Hotels in South Island - Best South Island Hotels from £21 - Fully Refundable Options

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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 person at a table with a view of mountains and a body of water.

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.

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

Sophie

£115

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

A lakeside view with chairs and a picnic table, surrounded by trees and mountains.

A modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.

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.

2. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lake Tekapo

Declan Dechawut

£87

includes taxes & fees

16 Oct - 17 Oct

A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.

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.

A modern hotel with multiple buildings, large windows, and snow-covered surroundings.

3. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

Mount Cook

Natasha

£198

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.

A couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.

A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.

A restaurant interior with a bar area, seating arrangement, and a view of the outside.

4. The Godley Hotel

Lake Tekapo

Kim

£80

includes taxes & fees

7 Oct - 8 Oct

A modern building with multiple windows and a staircase leading to an upper level.

Two people seated at a round table with a bottle and glasses, overlooking a mountainous landscape through large windows.

A woman relaxing in a bathtub with a view of a bedroom through a window.

A person standing by a window with a night sky view, including stars and a visible mountain range.

5. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Lake Tekapo

Clara

A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.

A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

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.

6. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Fleur

£398

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a television, a chair, and a balcony with a view.

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 view from a balcony overlooking a lake with mountains in the background.

7. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo

Lucie-Catherine

A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.

A playground with swings and a slide, a gravel area, and a lake with mountains in the background.

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.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Dominic

£220

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.

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 reception desk with a wall displaying city names, two clocks, and a TV screen.

A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Mount Cook

David

£312

includes taxes & fees

15 Oct - 16 Oct

Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.

A room with a large window offering 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.

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Stephen

£302

includes taxes & fees

16 Oct - 17 Oct

A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.

A modern bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white vanity with a mirror, and a towel rack with two towels.

A compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.

A modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.

11. Woolshed Suites

Lake Tekapo

Whitney

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 dining table, and a fireplace.

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.

12. Mackenzie Motels

Fairlie

Natasha

£69

includes taxes & fees

28 Oct - 29 Oct

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 patio with two metal chairs and a small table, a potted plant, and a window with white curtains.

A motel sign with the name 'Aorangi Motel' and contact information.

13. Aorangi Motel

Fairlie

Daniel

£81

includes taxes & fees

8 Oct - 9 Oct

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 modern living room with a grey sofa, a coffee table with a plant, a TV on the wall, and a dining area with wooden chairs.

A modern house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

14. RodmanStar Apartment

Lake Tekapo

Michael

A modern building with a glass facade, a covered outdoor area, and a mountainous backdrop.

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a dining table with chairs, and a view of mountains through large windows.

A balcony with a view of a parking area and mountains.

A modern kitchen with marble flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a buffet area with various food items.

15. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mount Cook

Elaine

£139

includes taxes & fees

20 Oct - 21 Oct

A compact kitchen with a built-in oven, microwave, and a window overlooking a wooden deck.

A room with a wooden table and chairs, a leather sofa, and a view through a glass door to an outdoor area with a patio and a fence.

A compact kitchen with white appliances, a wooden ceiling, and a view of the outside through a window.

A Pinewood Motels sign with a stone wall and mailbox on the left.

16. Pinewood Motels

Fairlie

Amitkumar

£90

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

A modern living room with a sofa, TV, and a view through a glass door.

A modern house with a sloped roof, large glass windows, and a wooden exterior.

A modern hotel room with a sofa, a bed, a small round table, a kitchenette, and a large window with a view.

A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand with a lamp, a window with curtains, and a painting on the wall.

17. Sky Valley

Lake Tekapo

Jayde

£110

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A modern house with a wooden deck and large windows, set against a starry night sky.

A hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a chair, and a wooden wall panel.

A hotel room with a wooden panel wall, a television mounted above a desk, a bed with a yellow and white striped bedspread, and a window with curtains.

A hotel room with two beds, a wooden accent wall, and a large window with sheer curtains.

18. Alpine Studio Coulson

Lake Tekapo

Gurbagh

£123

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A modern house with a glass door entrance, white brick walls, and a dark roof.

A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a window with curtains.

A building with a white brick exterior, large windows, and a paved entrance area with a rock garden.

A living room with a sectional sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and a table.

19. Jero Apartment

Lake Tekapo

Marc

A well-maintained lawn with a wooden table and chairs, surrounded by lush greenery and a mountain in the background.

A bedroom with a large window, a bed, and a view of a balcony with a wooden deck and greenery outside.

A snow-covered house with a sign indicating it is an accommodation and gallery.

A covered outdoor area with a view of a grassy yard, trees, and a distant hill.

20. Burkes Pass Country Motel

Burkes Pass

Richmond

£91

includes taxes & fees

16 Oct - 17 Oct

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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel

A row of waterfront cottages with balconies, wooden decks, and a mountain backdrop.

A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a water body and buildings.

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.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Mount Pisa

"We had a beautiful view of the mountains and the lake below our room. The staff was friendly and helpful."

Aparthotel

A swimming pool with a stone accent wall, a hot tub, and a patio area with chairs and an umbrella.

A bedroom with a large bed, bedside tables, a wooden bench, a wardrobe, and a door leading to a bathroom.

A living room with a stone fireplace, red sofas, and a wooden coffee table.

A modern two-story house with a stone foundation, large windows, and a prominent chimney.

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Wanaka

"Great location"

Aparthotel

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

"The staff were very friendly and helpful we would definitely stay there again"

Holiday Home

A building named 'Skyrim Lodge' on Jimmy's Lane with a starry night sky.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.

A modern living space with a dining area, sofa set, kitchen, and built-in appliances.

A modern kitchen with a grey door, black cabinets, a white countertop, and a built-in oven.

Skyrim Lodge

Lake Tekapo

"Great stay. The room was very clean, comfortable and well equipped, with a great location. Perfect for a short stay and I would happily stay again."

Aparthotel

A hotel entrance with a sign reading "Village Lake" under a twilight sky.

A cozy living room with a fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and a round coffee table with a bottle of wine and a plate of food.

A modern living room with a fireplace, sofa, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

A balcony with a table and chairs, overlooking a mountainous landscape with houses.

Village Lake Apartments

Hanmer Springs

"Super friendly staff, apartment was beautiful and clean with a gorgeous view."

Aparthotel

A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.

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.

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.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Aparthotel

A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.

A modern bar area with a glass enclosure, bar stools, and a seating area with a sofa and a small table.

A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.

A modern kitchen with built-in appliances, a central island, and a view of the outdoors.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Frankton

"Fantastic spot, beautiful views and close access to public transport too. Rooms were very nice and pristine. Had a great stay and thank you 🙌"

Aparthotel

A multi-story hotel with outdoor seating areas and a well-maintained lawn.

A reception area with a reception desk, a phone, and a sign indicating after hours phone availability.

A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand, a window with a view, and a ceiling light.

A modern hotel room with a flat-screen TV, a dining area with a table and chairs, a sofa, and a large window offering a mountain view.

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Wanaka

"Staff and location was great."

Aparthotel

A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of snow-capped mountains.

A modern kitchen with a large island, a dining area with a view of mountains, and a black carpeted floor.

A modern living room with a large window offering a mountain view, a flat-screen TV, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a purple sofa.

A swimming pool with a view of mountains and a lake.

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Wanaka

"Great location especially if you are planning to ski at Cardrona or Treble Cone."

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 modern hotel room with a curved ceiling, a bed with white bedding, two black pillows, and a white towel on the floor.

A kitchen with a stainless steel countertop, a kettle, a toaster, and a wooden shelf with kitchenware.

A rural area with multiple cylindrical silos and a small building.

SiloStay

Little River

"Great place to stay - very funky. would recommend "

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

Wanaka

"Unobstructed view of the lake and a very easy 5 minute walk to the CBD"

Cottage

A bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a view of mountains, and a sliding glass door.

A small cabin with a porch, set against a mountainous backdrop.

A compact kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. There is a dining table with chairs and a black leather chair.

A wooden deck with a bench, overlooking a valley with mountains in the background.

Shotover Country Cottages

Lower Shotover

"The accommodation was in good location views were great, just outside the hustle and Brussel of Queenstown was only a fifteen minute drive.Supermarket etc only a 5 minute drive"

Camping

A bedroom with a large window, a wooden ceiling, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern bedroom with a large window, a bed, a TV, and a hot tub on a wooden deck overlooking a lake and mountains.

A room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, a round table with a chair, and a bench with cushions.

A bedroom with a large window, a bed, a desk, and a chair.

The Huts at Lakes Edge

Lake Tekapo

"New Build Accommodation. Nice and warm. Amazing views of Lake Tekapo. Great facilities. No easy parking outside of unit."

Aparthotel

A modern building complex with a central courtyard, surrounded by mountains.

A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a black sofa with decorative pillows.

A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a TV, a fireplace, and a sliding glass door to a balcony.

A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a dining area with a white table and chairs, and a view of a backyard through large sliding glass doors.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Albert Town

"Good location"

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 living room with a black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.

A balcony with a table set for breakfast, overlooking a road and a lake with mountains in the background.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Queenstown

"Awesome, will stay here again!"

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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.

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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.

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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 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 fountain with three swans and water spouting from the top.

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.

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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

Lake Pukaki

9.6/10 (937 reviews)

Be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook as you hike, drive or ride through this incredibly picturesque landscape.

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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

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

10/10 Excellent

"Studio was great and well equipped. Location is perfect for walking into Queenstown. All staff are friendly and welcoming"

The Godley Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"😆"

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

8/10 Good

"property was central to everything. nice and tidy. washing and drying machine were a big help. room serviced everyday."

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"Best location, clean and affordable."

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent

"Amazing views for breakfast and even had a wee view from our room that I wasnt expecting"

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

10/10 Excellent

"Very good location"

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Great location, clean rooms, and nice amenities. Location was perfect but also the rooftop and free coffee made it better."

Pinewood Queenstown

8/10 Good

"Small but neat and fine for one night. Easy to walk into Queenstown & bed comfortable. Pretty small room & tiny shared toilet downstairs and tiny shared shower outside our room upstairs but price was good for Queenstown so all good."

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Friendly helpful staff great room incredible views"

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

£38

13 Oct - 14 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

£52

27 Oct - 28 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

£53

6 Oct - 7 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

£87

16 Oct - 17 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

£87

12 Oct - 13 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

£139

20 Oct - 21 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)

Hotels in South Island with star rating

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

Breathtaking Landscapes: South Island boasts stunning scenery, from majestic mountains to serene lakes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Adventure Activities: Engage in skiing at Roundhill Ski Area or explore the region's unique natural attractions.
Charming Towns: Discover picturesque towns like Queenstown and Nelson, offering a blend of culture and beauty.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in rejuvenating hot springs after a day of adventure, enhancing your relaxation experience.
Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxury hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near South Island

Explore the diverse hotel accommodations available on New Zealand's South Island, ideal for every type of traveller. Whether you seek luxury hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, or adventurous ski lodgings, you'll find a range of options. Many establishments offer hot spring-themed experiences, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. With numerous reviews and insights, planning your perfect getaway is easier than ever.

Lake Tekapo Village Motel: A charming 3.5-star motel with a commendable guest rating of 8.6, Lake Tekapo Village Motel is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a hot spring-themed retreat. Located a mere 11.3km from South Island, this property offers easy access to a natural hot spring, inviting guests to unwind and rejuvenate. Ideal for ski enthusiasts, the motel provides convenient connections to ski shuttles and lifts nearby. The welcoming atmosphere and comfortable accommodations make it a delightful base for your alpine adventures.
The Godley Hotel: With a 3-star rating and a guest score of 8.2, The Godley Hotel is perfectly suited for travellers in search of an adventure-filled getaway. Situated 11.3km from South Island, this hotel features nearby access to a natural hot spring, adding a touch of relaxation to an action-packed holiday. Guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports, including snow tubing, downhill skiing, horse riding, windsurfing, and kayaking, making it a fantastic choice for thrill-seekers. The hotel's inviting ambience and recreational opportunities promise a memorable stay.
Lakes Edge Holiday Park: This budget-friendly holiday park boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.0 and is eco-certified, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious travellers. Located 11.3km from South Island, Lakes Edge Holiday Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying comfortable lodging. The focus on eco-friendly practices ensures a sustainable stay, allowing guests to relax in a serene environment. This park is perfect for families and groups looking for affordable accommodation without compromising on quality.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, charming harbours, and friendly locals, it offers the perfect backdrop for memorable getaways. Explore the picturesque towns of Queenstown and Nelson, where stunning scenery meets vibrant culture. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or a romantic escape, South Island's diverse attractions promise an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and warm hospitality.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11.3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a picturesque suburb renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The tranquil lake, surrounded by majestic mountains, offers a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Visitors often flock to the area for its scenic vistas, especially during peak seasons in April and from December to January. Popular activities include exploring the nearby national state park, indulging in local body treatments, and enjoying leisurely shopping experiences. Don't miss the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, a local landmark that provides a perfect photo opportunity against the stunning lake backdrop.
Tekapo: Located about 12.9km from South Island, Tekapo shares its neighbour's charm and allure. This suburb is equally celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures, attracting visitors primarily during the summer months of November to January. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature by hiking through the stunning national park or shopping in quaint local boutiques. Tekapo's recreational areas are perfect for picnics or simply soaking in the surroundings. With its serene atmosphere, it’s a delightful spot for couples looking for a romantic escape amidst stunning landscapes.
Mount Dobson: Situated around 16.1km from South Island, Mount Dobson is the go-to destination for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Popular during March and the peak holiday season from December to January, this suburb is famed for its ski field, offering thrilling slopes for skiing and snowboarding. Beyond winter sports, visitors can explore the local cultural centre and take in breathtaking views of the nearby lakes and national park. With its captivating scenery, Mount Dobson is ideal for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in a tranquil setting.

Things to do in South Island

South Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and romantic getaways. Popular activities include visiting the Roundhill Ski Area for skiing, exploring natural attractions, and enjoying leisurely strolls. Don't miss informative tours that highlight the region's unique ice features, ensuring a memorable experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes.

Shopping

In Christchurch, visit Westfield Riccarton for a variety of shops, from fashion to electronics. The Arts Centre offers unique artisan crafts and local artwork. If in Queenstown, browse the local markets for handmade souvenirs and gourmet treats, showcasing the region's finest creativity.

Recreation

Experience the serene surroundings at The Omega Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and wellness therapies. For outdoor recreation, explore the picturesque Queenstown Gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge, where you’ll leap into the stunning canyon below. For a unique perspective, try skydiving over Queenstown, offering breathtaking views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.

Explore the vibrant landscapes of Fiordland National Park through exhilarating kayaking adventures in Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Alternatively, embark on the famous Routeburn Track for unforgettable hiking amongst diverse flora and fauna.

For a taste of adrenaline, head to Franz Josef Glacier for ice climbing, where you can ascend icy formations and marvel at the magnificent glacial scenery. Alternatively, take a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River, navigating through narrow canyons at high speed.

Nightlife

In Christchurch, the vibrant atmosphere of Cashel Street hosts lively bars and restaurants perfect for socialising. Queenstown is renowned for its buzzing nightlife, with venues like Kiwi Birdlife Park offering unique entertainment alongside energetic clubs like The World Bar, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

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 preferences, such as your budget, chosen location, and preferred hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package with Expedia that combines your hotel stay on the South Island with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways, featuring stunning lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and beautiful churches. This region offers a wealth of cultural experiences and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking adventure and romance. Be sure to explore the local attractions and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that New Zealand has to offer.

Tekapo Springs: Enjoy a soothing experience at Tekapo Springs, where you can unwind in natural hot pools while surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. This wellness destination offers relaxation and rejuvenation, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Church of the Good Shepherd: Visit the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd, a charming stone church that embodies the region's cultural heritage. Nestled on the shores of Lake Tekapo, it offers a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, making it a lovely spot for reflection.
Lake Tekapo: Experience the enchanting beauty of Lake Tekapo, known for its stunning turquoise waters. Ideal for outdoor activities, it’s a romantic location with scenic views, perfect for leisurely walks or picnics by the water's edge.

Best time to go to South Island

The best time to visit South Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around South Island falls in December, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around South Island falls in July, 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

South Island, New Zealand, is accessible via several major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is situated approximately 170.6km from the island, with nearby accommodation options like LyLo Christchurch, located 966m away, and Sudima Christchurch City, which is 8.0km from the airport. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), around 186.7km from South Island, features hotels such as Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1.1km away, and The Rees Hotel, 4.8km distant. Lastly, Nelson Airport (NSN) is about 365.3km from South Island, with options like Palazzo Motor Lodge and Century Park Motor Lodge, both 4.8km away, ensuring convenient access for visitors.

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

2. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

3. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

4. The Godley Hotel

5. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

6. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

7. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

9. Aoraki Court Motel

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

11. Woolshed Suites

12. Mackenzie Motels

13. Aorangi Motel

14. RodmanStar Apartment

15. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

16. Pinewood Motels

17. Sky Valley

18. Alpine Studio Coulson

19. Jero Apartment

20. Burkes Pass Country Motel

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Lake Resort by Marsden

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Skyrim Lodge

Village Lake Apartments

Quest Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

SiloStay

Marina Terrace Apartments

Shotover Country Cottages

The Huts at Lakes Edge

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Lyttelton Harbour

Hagley Park

Lake Pukaki

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

The Godley Hotel

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Kamana Lakehouse

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Mi-pad Queenstown

Pinewood Queenstown

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Carnmore Hagley Park

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Hotels in South Island with star rating

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Where to stay near South Island

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Best time to go to South Island