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Top reasons to visit Southland

• Stunning Scenery: Southland boasts breathtaking landscapes, including picturesque lakes, majestic mountains, and serene beaches, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Charming Towns: Visit Invercargill and Gore to experience unique alpine architecture and authentic local culture.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures, from hiking to boat tours, catering to all types of travellers.
• Rakiura and The Catlins: Explore the natural beauty of Rakiura (Stewart Island) and the hidden gems of The Catlins.
• Diverse Accommodation: A wide selection of motels, hotels, and campgrounds ensures comfortable stays for all visitors.

Find great hotels in Southland

Southland offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, including motels and hotels, perfect for business travellers, adventure seekers, and families alike. With an abundance of campgrounds and accessible facilities, visitors can enjoy comfortable stays at locations like Tower Lodge and other accommodation complexes. Whether you seek a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Southland's hotels cater to your every need.

• Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels: Nestled in the heart of Southland, Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels offers a delightful nature-themed getaway for families and business travellers alike. This 4.5-star rated holiday park is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, providing a serene escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s amenities, including a shared playground, ensuring that younger guests have plenty of space to play and explore. With its focus on eco-friendly practices and community engagement, this property truly embodies the spirit of New Zealand's natural beauty.
• Lakeside Motel & Apartments: For those seeking a comfortable and convenient stay, Lakeside Motel & Apartments offers a charming 3.5-star lodging experience in Southland. Guests can unwind in well-appointed rooms equipped with modern entertainment options, including television and digital TV, ensuring you stay connected and entertained during your visit. The motel’s prime location allows easy access to nearby attractions and the stunning lakeside scenery, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, it’s perfect for couples or solo travellers looking for a relaxing retreat.
• Kelvin Hotel: The Kelvin Hotel stands as a beacon for eco-conscious travellers, offering a 3.5-star accommodation experience that marries comfort with sustainability. Situated in the vibrant heart of Southland, this property is eco-certified, making it an excellent choice for those prioritising environmentally friendly practices during their stay. Business travellers will find the hotel’s facilities well-suited to their needs, while leisure guests can enjoy the surrounding attractions. With a commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, the Kelvin Hotel ensures that your stay contributes positively to the beautiful New Zealand landscape.

Where to stay in Southland

Southland, New Zealand, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Explore the charming towns of Invercargill and Gore, where you can immerse yourself in the region's unique alpine architecture and authentic experiences. Don't miss the breathtaking beauty of Rakiura (Stewart Island) or the picturesque Catlins, where hidden gems await. With friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere, Southland is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly holiday.

• Te Anau: Nestled in the heart of Southland, Te Anau is a picturesque suburb known for its stunning natural beauty. The tranquil Te Anau Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains, offers a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Popular activities include hiking the renowned Fiordland National Park trails and skiing at nearby fields. The best time to visit is during the summer months from December to February, when the scenery is at its most vibrant. Visitors can indulge in various water activities, while the charming town centre hosts delightful cafes and shops, making it an ideal base for exploring the great outdoors.
• Invercargill: As the southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is a vibrant hub of culture and adventure. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, this city boasts a rich history and plenty of attractions. Ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures, Invercargill offers motor racing events and theatrical performances. The city is a gateway to stunning parks and the fascinating transport museum, showcasing its unique heritage. Peak travel periods are from January to February and September, when the city buzzes with activity. With its blend of urban charm and natural beauty, Invercargill is perfect for both relaxation and exploration.
• Milford Sound: Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, Milford Sound is a must-visit destination in Southland. This stunning suburb is famous for its dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and lush rainforest. Popular activities here include outdoor adventures such as kayaking and hiking, with spectacular views at every turn. The peak seasons are January to February and November, drawing visitors eager to experience its unparalleled scenery. For those seeking a romantic getaway or a serene escape into nature, Milford Sound offers a unique experience that is truly unforgettable, with its pristine lakes and towering mountains providing the perfect backdrop.

Things to do in Southland

Southland, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking stunning scenery or a romantic getaway. Visitors can explore adventure spots and enjoy boat tours while also indulging in shopping at local centres and experiencing the vibrant theatre scene. With its breathtaking landscapes and myriad activities, Southland promises an unforgettable vacation for all types of travellers.

Shopping

In Southland, visit E Hayes & Sons, a unique store offering a range of gifts and souvenirs. This iconic establishment showcases local craftsmanship and memorabilia, making it a must-stop for tourists seeking authentic New Zealand treasures.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Rugby Park Stadium, where you can enjoy live sports events. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Te Anau Golf Course offers stunning landscapes and a refreshing game of golf. Families can have a blast at Splash Palace, a fun aquatic centre perfect for all ages.

Adventure

The Hump Ridge Track offers an exhilarating hiking experience with breathtaking scenery and a true sense of adventure. Meanwhile, Teretonga Raceway Park provides heart-pounding motor racing excitement for sports enthusiasts. The Kepler Track, with its stunning landscapes, is another must-do for outdoor adventurers seeking a memorable trek.

Nightlife

In Southland, the Fiordland Cinema offers a charming atmosphere with romantic and family vibes, perfect for a film night. The Civic Theatre and Bunkhouse Theatre both provide captivating cultural experiences, showcasing entertaining performances in a romantic setting, making them ideal spots for an enchanting evening out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Southland

For a cost-effective trip to Southland, consider visiting between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Saturdays, which tend to be the cheapest nights. Use Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and preferences, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Look out for app deals and arrange prices from lowest to highest for the best bargains.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Southland are June to August, 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: Booking a hotel in Southland about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Southland is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Southland is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from the lowest to the highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Southland with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Southland

Southland is a haven for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for romantic getaways. Visitors can explore picturesque lakes, majestic mountains, and serene beaches. The region offers a variety of attractions that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and families alike, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveller. Whether you’re hiking in nature or enjoying local culture, Southland promises a delightful escape.

• Milford Sound: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound, a majestic mountain renowned for its dramatic scenery and adventure opportunities. Explore outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and scenic cruises through the stunning fjords.
• Mitre Peak: Known for its striking silhouette, Mitre Peak offers awe-inspiring views and a tranquil atmosphere. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it's a perfect spot for hiking, photography, and immersing yourself in nature's splendour.
• Toetoes Bay: Relax at Toetoes Bay, where pristine beaches meet picturesque scenery. Enjoy the outdoor vibes, indulge in beach activities, or simply savour the serene coastal landscape, making it a perfect getaway.

Best time to go to Southland

The best time to visit Southland is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average 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	Average	Slightly High
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
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	Average
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	44.8°F (7.1000000000000005°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
July	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
August	45.1°F (7.300000000000001°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Southland

For your visit to Southland, New Zealand, you can fly into three major airports. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is 157.7km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1.3km from the airport, and accessible via local transport. Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is 152.9km away, offering options such as Bonnie Knights Motel and Bella Vista Motel Mosgiel, both 12.9km from the airport. However, the closest is Invercargill Airport (IVC), located only 1.6km from Southland, with convenient accommodation like Shelby Motor Lodge and Ascot Park Hotel, both providing free airport transportation and 24-hour shuttle services.