South Island Hotel & Accommodation Deals 2026 from AU$101 - Compare prices by date

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

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.

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

Aloysius

AU$232

includes taxes & fees

22 Oct - 23 Oct

A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.

A modern interior with a sofa and chairs facing large windows with a mountain view.

A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring purple chairs and round tables.

A modern hotel with multiple buildings, large windows, and snow-covered surroundings.

2. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

Mount Cook

Natasha

A lakeside view with chairs and a picnic table, surrounded by trees and mountains.

A modern restroom with three sinks, a large mirror, and a decorative wall piece.

A building with a covered outdoor area, a car parked in front, and a starry night sky.

A modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.

3. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lake Tekapo

Robyn

AU$170

includes taxes & fees

22 Oct - 23 Oct

A modern building with multiple windows and a staircase leading to an upper level.

A person in a robe by a window with a starry night sky view.

A woman relaxing in a bathtub with a view of a bedroom through a window.

Two people seated at a round table with a bottle and glasses, overlooking a mountainous landscape through large windows.

4. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Lake Tekapo

Clara

AU$535

includes taxes & fees

22 Oct - 23 Oct

A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.

A view from a balcony overlooking a lake with mountains in the background.

A modern living room with a sofa, armchair, and a coffee table. There is a large window offering a view of mountains and a building.

A multi-story building with balconies, a covered entrance, and a parking area.

5. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo

Lucie-Catherine

A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.

A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.

A couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.

A spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, wooden seating, and a large window.

6. The Godley Hotel

Lake Tekapo

Kim

AU$179

includes taxes & fees

28 Oct - 29 Oct

A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.

A modern multi-story building with large glass windows and stone pillars.

A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

A modern bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a sliding glass door to the outdoors, and a mounted TV.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Suresh

AU$763

includes taxes & fees

4 Nov - 5 Nov

A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.

A kitchen with a granite countertop, a sink, and a dining area with a table and chairs.

A playground with swings and a slide, a gravel area, and a lake with mountains in the background.

A residential area with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and houses with similar architecture.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Dominic

AU$504

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.

A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.

A compact kitchen with a microwave, kettle, and a small refrigerator. There is a sink with a faucet, and a cabinet with drawers. A dark door is visible on the right side.

A row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Mount Cook

David

Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.

A dining area with a view of mountains and a lake, a painting on the wall, and a modern interior design.

A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains through a balcony, and a table with chairs outside.

A modern building with a wooden facade and metal roof, situated by a body of water with mountains in the background.

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Stephen

A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.

A compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.

A modern bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white vanity with a mirror, and a towel rack with two towels.

A modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.

11. Woolshed Suites

Lake Tekapo

Whitney

A modern building with a glass facade, a covered outdoor area, and a mountainous backdrop.

A balcony with a view of a parking area and mountains.

A modern kitchen with marble flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a buffet area with various food items.

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a dining table with chairs, and a view of mountains through large windows.

12. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mount Cook

Jurgen

AU$267

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

A modern living room with a grey sofa, a coffee table with a plant, a TV on the wall, and a dining area with wooden chairs.

A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a wardrobe, and a kitchenette.

A modern living room with a large sliding glass door, a sofa, a coffee table, and a small side table with a plant.

A modern house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

13. RodmanStar Apartment

Lake Tekapo

Michael

A modern mobile home with a patio area featuring a wooden bench, a table, and potted plants.

A modern living room with a sofa, a wooden table, and a TV on a stand.

A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a fireplace.

A row of compact, modern mobile homes with a gravel driveway and a wooden deck.

14. Mackenzie Motels

Fairlie

Natasha

AU$170

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.

A scenic landscape with a road, grassy areas, and mountains in the background.

15. Three Rivers Lodge

Lake Tekapo

Janice

A building with a metal roof and a covered entrance area.

A mountain lodge with a simple, functional design, featuring a parking area and a small building with a covered porch.

An outdoor seating area with tables and chairs under large umbrellas, overlooking a mountainous landscape with a clear sky.

16. Glentanner Park Centre

Glentanner

kathy

A neatly made bed with a dark headboard, two bedside lamps, and a window with curtains.

A room with two beds, a sofa, a coffee table, a desk, and a wall-mounted lamp.

A patio with two metal chairs and a small table, a potted plant, and a window with white curtains.

A compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, a sink, and a window overlooking a garden.

17. Aorangi Motel

Fairlie

Daniel

AU$154

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 Oct

View all properties

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel

A row of waterfront cottages with balconies, wooden decks, and a mountain backdrop.

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

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

A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a water body and buildings.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Mount Pisa

"Amazing place to stay!!"

Aparthotel

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

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.

A cozy living room with a fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and a round coffee table with a bottle of wine and a plate of food.

Village Lake Apartments

Hanmer Springs

"lovely stay"

Villa

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

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

A neatly made bed with a dark blue bedspread and pillows, two bedside lamps, a window with a dark blind, and a small wooden nightstand.

Suncrest Villas

Cromwell

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

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 outdoor terrace with a glass balustrade overlooking 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 modern building with large windows offering a view of 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.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Queenstown

"Great spot , beautiful rooms"

Aparthotel

A modern house with a glass facade, outdoor seating, and a view of the mountains.

A modern living room with a large sofa, a coffee table, and a TV. There is a kitchen area with a sink and cabinets.

A modern living room with a large gray sofa, a TV, and a fireplace. There is a kitchen area with a white island and pendant lights.

A modern building with a sign that reads "THE FAIRWAYS accommodation."

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

Kaikoura Flat

"The room was excellent. Staff were very friendly and helpful"

Aparthotel

A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.

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.

A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and chairs, a kitchen area with appliances, and a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a mountain view.

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.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Holiday Home

A living room with a large TV, a glass coffee table, a grey sofa, and a view of a mountain landscape through open doors.

A gravel driveway leading to a gated entrance with a stone wall and a sign reading "Manata Lodge."

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

A kitchen with a large island, stainless steel appliances, and a view of the outdoors.

Manata Lodge

Lower Shotover

"Lovely stay Very comfortable Great accommodation Peaceful setting Warm and welcoming"

Holiday Home

A patio with wooden furniture, a stone wall, and a glass door leading to a garden.

A living room with a glass coffee table, a leather sofa, a fluffy rug, a mirror, and a shelf with plants.

A modern living room with a glass coffee table, leather sofas, and a dining area with chairs.

A modern dining area with a wooden table and chairs, a sofa, and a television on the wall.

40 Warren Street

Wanaka

"super Location, sehr stilvoll eingerichtet, super sauber. ein perfekter Aufenthalt!"

Apartment

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, and two chairs. There is a window with curtains, and a plant on the desk.

A row of townhouses with a central courtyard, each with a small garden and a visible mailbox.

A modern kitchen with a built-in washing machine, a sink, and white cabinetry.

March Apartments

Wakari

"Excellent place to stay."

Cabin

A compact kitchen with a washing machine, microwave, and refrigerator.

A log cabin interior with a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV mounted on the wall.

A house surrounded by a well-maintained garden with various flowering plants and a lawn.

Central Chalets

Alexandra

"Excellent place to stay with the family. Comfortable chalet. The spa pool was a bonus!"

Apartment

A balcony with two wooden chairs and a small table, overlooking a calm lake with boats and mountains in the background.

A bedroom with a bed, a window, and a door.

A row of townhouses with balconies, a gated entrance, and a clear blue sky.

A gated entrance with a clear view of the sky and trees.

Akaroa Village Inn

Akaroa

"Was great place to stay"

Aparthotel

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

A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a black sofa with decorative pillows.

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

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.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Albert Town

"Good location"

Aparthotel

A modern hotel lobby with a wooden floor, an elevator, a reception desk, and a large forest mural on the wall.

A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains, a dining area, and a sliding door leading to another room.

A modern reception area with a wooden floor, a grey sofa, a round mirror, and a plant arrangement.

A hotel with a garden sign, multiple windows, and a view of snow-covered mountains.

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

Frankton

"Great location, views and room as described. Easy check-in and check-out and handy facilities."

Aparthotel

An indoor swimming pool with clear blue water, large windows, and a bench along the side.

A row of modern houses with stone walls and green lawns, set against a mountainous backdrop.

A reception desk with a glass top, a framed sign above it, and a potted plant to the left.

A modern kitchen with a black countertop, stainless steel appliances, and a large window.

Arrowfield Apartments

Arrowtown

"Nice views and quaint little town "

See all holiday rentals

Hotels recommended for families in South Island

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

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

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

Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

AU$519

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

A modern building with a central atrium, large windows, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A terrace with a table and chairs, overlooking a lake and mountains.

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

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.

The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

Queenstown

AU$520

includes taxes & fees

21 Oct - 22 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 dining area with tables set for four, large windows offering 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.

QT Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

AU$405

includes taxes & fees

29 Oct - 30 Oct

A hotel room with a large bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a small table with chairs, and a view of the mountains through a large window.

A room with wooden walls, a black carpet, a bench with helmets, and bicycles mounted on the wall.

A restaurant interior with multiple dining tables, chairs, pendant lighting, and large windows with decorative lattice.

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

AU$157

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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

An indoor swimming pool with a clear view of the pool area, a lounge with seating, and a stone wall in the background.

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

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Kawarau Falls

AU$317

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

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 hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the sea.

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

Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

Queenstown City Centre

AU$386

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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

A modern hotel room with a blue sofa, a matching armchair, a coffee table, a dining area with a small table and chairs, and a view of the city through large windows.

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.

Fable Dunedin

Dunedin City Centre

AU$153

includes taxes & fees

27 Oct - 28 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 bedroom with a large bed, a coffee tray, a chair, and a view of a lake and mountains.

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

Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

AU$349

includes taxes & fees

25 Oct - 26 Oct

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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 calm river with trees and grass on both sides.

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

A town nestled between mountains and a large lake with several islands.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in South Island

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"Room was as expected but bathroom a bit too small. Bed was very comfortable and breakfast also great. Within walking distance to shops."

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

8/10 Good

"Great resting lodge. Close to waterfront. Cool Motel"

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Right in the centre of QT."

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Very friendly and helpful staff"

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

10/10 Excellent

"Great location and friendly staff"

Bealey Quarter

8/10 Good

"Restaurant had amazing food and friendly staff, room was clean and had everything we needed. Pool tables available is a huge bonus, (annoying how it takes $2 a game). Courtyard area is peaceful with plenty of seating dining and hammocks."

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"Our room was very comfortable and the entire hotel was very clean. The building itself is very modern and looks almost brand new. We really liked the attached restaurant/bar as well. We received excellent and helpful service at both the hotel and the restaurant. For us, the location worked very well and allowed us to walk to many areas for shopping, dining and even the Botanical Gardens. The city itself is beautiful with many artistic features and murals, stunning architecture and beautiful gardens."

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

8/10 Good

"Great hotel nice big rooms but dated. Balcony was water logged so had to enjoy the fantastic view from the room."

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Very welcoming staff. Lovely evening meal even though we arrived not long before restaurant closed. Rooms clean and quiet. Lovely view to wake up to"

More cheap accommodation in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

AU$101

21 Oct - 22 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (323 reviews)

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

AU$104

8 Nov - 9 Nov

includes taxes & fees

8/10 Very good! (81 reviews)

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

AU$109

26 Oct - 27 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (494 reviews)

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

AU$161

26 Oct - 27 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.2/10 Very good! (779 reviews)

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

AU$168

29 Oct - 30 Oct

includes taxes & fees

9/10 Wonderful! (457 reviews)

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

AU$267

21 Oct - 22 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (125 reviews)

Find out more about South Island

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.

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

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.

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

2. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

3. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

4. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

5. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

6. The Godley Hotel

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

9. Aoraki Court Motel

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

11. Woolshed Suites

12. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

13. RodmanStar Apartment

14. Mackenzie Motels

15. Three Rivers Lodge

16. Glentanner Park Centre

17. Aorangi Motel

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Lake Resort by Marsden

Village Lake Apartments

Suncrest Villas

Central Park Apartments

Avani Queenstown Hotel

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

Quest Queenstown

Manata Lodge

40 Warren Street

March Apartments

Central Chalets

Akaroa Village Inn

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

Arrowfield Apartments

Hotels recommended for families in South Island

Millbrook Resort

The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

QT Queenstown

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

Fable Dunedin

Kamana Lakehouse

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

Recent Reviews in South Island

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

Mi-pad Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Bealey Quarter

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

More cheap accommodation in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Carnmore Hagley Park

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island