Best South Island Hotels in 2026 from HK$546 - Fully Refundable Options

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

A modern hotel lobby with a reception desk, two blue armchairs, a round table with a vase, and a ceiling with hanging plants.

A modern restaurant with high ceilings, large windows, and a variety of seating arrangements including tables and chairs.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, and a glass partition.

A modern hotel with a prominent 'NOVOTEL' sign, featuring a sleek, contemporary design with large windows and a structured facade.

1. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

Raymond

HK$1,223

HK$1,407 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Sept - 14 Sept

A modern lobby with grey upholstered chairs, a round wooden table, and a vase of flowers on a black side table.

A bar area with a long counter, multiple seating options, and a variety of bottles on shelves.

The entrance of Sudima Hotels with glass doors, a concrete wall, and a delivery truck in the background.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a laptop, and a vase with green apples.

2. Sudima Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

HK$1,012

HK$1,163 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Sept - 15 Sept

A spacious lobby with a stone fireplace, blue chairs, a marble reception desk, and a chandelier.

A modern kitchen with a stainless steel sink, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a view of the garden through large windows.

A bartender pouring a drink into a martini glass at a bar with a variety of liquor bottles in the background.

A woman and a child in a hot tub with a glass roof and outdoor seating area in the background.

3. Commodore Airport Hotel

Burnside

Carly

HK$1,029

HK$1,184 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Sept - 14 Sept

A rustic garden with a stone building, wooden benches, and a gravel path.

A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a large window with a view, and a mounted deer head on the wall.

A bedroom with a wooden headboard, a small wooden stool, a hanging light fixture, and a window with blinds.

A garden with a stone bench, a building with red windows, and a mountain in the background.

4. Cardrona Hotel

Cardrona

Emilla

HK$657

HK$756 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A modern house with a glass door entrance, surrounded by lush greenery and a mountain in the background.

A spacious restaurant with high ceilings, exposed beams, and a central bar area.

A reception area with a reception desk labeled "Waiyoto" and "Haast New Zealand," a reception counter, patterned chairs, a small table, and a mirror on the wall.

A river with a bridge, surrounded by mountains and dense forest.

5. Heartland Hotel Haast

Haast

Fiona

HK$530

HK$610 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Sept - 13 Sept

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

A spacious balcony with a dining area, a sofa, and a grill, overlooking a mountainous landscape.

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

6. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Layne

HK$2,296

HK$2,640 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Sept - 15 Sept

A group of people seated on wicker furniture facing a lake with mountains in the background.

A golf course with a pond, surrounded by buildings with dark roofs and a mountainous backdrop.

A spacious living area with leather sofas, a wooden coffee table, and framed artwork on the walls.

A rocky shoreline with a large tree and a smaller tree in the water, surrounded by mountains.

7. Edgewater

Wanaka

Kim

HK$1,114

HK$1,281 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Sept - 19 Sept

A modern building entrance with a glass door, a small outdoor seating area with metal chairs, and a gravel pathway.

A modern kitchen with a built-in microwave, stainless steel sink, and a dishwasher.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a mirror, and a bench with a towel on it.

A hotel entrance with a reception desk, a glass door, and a welcome sign.

8. Andorra Motel

Geraldine

Dianne

HK$705

HK$811 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Sept - 15 Sept

A modern building with large windows and a stone pathway leading to it, situated on a pebbled beach with driftwood in the foreground.

A coastal resort with beachfront villas, a road leading to the beach, and lush greenery.

A spacious lounge area with a stone fireplace, large windows offering ocean views, and comfortable seating arrangements.

A covered outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, overlooking a beach and ocean.

9. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Punakaiki

Kaye

HK$574

HK$660 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Sept - 13 Sept

A covered balcony with a view of a lake and mountains.

A lakeside view with a picnic area, a sign for 'Lakeview Resort', and mountains in the background.

A building with a white exterior and a metal roof, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and various shrubs.

A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV. There is a large window with curtains and a view of a lake.

10. Lakeside Motel & Apartments

Te Anau

Jared

HK$909

HK$1,045 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Sept - 15 Sept

A two-story building with a sign reading "The Boathouse Lodge" and amenities listed such as family rooms, shared dorms, private rooms, in-room bike storage, and free breakfast.

A hotel hallway with a staircase, a blue exit door, a plant, and a painting on the wall.

A kitchen with a stove, oven, and various kitchen utensils on the wall.

A reception desk with a wooden top and blue edge, a clock on the wall, and a painting of a boat.

11. The Boathouse Lodge

Picton

Lindsay

HK$338

HK$389 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Sept - 13 Sept

A hotel room with a large bed, a small table, and a chair. There is a large window with a view of mountains.

A spacious lobby with a sofa, chairs, a wooden table, a bar area, and a fireplace.

A modern lounge area with a fireplace, wooden furniture, and large windows offering views of the outdoors.

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, and a view of mountains through floor-to-ceiling windows.

12. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Gerhard

HK$1,243

HK$1,430 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Oct - 10 Oct

A couple embracing on a boat with a cityscape in the background.

A restaurant table set with glasses, cutlery, and a bottle, with a mountain view through the window.

A modern hotel with a glass facade, parking lot, and a mountainous backdrop.

13. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Frankton

Arby Batinga

HK$871

HK$1,002 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Sept - 19 Sept

A room with a sofa, armchair, and a table with a lamp.

A modern two-story building with large windows and a flat roof, situated in a grassy field with mountains in the background.

A hot tub with a mountain view, a table with a bottle of champagne, and wicker chairs.

A table set for two with wine glasses and a salt and pepper shaker, overlooking a scenic view with palm trees and yellow flowers.

14. Braemar Lodge And Spa

Hanmer Springs

Tracy

HK$948

HK$1,091 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Sept - 14 Sept

A spacious lobby with a modern staircase, red upholstered seating, and a digital display on the wall.

A bar area with a sign reading "Two Doors Down" and a variety of liquor bottles and glasses.

A modern hotel with a prominent sign, multiple floors, and a view of the street at dusk.

A modern cafe with a wooden accent wall, a coffee bar, and a variety of seating options including tables and chairs.

15. The Langlands Hotel

Invercargill City Centre

David

HK$919

HK$1,057 total

includes taxes & fees

17 Sept - 18 Sept

A modern hotel entrance with a stone facade, large potted plants, and a well-lit interior visible through the glass doors.

Two people toasting with drinks at an outdoor table with a view of parked cars and a building in the background.

A stone structure with a rectangular opening, surrounded by greenery and a parking lot with cars.

An aerial view of a hotel with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a covered patio area.

16. Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

Blenheim CBD

Ian

HK$525

HK$604 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Sept - 21 Sept

A modern hotel lobby with a marble floor, a seating area with brown sofas, and a large white pillar.

A woman sitting on a sofa in a modern lounge area with a fireplace.

A modern hotel with a prominent entrance, large windows, and a flat roof.

A person seated at a table with a bowl of food and a cup of coffee, in a restaurant with a modern interior and dark seating.

17. Distinction Invercargill Hotel

Invercargill City Centre

Graeme

HK$986

HK$1,134 total

includes taxes & fees

19 Sept - 20 Sept

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables with lamps, a chair, a wardrobe, and an air conditioning unit.

A patio with a table and chairs, a sliding glass door, and a wooden pergola.

A compact living space with a kitchen, dining area, and seating.

A modern kitchen with a stainless steel sink, a faucet, and a backsplash with a mosaic tile pattern.

18. Airport Gateway Christchurch

Burnside

Elna

HK$570

HK$656 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Sept - 25 Sept

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

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

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

A modern hotel room with a stone fireplace, a sofa with red cushions, a desk with a chair, and a large window offering a scenic view.

19. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Kawarau Falls

Zujian

HK$1,410

HK$1,621 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Sept - 27 Sept

A modern bar area with a fireplace, seating, and a view of the outdoors.

A bar area with a wooden counter, bar stools, and a variety of bottles and glasses.

A modern lobby with a tufted white sofa, a glass coffee table with a plant, and a wooden reception desk.

A modern hotel room with a wooden accent wall, a glass shelf with toiletries, a bed with a blue pillow, and a large mirror.

20. Hotel Elms Christchurch, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Papanui

Tania

HK$833

HK$958 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Sept - 14 Sept

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Holiday 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 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.

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

"The staff were very friendly and helpful we would definitely stay there again"

Holiday Home

A building named 'Skyrim Lodge' on Jimmy's Lane with a starry night sky.

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 kitchen with a grey door, black cabinets, a white countertop, and a built-in oven.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.

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."

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 modern kitchen with built-in appliances, a central island, and a view of the outdoors.

A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Frankton

"Great staff, great location, great times."

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

"The room was very spacious and great value for money! The staff were super helpful and the amenities were great, I especially like being able to park directly infront of the rooms! Highly reccomend"

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.

A building with a flat roof and a small window, surrounded by dense greenery and a mountain in the background.

A modern kitchen with a dishwasher, sink, and dining area with chairs and a table.

A hotel room with a large bed, a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a balcony with a view of greenery.

Punga Grove

Franz Josef Glacier

"Perfect location, spacious clean rooms and good facilities. Friendly and helpful staff."

Aparthotel

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

A modern living room with a stone wall, a fireplace, a television, a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of a mountain and buildings through large windows.

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

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Aparthotel

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

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

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

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

Lake Resort by Marsden

Mount Pisa

"Friendly staff. Nice view"

Aparthotel

A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of snow-capped mountains.

A modern kitchen with a large island, a dining area with a view of mountains, and a black carpeted floor.

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.

A swimming pool with a view of mountains and a lake.

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Wanaka

"Great accommodation and good location "

Aparthotel

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.

Mantra Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

"Nice clean rooms and kitchen great location"

Aparthotel

An outdoor patio area with string lights, a wooden deck, and a brick building entrance.

A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, and a coffee machine. There is a dining table with chairs and a hanging light fixture.

A modern kitchen with a wooden dining table, stainless steel appliances, and a hanging light fixture.

A living room with a brown leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a large HFS sign on the wall.

Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Accommodation

Hokitika

"Wonderful place to stay."

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 black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.

A modern kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Queenstown

"Awesome, will stay here again!"

Cottage

A bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a view of mountains, and a sliding glass door.

A compact kitchen with a built-in dishwasher, oven, and microwave shelf.

A small cabin with a porch, set against a mountainous backdrop.

A compact kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. There is a dining table with chairs and a black leather chair.

Shotover Country Cottages

Lower Shotover

"The Shotover Country Cottages are one of the best places we have stayed anywhere in New Zealand. Absolutely outstanding. Views amazing. Comfortable and quiet. Highly recommend."

Aparthotel

A modern outdoor terrace with a glass balustrade overlooking a lake and mountains.

A modern room with two patterned armchairs, a small round table, and a large window offering a view of a lake and mountains.

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

A modern living room with a fireplace, blue sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a large window offering a scenic view of a lake and mountains.

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Queenstown

"restaurant was fantastic"

Aparthotel

A modern building with a flat roof, large windows, and a balcony.

A modern building with a glass balcony overlooking a parking area and a mountainous landscape.

A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.

Central Park Apartments

Cromwell

"Beautiful rooms and really comfortable and quiet. A little out of the main part of town but still very close. The hosts were very friendly and made the stay quite pleasant"

Aparthotel

A modern hotel room with a balcony, a sofa, a bed, a kitchen area, and a dining table.

A two-story building with balconies, large windows, and a paved courtyard.

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 kitchenette, a dining area, a bed with a view, and a sofa.

Avalon Manor Motel

Motueka

"Fantastic friendly host, lovely room, a great place to stay!"

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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 winding road through a mountainous landscape with a lake and snow-capped peaks in the background.

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 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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A calm river with trees and grass on both sides.

Hagley Park

9.2/10 (2,450 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.

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Learn more about South Island

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

See all hotels in South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Sudima Christchurch Airport

8/10 Good

"I want to give the staff a very big congratulations for their help and going the extra mile to make a wonderful stay at Sudima Christchurch Airport. Thankyou very much."

Novotel Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Wry close to the Airport for connecting flights at early or late hours"

Wyndham Garden Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Great location , parking and food"

The Godley Hotel

8/10 Good

"Very centrally located, great views. Staff helpful. Id stay there without looking anywhere else next time. Make sure you get a lake view room for your wellness!"

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Wonderful stay overlooking the lake. Everything we wanted for our first stay on our honeymoon"

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

8/10 Good

"Great location very helpful staff"

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Everything thing was perfect The location The check in and the check out The staff Only thing was the heat but I told the staff was cold in my room so they fixed instantly."

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"good"

Hotel Give

8/10 Good

"My first review for the first night stating that we didn't get a good sleep coz of the staffs/ housekeeping talking in the hallway. Today was good as not a lot of people left as it's a Monday plus housekeeping came later. The room is nice and modern with balcony we like it. Location is very good just walking distance to museums, art gallery, shops and restaurants (Riverside market) etc. Reception were good too as well as breakfast just basic continental and bacon eggs but good enough for the price."

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

HK$475

HK$546 total

14 Sept - 15 Sept

includes taxes & fees

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

HK$485

HK$557 total

12 Oct - 13 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

11 Aorangi Crescent Lake Tekapo

HK$607

HK$698 total

15 Sept - 16 Sept

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (155 reviews)

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

HK$627

HK$721 total

15 Sept - 16 Sept

includes taxes & fees

8.2/10 Very good! (772 reviews)

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

HK$683

HK$785 total

13 Sept - 14 Sept

includes taxes & fees

9/10 Wonderful! (440 reviews)

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

HK$1,306

HK$1,502 total

14 Sept - 15 Sept

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)

Hotels in South Island with star-rating

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

Stunning Natural Landscapes: South Island is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including majestic mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque harbours.
Outdoor Adventures: From skiing at Roundhill to exploring charming towns like Queenstown, the island offers thrilling activities for adventure enthusiasts.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Rejuvenate in natural hot springs, providing a perfect escape for relaxation amidst stunning surroundings.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture with visits to charming churches and engaging in traditional activities.
Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from cosy motels to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveller's needs for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels near South Island

Explore the stunning South Island of New Zealand, where a variety of accommodation options await you, from cosy motels to luxurious hotels. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping adventures, soothing hot springs, or a memorable ski holiday, the South Island offers an array of services tailored to every traveller's needs. Discover the best hotels and read reviews to find the perfect place for your unforgettable getaway in this breathtaking landscape.

Lake Tekapo Village Motel: This 3.5-star rated motel offers a serene retreat for travellers seeking a hot spring-themed getaway. Located 11km from South Island, it boasts a tranquil atmosphere and a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. The motel features easy access to nearby natural hot springs, allowing guests to unwind in soothing waters. With ski shuttles and lifts conveniently situated within a short distance, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine relaxation with winter sports.
The Godley Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this 3-star hotel caters to adventure enthusiasts eager to explore the great outdoors. Situated 11km from South Island, The Godley Hotel integrates a hot spring theme with a range of exciting activities. Guests can indulge in nearby adventure sports such as snow tubing, snowboarding, kayaking, and hiking, making it a vibrant option for those seeking an action-packed holiday. The natural hot springs nearby add an extra layer of relaxation after a day of exploration.
Lakes Edge Holiday Park: This budget-friendly accommodation shines with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10 and is ideal for eco-conscious travellers. Located 11km from South Island, Lakes Edge Holiday Park is eco-certified, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. The park provides a peaceful environment where guests can enjoy nature while having access to essential amenities. Perfect for those who appreciate the balance of comfort and environmental responsibility, this holiday park offers an inviting base for exploring the stunning South Island landscape.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers a breathtaking escape for tourists seeking outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Explore charming towns like Queenstown and Nelson, renowned for their stunning scenery and friendly atmosphere. Discover picturesque harbours, majestic mountains, and serene lakes, perfect for family-friendly activities or intimate moments. With its diverse landscapes and inviting communities, South Island promises an unforgettable travel experience filled with natural beauty and warmth.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a picturesque suburb renowned for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic atmosphere. With its visitor numbers peaking in April and from December to January, it offers a vibrant experience year-round. Travellers flock to this area for its recreational activities, as well as body treatments and shopping options. Notable landmarks include the breathtaking lake, the expansive national state park, and the majestic mountains surrounding the area, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation amidst stunning vistas.
Tekapo: Located about 13km away from South Island, Tekapo is a charming suburb that shares its neighbour's outdoor allure and romantic vibe. Visitor arrivals peak from November to January, ensuring a lively atmosphere during the summer months. The area boasts various recreational opportunities, shopping venues, and wellness treatments. The highlights include the enchanting lake, the vast national state park, and the towering mountains that provide a dramatic backdrop for your adventures. Whether you're hiking or simply soaking in the scenery, Tekapo offers an unforgettable experience for travellers.
Gammack: Situated roughly 21km from South Island, Gammack presents a moderately seasonal travel experience, with peaks in visitor numbers during December to February. This suburb is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Visitors can explore recreational areas, hiking trails, and easy access to trails that lead to stunning landscapes. The proximity to the national state park, mountains, and serene lakes makes Gammack a splendid choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, offering a unique blend of excitement and tranquility.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

For unique finds, visit the Merivale Mall in Christchurch, offering a mix of boutique shops and cafes. The Nelson Market is a vibrant spot for local crafts and artisan goods, showcasing the creativity of South Island's artists and makers.

Recreation

The tranquil Aroha Health Spa in Hanmer Springs offers rejuvenating treatments amid stunning mountain views, focusing on natural therapies. For relaxation, the lakeside wellness retreat at Lake Tekapo provides yoga sessions and soothing spa services, allowing guests to unwind in a serene environment surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge, the world's first commercial bungee site, offering stunning views of the gorge. Alternatively, explore the rugged beauty of the Franz Josef Glacier through guided ice hikes or thrilling helicopter tours, providing unique perspectives of the breathtaking landscape.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife of Christchurch by visiting the Dirty Land on Victoria Street for their inventive cocktails. Alternatively, enjoy the lively atmosphere at the Blue Smoke on Stanmore Road, where you can savour delicious food and listen to local bands performing throughout the night.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

To save on your South Island trip, consider visiting in the cheaper months of June or August to September, avoiding the peak season from December to February. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays typically offer the lowest accommodation prices, while Mondays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

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, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can reduce your expenses 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 is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways, offering breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences. Key attractions include stunning lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and charming churches. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or immersing yourself in local culture, South Island promises a memorable adventure for every traveller.

Lake Tekapo: This stunning lake, located 3km from South Island, offers breathtaking scenery and a tranquil beach atmosphere. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its romantic vibes, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a picturesque backdrop.
Tekapo Springs: Situated 11km from South Island, Tekapo Springs is a delightful hot spring retreat. With a focus on wellness and relaxation, visitors can enjoy soothing thermal pools set against a stunning natural landscape, providing a rejuvenating escape.
Church of the Good Shepherd: Also located 11km from South Island, this charming church is a cultural landmark. Its unique architecture and scenic surroundings create a serene atmosphere, inviting reflection and appreciation of the area's rich heritage.

Best time to go to South Island

The best time to visit South Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island

Flying into South Island, New Zealand, is convenient with three major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is situated 171km from South Island, with nearby hotels like Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both 8km away, offering various transportation services. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), located 187km away, has excellent accommodation options such as Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1km from the airport. Nelson Airport (NSN), located 365km away, features hotels like Palazzo Motor Lodge, 5km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport options, ensuring a smooth journey for tourists.

South Island hotels from HK$546

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. Novotel Christchurch Airport

2. Sudima Christchurch Airport

3. Commodore Airport Hotel

4. Cardrona Hotel

5. Heartland Hotel Haast

6. Millbrook Resort

7. Edgewater

8. Andorra Motel

9. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

10. Lakeside Motel & Apartments

11. The Boathouse Lodge

12. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

13. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

14. Braemar Lodge And Spa

15. The Langlands Hotel

16. Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

17. Distinction Invercargill Hotel

18. Airport Gateway Christchurch

19. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

20. Hotel Elms Christchurch, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Skyrim Lodge

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Punga Grove

Quest Queenstown

Lake Resort by Marsden

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Mantra Lake Tekapo

Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Accommodation

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Shotover Country Cottages

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Central Park Apartments

Avalon Manor Motel

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Lyttelton Harbour

Lake Pukaki

Hagley Park

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Sudima Christchurch Airport

Novotel Christchurch Airport

Wyndham Garden Remarkables Park Queenstown

The Godley Hotel

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Hotel Give

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Carnmore Hagley Park

Tailor Made Tekapo - Hostel

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Hotels in South Island with star-rating

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