Top 10 Hotels in South Island from ₩94,203 - Competitive Prices

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

A modern building with a circular window and a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern living room with a grey sofa, a round wooden coffee table, and a view of a lake and mountains through large glass doors.

A dining area with tables set for four, large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern living room with a sofa, a round coffee table, and a view of a lake and mountains.

1. QT Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Olivia

₩267,951

₩308,147 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 19 - Oct 20

A modern building with a central atrium, large windows, and a view of a lake and mountains.

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

A terrace with a table and chairs, overlooking a lake and mountains.

A room with a large window offering a view of a lake and mountains. There are wooden chairs and tables arranged for seating.

2. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

Queenstown

Yuxuan

₩386,236

₩444,171 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

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

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

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

3. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Frankton

Isaac

₩127,559

₩146,693 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A modern reception area with a wooden reception desk, plush seating, and a blue accent wall.

A conference room with a long table, chairs, a sofa, and a television on the wall.

4. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Jeel

₩128,994

₩148,343 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 26 - Oct 27

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

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

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

5. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

jignesh

₩217,568

₩250,203 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 26 - Oct 27

A golf course with a lake and mountains in the background.

A restaurant named 'Coco Cabana' with outdoor seating and a stone building in the background.

A modern living room with a large sofa, a view of the outside, and a geometric ceiling design.

A modern lobby with a sectional sofa, a standing lamp, and a reception desk.

6. Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Queenstown City Centre

Kenneth

₩211,742

₩243,503 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 20 - Oct 21

A terrace with white bar stools and tables overlooking a mountainous landscape and a body of water.

A modern lounge area with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a large window offering a scenic view.

A building with a sign reading "mi-pad" in front of a mountain range.

A modern interior with wicker furniture, a round table, and a large TV screen on the wall.

7. Mi-pad Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Yujia

₩156,123

₩184,147 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 20 - Oct 21

An outdoor seating area with a fire pit, lounge chairs, and tables, surrounded by modern buildings and a mountain in the background.

A modern hotel with a glass facade, stone steps, and a sign for the Holiday Inn Express.

A hotel room with a large window offering a mountain view, a sofa, a chair, and a small table.

A modern interior with large windows, comfortable seating, and a central light fixture.

8. voco Queenstown by IHG

Queenstown City Centre

Rupert

₩216,684

₩249,187 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A dining table with breakfast items and a view of a lake and mountains.

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

A stone wall with a fireplace, a staircase, and a seating area with chairs.

A hotel room with a view of a lake and mountains, a round table with a lamp, a sofa, and a chair.

9. Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

Queenstown City Centre

Elizabeth

₩311,935

₩358,725 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 20 - Oct 21

A hotel with multiple floors, balconies, and a parking lot.

A dining area with a table set for breakfast, featuring a variety of pastries and beverages.

A balcony with a hot tub, lounge chairs, and a view of a lake and mountains.

A grand lobby with a grand piano, a spiral staircase, and a chandelier.

10. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

Queenstown City Centre

Yuji

₩383,366

₩440,871 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 20 - Oct 21

A modern house with a covered patio, a stone pathway, and a view of mountains.

A modern lounge area with a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and large windows offering a view of greenery.

A spacious bar area with a high ceiling and skylights, a bar counter with stools, and a variety of bottles on shelves.

A stone fireplace with a fire, a wooden ceiling, and a view of lush greenery outside.

11. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier

Kelly

₩140,895

₩162,029 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 31 - Nov 1

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

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

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 outdoor seating area with a stone fire pit, overlooking a lake and mountains.

12. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Kawarau Falls

Kacie

₩255,829

₩294,203 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 31 - Nov 1

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

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

13. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Peter

₩408,810

₩470,131 total

includes taxes & fees

Nov 8 - Nov 9

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, and a large window offering a view of trees and sky.

A modern spa room with a large bathtub, two treatment beds, a wooden ceiling, and a wall-mounted shelf with towels.

A rooftop terrace with outdoor seating and a view of the cityscape.

A restaurant interior with multiple dining tables, chairs, hanging pendant lights, a bar area, and a yellow bench along the wall.

14. Sudima Christchurch City

Christchurch City Centre

Kelly

₩279,529

₩321,458 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

A covered outdoor area with a gravel path leading to a wooden structure, surrounded by greenery and a mountainous backdrop.

An outdoor patio with tables and chairs, potted plants, and umbrellas.

A large, two-story building with a beige facade, multiple arched windows, and a central entrance with steps.

A conference room with round tables, chairs, and a view of a garden through large windows.

15. Edit Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs

Natalie

₩90,239

₩103,775 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 19 - Oct 20

A balcony with a table set for breakfast overlooking a mountain and lake.

A dining area with round tables, chairs, and a view of the sea through large windows.

A conference room with a long table, chairs, and a view of mountains and water.

A hotel with a swimming pool, outdoor seating, and a mountain backdrop.

16. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Queenstown

Mark

₩159,115

₩182,982 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 31 - Nov 1

A modern building with multiple balconies, a covered entrance, and a parking area.

A room with a large window, a table with a vase of flowers, and two chairs.

An outdoor dining area with wooden tables and chairs, stone pillars, and umbrellas.

A modern kitchen with a large island, a dining area with a view, and a living area with a sofa and a coffee table.

17. Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Christchurch City Centre

Anna

₩173,394

₩199,402 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

A building facade with a sign that reads "DISTRICT HOTEL PARCELS" and "PARCELS" above the entrance.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a headboard, a nightstand, a lamp, and a framed picture on the wall.

A bar area with a bartender preparing a drink, shelves with various bottles, and a seating area with chairs and a table.

A modern kitchen with a central island, bar stools, and a dining table.

18. Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Dunedin City Centre

Renae

₩169,729

₩195,188 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 18 - Oct 19

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.

19. Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

Mingjun

₩269,962

₩310,456 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 25 - Oct 26

A modern hotel room with a grey sofa, a small round table, a lamp, and a large window offering a view of greenery and a road.

A lakeside view with a mountain backdrop, a row of buildings, and a park with trees.

A hot tub with a wooden bench, set against a backdrop of a mountain landscape.

20. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Queenstown City Centre

TASH

₩226,087

₩260,000 total

includes taxes & fees

Oct 20 - Oct 21

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Vacation Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel

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

A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a small table, and a view of a water body and buildings.

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.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Mount Pisa

"Amazing place to stay!!"

Aparthotel

A hotel entrance with a sign reading "Village Lake" under a twilight sky.

A modern living room with two sofas, a coffee table, and a kitchen in the background.

A balcony with a table and chairs, overlooking a mountainous landscape with houses.

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.

Village Lake Apartments

Hanmer Springs

"lovely stay"

Vacation Home

A patio with wooden furniture, a stone wall, and a glass door leading to a garden.

A modern living room with a glass coffee table, leather sofas, and a dining area with chairs.

A view from a window with a view of a street, buildings, and trees.

A modern dining area with a wooden table and chairs, a sofa, and a television on the wall.

40 Warren Street

Wanaka

"super Location, sehr stilvoll eingerichtet, super sauber. ein perfekter Aufenthalt!"

Aparthotel

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

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

A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a dining area with a white table and chairs, and a view of a backyard through large sliding glass doors.

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

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Albert Town

"Good location"

Apartment

A modern room with a large window overlooking a waterfront, a fireplace, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

A wooden staircase with a brick wall and a floral mural.

A room with a wooden ceiling, a large window, a potted plant, a chair, and a table.

A bedroom with a brick wall, wooden beams, a bed with pillows, a nightstand, a vase with flowers, and a window with a view.

The Thomas Gregg Apartments

Dunedin City Centre

"Was an awesome stay amazing room and awesome location will stay again"

Aparthotel

A hotel room with two beds, a TV, a painting, and a view of the outdoors.

A picnic area with tables and chairs, a barbecue grill, and a small building with a sloped roof.

A boat docked at a rocky shore with mountains in the background.

A modern, well-lit living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a kitchen in the background.

Alpine Motel

Wanaka

"Comfortable rooms, good playground for the kids and just a short walk into town"

Aparthotel

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

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.

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.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

Aparthotel

A lush garden with a variety of trees and shrubs, a small patio area with outdoor furniture, and a view of distant hills.

A rural area with multiple cylindrical silos and a small building.

A wooden pathway leading to four cylindrical structures with green supports, surrounded by rocks and plants.

A modern hotel room with a curved ceiling, a bed with white bedding, two black pillows, and a white towel on the floor.

SiloStay

Little River

"Great place to stay - very funky. would recommend "

Cabin

A house surrounded by a well-maintained garden with various flowering plants and a lawn.

A compact kitchen with a washing machine, microwave, and refrigerator.

A wooden cabin with a porch, surrounded by snow-covered trees.

Central Chalets

Alexandra

"Excellent place to stay with the family. Comfortable chalet. The spa pool was a bonus!"

Aparthotel

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

A modern hotel room with a kitchenette, a dining area, a bed with a view, and a sofa.

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 large bed, a sofa, a television, and a balcony with a view of the outdoors.

Avalon Manor Motel

Motueka

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

Aparthotel

A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.

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

A modern interior with a sofa, a staircase, and a wall-mounted shelf with plants.

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

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Frankton

"Best stay"

Aparthotel

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

A modern living room with a black leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a kitchen and outdoor landscape.

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

A modern living room with a large sofa, a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, a fireplace, and a scenic view through large windows.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Queenstown

"Awesome, will stay here again!"

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 hotel with a modern design, featuring a central staircase, a parking area, and a view of a forested hillside.

A modern living room with a round mirror reflecting the space, a sofa, a coffee table, and a TV.

A kitchen with white tiles, a wooden cabinet, a coffee maker, two white cups, and a vase with flowers.

A room with a large mural of a mountainous landscape, a desk with a chair, a bed, and a door.

Beechwood Boutique Accommodation

North Dunedin

"Nice stay and friendly staff member on check in. Room was clean and the amenities were great. Awesome location and easy to get into town"

Aparthotel

A modern outdoor hot tub area with a view of a lake and mountains.

A spacious living room with a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and a large window offering a lake view.

A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and stone fireplace. Large windows offer a view of a lake and mountains.

A modern room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, furnished with a sofa, table, and chairs.

Marina Terrace Apartments

Wanaka

"Unobstructed view of the lake and a very easy 5 minute walk to the CBD"

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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 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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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 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

A town nestled between mountains and a large lake with several islands.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Pinewood Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"Overall, it was fine, but the water temperature kept fluctuating between hot and cold while I was showering."

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"I’ve booked this place a few times during my stay in Queenstown. Apartment is always clean, staff is friendly and helpful. My room had a big smart TV on an adjustable arm which is a bonus. I love the location, everything is a few minutes drive away."

LyLo Christchurch Airport

8/10 Good

"Very close to the airport 6-7 min walk perfect for an early flight if you live outside of Chch."

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent

"Our stay at Kamana Lakehouse was absolutely incredible! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the breathtaking views, beautiful atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. What truly made our stay special was the amazing staff. Every staff member we encountered was genuinely warm, welcoming and incredibly helpful. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and their kindness and attention to detail made us feel so well looked after. They really went above and beyond to make our experience memorable. The property itself is stunning, with spectacular mountain and lake views, beautiful rooms and such a peaceful, luxurious atmosphere. It was the perfect place to relax after exploring Queenstown. We absolutely loved every moment of our stay and genuinely didn’t want to leave! Kamana Lakehouse was a highlight of our New Zealand holiday, and we cannot thank the wonderful staff enough for making it so special. We would return in a heartbeat and couldn’t recommend it more highly! ❤️"

Mi-pad Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"It was a great stay. Being on a central location made the walk to the waterfront very accessible. Great amenities, a room full of board games, coffee machines and wonderful views from the deck!"

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

8/10 Good

"."

Bealey Quarter

10/10 Excellent

"Very clean and comfortable and affordable and peaceful ."

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"Loved the sticked mini bar and the view of the mountains, The room service pizza was burnt."

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

10/10 Excellent

"Stunning property, lake views were phenomenal! Family room was spacious and very well appointed, super comfy beds and cleaned beautifully. A little further out of town but still close enough to walk, worth it for the views! Would definitely stay here again."

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

₩81,919

₩94,203 total

Oct 18 - Oct 19

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (323 reviews)

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

₩84,152

₩99,195 total

Oct 26 - Oct 27

includes taxes & fees

8/10 Very Good! (81 reviews)

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

₩90,828

₩104,452 total

Oct 19 - Oct 20

includes taxes & fees

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

₩90,828

₩104,452 total

Oct 27 - Oct 28

includes taxes & fees

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

₩114,551

₩131,734 total

Oct 21 - Oct 22

includes taxes & fees

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

₩227,398

₩261,508 total

Oct 20 - Oct 21

includes taxes & fees

8.8/10 Excellent! (125 reviews)

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 beauty, from Fiordland National Park to picturesque lakes and mountains.
Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy thrilling activities like skiing at Roundhill Ski Area, hiking, and exploring unique ice features.
Charming Towns: Wander through the delightful streets of Queenstown and relax in the harbor town of Akaroa.
Romantic Getaways: Ideal for couples, South Island offers intimate settings and relaxing hot springs.
Welcoming Culture: Experience the vibrant local culture and friendly atmosphere while creating unforgettable memories.

Find great hotels near South Island

Discover the perfect accommodation on New Zealand's stunning South Island, where a range of options awaits, including hotels and charming bed & breakfasts. Whether you're seeking luxury hotels, adventure-filled stays, or relaxing hot spring retreats, you'll find something to suit your needs. Explore reviews and recommendations to ensure a memorable vacation experience in this breathtaking region.

Lake Tekapo Village Motel: This 3.5-star motel offers a cozy retreat in Lake Tekapo, ideal for travelers seeking a hot spring-themed getaway. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, it features accessible natural hot springs nearby, providing a soothing experience after a day of outdoor adventures. The motel also offers convenient access to ski shuttles and lifts, making it a great choice for winter sports enthusiasts. Guests appreciate the comfortable accommodations that blend relaxation with adventure, all within a scenic backdrop.
The Godley Hotel: Set in a picturesque location, The Godley Hotel is a 3-star accommodation with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, perfect for those seeking an adventurous vacation. With nearby natural hot springs, it provides a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. The hotel offers a variety of adventure sports options, including horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, snowboarding, and windsurfing, catering to active travelers. Its inviting atmosphere and proximity to outdoor activities ensure a memorable stay for adventure seekers.
Lakes Edge Holiday Park: This budget-friendly option boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10 and is ideal for eco-conscious travelers. Lakes Edge Holiday Park is eco-certified, ensuring a commitment to sustainable practices while providing comfortable lodging. Located just 11km from South Island, it offers a serene environment surrounded by nature. Guests value the affordability and the opportunity to experience eco-friendly accommodations, all while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the South Island.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance. Explore breathtaking landscapes in Fiordland National Park, wander through the charming streets of Queenstown, or relax by the beautiful harbors in Akaroa. With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery, South Island offers family-friendly adventures and intimate getaways alike. Don't miss the chance to experience the vibrant culture and friendly locals while creating unforgettable memories in this enchanting destination.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled 11km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a picturesque suburb known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor experiences. The area is particularly popular in April and during the December to January holiday season, attracting visitors seeking romantic getaways and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the charming recreational areas, indulge in body treatments, or shop at local boutiques. Notable landmarks include the sparkling lake, the expansive national state park, and the majestic mountains that surround this tranquil oasis.
Tekapo: Located 13km from South Island, Tekapo is another enchanting suburb that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and serene beauty. The peak travel times are from November to January, drawing in those eager for romantic escapes and scenic explorations. Tekapo boasts recreational areas, shopping venues, and wellness facilities that cater to every traveler’s needs. Key attractions in the vicinity include the stunning lake, the national state park, and the impressive mountain ranges that provide a perfect backdrop for photography and relaxation.
Mount Dobson: Just 16km away from South Island, Mount Dobson is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Popular during March and the holiday season in December to January, this suburb is renowned for its ski fields and winter sports activities. Visitors can enjoy skiing, explore local shopping areas, and appreciate the cultural center that adds a unique touch to the experience. Nature lovers will be captivated by the nearby lake, national state park, and the dramatic mountain scenery that surrounds this alpine retreat.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

In South Island, visit Christchurch's Westfield Riccarton, a large mall featuring various shops and dining options. For a unique experience, explore the Otago Farmers Market in Dunedin, where you can find local produce, crafts, and souvenirs made by local artisans.

Recreation

Experience Aro Ha Wellness Retreat in Glenorchy, where you can rejuvenate with daily yoga, nourishing meals, and guided hikes through stunning landscapes. Enjoy holistic therapies and meditation sessions designed to restore balance while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Southern Alps.

At The Body Sanctum in Queenstown, indulge in therapeutic massages and skin treatments that promote relaxation and rejuvenation. The tranquil environment offers an escape from daily life, complemented by personalized wellness programs tailored to your needs.

Retreat to the eco-friendly Mantra Retreat in Christchurch, featuring spa treatments and yoga classes amidst serene gardens. Engage in mindfulness practices and unwind in a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for self-reflection and relaxation.

Visit the Onsen Hot Pools near Queenstown for a unique hot spring experience. Soak in private, heated pools with stunning views of the Shotover River while enjoying a serene atmosphere that encourages relaxation and unwinding.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Queenstown with bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge, experiencing an exhilarating drop. For a different thrill, try jet boating in the Shotover River, navigating through narrow canyons and thrilling rapids, all while surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

In the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, experience the thrill of glacier hiking on the Tasman Glacier, traversing icy terrain with spectacular views of the Southern Alps. Alternatively, consider a scenic flight for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning glaciers and peaks in this breathtaking region.

Head to Franz Josef Glacier for an unforgettable heli-hiking adventure, combining a scenic helicopter ride with an exploration of the glacier’s rugged ice formations. The stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and towering peaks make this experience truly memorable.

Visit Abel Tasman National Park for kayaking along its beautiful coastline, where you can discover hidden coves and golden beaches. The clear waters and vibrant marine life offer an engaging experience for both beginners and seasoned paddlers.

Get your adrenaline pumping with a skydiving adventure over Lake Wanaka, where you can enjoy stunning aerial views of the lake and mountains as you freefall from thousands of feet above. The breathtaking scenery enhances this thrilling experience.

Nightlife

Visit the lively Montana Lounge in Christchurch for a vibrant cocktail scene and eclectic atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, head to the Dirty Land Café in Queenstown, where you can enjoy craft beers and great conversation with locals. Experience the unique nightlife each venue offers.

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

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway, featuring stunning lakes, relaxing hot springs, and charming churches. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions that blend adventure with cultural experiences, ensuring a memorable trip. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse activities, South Island is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of New Zealand.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo enchants visitors with its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, you can enjoy beach activities or simply relax while soaking in the romantic vibes that surround this picturesque lake.
Church of the Good Shepherd: This charming church, with its stone architecture, offers a glimpse into the region's culture. Set against the backdrop of the stunning lake and mountains, it's a perfect spot for reflection and photography, reminding visitors of the area's rich heritage.
Tekapo Springs: A sanctuary for wellness and relaxation, Tekapo Springs features natural hot springs with breathtaking views. Enjoy outdoor pools, spa treatments, and tranquil surroundings that provide the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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.

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

Traveling to South Island, New Zealand, is convenient with several major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is 171km from the island, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Bealey Quarter and LyLo Christchurch, both within 0.6 to 10km of the airport. Nelson Airport (NSN) is 365km away, offering accommodations such as the Palazzo Motor Lodge 5km from the airport. Dunedin International Airport (DUD), located 227km from South Island, has options like the 4-star Bonnie Knights Motel 13km away. Each airport provides accessible transportation services to nearby hotels, ensuring a smooth arrival for travelers.

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. QT Queenstown

2. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

3. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

4. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

5. Novotel Christchurch Airport

6. Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

7. Mi-pad Queenstown

8. voco Queenstown by IHG

9. Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

10. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

11. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

12. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

13. Millbrook Resort

14. Sudima Christchurch City

15. Edit Hanmer Springs

16. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

17. Rydges Latimer Christchurch

18. Distinction Dunedin Hotel

19. Kamana Lakehouse

20. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Vacation Rentals in South Island

Lake Resort by Marsden

Village Lake Apartments

40 Warren Street

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

The Thomas Gregg Apartments

Alpine Motel

Quest Queenstown

SiloStay

Central Chalets

Avalon Manor Motel

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Central Park Apartments

Beechwood Boutique Accommodation

Marina Terrace Apartments

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Sumner Beach

Lyttelton Harbour

Hagley Park

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Pinewood Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

LyLo Christchurch Airport

Kamana Lakehouse

Mi-pad Queenstown

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

Bealey Quarter

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

More cheap stays in South Island

High Country Motel and Backpackers

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Carnmore Hagley Park

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

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Best time to go to South Island

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island