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

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Antoniette
$140 nightly
$161 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Total with taxes and fees
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 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.

2. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Australia
Natasha
$190 nightly
$219 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
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

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Declan Dechawut
$99 nightly
$114 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Total with taxes and fees
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
A modern building with multiple windows and a staircase leading to an upper level.
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.
A person in a robe by a window with a starry night sky view.

4. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Clara
$290 nightly
$334 total
Oct 28 - Oct 29
Total with taxes and fees
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
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 multi-story building with balconies, a covered entrance, and a parking area.
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.

5. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Lucie-Catherine
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
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 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

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Kim
$90 nightly
$105 total
Oct 15 - Oct 16
Total with taxes and fees
The Godley Hotel
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 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.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Fleur
$457 nightly
$526 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Total with taxes and fees
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
A playground with swings and a slide, a gravel area, and a lake with mountains in the background.
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.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Dominic
$242 nightly
$279 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Total with taxes and fees
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 row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.
A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
David
$356 nightly
$411 total
Oct 15 - Oct 16
Total with taxes and fees
Aoraki Court Motel
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 room with a large window offering 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.

10. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
$343 nightly
$395 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Total with taxes and fees
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.
A modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a blue armchair.
A compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.

11. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
Woolshed Suites
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a wardrobe, and a kitchenette.
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 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.

12. RodmanStar Apartment

RodmanStar Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Michael
RodmanStar Apartment
A modern building with a glass facade, a covered outdoor area, and a mountainous backdrop.
A staircase leading to a room with a mountain view through large windows.
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.

13. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Mount Cook
Canada
Elaine
$168 nightly
$194 total
Oct 20 - Oct 21
Total with taxes and fees
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
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 row of compact, modern mobile homes with a gravel driveway and a wooden deck.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a fireplace.

14. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Natasha
$80 nightly
$92 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Mackenzie Motels
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 motel sign with the name 'Aorangi Motel' and contact information.
A patio with two metal chairs and a small table, a potted plant, and a window with white curtains.

15. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
$93 nightly
$107 total
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Total with taxes and fees
Aorangi Motel
A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.
Front of property
A scenic landscape with a road, grassy areas, and mountains in the background.
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 remote observatory with domed structures and a clear view of mountains in the background.
A snow-covered house with a large garage and a driveway.
A building with a stone foundation, a gabled roof, and a large window.
A building with a gabled roof and a stone foundation.

17. Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa

Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Melanie
$244 nightly
$280 total
Oct 20 - Oct 21
Total with taxes and fees
Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
A modern building with a sloped roof, large windows, and a wooden deck.
A modern building with a metal roof and a gravel pathway leading to the entrance.
A modern living room with a sofa, a flat-screen TV, and a sliding glass door leading to an outdoor area.

18. Sky Valley

Sky Valley
Lake Tekapo
New Zealand
Jayde
$122 nightly
$140 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Total with taxes and fees
Sky Valley
A hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a leather armchair, and a window with curtains.
A modern house with a wooden deck and large windows, set against a night sky with stars.
Interior
A wooden desk with a lamp, a potted plant, and a power outlet.

19. Alpine Studio Coulson

Alpine Studio Coulson
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Gurbagh
$122 nightly
$140 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Total with taxes and fees
Alpine Studio Coulson
A modern house with a glass door entrance, white brick walls, and a dark roof.
A living room with a sectional sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and a table.
A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a window with curtains.
A building with a white brick exterior, large windows, and a paved entrance area with a rock garden.

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 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

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

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 modern two-story house with a stone foundation, large windows, and a prominent chimney.
A swimming pool with a stone surround, lounge chairs, and a view of mountains.
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 multi-story hotel with outdoor seating areas and a well-maintained lawn.
A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand, a window with a view, and a ceiling light.
A 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
Treehouse
Room
View from room
Living area
Living area

Rainforest Deluxe

Rainforest Deluxe
Franz Josef Glacier
"Beautiful hotel"
Rainforest Deluxe
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 modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
A modern bar area with a glass enclosure, bar stools, and a seating area with a sofa and a small table.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.
A modern interior with a sofa, a staircase, and a wall-mounted shelf with plants.

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

Suncrest Villas

Suncrest Villas
Cromwell
"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."
Suncrest Villas
Vacation Home
A building named 'Skyrim Lodge' on Jimmy's Lane with a starry night sky.
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.
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 modern building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.
A modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A modern living room with a black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.
A modern living room with a large sofa, a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, a fireplace, and a scenic view through large windows.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Awesome, will stay here again!"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Aparthotel
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of snow-capped mountains.
A modern two-story house with a stone facade, a wooden front door, and a garage.
A swimming pool with a view of mountains and a lake.
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 outdoor hot tub area with a view of a lake and mountains.
An indoor swimming pool with large windows offering views of mountains and a lake.
A spacious living room with a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and a large window offering a lake view.
A modern room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, furnished with a sofa, table, and chairs.

Marina Terrace Apartments

Marina Terrace Apartments
Wanaka
"Unobstructed view of the lake and a very easy 5 minute walk to the CBD"
Marina Terrace Apartments
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 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 two sofas, a coffee table, and a kitchen in the background.

Village Lake Apartments

Village Lake Apartments
Hanmer Springs
"Super friendly staff, apartment was beautiful and clean with a gorgeous view."
Village Lake Apartments
Vacation Home
A modern building with a large window and a porch overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A modern kitchen with a central island, black bar stools, stainless steel appliances, and pendant lighting.
A modern living room with a wooden dining table, black leather sofa, and potted plants.
A rural landscape with a metal roofed structure, possibly a gazebo or pavilion, overlooking a field with trees and hills in the distance.

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.
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A snow-capped mountain range with a turquoise lake in the foreground.

Mount Cook National Park

9.8/10 (179 reviews)
Ski on a glacier, enjoy hot springs and tackle the peak where Sir Edmund Hillary trained for Everest in this spectacular part of New Zealand.
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A mountain range with a lake reflecting the peaks.

Milford Sound

9.6/10 (22 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Milford Sound during your travels in Fiordland National Park. Discover the area's waterfalls and glaciers.
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A coastal town with a harbor, mountains in the background, and a clear sky.

Lyttelton Harbour

8.6/10 (1,052 reviews)
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
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A fountain with three swans and water spouting from the top.

Hagley Park

9.2/10 (2,450 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

Lake Pukaki

9.6/10 (937 reviews)
Be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook as you hike, drive or ride through this incredibly picturesque landscape.
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Learn more about South Island

Larger, less populated and harder to reach than the northern “Main Island,” this area features New Zealand’s longest glacier, its highest mountain and much more.

See all hotels in South Island
A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"We absolutely loved this hotel! Staff was very friendly, facilities were clean and was in a great location to Queenstown city center."
Mark 4-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
Mi-pad Queenstown

Mi-pad Queenstown

8/10 Good
"Nice one to stay, very close to city center."
Yujia 4-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Mi-pad Queenstown
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 18 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 2 days 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 2 days ago
Kamana Lakehouse
Wyndham Garden Queenstown

Wyndham Garden Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Clean, convenient, efficient"
Ruth 1-night trip
Posted 2 days 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 2 days 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

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka
$37 nightly
$43 total
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Total with taxes and fees
7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
$61 nightly
$70 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Total with taxes and fees
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
$64 nightly
$75 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)
Carnmore Hagley Park
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
$98 nightly
$114 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Total with taxes and fees
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
$99 nightly
$114 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Total with taxes and fees
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
$168 nightly
$194 total
Oct 20 - Oct 21
Total with taxes and 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 Landscapes: South Island boasts stunning natural vistas, including beautiful lakes and majestic mountains.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy thrilling activities like paddle boarding, skiing, and exploring scenic hiking trails.
  • Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of adventure.
  • Charming Local Culture: Visit quaint churches and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.
  • Diverse Accommodations: From luxury hotels to cozy motels, there's a perfect stay for every traveler.

Find great hotels near South Island

Explore a range of hotel accommodations on New Zealand's stunning South Island, where adventure meets comfort. From luxury hotels offering top-notch amenities to cozy motels perfect for ski vacations, you'll find the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring. Whether you're seeking a hot spring retreat or an exhilarating outdoor experience, South Island has options to suit every traveler's needs.

  • Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Nestled in the picturesque Lake Tekapo Village, this 3.5-star motel, rated 8.6 by guests, offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a hot spring-themed vacation. The motel features easy access to a natural hot spring nearby, perfect for relaxation after a day of skiing or exploring the stunning landscapes. With ski shuttles and lifts within a short distance, adventure seekers can easily hit the slopes. The cozy accommodations provide a warm atmosphere for unwinding, making it an ideal choice for both couples and families.
  • The Godley Hotel: A 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2, The Godley Hotel is an excellent base for adventure lovers. Located just 7 miles from South Island, the hotel features nearby natural hot springs, offering a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. Guests can partake in various adventure sports, including hiking, biking, snowboarding, and kayaking, all within close proximity. The hotel’s comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities ensure a memorable experience for those looking to embrace the thrilling outdoor activities that the area has to offer.
  • Lakes Edge Holiday Park: This eco-certified holiday park, boasting a guest rating of 9.0, is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who value sustainability. Located 7 miles from South Island, Lakes Edge Holiday Park offers a serene environment amidst nature, making it an ideal spot for eco-friendly vacations. With a range of affordable lodging options, guests can enjoy the stunning lake views while engaging in outdoor activities. The park's commitment to environmental responsibility appeals to those looking to minimize their carbon footprint without compromising on comfort.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers a breathtaking blend of outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Explore vibrant cities and charming neighborhoods, where friendly locals enhance your experience. From stunning beaches to scenic delights, every corner reveals the island's natural beauty. Ideal for families or couples, South Island promises unforgettable moments amidst its picturesque landscapes. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning scenery that awaits in this remarkable destination.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Lake Tekapo is a picturesque suburb located 7 miles away from the main hub. Known for its stunning outdoor scenery, it's a perfect spot for couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. The lake, framed by majestic mountains and a national park, is a key attraction, drawing visitors year-round. Popular activities include leisurely strolls along the lakefront, body treatments at local spas, and exploring the nearby recreational areas. Peak travel times occur in April and from December to January, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere during these months.
  • Tekapo: Just 8 miles from the South Island, Tekapo is a charming suburb that offers a similar allure to its neighbor, Lake Tekapo. The area's breathtaking landscapes make it a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, with visitor numbers peaking between November and January. In addition to enjoying the scenic beauty, travelers can explore local recreational areas, indulge in shopping, or rejuvenate with body treatments. Like its counterpart, Tekapo boasts easy access to a stunning lake, national parks, and mountains, making it an ideal base for exploration.
  • Mount Dobson: Situated 10 miles from South Island, Mount Dobson is a hidden gem for adventure seekers. This suburb attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in March and December to January. Known for its outdoor activities, particularly skiing, Mount Dobson offers exhilarating slopes and a vibrant ski field. The area also features a cultural center and is close to picturesque lakes and national parks. Whether you're hitting the slopes or enjoying the serene landscapes, Mount Dobson promises a memorable experience for outdoor lovers and those seeking a romantic escape.

Things to do in South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking scenic adventures. Enjoy activities such as sightseeing trips, group excursions, and day trips to explore breathtaking landscapes. Experience the thrill of paddle boarding or embark on an adventure tour while visiting popular recreational areas and ski fields. With its stunning vistas and romantic settings, South Island offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Shopping

In the heart of Christchurch, Westfield Riccarton offers a variety of stores for trendy gifts and fashion. For unique souvenirs, visit the artist markets at the Arts Centre, where local crafts and artworks showcase the region's creativity and charm.

Recreation

In Queenstown, the Aro Ha Wellness Retreat provides a holistic experience with daily yoga, guided hikes, and nutritious meals amidst breathtaking landscapes. In Christchurch, the Terrace Downs offers spa treatments and golf with stunning mountain views, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation after outdoor adventures.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at the iconic Kawarau Bridge, where you can leap into the stunning canyon below. For a unique challenge, try the Franz Josef Glacier hike, navigating through breathtaking ice formations and crevasses in a stunning alpine landscape.

Nightlife

In Queenstown, the world-famous Kiwi Birdlife Park offers a unique night tour experience, while the popular World Bar serves creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. In Christchurch, the Isaac Theatre Royal hosts captivating performances, and the Canterbury Brewery provides a relaxed vibe with local craft beers.

*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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around South Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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 customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your South Island hotel, flights, and activities all in one go.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike, offering breathtaking scenery and a variety of attractions. Explore beautiful lakes, unwind in soothing hot springs, and visit charming churches that reflect the region's rich culture. Whether you're seeking adventure or a romantic getaway, South Island's diverse points of interest promise unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled just 2 miles from South Island, Lake Tekapo offers breathtaking scenery with its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. It's a perfect spot for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the romantic atmosphere by the beach.
  • Tekapo Springs: Located 7 miles away, Tekapo Springs is a rejuvenating hot spring resort that provides a serene wellness experience. Enjoy the outdoor thermal pools, spa treatments, and breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, making it an ideal place for relaxation.
  • Church of the Good Shepherd: Situated 7 miles from South Island, this charming church is a cultural gem. Built in 1935, it offers a unique blend of history and stunning views of Lake Tekapo, making it a must-visit for photography and reflection.

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

South Island, New Zealand, can be accessed through several major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is located 106 miles from the island, with nearby hotels such as LyLo Christchurch, a 5-star hostel just 0.6 mile away, and Sudima Christchurch City, a 5-star hotel 5 miles away. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), located 116 miles from South Island, offers excellent accommodation options like Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, a 5-star hotel 0.7 mile away, and The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments, 3 miles from the airport. Nelson Airport (NSN), 227 miles away, features hotels like Palazzo Motor Lodge and Century Park Motor Lodge, both 3 miles from the airport.

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