South Island Holiday Rentals, New Zealand: Private House Rentals

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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 sofa, a round coffee table, and a view of a lake and mountains.

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

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a chair, and a view of a lake and mountains.

1. QT Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Olivia

฿6,533

฿7,513 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

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.

2. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport

jignesh

฿5,440

฿6,257 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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.

3. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

Queenstown

Yuxuan

฿9,658

฿11,107 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

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.

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

4. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

Queenstown City Centre

Yuji

฿9,259

฿10,647 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

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.

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

5. Millbrook Resort

Arrowtown

Peter

฿10,160

฿11,684 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Oct - 28 Oct

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.

6. Mi-pad Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

Yujia

฿3,904

฿4,605 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

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.

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

7. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Frankton

Jason and Josephine

฿3,605

฿4,146 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

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

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.

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

8. voco Queenstown by IHG

Queenstown City Centre

Rupert

฿5,277

฿6,068 total

includes taxes & fees

19 Oct - 20 Oct

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

9. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Kawarau Falls

Kacie

฿6,115

฿7,032 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Oct - 17 Oct

A bar area with shelves of wine bottles and glasses.

A modern reception area with a wooden reception desk, seating area with a curved bench, and a reception counter.

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

A hotel room with a large window, a bed, a desk with a chair, and a painting on the wall.

10. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Frankton

Charmaine

฿3,226

฿3,709 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

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

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

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

A restaurant setting with a waiter holding a tray with a martini glass. Tables are set with white napkins and glasses.

11. Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Dunedin City Centre

Cole

฿3,916

฿4,504 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Oct - 10 Oct

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

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

A modern stone house with a stone facade, a sloped roof, and a view of mountains in the background.

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

12. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Queenstown

Mark

฿4,825

฿5,549 total

includes taxes & fees

19 Oct - 20 Oct

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

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

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains and a lake, a small bedside table with a phone, and a TV mounted on the wall.

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

13. Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Queenstown City Centre

Kenneth

฿5,162

฿5,936 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

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

A bedroom with a large bed, a coffee tray, a chair, and a view of a lake and mountains.

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

14. Kamana Lakehouse

Fernhill

Mingjun

฿6,374

฿7,331 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A buffet with various food items including fruits, meats, cheeses, and vegetables.

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

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a view of a lake and mountains.

15. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Queenstown City Centre

TASH

฿5,326

฿6,125 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 bartender pouring a drink into a martini glass at a bar with a variety of liquor bottles in the background.

A modern hotel room with a dining area, kitchenette, and a large TV.

16. Commodore Airport Hotel

Burnside

Faye

฿4,941

฿5,682 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

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

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

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

A balcony with a view of a river and mountains.

17. Coronet Ridge Resort

Arthur's Point

Kimberley

฿13,817

฿15,890 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

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

A hotel room with a large bed, a bedside table with a lamp, and a window with curtains.

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

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

18. Edgewater

Wanaka

Drew

฿5,391

฿6,200 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Oct - 21 Oct

A modern hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a large window with curtains.

A modern hotel room with a blue sofa, a matching armchair, a coffee table, a dining area with a small table and chairs, and a view of the city through large windows.

A three-tiered dessert display on a round table with a woven coaster, accompanied by two glasses of white wine.

A modern bathroom with a round mirror, a vanity with a marble countertop, and a blue bench.

19. Fable Dunedin

Dunedin City Centre

Rebecca

฿3,315

฿3,812 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A bar area with a curved counter, multiple shelves with bottles, and bar stools.

A modern reception area with a wooden reception desk, potted plants, and a grey sofa.

A modern hotel building with a glass facade and the name 'Sudima Hotels' prominently displayed.

A modern restaurant interior with high ceilings, pendant lighting, and a mix of wooden and upholstered furniture.

20. Sudima Christchurch City

Christchurch City Centre

Kelly

฿6,367

฿7,322 total

includes taxes & fees

17 Oct - 18 Oct

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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel

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

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

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

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

"Amazing place to stay!!"

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 bedroom with a large bed, bedside tables, a wooden bench, a wardrobe, and a door leading to a bathroom.

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Wanaka

"Great location"

Aparthotel

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

A cozy living room with a fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and a round coffee table with a bottle of wine and a plate of food.

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

A modern living room with a fireplace, sofa, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

Village Lake Apartments

Hanmer Springs

"Super friendly staff, apartment was beautiful and clean with a gorgeous view."

Villa

A compact kitchen with a dining table, chairs, a stove, and a microwave.

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

A modern building with a gravel driveway and a speed limit sign.

Suncrest Villas

Cromwell

"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."

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 desk, a chair, and a view of the outdoors.

A modern living space with a dining area, sofa set, kitchen, and built-in appliances.

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and a view of a mountainous landscape through the window.

Skyrim Lodge

Lake Tekapo

"We had a wonderful stay at Skyrim Lodge, with the accommodation and communication surpassing our expectations. Just a short walk to the lake and many coffee/dinner options, plus a beautiful view of the stars."

Holiday Home

A living room with a large TV, a glass coffee table, a grey sofa, and a view of a mountain landscape through open doors.

A hallway with a wooden bench, a door leading outside, and a small table with a plant.

A kitchen with a large island, stainless steel appliances, and a view of the outdoors.

Manata Lodge

Lower Shotover

"Lovely stay Very comfortable Great accommodation Peaceful setting Warm and welcoming"

Aparthotel

A multi-story hotel with outdoor seating areas and a well-maintained lawn.

A sign for 'Clearbrook' with an arrow pointing left, indicating the direction to the property.

A reception area with a reception desk, a phone, and a sign indicating after hours phone availability.

A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand, a window with a view, and a ceiling light.

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Wanaka

"Staff and location was great."

Aparthotel

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

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

A 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.

Quest Queenstown

Frankton

"Great place to stay"

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 hotel with 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 spot , beautiful rooms"

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 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

"Fantastic spot, beautiful views and close access to public transport too. Rooms were very nice and pristine. Had a great stay and thank you 🙌"

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

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."

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 rural landscape with a metal roofed structure, possibly a gazebo or pavilion, overlooking a field with trees and hills in the distance.

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Burkes Pass

"Good location , clean & cozy. "

Aparthotel

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

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

A modern living room with a large window offering a mountain view, a flat-screen TV, a dining area with a wooden table and chairs, and a purple sofa.

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

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Wanaka

"Great location especially if you are planning to ski at Cardrona or Treble Cone."

Holiday Home

A large, two-story house with a well-lit front porch and a pond in the foreground.

A modern kitchen with light-colored cabinets, a central island with a sink, and a round table with two chairs.

A modern kitchen with light-colored cabinets, a built-in oven, and a dining area with a table and chairs.

A spacious living room with a fireplace, a sofa set, a coffee table, and a bookshelf.

Oakview

Hanmer Springs

"Excellent stay, lovely place, clean and comfy"

Aparthotel

A compact kitchen with a built-in oven, microwave, and a window overlooking a wooden deck.

A room with a wooden table and chairs, a leather sofa, and a view through a glass door to an outdoor area with a patio and a fence.

A bedroom with a bed, a wooden ceiling, a kitchenette with a sink, and a dining area with a table and chair.

Pinewood Motels

Fairlie

"Nice and clean and friendly staff at check in ."

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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 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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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

Lake Pukaki

9.6/10 (937 reviews)

Be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook as you hike, drive or ride through this incredibly picturesque landscape.

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Learn more about South Island

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

See all hotels in South Island

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

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Pinewood Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"We would definitely stay at Pinewood again. Our only issue was that we didn't have anywhere to hang our wedding attire. Luckily I had my own hangers so I hung them on the bunk bars. However my other companions didn't. Loved the shower and the beds were so comfortable and warm. The staff were so helpful and happy. Cool place."

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

8/10 Good

"Good couple of nights stay ‘ room was a little run down and could do with some updating however the bar staff was a very nice person with nothing but customer service plus , we also needed the tv fixed which they did straight away A little out of town but great views of the lake with spa and gym"

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

8/10 Good

"Laundry was really expensive but otherwise it was an okay stay"

Hotel Give

10/10 Excellent

"Amazing value. Noisy in the mornings along the corridor though."

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

10/10 Excellent

"It was a lovely stay property was clean and tidy staff was nice too Just car parking can be better, as there is free limited parking space available on first come first serve bases. I would recommend this property for your next visit to qzn"

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

8/10 Good

"Clean room.staff so friendly but someone had a breakfast at the restaurant downstairs and charged the bill to our room and We never dine in to that restaurant.. always have our meal outside"

Airport Gateway Christchurch

10/10 Excellent

"A very nice hotel located about a seven minute drive to the airport. They offer 24 hour shuttle to the airport for free. Rooms are very large. A big sitting area with table and chairs. A fully equipped kitchen. A heat lamp in the bathroom. Toiletries are provided. There are a number of restaurants within about a five minute walk. And the Local bus stop is nearby. About a 15 minute drive into the centre of Christchurch."

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

10/10 Excellent

"Good location, excellent food all around great place to stay."

Mi-pad Queenstown

8/10 Good

"Nice one to stay, very close to city center."

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka

฿1,437

฿1,694 total

27 Oct - 28 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel

฿2,048

฿2,356 total

6 Oct - 7 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch

฿2,212

฿2,544 total

12 Oct - 13 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown

฿2,596

฿2,985 total

13 Oct - 14 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury

฿3,409

฿3,920 total

20 Oct - 21 Oct

includes taxes & fees

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook

฿5,686

฿6,539 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

Breathtaking Scenery: South Island boasts stunning landscapes, from majestic mountains to picturesque lakes and charming towns.
Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy skiing at Roundhill, hiking through national parks, and exploring the beautiful Milford Sound.
Rich Cultural Experiences: Discover local heritage through charming churches and informative tours that highlight the region's history.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Rejuvenate in natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Welcoming Locals: Experience the warmth of friendly locals and vibrant neighbourhoods that enhance your holiday.

Find great hotels near South Island

Explore a diverse selection of hotels and motels in South Island, New Zealand, where adventure awaits. Whether you're seeking a luxurious getaway or a cosy retreat, you'll find accommodations tailored to your needs, from hot spring-themed stays to ski vacation experiences. Discover the best South Island hotels, complete with glowing reviews and exceptional amenities, ensuring a memorable visit to this stunning destination.

Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Situated in the serene Lake Tekapo Village, this 3.5-star motel offers a unique hot spring experience for those seeking relaxation and adventure. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the motel is ideally located just a short distance from a natural hot spring. Guests can enjoy the soothing waters after a day on the slopes, with ski shuttles and lifts conveniently nearby. The motel's comfortable accommodations provide a welcoming retreat, making it a great choice for those wanting to combine a ski vacation with rejuvenating hot spring experiences.
The Godley Hotel: The Godley Hotel, a 3-star establishment, invites adventure enthusiasts to explore its myriad outdoor activities. Rated 8.2 out of 10 by guests, the hotel boasts proximity to natural hot springs and a range of exhilarating recreational options, including horse riding, waterskiing, skiing, kayaking, and hiking. Situated 11km from South Island, this hotel is perfect for those eager to engage in thrilling adventures while enjoying the stunning landscapes around Lake Tekapo. The onsite amenities cater to the adventurous spirit, ensuring an exciting stay.
Lakes Edge Holiday Park: For eco-conscious travellers, Lakes Edge Holiday Park offers a budget-friendly, eco-certified accommodation option with an impressive guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Located just 11km from South Island, this holiday park provides an ideal base for those keen to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without compromising their sustainability values. With a focus on eco-friendly practices, guests can unwind in a peaceful environment, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate nature and wish to minimise their ecological footprint during their stay.

Where to stay near South Island

For an unforgettable holiday, South Island, New Zealand, offers breathtaking scenery and romantic getaways. Explore the picturesque towns of Queenstown and Milford Sound, renowned for their stunning harbours and outdoor adventures. Enjoy family-friendly activities in the lush surroundings of Nelson, or take a scenic drive through the majestic Southern Alps. With friendly locals and charming neighbourhoods, South Island is the perfect destination for creating lasting memories amidst nature's splendour.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled 11km from the heart of South Island, Lake Tekapo offers a picturesque retreat characterised by its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain views. This charming suburb is a year-round destination, with peak visitor numbers in April and during the festive season from December to January. The area is renowned for its outdoor activities, romantic atmosphere, and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as exploring the nearby national state park, indulging in body treatments, or shopping for local crafts. Make sure to visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and take in the starry skies, as Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve.
Tekapo: Located 13km from South Island, Tekapo is another beautiful suburb that captivates travellers with its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Like Lake Tekapo, it experiences a steady flow of visitors, with peak seasons from November to January. The idyllic setting makes it an ideal spot for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Popular activities include visiting the local recreational areas, shopping, and enjoying wellness treatments. The surrounding natural landmarks, including the glacial lake and mountainous backdrop, provide endless opportunities for exploration and photography.
Mount Dobson: Situated 16km from South Island, Mount Dobson is the perfect destination for those who enjoy skiing and outdoor sports. With a peak in visitors during March and the holiday season, this suburb is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Apart from skiing on its renowned ski fields, visitors can enjoy shopping and exploring local cultural centres. The nearby national state park and tranquil lakes add to the allure, making it a great spot for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax amidst nature.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

Located in the heart of Christchurch, Westfield Riccarton features popular brands for fashion and gifts. For a more local experience, the Nelson Market offers handmade crafts and produce, while the Queenstown Mall provides boutique shops with unique souvenirs reflecting the region's charm.

Recreation

The Ashram Retreat in Wanaka offers a tranquil environment with yoga classes, meditation sessions, and organic cuisine. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views while participating in holistic wellness activities designed to rejuvenate the mind and body, fostering a deep connection with nature and self.

Harbour Escape in Akaroa is a luxurious retreat featuring spa treatments, scenic coastal walks, and gourmet dining. Guests can unwind in peaceful surroundings, enjoying the calming sounds of the ocean and lush landscapes, creating a perfect ambiance for relaxation and reflection.

The Retreat at Hanmer Springs provides a soothing atmosphere with natural hot springs, spa therapies, and wellness programmes. Visitors can indulge in outdoor adventures such as hiking and cycling, complemented by moments of tranquillity in beautiful gardens and wellness facilities.

Adventure

In Queenstown, experience thrilling bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the gorge. Nearby, explore the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park through exhilarating jet boating on the Dart River, surrounded by dramatic mountains and pristine wilderness.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Queenstown, where bars like The World Bar serve creative cocktails and live music. For a lively atmosphere, visit the infamous Minus 5 Ice Bar, offering a unique experience. If you seek a laid-back vibe, head to the local pub, The Bunker, for a cosy drink.

*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 offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore picturesque lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and charming churches that reflect the region's rich culture. Ideal for those seeking an escape into nature or a cultural experience, South Island's attractions promise unforgettable memories. Consider indulging in activities that showcase the beauty and unique offerings of New Zealand during your visit.

Lake Tekapo: Nestled just 3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo boasts stunning turquoise waters surrounded by majestic mountains. Its serene beaches offer a romantic escape, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Tekapo Springs: Located 11km away, Tekapo Springs is a delightful hot spring retreat featuring outdoor thermal pools set against picturesque landscapes. This destination provides a unique wellness experience, encouraging relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the natural beauty.
Church of the Good Shepherd: Also situated 11km from South Island, this charming church is a cultural gem, renowned for its stunning stone architecture and panoramic views of the lake and mountains. It's a peaceful spot for reflection and appreciation of the region's 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, you have three major airports to consider. Nelson Airport (NSN), located 365km away, is served by nearby hotels such as the Palazzo Motor Lodge and Century Park Motor Lodge, both approximately 5km from the airport. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is 171km distant, with excellent options like Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both 8km away, offering various shuttle services. Lastly, Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), located 187km away, features top hotels like Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1km from the terminal. Each airport provides convenient access to the stunning landscapes of South Island.

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

1. QT Queenstown

2. Novotel Christchurch Airport

3. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

4. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

5. Millbrook Resort

6. Mi-pad Queenstown

7. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

8. voco Queenstown by IHG

9. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

10. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

11. Distinction Dunedin Hotel

12. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

13. Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

14. Kamana Lakehouse

15. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

16. Commodore Airport Hotel

17. Coronet Ridge Resort

18. Edgewater

19. Fable Dunedin

20. Sudima Christchurch City

Holiday Rentals in South Island

Lake Resort by Marsden

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Village Lake Apartments

Suncrest Villas

Skyrim Lodge

Manata Lodge

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Quest Queenstown

Avani Queenstown Hotel

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Punga Grove

Alpine Views Burkes Pass

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Oakview

Pinewood Motels

Stay near popular South Island attractions

Aoraki / Mount Cook

Mount Cook National Park

Milford Sound

Lyttelton Harbour

Hagley Park

Lake Pukaki

Learn more about South Island

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Pinewood Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

Hotel Give

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Carnmore Hotel Christchurch

Airport Gateway Christchurch

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Mi-pad 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

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Best time to go to South Island

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island