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 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 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.
A person at a table with a view of mountains and a body of water.

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Antoniette
CA $199
CA $229 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Peppers Bluewater Resort
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring purple chairs and round tables.
A modern interior with a sofa and chairs facing large windows with a mountain view.
A modern hotel with multiple buildings, large windows, and snow-covered surroundings.

2. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Australia
Natasha
CA $271
CA $311 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
A lakeside view with chairs and a picnic table, surrounded by trees and mountains.
A modern kitchen with wooden walls, a stainless steel refrigerator, a built-in oven, and a microwave.
A building with a covered outdoor area, a car parked in front, and a starry night sky.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains through a glass door.

3. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Declan Dechawut
CA $141
CA $162 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
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 person standing by a window with a night sky view, including stars and a visible mountain range.
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
CA $412
CA $474 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 28 - Oct 29
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.
A restaurant interior with a bar area, seating arrangement, and a view of the outside.
A spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, wooden seating, and a large window.
A couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.

5. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
CA $127
CA $148 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 9 - Oct 10
The Godley Hotel
A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.
A multi-story building with balconies, a covered entrance, and a parking area.
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.

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 multi-story building with large glass windows and stone pillars.
A modern bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a sliding glass door to the outdoors, and a mounted TV.
A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Fleur
CA $654
CA $752 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 14 - Oct 15
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
A residential area with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and houses with similar architecture.
A residential area with houses, a swimming pool, and a lake with mountains in the background.
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
Canada
Dominic
CA $345
CA $397 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Mantra Lake Tekapo
A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.
A reception desk with a wall displaying city names, two clocks, and a TV screen.
A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.
A row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
David
CA $511
CA $589 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Aoraki Court Motel
Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.
A modern building with a wooden facade and metal roof, situated by a body of water with mountains in the background.
A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains through a balcony, and a table with chairs outside.
A room with a large window offering a view of mountains and a lake.

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
CA $487
CA $561 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
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 modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.

11. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
Woolshed Suites
A spacious living area with a wooden ceiling, a dining table with chairs, a sofa, and a kitchen in the background.
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 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 modern house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

12. RodmanStar Apartment

RodmanStar Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Michael
RodmanStar Apartment
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 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.

13. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Natasha
CA $113
CA $131 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Mackenzie Motels
A neatly made bed with a dark headboard, two bedside lamps, and a window with curtains.
A compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, a sink, and a window overlooking a garden.
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.

14. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
CA $132
CA $152 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Aorangi Motel
A modern building with a glass facade, a covered outdoor area, and a mountainous backdrop.
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a dining table with chairs, and a view of mountains through large windows.
A staircase leading to a room with a mountain view through large windows.
A balcony with a view of a parking area and mountains.

15. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Mount Cook
Canada
Elaine
CA $212
CA $249 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
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.
Front of property
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.

16. Three Rivers Lodge

Three Rivers Lodge
Lake Tekapo
United States
Janice
Three Rivers Lodge
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 living room with a wooden wall, a flat-screen TV, a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a chandelier.
A snow-covered residential area with a stone wall, a bench, and a house with a snow-covered roof.

17. Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa

Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Melanie
CA $347
CA $399 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 20 - Oct 21
Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
A modern house with a sloped roof, large glass windows, and a wooden exterior.
A modern living room with a sofa, TV, and a view through a glass door.
Room
A modern hotel room with a sofa, a bed, a small round table, a kitchenette, and a large window with a view.

18. Sky Valley

Sky Valley
Lake Tekapo
New Zealand
Jayde
CA $174
CA $200 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Sky Valley
A modern house with a wooden deck and large windows, set against a starry night sky.
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.
A hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a chair, and a wooden wall panel.

19. Alpine Studio Coulson

Alpine Studio Coulson
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Gurbagh
CA $174
CA $200 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Alpine Studio Coulson
A modern house with a glass door entrance, white brick walls, and a dark roof.
A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a window with curtains.
A modern kitchen with a central island, white cabinetry, and pendant lighting.
A living room with a sectional sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and a table.

20. Jero Apartment

Jero Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Marc
Jero Apartment
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Vacation Rentals in South Island

Camping
A bedroom with a large window, a wooden ceiling, and a view of a lake and mountains.
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.
A bedroom with a large window, a bed, a desk, and a chair.

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

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 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 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.
A person at a table with a view of mountains and a body of water.

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
"Great location, lovely property with incredible views."
Peppers Bluewater Resort
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 Luxury Apartments
Wanaka
"Great location"
Wanaka Luxury Apartments
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 hotel room with a large bed, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and a view of a mountainous landscape through the window.
A modern living space with a dining area, sofa set, kitchen, and built-in appliances.

Skyrim Lodge

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."
Skyrim Lodge
Aparthotel
A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.
A multi-story hotel with balconies, a parking area, and a mountainous backdrop.
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 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

Quest Queenstown
Frankton
"Great place to stay"
Quest Queenstown
Aparthotel
A multi-story hotel with outdoor seating areas and a well-maintained lawn.
A sign for 'Clearbrook' with an arrow pointing left, indicating the direction to the property.
A modern hotel room with a flat-screen TV, a dining area with a table and chairs, a sofa, and a large window offering a mountain view.
A reception area with a reception desk, a phone, and a sign indicating after hours phone availability.

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka
Wanaka
"Staff and location was great."
Clearbrook Motels Wanaka
Aparthotel
A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a small table, a TV, a fireplace, and a sliding glass door leading to a patio with outdoor furniture.
Room
A modern kitchen with a dishwasher, sink, and dining area with chairs and a table.
A modern kitchen with a built-in microwave, stainless steel sink, and a compact refrigerator.

Punga Grove

Punga Grove
Franz Josef Glacier
"Perfect location, spacious clean rooms and good facilities. Friendly and helpful staff."
Punga Grove
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
"Fantastic spot, beautiful views and close access to public transport too. Rooms were very nice and pristine. Had a great stay and thank you 🙌"
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Villa
Exterior
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.
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

Suncrest Villas
Cromwell
"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."
Suncrest Villas
Aparthotel
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of snow-capped mountains.
A swimming pool with a view of mountains and a lake.
A modern two-story house with a stone facade, a wooden front door, and a garage.
A modern living room with a large window offering a mountain view, a flat-screen TV, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a purple sofa.

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts
Wanaka
"Great location especially if you are planning to ski at Cardrona or Treble Cone."
Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts
Aparthotel
A modern building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.
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.
A modern living room with a black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Awesome, will stay here again!"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Aparthotel
A hotel entrance with a sign reading "Village Lake" under a twilight sky.
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.
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

Village Lake Apartments
Hanmer Springs
"Super friendly staff, apartment was beautiful and clean with a gorgeous view."
Village Lake Apartments
Aparthotel
A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.
A sign for Alpine Motel with a mountain backdrop.
A modern, well-lit living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a kitchen in the background.
A boat docked at a rocky shore with mountains in the background.

Alpine Motel

Alpine Motel
Wanaka
"Comfortable rooms, good playground for the kids and just a short walk into town"
Alpine Motel
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 modern living room with a wooden dining table, black leather sofa, and potted plants.
A room with a bed, two wicker chairs, a large window with curtains, and a view of trees and mountains.

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Alpine Views Burkes Pass
Burkes Pass
"Good location , clean & cozy. "
Alpine Views Burkes Pass
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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.
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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.
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
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.
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

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

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!"
Amber 1-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

10/10 Excellent
"Great location, very helpful front reception. Happy to stay there again."
Aaron 1-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile
Kamana Lakehouse

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."
Jeffrey 3-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Kamana Lakehouse
Wyndham Garden Queenstown

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Clean, convenient, efficient"
Ruth 1-night trip
Posted 23 hours ago
Wyndham Garden Queenstown
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

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"
Meet 4-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Garden Court Suites And Apartments

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"
Georges 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Garden Court Suites And Apartments
The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"😆"
Cameron 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
The Godley Hotel
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

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."
Madison 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"Best location, clean and affordable."
Alvaro 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka
CA $59
CA $70 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
CA $85
CA $100 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)
Carnmore Hagley Park
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
CA $87
CA $100 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
includes taxes & fees
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
CA $141
CA $162 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
includes taxes & fees
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
CA $141
CA $163 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
includes taxes & fees
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
CA $212
CA $249 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

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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