𝗧𝗢𝗣 𝗛𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝗶𝗻 South Island from RM128 (2026) - Fully Refundable Options

A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

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Go beyond your typical stay in South Island

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, two blue armchairs, a round table with a vase, and a ceiling with hanging plants.

A modern hotel with a prominent 'NOVOTEL' sign, featuring a sleek, contemporary design with large windows and a structured facade.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, and a glass partition.

A modern restaurant with high ceilings, large windows, and a variety of seating arrangements including tables and chairs.

1. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

Raymond

RM728

RM837 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Oct - 17 Oct

A modern lobby with grey upholstered chairs, a round wooden table, and a vase of flowers on a black side table.

The entrance of Sudima Hotels with glass doors, a concrete wall, and a delivery truck in the background.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a laptop, and a vase with green apples.

A corridor leading to a restaurant with glass doors and a sign reading "ach-eron restaurant & bar".

2. Sudima Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

Crystal

RM577

RM663 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Sept - 25 Sept

A rustic garden with a stone building, wooden benches, and a gravel path.

A rustic cabin with stone walls, a metal roof, and wooden deck seating.

A garden with a stone bench, a building with red windows, and a mountain in the background.

A bedroom with a wooden headboard, a small wooden stool, a hanging light fixture, and a window with blinds.

3. Cardrona Hotel

Cardrona

Emilla

RM337

RM388 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A modern kitchen with a stainless steel sink, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a view of the garden through large windows.

A woman and a child in a hot tub with a glass roof and outdoor seating area in the background.

A couple dining at an outdoor restaurant with a view of a modern building and lush greenery in the background.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, a lifeguard chair, and a poolside area with chairs and a table.

4. Commodore Airport Hotel

Burnside

Chris

RM638

RM734 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A row of cabins with a mountain backdrop and a hot air balloon in the sky.

A bedroom with a large bed, a TV, a view of mountains, and a window with curtains.

A rustic lodge with a stone wall and a pond in front.

5. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Layne

RM1,178

RM1,355 total

includes taxes & fees

29 Sept - 30 Sept

A modern building with large windows and a stone pathway leading to it, situated on a pebbled beach with driftwood in the foreground.

A covered outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, overlooking a beach and ocean.

A room with large windows overlooking a beach, a table with chairs, and a potted plant.

A spacious lounge area with a stone fireplace, large windows offering ocean views, and comfortable seating arrangements.

6. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Punakaiki

Karen

RM294

RM339 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Sept - 24 Sept

A restaurant table set with glasses, cutlery, and a bottle, with a mountain view through the window.

A couple embracing on a boat with a cityscape in the background.

A modern hotel with a glass facade, parking lot, and a mountainous backdrop.

7. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Frankton

debbie

RM499

RM573 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

A room with a large window, a wooden deck, a white bathtub, and a chair.

A person relaxing in a swimming pool with a tiled floor and potted plants in the background.

A balcony with a view of a river and mountains.

A restaurant with a wooden ceiling, large windows, and a central island with logs.

8. Coronet Ridge Resort

Arthur's Point

Kimberley

RM1,713

RM1,970 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Sept - 27 Sept

A group of people seated on wicker furniture facing a lake with mountains in the background.

A spacious living area with leather sofas, a wooden coffee table, and framed artwork on the walls.

A rocky shoreline with a large tree and a smaller tree in the water, surrounded by mountains.

A golf course with a pond, surrounded by buildings with dark roofs and a mountainous backdrop.

9. Edgewater

Wanaka

Drew

RM654

RM752 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables with lamps, a chair, a wardrobe, and an air conditioning unit.

A compact living space with a kitchen, dining area, and seating.

A patio with a table and chairs, a sliding glass door, and a wooden pergola.

A modern kitchen with a stainless steel sink, a faucet, and a backsplash with a mosaic tile pattern.

10. Airport Gateway Christchurch

Burnside

michael

RM363

RM417 total

includes taxes & fees

28 Sept - 29 Sept

A modern house with a glass door entrance, surrounded by lush greenery and a mountain in the background.

A river with a bridge, surrounded by mountains and dense forest.

A spacious restaurant with high ceilings, exposed beams, and a central bar area.

A hotel room with a sliding glass door, a bed with white linens, a bedside table with a lamp, and a view of the interior.

11. Heartland Hotel Haast

Haast

Andrew

RM272

RM313 total

includes taxes & fees

25 Sept - 26 Sept

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

A modern hotel entrance with a glass facade, a wooden ceiling, and a visible outdoor area.

A modern lounge area with a fireplace, wooden furniture, and large windows offering views of the outdoors.

A spacious lobby with a sofa, chairs, a wooden table, a bar area, and a fireplace.

12. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Gerhard

RM522

RM600 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A covered balcony with a view of a lake and mountains.

A lakeside view with a picnic area, a sign for 'Lakeview Resort', and mountains in the background.

A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV. There is a large window with curtains and a view of a lake.

A bedroom with a large bed, a nightstand, a potted plant, and a shower area.

13. Lakeside Motel & Apartments

Te Anau

Bernadette

RM465

RM535 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Oct - 3 Oct

A hotel room with a large bed, a TV, and a carpeted floor.

A bar with patrons, a television displaying a sports game, and a sign indicating a men's restroom.

A building labeled 'HOTEL HARI HARI' with a signboard indicating amenities like bar, meals, rooms, power sites, tent sites, and Wi-fi.

A bar area with wooden tables and chairs, antler decorations on the ceiling, and a bar counter with various bottles.

14. Hotel Hari Hari

Hari Hari

RM112

RM128 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Sept - 24 Sept

A modern dining area with a high ceiling, large windows, and a view of mountains and a lake.

A modern interior with stone walls, a wooden ceiling, and large windows offering mountain views.

A modern lounge area with a stone wall, a fireplace, sofas, and a bar with a bartender.

A modern bathroom with a wooden bathtub, a wooden shelf with towels, and a view of mountains and a lake.

15. Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

Jazmind

RM703

RM808 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A row of modern waterfront homes with balconies, connected by a dock.

A table set for a meal with various dishes and drinks, overlooking a body of water.

A dining area with tables set for a meal, large windows offering a view of a golf course, and a decorative ceiling with leaf-like structures.

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

16. Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch

Northwood

Zujian, Julian

RM508

RM584 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Sept - 24 Sept

A two-story building with a sign reading "The Boathouse Lodge" and amenities listed such as family rooms, shared dorms, private rooms, in-room bike storage, and free breakfast.

A bedroom with a bed, a hanging plant, and a window.

A hotel hallway with a staircase, a blue exit door, a plant, and a painting on the wall.

A kitchen with a stove, oven, and various kitchen utensils on the wall.

17. The Boathouse Lodge

Picton

Luciano

RM173

RM199 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Sept - 25 Sept

A room with a circular window overlooking a beach, a lamp, and a bed with pillows.

A modern room with a round table and six chairs, a bed, a small bedside table, and two framed pictures on the wall.

A round mirror reflecting a view of a beach and ocean, with two framed photographs on the wall.

A sign welcoming to SEA BREEZE with a NO VACANCY message.

18. The Sea Breeze

Timaru Central

Kurt

RM503

RM579 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Oct - 24 Oct

A modern building entrance with a glass door, a small outdoor seating area with metal chairs, and a gravel pathway.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a mirror, and a bench with a towel on it.

A swimming pool with a wooden deck, surrounded by a fenced area with a lawn and various shrubs.

A hotel entrance with a reception desk, a glass door, and a welcome sign.

19. Andorra Motel

Geraldine

Dianne

RM351

RM404 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Sept - 28 Sept

A spacious lobby with a modern staircase, red upholstered seating, and a digital display on the wall.

A modern hotel room with a glass partition, a bed, a bedside table, a built-in TV, and a bathroom with a sink and towel rack.

A modern hotel with a prominent sign, multiple floors, and a view of the street at dusk.

A bar area with a sign reading "Two Doors Down" and a variety of liquor bottles and glasses.

20. The Langlands Hotel

Invercargill City Centre

Sean

RM463

RM532 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Oct - 17 Oct

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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel

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 hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a lake and mountains.

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

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

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and a view of a mountainous landscape through the window.

Skyrim Lodge

Lake Tekapo

"Lovely room with a scenic view over the mountains around the region. Absolutely chuffed with what we got for a last minute booking, would stay here again."

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.

Two modern cabins with large windows and wooden decks, set in a field of purple flowers.

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

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

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

A modern interior with a sofa, a staircase, and a wall-mounted shelf with plants.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Frankton

"Great staff, great location, great times."

Holiday Home

A modern building with a large window and a porch overlooking a mountainous landscape.

A room with a bed, two wicker chairs, a large window with curtains, and a view of trees and mountains.

A rural landscape with a metal roofed structure, possibly a gazebo or pavilion, overlooking a field with trees and hills in the distance.

A modern kitchen with a central island, black bar stools, stainless steel appliances, and pendant lighting.

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Burkes Pass

"Good location , clean & cozy. "

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 clear view of a swimming pool with a glass barrier, wooden deck, and a backdrop of mountain ranges.

A waterfront property with a row of houses, a dock, and a calm lake reflecting the buildings.

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."

Treehouse

Rainforest Deluxe

Franz Josef Glacier

"Absolutely beautiful location with well equipped rooms"

Aparthotel

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

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.

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

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Wanaka

"Great location"

Aparthotel

A modern hotel room with a balcony, a sofa, a bed, a kitchen area, and a dining table.

A modern hotel room with a kitchenette, a dining area, a bed with a view, and a sofa.

A modern kitchen with a central island, built-in microwave, and a large window offering a view of the landscape.

A two-story building with balconies, large windows, and a paved courtyard.

Avalon Manor Motel

Motueka

"Fantastic friendly host, lovely room, a great place to stay!"

Aparthotel

A modern outdoor terrace with a glass balustrade overlooking a lake and mountains.

A modern living room with a fireplace, blue sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a large window offering a scenic view of a lake and mountains.

A modern room with two patterned armchairs, a small round table, and a large window offering a view of a lake and mountains.

A mountain with a cloud formation at its peak.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Queenstown

"restaurant was fantastic"

Aparthotel

A wide beach with a clear sky and distant mountains.

A modern, well-lit room with a blue carpet, a white sofa with black cushions, a small desk, and a chair.

A hotel room with a large bed, two black pillows, a wooden headboard, and two wall-mounted lights.

A modern, clean hallway with a potted plant, glass railing, and a view of the outside.

Beaches Nelson

Tahunanui

"Spacious room with large comfortable bed"

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

A compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, oven, and microwave shelf.

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"

Aparthotel

A modern building with a flat roof, large windows, and a balcony.

A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.

A modern building with a glass balcony overlooking a parking area and a mountainous landscape.

Central Park Apartments

Cromwell

"Beautiful rooms and really comfortable and quiet. A little out of the main part of town but still very close. The hosts were very friendly and made the stay quite pleasant"

Aparthotel

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

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.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a view of the city, and a woven wall hanging.

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

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Albert Town

"Good location"

Aparthotel

A modern building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.

A modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.

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

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.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Queenstown

"Awesome, will stay here again!"

See all holiday rentals

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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 sandy beach with a windmill, rocky outcrops, and a hillside with houses.

Sumner Beach

8.8/10 (648 reviews)

The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.

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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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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

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Convenient to the airport, clean and easy checkin and checkout. Bed was super comfy."

Sudima Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Everything is good"

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

10/10 Excellent

"Clean and quiet. Friendly staff. Great food."

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

10/10 Excellent

"Nice and close to the town centre. Great views of the Remarkables and lake."

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent

"Never disappoints."

Lakes Edge Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"It was clean"

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Great place to stay. The staff was amazing. So friendly. The best breakfast at any hotel I’ve stayed at. Clean. Perfect location."

LyLo Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Love the mix of accommodation options from pods to ensuite. Awesome community/kitchen room. Easy walking distance from airport. Fun to be able to socialise with travelers from all walks of life."

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

8/10 Good

"The hotel was clean and the food was good. However, I was disappointed with the parking situation. When I made the booking, it indicated that free parking was available, and the hotel photos also gave the impression that parking would be easily accessible. However, when we arrived, we found that most of the parking spaces belonged to other organisations, and the hotel itself had only a limited number of spaces available. I think the hotel should clearly explain during the booking process that on-site parking is limited, so guests travelling by car know what to expect before they arrive."

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

RM243

RM280 total

23 Sept - 24 Sept

includes taxes & fees

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

RM252

RM290 total

12 Oct - 13 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

RM342

RM393 total

24 Sept - 25 Sept

includes taxes & fees

8.2/10 Very good! (774 reviews)

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

RM434

RM499 total

16 Oct - 17 Oct

includes taxes & fees

9/10 Wonderful! (441 reviews)

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

Get rates

8.8/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)

Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

11 Aorangi Crescent Lake Tekapo

Get rates

8.8/10 Excellent! (155 reviews)

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

Breathtaking Scenery: South Island is renowned for its stunning landscapes, from majestic mountains to serene lakes.
Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for thrill-seekers, offering skiing, hiking, and water sports in various locations.
Charming Towns: Explore picturesque towns like Queenstown and Akaroa, each with unique charm and friendly locals.
Natural Hot Springs: Relax in soothing hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local heritage through tours and cultural activities.

Find great hotels near South Island

From charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, South Island offers a diverse array of accommodation options for every traveller. Whether you seek adventure in the stunning landscapes, a relaxing stay near hot springs, or a memorable ski vacation, you'll find the perfect lodging to enhance your experience. Browse through the best hotels and read reviews to ensure a delightful stay in this breathtaking region of New Zealand.

Lake Tekapo Village Motel: This 3.5-star accommodation is nestled in the picturesque Lake Tekapo Village, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking a hot spring-themed getaway. Rated 8.6 out of 10 by guests, the motel offers a range of amenities, including proximity to natural hot springs. With a ski shuttle and ski lift nearby, adventure seekers can enjoy the stunning alpine landscapes. The motel's comfortable and inviting atmosphere provides a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the breathtaking surroundings.
The Godley Hotel: A 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, The Godley Hotel is designed for those who crave adventure. Located in close proximity to Lake Tekapo, this property boasts easy access to natural hot springs and various adventure sports, including windsurfing, kayaking, and snowboarding. Guests will appreciate the hotel's focus on providing recreation activities both onsite and nearby, ensuring an active experience amidst some of New Zealand's most beautiful landscapes.
Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Rated 9.0 out of 10, Lakes Edge Holiday Park is a budget-friendly option for eco-conscious travellers. This eco-certified accommodation is located within 11km of South Island and offers a serene environment that blends seamlessly with nature. Guests can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while taking advantage of the park's facilities. The focus on sustainability makes it a suitable choice for those looking to minimise their environmental footprint while enjoying a delightful stay.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, offering stunning scenery and a welcoming atmosphere. Explore charming towns like Queenstown, known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities, or visit the picturesque Abel Tasman National Park for family-friendly fun. Enjoy romantic getaways by the pretty harbours of Akaroa and Marlborough, where friendly locals enhance your experience. South Island promises unforgettable adventures and serene escapes amid its natural beauty.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a charming suburb renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors flock here for its outdoor activities and romantic scenery, particularly during peak times in April and December to January. The area offers a delightful range of attractions including a picturesque lake, a national state park, and mountainous landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, while the local shopping area and body treatment venues provide opportunities for relaxation and indulgence.
Mount Dobson Ski Area: Located around 24km from South Island, Mount Dobson Ski Area is a prime destination for winter sports lovers. With its visitor numbers peaking from July to September, the ski area transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting those seeking thrilling outdoor experiences against a breathtaking backdrop. In addition to skiing, visitors can also enjoy golfing during the off-season. The proximity to a scenic lake, national state park, and mountains enhances the allure of this area, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers.
Tekapo: About 13km from South Island, Tekapo is another lovely suburb that captivates visitors with its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. The area sees a rise in tourist numbers from November to January, offering a variety of experiences for those looking for romance or adventure. The recreational areas and shopping venues cater to diverse interests, while the nearby lake, national state park, and mountains provide a stunning natural backdrop for exploration and relaxation.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

Visit Christchurch’s Westfield Riccarton, featuring a range of shops from fashion to homewares, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. In Queenstown, check out the local markets, where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs, perfect for capturing memories of your South Island adventure.

Recreation

At Aro Ha Wellness Retreat in Glenorchy, immerse yourself in daily yoga sessions, nourishing plant-based meals, and invigorating outdoor activities. The tranquil surroundings enhance mindfulness and relaxation, while guided hikes offer a chance to connect with nature, fostering a rejuvenating experience for body and mind.

Lake House at Lake Rotoiti provides a peaceful lakeside escape, featuring spa treatments, sauna sessions, and wellness workshops. Guests can unwind in hot pools while enjoying stunning views, creating a harmonious environment for relaxation and self-discovery amidst the beautiful landscapes of the South Island.

PurePod in Waipara offers a unique glamping experience with panoramic views of the vineyards and mountains. Enjoy meditation sessions, local wine tastings, and guided walks, allowing you to reconnect with nature and indulge in the serenity of this picturesque setting.

Adventure

In Queenstown, experience the thrill of bungee jumping from the iconic Kawarau Bridge, offering stunning views of the gorge below. In Franz Josef, embark on a guided glacier hike to explore breathtaking ice formations and crevasses, immersing yourself in an unparalleled glacial landscape.

Nightlife

In Christchurch, the Isaac Theatre Royal showcases stunning performances and lively events, while in Queenstown, the vibrant bars along Shotover Street offer a mix of local brews and live music. Dunedin's bars feature a unique blend of craft cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for an enjoyable evening out.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

To save money during your visit to South Island, plan your trip for June or August to September, when accommodation prices are lower. Book hotels about a month in advance, or check last-minute deals on Expedia for discounts. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest nights to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by price and type, including eco-friendly hotels. Consider bundling flights, accommodation, and activities for additional savings. Enjoy free activities like hiking and exploring stunning landscapes to keep your costs down.

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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around South Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and various other preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you discover the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you can view a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy some savings by combining your hotel accommodation for the South Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways, boasting stunning lakes, soothing hot springs, and charming churches. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature while exploring the breathtaking scenery, or indulge in cultural experiences that highlight the region's rich heritage. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, South Island offers a plethora of attractions to make your vacation memorable.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled amidst stunning alpine scenery, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its captivating turquoise waters and picturesque beaches. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers a romantic atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics, making it a serene getaway.
Tekapo Springs: Located in a tranquil setting, Tekapo Springs provides a rejuvenating escape with its natural hot springs. Visitors can indulge in wellness therapies while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, creating a peaceful environment for relaxation.
Church of the Good Shepherd: This charming stone church stands as a tribute to the region's pastoral heritage. With its stunning backdrop of mountains and lake, it offers a unique cultural experience, inviting visitors to appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance.

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

Flying into South Island, New Zealand, you have several major airport options. Christchurch Airport (CHC) is approximately 171km from South Island, with nearby hotels like Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both around 8km away, offering airport shuttle services. Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is about 187km away, featuring luxurious hotels such as Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, only 1km from the airport. Nelson Airport (NSN) is further afield at 365km, with options like Palazzo Motor Lodge and Century Park Motor Lodge, both around 5km away, providing easy access to the airport. Each of these airports ensures excellent connectivity and comfortable accommodation options for travellers.

South Island hotels from RM128

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. Novotel Christchurch Airport

2. Sudima Christchurch Airport

3. Cardrona Hotel

4. Commodore Airport Hotel

5. Millbrook Resort

6. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

7. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

8. Coronet Ridge Resort

9. Edgewater

10. Airport Gateway Christchurch

11. Heartland Hotel Haast

12. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

13. Lakeside Motel & Apartments

14. Hotel Hari Hari

15. Kamana Lakehouse

16. Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch

17. The Boathouse Lodge

18. The Sea Breeze

19. Andorra Motel

20. The Langlands Hotel

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Skyrim Lodge

The Huts at Lakes Edge

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Lake Resort by Marsden

Rainforest Deluxe

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Avalon Manor Motel

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Beaches Nelson

Shotover Country Cottages

Central Park Apartments

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

Sumner Beach

Hagley Park

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Sudima Christchurch Airport

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Lakes Edge Lodge

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

LyLo Christchurch Airport

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Carnmore Hagley Park

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

Find great hotels near South Island

Where to stay near South Island

Things to do in South Island

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

Find the best attractions near South Island

Best time to go to South Island

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island