𝗧𝗢𝗣 𝗛𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝗶𝗻 South Island from RM174 (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 building with a central atrium, large windows, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern living room with a fireplace, large windows, and a view of mountains and a lake.

A modern room with a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony overlooking a lake and mountains. Inside, there is a dining table with chairs, a sofa, and a coffee table with a vase of flowers.

A room with a large window offering a view of a lake and mountains. There are wooden chairs and tables arranged for seating.

1. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

Queenstown

Yuxuan

RM1,178

RM1,354 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 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 spacious balcony with a dining area, a sofa, and a grill, overlooking a mountainous landscape.

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

2. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Layne

RM1,239

RM1,425 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Oct - 28 Oct

A modern building with a circular window and a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern living room with a sofa, a round coffee table, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a chair, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern living room with a grey sofa, a round wooden coffee table, and a view of a lake and mountains through large glass doors.

3. QT Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Olivia

RM797

RM916 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A riverside hotel with modern architecture, a walking path, and a view of mountains.

A modern living room with large windows, a fireplace, and a view of a lake.

A modern hotel room with a stone fireplace, a sofa with red cushions, a desk with a chair, and a large window offering a scenic view.

A modern outdoor seating area with a stone fire pit, overlooking a lake and mountains.

4. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Kawarau Falls

Kacie

RM729

RM838 total

includes taxes & fees

8 Oct - 9 Oct

A hotel with multiple floors, balconies, and a parking lot.

A balcony with a hot tub, lounge chairs, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A dining area with a table set for breakfast, featuring a variety of pastries and beverages.

A modern living room with a fireplace, a dining area, and a chandelier.

5. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

Queenstown City Centre

Yuji

RM1,130

RM1,300 total

includes taxes & fees

7 Oct - 8 Oct

A couple walking along a lakeside path with mountains in the background.

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

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

6. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Frankton

Jason and Josephine

RM440

RM506 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A building facade with a sign that reads "DISTRICT HOTEL PARCELS" and "PARCELS" above the entrance.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a headboard, a nightstand, a lamp, and a framed picture on the wall.

A bar area with a bartender preparing a drink, shelves with various bottles, and a seating area with chairs and a table.

A restaurant setting with a waiter holding a tray with a martini glass. Tables are set with white napkins and glasses.

7. Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Dunedin City Centre

Cole

RM478

RM550 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Oct - 10 Oct

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

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

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

8. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

jignesh

RM663

RM763 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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

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

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

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

9. Edgewater

Wanaka

Drew

RM757

RM871 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A balcony with a table set for breakfast overlooking a mountain and lake.

A dining area with round tables, chairs, and a view of the sea through large windows.

A modern stone house with a stone facade, a sloped roof, and a view of mountains in the background.

A hotel with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a mountain backdrop.

10. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Queenstown

Casey

RM523

RM601 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

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

11. Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

Mingjun

RM787

RM905 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A dining table with breakfast items and a view of a lake and mountains.

A hotel room with a view of a lake and mountains, a round table with a lamp, a sofa, and a chair.

A hot tub on a wooden deck with a mountainous backdrop and a body of water.

A stone wall with a fireplace, a staircase, and a seating area with chairs.

12. Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

Queenstown City Centre

Belinda

RM765

RM880 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

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

A modern reception area with a wooden reception desk, seating area with a curved bench, and a reception counter.

A modern restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, a bar area, and shelves with dishes.

A hotel room with a large window, a bed, a desk with a chair, and a painting on the wall.

13. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Amitkumar

RM500

RM575 total

includes taxes & fees

8 Oct - 9 Oct

An outdoor seating area with a fire pit, lounge chairs, and tables, surrounded by modern buildings and a mountain in the background.

A hotel room with a large window offering a mountain view, a sofa, a chair, and a small table.

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

A modern hotel with a glass facade, stone steps, and a sign for the Holiday Inn Express.

14. voco Queenstown by IHG

Queenstown City Centre

Rupert

RM591

RM680 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A hotel with a modern building and a parking lot with several cars.

A reception desk with a wooden counter, a computer, and a ViewSonic monitor. There are brochures on the wall and a window with a view of trees.

A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a stainless steel sink, and wooden shelves above.

A view from a window overlooking a mountainous landscape with trees and a building with a red roof.

15. Blue Peaks Lodge

Queenstown City Centre

Gabriel

RM649

RM753 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

A coastal resort with beachfront villas, a road leading to the beach, and lush greenery.

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

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

16. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Punakaiki

Karen

RM403

RM463 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

A modern hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a large window with curtains.

A historic building with a classic architectural style, featuring multiple stories, large windows, and a prominent entrance.

A modern bathroom with a round mirror, a vanity with a marble countertop, and a blue bench.

A three-tiered dessert display on a round table with a woven coaster, accompanied by two glasses of white wine.

17. Fable Dunedin

Dunedin City Centre

Craig

RM404

RM465 total

includes taxes & fees

17 Oct - 18 Oct

A modern multi-story residential building with balconies, surrounded by greenery and a mountainous backdrop.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand, a desk, and a view of a balcony with greenery.

A modern kitchen with a black countertop, wooden cabinets, and a dishwasher. There is a view of a cityscape through a large window.

A view from a window overlooking a lake with buildings and mountains in the background.

18. Scenic Suites Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Mark

RM638

RM734 total

includes taxes & fees

30 Oct - 31 Oct

A terrace with white bar stools and tables overlooking a mountainous landscape and a body of water.

A building with a sign reading "mi-pad" in front of a mountain range.

A view through a window of a mountainous landscape with dense forests and a few buildings.

A modern interior with wicker furniture, a round table, and a large TV screen on the wall.

19. Mi-pad Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Luke

RM476

RM561 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

A spacious lobby with a wooden floor, leather sofas, a red chair, and multiple hanging lights.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a unique X-shaped headboard, two bedside lamps, and a view through a window.

A spacious lobby with a wooden reception desk, red chairs, hanging pendant lights, and a bar area in the background.

A wall of whisky labels in a room with wooden flooring and a staircase leading to another area.

20. Poshtel

Oamaru

Cheryl

RM513

RM590 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Camping

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

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

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 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 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 spacious living room with a large window overlooking a pool and mountains, a wooden dining table, and comfortable seating.

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 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.

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

"Great location, lovely property with incredible views."

Aparthotel

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

A swimming pool with a stone surround, lounge chairs, and a view of mountains.

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

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 building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.

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.

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!"

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 multi-story hotel with balconies, a parking area, and a mountainous backdrop.

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.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Villa

A row of modern cabins with large windows, a gravel driveway, and a fenced vineyard in the background.

A modern building with a gravel driveway and a speed limit sign.

A compact kitchen with a dining table, chairs, a stove, and a microwave.

Suncrest Villas

Cromwell

"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."

Holiday Home

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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 🙌"

Treehouse

Rainforest Deluxe

Franz Josef Glacier

"Beautiful hotel"

Aparthotel

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

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

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

A sign for 'Clearbrook' with an arrow pointing left, indicating the direction to the property.

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Wanaka

"Staff and location was great."

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 hotel with a 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.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Queenstown

"Great spot , beautiful rooms"

Aparthotel

A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.

A picnic area with tables and chairs, a barbecue grill, and a small building with a sloped roof.

A boat docked at a rocky shore with mountains in the background.

A modern, well-lit living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a kitchen in the background.

Alpine Motel

Wanaka

"Comfortable rooms, good playground for the kids and just a short walk into town"

Aparthotel

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

A modern living room with two sofas, a coffee table, and a kitchen in the background.

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

Aparthotel

A modern living room with a flat-screen TV, a wooden coffee table, a sofa, and a cabinet.

A modern kitchen with a refrigerator, sink, and dining area with chairs and a table.

A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and a TV.

A neatly arranged bedroom with a large bed, two bedside tables, a nightstand, a framed picture on the wall, and a window providing a view.

Abba Court Motel & Apartments

Queenstown City Centre

"Clean room"

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 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

Mi-pad Queenstown

8/10 Good

"Nice one to stay, very close to city center."

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Just what we needed as a crash pad for one night near the airport (but could have stayed longer), great room layout for a young family with a bunk bed, nice views, good breakfast and super helpful staff. Would definitely recommend!"

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

10/10 Excellent

"Great location, very helpful front reception. Happy to stay there again."

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent

"Staff was most helpful. We never did get a reservation to eat dinner in the hotel. Grab bars in showers would be welcomed."

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Clean, convenient, efficient"

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Great place to stay however difficult to access without a car. Great amenities such as laundry and kitchenette. The “gym” is a bit of a joke. They are correct when they say limited parking. Pretty much after 8pm you have no chance to find parking. Despite that would definitely stay here again"

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."

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

RM148

RM174 total

20 Oct - 21 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

RM250

RM287 total

15 Oct - 16 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

RM270

RM310 total

12 Oct - 13 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

RM405

RM466 total

16 Oct - 17 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

RM435

RM500 total

8 Oct - 9 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

RM693

RM797 total

20 Oct - 21 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (121 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 RM174

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

2. Millbrook Resort

3. QT Queenstown

4. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

5. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

6. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

7. Distinction Dunedin Hotel

8. Novotel Christchurch Airport

9. Edgewater

10. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

11. Kamana Lakehouse

12. Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

13. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

14. voco Queenstown by IHG

15. Blue Peaks Lodge

16. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

17. Fable Dunedin

18. Scenic Suites Queenstown

19. Mi-pad Queenstown

20. Poshtel

Holiday Rentals in South Island

The Huts at Lakes Edge

Lake Resort by Marsden

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Quest Queenstown

Suncrest Villas

Skyrim Lodge

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Rainforest Deluxe

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Alpine Motel

Village Lake Apartments

Abba Court Motel & Apartments

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

Mi-pad Queenstown

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Kamana Lakehouse

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

The Godley Hotel

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Carnmore Hagley Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

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