South Island hotels from HK$395

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.

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.