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

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

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
United Kingdom
Sophie
CA $212
CA $244 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Peppers Bluewater Resort
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 modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains through a glass door.

2. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Declan Dechawut
CA $149
CA $171 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.
A modern hotel with multiple buildings, large windows, and snow-covered surroundings.
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.

3. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Australia
Natasha
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
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

Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Clara
CA $413
CA $475 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.
A spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, wooden seating, and a large window.
A couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.
A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.

5. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
CA $133
CA $154 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 19 - Oct 20
The Godley Hotel
A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.
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 hotel room with a bed, a desk with a television, a chair, and a balcony with a view.
A view from a balcony overlooking a lake with mountains in the background.

6. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Lucie-Catherine
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.
A modern living room with a sofa and armchairs, a sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a view of mountains.
A modern bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a sliding glass door to the outdoors, and a mounted TV.
A modern multi-story building with large glass windows and stone pillars.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Chhavi
CA $481
CA $558 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 24 - Sep 25
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
A residential area with houses, a swimming pool, and a lake with mountains in the background.
A residential area with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and houses with similar architecture.
A kitchen with a granite countertop, a sink, and a dining area with a table and chairs.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
United States
HARDIK
CA $345
CA $396 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Mantra Lake Tekapo
A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.
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 reception desk with a wall displaying city names, two clocks, and a TV screen.
A row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
Michael
CA $506
CA $585 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Aoraki Court Motel
A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.
A modern bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white vanity with a mirror, and a towel rack with two towels.
A compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a blue armchair.

10. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
CA $196
CA $226 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 22 - Sep 23
Woolshed Suites
Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.
A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains through a balcony, and a table with chairs outside.
A dining area with a view of mountains and a lake, a painting on the wall, and a modern interior design.
A room with a large window offering a view of mountains and a lake.

11. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
CA $492
CA $566 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
A modern mobile home with a patio area featuring a wooden bench, a table, and potted plants.
A living room with a fireplace, a television on a stand, and a bookshelf.
A row of compact, modern mobile homes with a gravel driveway and a wooden deck.
A modern living room with a sofa, a wooden table, and a TV on a stand.

12. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Natasha
CA $113
CA $131 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 22 - Oct 23
Mackenzie Motels
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 spacious living area with a wooden ceiling, a dining table with chairs, a sofa, and a kitchen in the background.
A modern house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

13. RodmanStar Apartment

RodmanStar Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Michael
RodmanStar Apartment
A neatly made bed with a dark headboard, two bedside lamps, and a window with curtains.
A patio with two metal chairs and a small table, a potted plant, and a window with white curtains.
A room with two beds, a sofa, a coffee table, a desk, and a wall-mounted lamp.
A motel sign with the name 'Aorangi Motel' and contact information.

14. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
CA $122
CA $140 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Aorangi Motel
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 hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a dining table with chairs, and a view of mountains through large windows.
A modern kitchen with marble flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a buffet area with various food items.

15. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Mount Cook
Canada
Elaine
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
A window with a view of a natural landscape, including trees and mountains.
A room with large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains. There is a wooden chair and a small table with bottles.
A snow-covered residential area with a stone wall, a bench, and a house with a snow-covered roof.
A living room with a wooden wall, a flat-screen TV, a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a chandelier.

16. Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa

Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Melanie
CA $346
CA $398 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
A modern house with a sloped roof, large glass windows, and a wooden exterior.
A modern hotel room with a sofa, a bed, a small round table, a kitchenette, and a large window with a view.
A modern building with a sloped roof and a small entrance.

17. Sky Valley

Sky Valley
Lake Tekapo
New Zealand
Jayde
CA $180
CA $207 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Sky Valley
A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.
A scenic landscape with a road, grassy areas, and mountains in the background.

18. Three Rivers Lodge

Three Rivers Lodge
Lake Tekapo
United States
Janice
Three Rivers Lodge
A modern house with a wooden deck and large windows, set against a starry night sky.
A hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a chair, and a wooden wall panel.
A modern kitchen with a microwave, coffee maker, and knife block.
A modern bathroom with a wooden vanity, a towel rack, and a glass shower enclosure.

19. Alpine Studio Coulson

Alpine Studio Coulson
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Anonymous traveller
CA $201
CA $231 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 15 - Oct 16
Alpine Studio Coulson
A well-maintained lawn with a wooden table and chairs, surrounded by lush greenery and a mountain in the background.
A modern kitchen with a built-in sink, wooden cabinets, and a window with a view of greenery.
A covered outdoor area with a view of a grassy yard, trees, and a distant hill.
A snow-covered house with a sign indicating it is an accommodation and gallery.

20. Burkes Pass Country Motel

Burkes Pass Country Motel
Burkes Pass
Australia
Richmond
CA $147
CA $171 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 9 - Oct 10
Burkes Pass Country Motel
View all properties

Vacation Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel
A modern building with a large patio area, a mountain in the background, and a body of water in the foreground.
A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a lake and mountains.
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

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
"The staff were very friendly and helpful we would definitely stay there again"
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Vacation Home
A building named 'Skyrim Lodge' on Jimmy's Lane with a starry night sky.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.
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

Skyrim Lodge
Lake Tekapo
"Lovely room with a scenic view over the mountains around the region. Absolutely chuffed with what we got for a last minute booking, would stay here again."
Skyrim Lodge
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 room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, a round table with a chair, and a bench with cushions.

The Huts at Lakes Edge

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."
The Huts at Lakes Edge
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 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.

Lake Resort by Marsden

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."
Lake Resort by Marsden
Aparthotel
A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
A modern interior with a sofa, a staircase, and a wall-mounted shelf with plants.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.
A modern bar area with a glass enclosure, bar stools, and a seating area with a sofa and a small table.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Frankton
"Great staff, great location, great times."
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Treehouse

Rainforest Deluxe

Rainforest Deluxe
Franz Josef Glacier
"Absolutely beautiful location with well equipped rooms"
Rainforest Deluxe
Vacation Home
A modern building with a large window and a porch overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A rural landscape with a metal roofed structure, possibly a gazebo or pavilion, overlooking a field with trees and hills in the distance.
A room with a bed, two wicker chairs, a large window with curtains, and a view of trees and mountains.
A modern kitchen with a central island, black bar stools, stainless steel appliances, and pendant lighting.

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Alpine Views Burkes Pass
Burkes Pass
"Good location , clean & cozy. "
Alpine Views Burkes Pass
Aparthotel
A swimming pool with a stone accent wall, a hot tub, and a patio area with chairs and an umbrella.
A living room with a stone fireplace, red sofas, and a wooden coffee table.
A modern two-story house with a stone foundation, large windows, and a prominent chimney.
A bedroom with a large bed, bedside tables, a wooden bench, a wardrobe, and a door leading to a bathroom.

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Wanaka Luxury Apartments
Wanaka
"Great location"
Wanaka Luxury Apartments
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 living room with a fireplace, blue sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a large window offering a scenic view of a lake and mountains.
A modern building with large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Avani Queenstown Hotel
Queenstown
"restaurant was fantastic"
Avani Queenstown Hotel
Aparthotel
A modern hotel room with a balcony, a sofa, a bed, a kitchen area, and a dining table.
A modern hotel room with a kitchenette, a dining area, a bed with a view, and a sofa.
A modern kitchen with a central island, built-in microwave, and a large window offering a view of the landscape.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a television, and a balcony with a view of the outdoors.

Avalon Manor Motel

Avalon Manor Motel
Motueka
"Fantastic friendly host, lovely room, a great place to stay!"
Avalon Manor Motel
Cottage
A bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a view of mountains, and a sliding glass door.
A wooden deck with a bench, overlooking a valley with mountains in the background.
A compact kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. There is a dining table with chairs and a black leather chair.
A small cabin with a porch, set against a mountainous backdrop.

Shotover Country Cottages

Shotover Country Cottages
Lower Shotover
"The accommodation was in good location views were great, just outside the hustle and Brussel of Queenstown was only a fifteen minute drive.Supermarket etc only a 5 minute drive"
Shotover Country Cottages
Aparthotel
A wide beach with a clear sky and distant mountains.
A modern room with a glass table, a chair, a dining table, and a view through a window with curtains.
A modern, well-lit room with a blue carpet, a white sofa with black cushions, a small desk, and a chair.
A modern, clean hallway with a potted plant, glass railing, and a view of the outside.

Beaches Nelson

Beaches Nelson
Tahunanui
"Spacious room with large comfortable bed"
Beaches Nelson
Aparthotel
A modern living room with a sofa and a glass coffee table, a sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a mountain and sea view.
A modern multi-story hotel with balconies, a landscaped garden, and a clear view of the surrounding landscape.
A modern kitchen with a stainless steel sink, white cabinets, and a view of a balcony with a scenic landscape.
A fitness center with cardio equipment, large windows, and a view of mountains.

Highview Apartments

Highview Apartments
Queenstown City Centre
"The apartment was exactly as shown, so it was great. Amazing view with everything you could need. Staff was friendly and polite."
Highview Apartments
Aparthotel
A modern building complex with a central courtyard, surrounded by mountains.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a view of the city, and a woven wall hanging.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a dining area with a white table and chairs, and a view of a backyard through large sliding glass doors.
A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a black sofa with decorative pillows.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Albert Town
"Good location"
Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Vacation 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 hallway with a wooden bench, a door leading outside, and a small table with a plant.
A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and a fireplace.
A gravel driveway leading to a gated entrance with a stone wall and a sign reading "Manata Lodge."

Manata Lodge

Manata Lodge
Lower Shotover
"Lovely setting...clean as and very comfortable"
Manata Lodge
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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.
See properties
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.
See properties
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.
See properties
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.
See properties
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.
See properties

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

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

10/10 Excellent
"lovely unit with great views of mountain and lake"
Jillian Dawn 6-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Never disappoints."
Ibtisam 1-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
Lakes Edge Lodge

Lakes Edge Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"It was clean"
Sharmaine 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Lakes Edge Lodge
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Great place to stay. The staff was amazing. So friendly. The best breakfast at any hotel I’ve stayed at. Clean. Perfect location."
halona 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

8/10 Good
"I loved my stay , the hotel was clean, the location was beautiful."
Preesha 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
LyLo Christchurch Airport

LyLo Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Love the mix of accommodation options from pods to ensuite. Awesome community/kitchen room. Easy walking distance from airport. Fun to be able to socialise with travelers from all walks of life."
Cornelia 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
LyLo Christchurch Airport
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

8/10 Good
"The hotel was clean and the food was good. However, I was disappointed with the parking situation. When I made the booking, it indicated that free parking was available, and the hotel photos also gave the impression that parking would be easily accessible. However, when we arrived, we found that most of the parking spaces belonged to other organisations, and the hotel itself had only a limited number of spaces available. I think the hotel should clearly explain during the booking process that on-site parking is limited, so guests travelling by car know what to expect before they arrive."
Bikash 6-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG
Sudima Christchurch Airport

Sudima Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Great hotel and shuffle bus service"
Catherine 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Sudima Christchurch Airport
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"Staff were very helpful & welcoming. Heating was a bit tricky to get right but staff were very helpful. A microwave in the room would have been useful. Room was very comfortable & location perfect for walking the city."
Sally 3-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

More cheap stays in South Island

Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
CA $79
CA $92 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
includes taxes & fees
Carnmore Hagley Park
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
CA $84
CA $96 total
Sep 22 - Sep 23
includes taxes & fees
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
CA $114
CA $132 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very good! (774 reviews)
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
CA $149
CA $171 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (441 reviews)
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
Get rates
8.8/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

11 Aorangi Crescent Lake Tekapo
Get rates
8.8/10 Excellent! (155 reviews)
Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

Hotels in South Island with star rating

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 picturesque lakes.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Experience thrilling activities like skiing, hiking, and exploring national parks.
  • Charming Towns: Visit delightful towns such as Nelson and Kaikoura, where you can enjoy local culture and hospitality.
  • Unique Attractions: Don't miss the underwater aquarium and skyline gondola for unforgettable views.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts to suit your vacation style.

Find great hotels near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking adventure and ski experiences or a relaxing stay near hot springs, you'll find the perfect lodging to suit your preferences. Explore the best hotels in the region, ensuring a memorable and comfortable visit to this stunning part of the world.

  • Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Lake Tekapo Village Motel is a charming 3.5-star accommodation with a guest rating of 8.6, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing getaway. Nestled near the stunning Lake Tekapo, this motel embraces a hot spring theme, offering easy access to nearby natural hot springs. Ideal for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind, guests can enjoy ski shuttle services and lifts that are just a short distance away. The cozy, well-appointed rooms provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration, making it perfect for a rejuvenating vacation.
  • The Godley Hotel: The Godley Hotel is a 3-star property boasting a guest rating of 8.2, tailored for the adventurous traveller. Just 11.3km from South Island, this hotel features a hot spring theme with natural hot springs nearby. Guests can indulge in a variety of exciting activities, including windsurfing, hiking, and kayaking, all within close proximity. The Godley Hotel combines comfort and adventure, making it an ideal base for those who thrive on outdoor experiences while enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.
  • Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Lakes Edge Holiday Park is a budget-friendly accommodation that shines with a guest rating of 9.0. Situated 11.3km from South Island, this eco-certified park is designed for environmentally conscious travellers. The property emphasizes sustainability and offers a variety of amenities catering to families and groups, including communal kitchens and outdoor spaces. Set against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes, Lakes Edge Holiday Park promises a memorable stay for guests who appreciate nature and seek eco-friendly options without compromising on comfort.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers a stunning array of outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. From the scenic beauty of Queenstown's mountains to the family-friendly vibe of Christchurch, there's something for everyone. Explore charming towns like Nelson and Kaikoura, where friendly locals enhance your experience. With a variety of hotels and accommodations, you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of this remarkable region in the southern hemisphere.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled about 11.3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning turquoise lake and starry night skies, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Visitors can enjoy a multitude of recreational activities, from hiking and biking to soaking in local spa treatments. The area is particularly popular during April and the festive season from December to January, drawing in those seeking breathtaking scenery and tranquility. Notable landmarks include the picturesque lake, nearby national parks, and majestic mountains that frame this idyllic setting.
  • Tekapo: Located approximately 12.9km from South Island, Tekapo mirrors the charm of its neighbour with a focus on outdoor activities and stunning vistas. This suburb offers a blend of shopping, relaxation, and adventures in nature, making it a versatile stop for visitors. Peak tourist seasons occur from November to January, when the area’s beauty is on full display. Explore the scenic lake, the expansive national state parks, and the impressive mountain ranges that surround this peaceful haven, perfect for couples and families alike.
  • Mount Dobson: Situated around 16.1km from South Island, Mount Dobson is a fantastic destination for those who love skiing and winter sports, especially during the peak months of March and the holiday season. This suburb boasts a vibrant ski field, making it a magnet for thrill-seekers and snow lovers. Alongside its winter attractions, visitors can enjoy local shopping and cultural experiences. The stunning landscapes include shimmering lakes and a national park, offering a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway or an adventurous escape.

Things to do in South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking scenic getaways. Enjoy breathtaking sightseeing trips, thrilling skiing opportunities at nearby ski fields, and adventures tailored for adrenaline lovers. Don't miss the underwater aquarium for a unique experience and the skyline gondola for stunning views. This destination combines romance and adventure for an unforgettable vacation.

Shopping

The Westfield Riccarton mall offers a range of international and local brands, perfect for finding unique gifts. For a more local vibe, head to the Christchurch Arts Centre market, where you can discover handmade crafts and artisanal products that capture the spirit of New Zealand.

Recreation

In Queenstown, indulge in wellness at the Aroha Health Spa, where breathtaking mountain views complement rejuvenating treatments. In Christchurch, the Clearview Estate offers serene vineyard surroundings, perfect for relaxation and wine therapy, allowing you to unwind and indulge in local flavours.

Adventure

In Queenstown, experience the thrill of bungee jumping from the iconic Kawarau Bridge, soaring above stunning landscapes. Explore Fiordland National Park with a breathtaking kayak tour through the serene waters of Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

Nightlife

In Christchurch, the iconic Isaac Theatre Royal hosts captivating performances, while the vibrant bars on Victoria Street offer a lively atmosphere for socializing. In Queenstown, the lively nightlife scene includes bustling pubs and clubs, perfect for enjoying local craft beers and dancing the night away.

*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: Book your hotel around South Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations on the South Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance amidst stunning scenery. Visitors can explore picturesque lakes, relaxing hot springs, and charming churches, all offering a rich cultural experience. With a variety of attractions catering to diverse interests, South Island promises unforgettable adventures for every type of traveler.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled 3.2km from South Island, Lake Tekapo boasts stunning turquoise waters surrounded by majestic mountains. It's the perfect spot for outdoor activities, romantic strolls, and breathtaking scenery that will leave you in awe.
  • Church of the Good Shepherd: Located 11.3km away, this charming church is a cultural gem with a picturesque backdrop. Its stone architecture and serene setting make it a popular spot for photography and reflection.
  • Tekapo Springs: Situated 11.3km from South Island, Tekapo Springs offers rejuvenating hot springs set against a stunning landscape. It's an ideal destination for wellness, outdoor fun, and relaxation after a day of exploring.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island

Arriving in South Island, New Zealand, is convenient with its major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is approximately 170.6km from the region, with nearby hotels like LyLo Christchurch, a 5-star hostel just 966m away, and Sudima Christchurch City, located 8.0km from the airport. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is about 186.7km away, featuring hotels such as Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, only 1.1km from the airport, and The Rees Hotel, 4.8km away. Lastly, Nelson Airport (NSN) is 365.3km from South Island, with options like Palazzo Motor Lodge and Century Park Motor Lodge, both 4.8km away, offering easy access to the airport.

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