Search South Island hotels

Top reasons to visit South Island

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Experience breathtaking scenery, from picturesque fjords to serene lakes, perfect for outdoor exploration.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling pursuits such as skiing on famous ski fields or embarking on scenic boat trips.
• Charming Towns: Discover the vibrant atmosphere of cities like Queenstown and Christchurch, rich in local culture and hospitality.
• Romantic Getaways: Enjoy intimate experiences in scenic settings, ideal for couples seeking memorable moments.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a wide range of hotels and motels, catering to both luxury and budget preferences.

Find great hotels near South Island

Discover a plethora of accommodation options on New Zealand's stunning South Island, where you'll find a range of hotels and motels tailored to your needs. Whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat or a cosy base for your adventure, options abound. Enjoy unique experiences like hot spring-themed stays or ski holidays amidst breathtaking landscapes, ensuring your visit is both memorable and comfortable.

• Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Nestled in the scenic Lake Tekapo Village, this motel boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.6. Ideal for those seeking a hot spring-themed escape, the property is located a mere 11km from South Island. Guests can enjoy the natural hot springs nearby, offering a relaxing retreat after a day on the slopes. With ski shuttles and lifts within easy reach, this accommodation caters to both relaxation and adventure, making it a splendid choice for winter sports enthusiasts.
• The Godley Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.2, The Godley Hotel invites adventure seekers to explore its thrilling offerings, situated just 11km from South Island. This hotel combines comfort with an array of adventure sports, including snow tubing, windsurfing, and kayaking, ensuring an exhilarating stay. The nearby natural hot springs provide a perfect way to unwind after an active day. This property’s emphasis on adventure makes it a vibrant option for those looking to embrace the great outdoors.
• Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.0, Lakes Edge Holiday Park offers a unique eco-certified experience, just 11km from South Island. This accommodation is designed for eco-conscious travellers, featuring sustainable practices and a serene environment. Guests can enjoy the tranquil surroundings, perfect for relaxation while still having access to local attractions. The park's commitment to sustainability provides a refreshing choice for those seeking to minimise their environmental impact while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a breathtaking destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. From the stunning landscapes of Queenstown to the charming streets of Christchurch, visitors are treated to friendly locals and family-friendly activities. Experience the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful island, where high season brings an array of adventures and unforgettable memories. Whether you're exploring picturesque fjords or indulging in local cuisine, South Island offers something for every traveller.

• Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its breathtaking outdoor experiences and stunning scenery. The area is particularly popular for romantic getaways, with activities that include exploring the nearby national state park and indulging in body treatments. Lake Tekapo’s iconic turquoise waters, framed by the Southern Alps, create an unforgettable backdrop for visitors. Noteworthy landmarks include the serene lake itself and the Church of the Good Shepherd, which offers picturesque views, making it a prime spot for photography enthusiasts.
• Tekapo: Located around 13km from South Island, Tekapo shares its neighbour's allure, attracting travellers with its enchanting landscapes and outdoor activities. Peak visitor seasons are from November to January, when the area's recreational offerings shine. Tekapo is ideal for both romance and adventure, with opportunities for shopping and relaxation in local body treatment venues. The surrounding natural beauty, including the famous lake and the expansive national park, invites exploration and relaxation, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
• Mount Dobson: Situated about 16km from South Island, Mount Dobson is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking views. This suburb is particularly popular during the ski season, with peaks in visitor numbers from March and December to January. Skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions, alongside an array of shopping options. Mount Dobson's proximity to a cultural centre and the national park offers a unique blend of adventure and local heritage, making it a captivating destination for both thrill-seekers and culture lovers alike.

Things to do in South Island

South Island offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance, with a plethora of activities to enjoy. Engage in recreational pursuits, embark on informative tours, or take a scenic boat trip to explore the stunning landscapes. For thrill-seekers, skiing on the renowned ski fields presents an exhilarating adventure, while intimate experiences await for those looking to create memorable moments together in this breathtaking region.

Shopping

In the heart of Christchurch, you’ll discover the vibrant Cashel Street Mall, where local artisans showcase unique crafts. For a more laid-back experience, head to the Nelson Market, featuring fresh produce and handmade gifts that capture the essence of New Zealand's charm.

Recreation

In Queenstown, the Body Sanctum offers rejuvenating massages and holistic therapies in a tranquil environment. Nearby, Aroha Health Spa provides a serene escape with natural treatments and stunning lake views, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with nature amidst the breathtaking landscape.

Adventure

In Queenstown, experience thrilling bungee jumping from the iconic Kawarau Bridge, offering stunning views of the river below. In Franz Josef, embark on a guided glacier hike to discover breathtaking ice formations and crevasses, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Southern Alps.

Nightlife

Explore the lively atmosphere at The Last Word on Victoria Street, where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails. For a vibrant pub scene, visit the Craft Bar on Cashel Street, offering local brews and a relaxed vibe, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travellers alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

• 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: Booking a hotel around South Island 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 around South Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around South Island is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation on the South Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near South Island

The South Island of New Zealand is perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways, featuring stunning lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and charming churches. These points of interest cater to travellers seeking a blend of nature, culture, and romance, making it an ideal destination for those wishing to explore its breathtaking scenery and unique experiences.

• Lake Tekapo: Nestled just 3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach or indulge in a romantic picnic as you soak in the serene outdoor scenery.
• Tekapo Springs: Located 11km from South Island, Tekapo Springs offers a rejuvenating oasis featuring natural hot springs. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by beautiful alpine vistas, making it an ideal spot for wellness and relaxation.
• Church of the Good Shepherd: Situated 11km away, this charming church is a cultural gem with its breathtaking setting. The iconic stone structure offers stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the mountains, making it a captivating spot for reflection and appreciation of local heritage.

Best time to go to South Island

The best time to visit South Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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, is convenient with several major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is approximately 171km away, with nearby hotels such as Bealey Quarter (10km away) and LyLo Christchurch (966m away), offering accessible airport shuttle services. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is about 187km from South Island, featuring options like Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa (1km away) and The Rees Hotel (5km away), both easily reachable from the airport. Nelson Airport (NSN), located 365km away, has hotels like Palazzo Motor Lodge (5km away) and Century Park Motor Lodge (5km away), ensuring convenient access to the airport as well.