Find hotels in Otara from £25

Top reasons to visit Otara

• Vibrant Otara Markets: Experience local culture and cuisine at the bustling Auckland Otara Markets, a must-visit for every tourist.
• Stunning Scenery: Otara is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, offering both adventure and tranquillity for visitors.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy the charm of lovely beaches and bays, perfect for relaxation or outdoor activities.
• Historic Lighthouse: Explore the iconic lighthouse, a significant landmark that adds to Otara's appeal.
• Variety of Accommodations: Choose from charming guesthouses to beachside hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

Find great hotels near Otara

Otara, Southland offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, perfect for families and pet owners alike. Whether you're seeking a charming guesthouse or a hotel close to the beach, you'll find various choices tailored to your needs. With convenient access to the bustling Otara markets and stunning natural scenery, your stay in this picturesque region promises to be both comfortable and memorable.

• Curio Bay Salt House Motel: Embrace the beauty of the coastline at the Curio Bay Salt House Motel, a delightful 3-star guesthouse located a mere 6.2km from Otara. This property is perfect for those seeking a beach vacation experience, with direct access to the stunning sands of Curio Bay. The motel's relaxed atmosphere and proximity to nature make it an ideal retreat for beach lovers. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and picturesque views from your accommodation, creating a memorable seaside getaway.
• Waikawa House: Family-friendly and pet-friendly, Waikawa House offers a warm and welcoming 3.5-star guesthouse experience just 7.5km from Otara. It’s an excellent choice for families travelling with children or pets, featuring amenities tailored specifically for younger guests, including games and child-friendly dinnerware. With a pet policy that allows free and permitted pets, this accommodation ensures that no family member is left behind. The inviting atmosphere and thoughtful services make Waikawa House a home away from home for families.
• Fortrose Retreat: Just 3.1km from Otara, Fortrose Retreat provides a tranquil hotel experience that’s perfect for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the convenience of self-parking, allowing for easy access to the surrounding areas. This property embodies a peaceful retreat, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether exploring the nearby attractions or unwinding in your comfortable room, Fortrose Retreat is a serene haven for your stay in Southland.

Where to stay near Otara

Otara, a charming suburb in Southland, New Zealand, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for romantic getaways. Explore nearby attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty, or venture into downtown Auckland for vibrant city life. With a variety of accommodation options, your stay in Otara promises a memorable experience filled with relaxation and exploration.

• Curio Bay: Situated approximately 6.2km from Otara, Curio Bay is a stunning coastal suburb renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors flock here primarily for its outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and pristine beach experiences. The area is famous for its unique geological features, including fossilised trees and an array of marine life. With its beautiful bay and tranquil lakes, Curio Bay offers ample opportunities for swimming, surfing, and simply relaxing on the sandy shores. The peak tourist season runs from January to February and November, making it an ideal time to witness the area’s vibrancy.
• Tokanui: Located around 3.7km from Otara, Tokanui is a charming suburb that presents a perfect blend of outdoor activities and romantic getaways. The area is less seasonal in terms of visitor traffic, with peaks occurring in March, July, and November. Tokanui boasts stunning lakes, picturesque bays, and inviting beaches that provide ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and long walks. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for couples seeking a peaceful retreat while still enjoying the beauty of nature.
• Fortrose: Also situated about 3.7km from Otara, Fortrose captures the essence of Southland’s scenic charm. With a moderately seasonal influx of visitors, particularly from January to March, this suburb is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. The area is surrounded by beautiful lakes and beaches, perfect for recreational activities such as picnicking, walking, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes. Fortrose's nearby recreational areas enhance the experience, making it an idyllic spot for those who appreciate nature's tranquillity.

Things to do in Otara

Otara, Southland, is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, boasting stunning scenery. A must-visit is the vibrant Auckland Otara Markets, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine. Additionally, there are lovely picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This charming destination offers a delightful blend of activities for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

In Otara, you can explore local markets for unique souvenirs and gifts. For a wider selection, if you're up for a drive, visit Sylvia Park Shopping Centre or Westfield Manukau City, both offering a variety of shops and dining options to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Otara Wellness Centre, where holistic therapies and yoga sessions promote relaxation and mental clarity. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore the picturesque Otara River Walk, offering serene views and a chance to connect with nature while enjoying leisurely strolls or invigorating jogs.

Adventure

In Otara, experience the thrill of fishing in the pristine waters of the Southland coast. Explore the breathtaking Fiordland National Park nearby, where you can hike stunning trails or kayak through serene fjords, immersing yourself in the region's natural beauty.

Nightlife

Discover the lively atmosphere at the Otara Night Market, where you can sample local delicacies and enjoy vibrant performances. For a casual drink, visit the Otara Club, offering a friendly vibe and great entertainment options.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Otara

To save money during your visit to Otara, plan your trip for May or August to September, as these months offer lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Fridays are typically the cheapest days to stay. Utilise public transport for affordable travel around the area, and consider free activities like local parks and nature walks. Additionally, combine your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package for further savings, while keeping an eye out for deals like free cancellations and rewards.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Otara are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Otara is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Otara is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Otara is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you can view a range of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Otara with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Otara

Otara is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, offering picturesque scenery and a relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, charming bays, and the historic lighthouse, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity. With a variety of attractions catering to beach lovers and nature enthusiasts, Otara promises an unforgettable experience for all travellers.

• Curio Bay Petrified Forest: Located 6.2km from Otara, this unique site features ancient fossilised trees, offering a glimpse into New Zealand’s prehistoric past. Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal scenery and explore the rich marine life, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Curio Bay Beach: Also situated 6.2km from Otara, this pristine beach boasts golden sands and inviting waters. Ideal for relaxation and leisurely strolls, it's a fantastic place to soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquil beach vibes.
• Waipapa Point Lighthouse: Nestled within Otara, this historic lighthouse offers a fascinating insight into maritime history. With its impressive architecture and cultural significance, it’s a must-visit for those interested in New Zealand’s heritage.

Best time to go to Otara

The best time to visit Otara can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Otara falls in January, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Otara falls in July, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
July	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
August	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
September	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Otara

Travelling to Otara, Southland, New Zealand is convenient via its major airports. Invercargill Airport (IVC) is situated 19.3km away, with excellent hotel options such as Balmoral Lodge Motel, Homestead Villa Motel, and Shelby Motor Lodge, all rated 4.5 stars and 1.2km from the airport, providing easy access. Alternatively, Stewart Island (SZS-Ryans Creek) is located 25.5km from Otara, with nearby accommodations like Bay Motel, a 3-star hotel just 621m away, and Anchorstone, a 3-star guesthouse 1.2km away. The South Sea Hotel inn is also 621m from the airport, offering various transport services for guests.