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.

South Island Holidays 2026 from £142

Your South Island Holiday

When your wanderlust is calling out to you, answer it with a holiday package to South Island. If your destination is Christchurch, get ready to experience this city's adventure sports, nature, culture and more. Begin your trip to South Island with some time in Queenstown visiting popular attractions like Onsen Hot Pools and Skyline Queenstown. Christchurch is another top city that lures crowds from far and wide. Cathedral Square and New Regent Street are two of the top places to see here. From the instant you book your South Island holiday to the second you come back home, Expedia will take care of you every step of the way.

Top South Island Flight + Hotel Deals

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Quest 256 Lambton

Wellington CBD

£142

per person

15 May - 18 May

found 20 hours ago

Return flight included

Christchurch (CHC) to Wellington (WLG)

9.8/10 Exceptional! (616 reviews)

Beautiful clean room.

Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026

Rydges Wellington

Pipitea

Save 100% on your flight

£176

per person

15 May - 18 May

found 20 hours ago

Return flight included

Christchurch (CHC) to Wellington (WLG)

8.2/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)

The room was very clean and the staff very courteous, but when we arrived, the curtains were open to the west facing window and it was blistering hot. It took several hours for the room to cool making it hard to fall asleep as we arrived in the evening.

Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026

Rydges Wellington Airport

Rongotai

£171

per person

15 May - 18 May

found 20 hours ago

Return flight included

Christchurch (CHC) to Wellington (WLG)

9/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)

The room was spotless

Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026

The Cobbler Hotel

Te Aro

£172

per person

15 May - 18 May

found 20 hours ago

Return flight included

Christchurch (CHC) to Wellington (WLG)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (84 reviews)

Good location, clean and good room space.

Reviewed on 31 Jan 2026

Victoria Court Motor Lodge

Te Aro

£168

per person

15 May - 18 May

found 20 hours ago

Return flight included

Christchurch (CHC) to Wellington (WLG)

8.4/10 Very Good! (639 reviews)

The room itself was clean and fine but it is a rather dated facility. One of our cooking pots and a salad bowl had not been cleaned and something was very burnt on to it. The WiFi was also rather weak. Free parking and an extra hour on checkout was appreciated. The hotel is very walkable to everything as well.

Reviewed on 12 Feb 2026

Things to do near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways. Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities, including leisurely strolls through stunning landscapes, exhilarating ski adventures, and scenic drive tours. For a taste of adventure, consider embarking on a safari holiday or exploring the diverse recreational areas that the island has to offer. With its breathtaking scenery, South Island promises an unforgettable experience.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit the Westfield Riccarton in Christchurch, offering a variety of shops and eateries. In Queenstown, browse the local markets for unique handmade gifts and artisanal products, perfect for souvenirs that capture the essence of your trip.

Recreation

Experience the stunning night sky at Mount John Observatory, where you can marvel at celestial wonders. For relaxation, head to Lake Tekapō Regional Park, featuring serene lakeside walks. For sports enthusiasts, The Cairns Golf Course offers a picturesque setting to enjoy a round of golf amidst breathtaking scenery.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track, located 38.6km from South Island, offers stunning scenery and adventure vibes as you hike through breathtaking landscapes. At Roundhill Ski Area, just 14.5km away, enjoy exhilarating skiing and sports activities. The Governors Bush Walk Trailhead, 37.0km from South Island, beckons with its outdoor adventure charm.

Nightlife

In South Island, New Zealand, experience vibrant nightlife in Queenstown, where bars and clubs along Shotover Street come alive. Christchurch offers lively spots in the Arts Centre and New Regent Street, while Dunedin’s George Street boasts pubs and live music venues, creating a buzzing atmosphere for night owls.

*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 scenery, serene lakes, and rejuvenating hot springs. Visitors can explore charming churches and engage in cultural experiences while soaking in the natural beauty. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, South Island offers a perfect blend of attractions and activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

Tekapo Springs: Nestled 11.3km from South Island, Tekapo Springs offers a unique wellness experience with its soothing hot springs. Enjoy outdoor relaxation amidst stunning natural surroundings, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Sheepdog Statue: Located 11.3km away, the Sheepdog Statue pays tribute to the hardworking sheepdogs of New Zealand. This cultural landmark captures the essence of the region's farming heritage, making it a must-see for visitors.
Lake Tekapo: Just 3.2km from South Island, Lake Tekapo boasts breathtaking scenery, pristine beaches, and romantic vibes. Ideal for outdoor activities or a leisurely stroll, its vibrant turquoise waters are a photographer's paradise.

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 (8.200000000000001°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

Tips to save on your trip to South Island

Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to South Island.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically June and August to September) for more affordable package holidays to South Island.
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.

South Island

World-famous landscapes shape the face of this dramatic island that is filled with fjords, mountains, glaciers, wineries and wildlife.

Discover some of the most fascinating and diverse landscapes you are ever likely to encounter in New Zealand’s South Island. Its sprawling national parks act as outdoor playgrounds for the adventurous, while its buzzing cities and friendly locals welcome visitors with open arms.

Uncover the South Island’s most dramatic scenery in Fiordland National Park. Take a cruise through Milford Sound or tackle one of the country’s great walks: the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn tracks.

Head to the home of adventure sports, Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Here you can do everything from bungee jumping and skydiving to jet boating and river rafting.

Soak up the Scottish heritage of Dunedin, a university city with a vibrant nightlife scene. From here, it is just a short drive to the Otago Peninsula, where one of the world’s rarest penguin colonies make their home.

Relax in Tekapo Springs Hot Pools which overlooks the majestic Lake Tekapo and features a huge inflatable waterslide. Ride the scenic TranzAlpine train from Greymouth to Christchurch, one of New Zealand’s largest cities. Sip the local pinot noir wines produced in vineyards of the Central Otago region and the sauvignon blancs produced in lush Marlborough.

Go kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, whose sheltered bays are home to dolphins and seals. Hike through Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and marvel at the top of New Zealand's highest peak, all while watching out for mischievous mountain parrots.

Aside from its stunning sights on the ground, the South Island is also one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Low light pollution and numerous observatories show off constellations spectacularly, with a large swath of the island officially recognised as an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Fly directly into Christchurch Airport or catch a connecting flight from Auckland. Rent a car or ride the efficient public buses to explore the island to its fullest. Visit during fall or spring for the best all-round weather and fewer crowds.

The South Island is rugged and beautiful, a place to fulfil once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

South Island Essential Information

Language	English
Currency	New Zealand dollars
Closest Airport	Wellington Intl. Airport (WLG)

Top hotels in South Island

Kamana Lakehouse

139 Fernhill Road Queenstown

Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay

£203

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

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

24 Frankton Road Queenstown

Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay

£204

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

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

16 - 18 Mountain Ash Drive Queenstown

Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay

£147

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

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.