South Island hotels from RM181

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.

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.