Best South Island Hotels in 2026 from HK$244 - 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 hotel with a prominent 'NOVOTEL' sign, featuring a sleek, contemporary design with large windows and a structured facade.

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

A modern lounge area with sofas, tables, and a view of a cityscape.

1. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

Raymond

HK$1,282

HK$1,474 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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

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

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.

2. Sudima Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

Crystal

HK$1,193

HK$1,372 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Sept - 27 Sept

A bedroom with a bed, a window, and a bathroom with a sink.

A bar area with wooden tables and chairs, antler decorations on the ceiling, and a bar counter with various bottles.

A building labeled 'HOTEL HARI HARI' with a signboard indicating amenities like bar, meals, rooms, power sites, tent sites, and Wi-fi.

A hotel dining area with round tables and pink chairs, a jukebox, and a large window.

3. Hotel Hari Hari

Hari Hari

HK$212

HK$244 total

includes taxes & fees

29 Sept - 30 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 rustic cabin with stone walls, a metal roof, and wooden deck seating.

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

4. Cardrona Hotel

Cardrona

Emilla

HK$641

HK$737 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A couple dining at an outdoor restaurant with a view of a modern building and lush greenery in the background.

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

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.

An indoor swimming pool with clear water, a lifeguard chair, and a poolside area with chairs and a table.

5. Commodore Airport Hotel

Burnside

Jesse

HK$1,164

HK$1,339 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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

A room with large windows overlooking a beach, a table with chairs, and a potted plant.

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.

6. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Punakaiki

Karen

HK$560

HK$644 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Sept - 28 Sept

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

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

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

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

7. Edgewater

Wanaka

Drew

HK$1,274

HK$1,465 total

includes taxes & fees

22 Oct - 23 Oct

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

A bedroom with a large bed, a TV, a view of mountains, and a window with curtains.

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

8. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Layne

HK$2,239

HK$2,575 total

includes taxes & fees

29 Sept - 30 Sept

A modern motel with a sign indicating it is the Airport Palms Motel.

A neatly made bed with a dark quilt, two bedside lamps, a remote control, and a wall-mounted artwork.

A street view of a motel with two-story buildings, a clear directional arrow on the road, and a sign indicating the entrance to the Airport Palms Motel.

A living room with a sofa, a chair, a dining table, and a lamp.

9. Airport Palms Motel

Burnside

Wilson

HK$635

HK$731 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Sept - 27 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 bedroom with a bed, a hanging plant, and a window.

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

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

10. The Boathouse Lodge

Picton

Luciano

HK$330

HK$380 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Sept - 27 Sept

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

A couple walking along a lakeside path with mountains in the background.

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

11. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Frankton

Rhianna

HK$849

HK$977 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A modern hotel entrance with a glass facade, a wooden ceiling, and a visible outdoor area.

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

A hotel room with a bed, a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, and a painting on the wall.

A couple embracing in a room with a large window, a bed, and a nightstand.

12. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Gerhard

HK$995

HK$1,144 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

A hotel room with a sliding glass door, a bed with white linens, a bedside table with a lamp, and a view of the interior.

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

13. Heartland Hotel Haast

Haast

Fiona

HK$517

HK$595 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

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

A bar area with stools, a counter, and a refrigerator stocked with bottles.

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.

14. Airport Gateway Christchurch

Burnside

Salmin

HK$771

HK$887 total

includes taxes & fees

10 Oct - 11 Oct

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

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

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

A swimming pool with a wooden deck, surrounded by a fenced area with a lawn and various shrubs.

15. Andorra Motel

Geraldine

Jim

HK$674

HK$775 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Oct - 2 Oct

A room with a large window, a wooden deck, a white bathtub, and a chair.

A person relaxing in a swimming pool with a tiled floor and potted plants in the background.

A restaurant with a wooden ceiling, large windows, and a central island with logs.

A spacious living area with a fireplace, modern furniture, and a view through large windows.

16. Coronet Ridge Resort

Arthur's Point

Kimberley

HK$3,127

HK$3,597 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A row of modern waterfront homes with balconies, connected by a dock.

A lakeside building with a dock, a golf course, and a reflection in the water.

A dining area with tables set for a meal, large windows offering a view of a golf course, and a decorative ceiling with leaf-like structures.

A table set for a meal with various dishes and drinks, overlooking a body of water.

17. Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch

Northwood

Zujian, Julian

HK$907

HK$1,043 total

includes taxes & fees

28 Sept - 29 Sept

A modern dining area with a high ceiling, large windows, and a view of mountains and a lake.

A modern lounge area with a stone wall, a fireplace, sofas, and a bar with a bartender.

A modern bathroom with a wooden bathtub, a wooden shelf with towels, and a view of mountains and a lake.

A modern interior with stone walls, a wooden ceiling, and large windows offering mountain views.

18. Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

Mingjun

HK$1,521

HK$1,749 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A beach with waves crashing onto the shore.

A modern hotel room with a dining area, a sofa, a TV mounted on the wall, and a window with curtains.

A motel with a covered porch, outdoor seating, and a number '5' on the pavement.

A living room with a brown sofa, a framed picture on the wall, a coffee table, and a kitchen area in the background.

19. Beach lodge motel

Saint Kilda

Simone

HK$553

HK$635 total

includes taxes & fees

29 Sept - 30 Sept

A room with a circular window overlooking a beach, a lamp, and a bed with pillows.

A sign welcoming to SEA BREEZE with a NO VACANCY message.

A living room with a large window, a sofa, a coffee table, and a wall-mounted artwork.

A round mirror reflecting a view of a beach and ocean, with two framed photographs on the wall.

20. The Sea Breeze

Timaru Central

Kurt

HK$959

HK$1,103 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Sept - 27 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 person at a table with a view of mountains and a body of water.

A modern hotel room with a large sliding glass door leading to a scenic view, a sofa, a chair, and a coffee table with a remote control and glasses on it.

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

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo

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

Camping

A bedroom with a large window, a wooden ceiling, and a view of 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.

Two modern cabins with large windows and wooden decks, set in a field of purple flowers.

A bedroom with a large window, a bed, a desk, and a chair.

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."

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 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.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Frankton

"Very friendly staff. Great room for a great price. Good location. We enjoyed our 3 day stay."

Holiday Home

A modern building with a large window and a porch overlooking a mountainous landscape.

A room with a bed, two wicker chairs, a large window with curtains, and a view of trees and mountains.

A modern living room with a wooden dining table, black leather sofa, and potted plants.

A modern kitchen with a central island, black bar stools, stainless steel appliances, and pendant lighting.

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Burkes Pass

"Good location , clean & cozy. "

Aparthotel

A swimming pool with a stone accent wall, a hot tub, and a patio area with chairs and an umbrella.

A living room with a stone fireplace, red sofas, and a wooden coffee table.

A swimming pool with a stone surround, lounge chairs, and a view of mountains.

A modern two-story house with a stone foundation, large windows, and a prominent chimney.

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Wanaka

"Great location"

Apartment

A book, a cup, and a glass table with a view of snow-covered mountains and a car in the background.

A modern two-story building with large windows and a stone facade.

A living room with a black leather sofa, a glass coffee table, and decorative pillows. There is a painting on the wall and a window with blinds.

A kitchen with a large window, a sink, a bowl of fruit, a bottle of champagne, and a glass.

Tekapo Luxury Apartments

Lake Tekapo

"Awesome accommodation with everything you need. The only negative was being on the lower floor and having another accommodation above, you could hear everybit of moment."

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 modern kitchen with a built-in microwave, stainless steel sink, and a compact refrigerator.

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

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

Punga Grove

Franz Josef Glacier

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

Aparthotel

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

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

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

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

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Queenstown

"Great location and stunning views! Breakfast and on site bar area are also a great bonus. Would love to visit again"

Aparthotel

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

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

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

Mount Pisa

"We had a beautiful view of the mountains and the lake below our room. The staff was friendly and helpful."

Aparthotel

A modern building complex with a central courtyard, surrounded by mountains.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a view of the city, and a woven wall hanging.

A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a TV, a fireplace, and a sliding glass door to a balcony.

A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a black sofa with decorative pillows.

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Albert Town

"Good location"

Aparthotel

A modern building with large glass windows and a mountain backdrop.

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 kitchen with a large window overlooking a mountainous landscape.

A balcony with a table set for breakfast, overlooking a road and a lake with mountains in the background.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Queenstown

"Awesome, will stay here again!"

Aparthotel

A modern kitchen with a stainless steel dishwasher, oven, and sink. There is a wooden cabinet above the counter and a small plant on the countertop.

A modern hotel room with a bed, a desk, and a kitchenette. There is a balcony with a railing.

A modern interior with a glass door leading to a living area, a potted plant, and a decorative metal piece on the wall.

West Fitzroy Apartments

Christchurch City Centre

"Clean room, fantastic location. Had everything I needed and never had to ask for anything extra. Checked in early and staff made it easy. Lovely stay."

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 multi-story hotel with balconies, a parking area, and a mountainous backdrop.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Aparthotel

A wide beach with a clear sky and distant mountains.

A hotel room with a large bed, two black pillows, a wooden headboard, and two wall-mounted lights.

A modern, well-lit room with a blue carpet, a white sofa with black cushions, a small desk, and a chair.

A modern room with a glass table, a chair, a dining table, and a view through a window with curtains.

Beaches Nelson

Tahunanui

"Spacious room with large comfortable bed"

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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 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 sandy beach with a windmill, rocky outcrops, and a hillside with houses.

Sumner Beach

8.8/10 (648 reviews)

The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.

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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

Lakes Edge Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"Cheap stay with lakefront view of Lake Tekapo, but has all the necessities you need although the accommodation is small. Beautiful, quiet location. with laundry which was nice for us."

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

10/10 Excellent

"Very nice hotel in an ideal location. Walking distance from to town center. Great restaurant onsite. Only major drawback is parking if you have a car. No parking onsite with extremely limited street parking."

Hotel Give

10/10 Excellent

"It was a good location and I found the staff and facilities to be really good. Comfortable bed and good shower. Having staff at the desk 24 hours a day was also good."

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent

"Nice place to relax and stay"

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Staff was amazing"

The Godley Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"We loved our stay! The room was so clean and had everything we needed. Great view of the lake too. Could not fault it. Thank you."

LyLo Christchurch Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Love the mix of accommodation options from pods to ensuite. Awesome community/kitchen room. Easy walking distance from airport. Fun to be able to socialise with travelers from all walks of life."

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"Staff were very helpful & welcoming. Heating was a bit tricky to get right but staff were very helpful. A microwave in the room would have been useful. Room was very comfortable & location perfect for walking the city."

Wyndham Garden Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Great location , parking and food"

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

HK$336

HK$396 total

26 Oct - 27 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

HK$483

HK$555 total

7 Oct - 8 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

HK$497

HK$571 total

13 Oct - 14 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

HK$688

HK$791 total

27 Sept - 28 Sept

includes taxes & fees

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

HK$830

HK$954 total

15 Oct - 16 Oct

includes taxes & fees

9/10 Wonderful! (444 reviews)

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

HK$1,340

HK$1,541 total

20 Oct - 21 Oct

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$244

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. Novotel Christchurch Airport

2. Sudima Christchurch Airport

3. Hotel Hari Hari

4. Cardrona Hotel

5. Commodore Airport Hotel

6. Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

7. Edgewater

8. Millbrook Resort

9. Airport Palms Motel

10. The Boathouse Lodge

11. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

12. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

13. Heartland Hotel Haast

14. Airport Gateway Christchurch

15. Andorra Motel

16. Coronet Ridge Resort

17. Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch

18. Kamana Lakehouse

19. Beach lodge motel

20. The Sea Breeze

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Peppers Bluewater Resort

The Huts at Lakes Edge

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Tekapo Luxury Apartments

Punga Grove

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Central Park Apartments

Lake Resort by Marsden

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

West Fitzroy Apartments

Quest Queenstown

Beaches Nelson

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Lyttelton Harbour

Lake Pukaki

Sumner Beach

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Lakes Edge Lodge

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Hotel Give

Kamana Lakehouse

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

The Godley Hotel

LyLo Christchurch Airport

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Wyndham Garden Remarkables Park Queenstown

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Carnmore Hagley Park

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Hotels in South Island with star-rating

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

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Where to stay near South Island

Things to do in South Island

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

Find the best attractions near South Island

Best time to go to South Island