd: Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a symbol of the region's heritage. Its stunning stone architecture and panoramic views of Lake Tekapo provide a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and appreciating local culture.

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 (8.200000000000001°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

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.