A red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

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Our top choices for South Island hotels

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 circular window view of a balcony with a chair, a table with a red item, and a scenic lake and hills in the background.
A modern hotel room with a large sliding glass door leading to a scenic view, a sofa, a chair, and a coffee table with a remote control and glasses on it.

1. Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Australia
BOBBY
฿4,586
฿5,274 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Peppers Bluewater Resort
A lakeside view with chairs and a picnic table, surrounded by trees and mountains.
A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, wooden cabinetry, and a dining area with a glass table and chairs.
A modern restroom with three sinks, a large mirror, and a decorative wall piece.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a lamp, and a view of a lake and mountains through a glass door.

2. Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Mohit
฿3,028
฿3,482 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring wooden tables and chairs, and large windows.
A modern hotel with multiple buildings, large windows, and snow-covered surroundings.
A restaurant with a mountain view, featuring purple chairs and round tables.
A modern interior with a sofa and chairs facing large windows with a mountain view.

3. The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook

The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Australia
Natasha
฿8,398
฿9,657 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
The Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook
A modern building with multiple windows and a staircase leading to an upper level.
A person standing by a window with a night sky view, including stars and a visible mountain range.
A person in a robe by a window with a starry night sky view.
A woman relaxing in a bathtub with a view of a bedroom through a window.

4. Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lake Tekapo
United States
Gerri
฿9,152
฿10,525 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
A wooden deck with tables and chairs overlooking a lake and mountains.
A wooden building with a sign reading "JACK RABBIT" and a rainbow in the background.
A couple standing by a lake with mountains in the background.
A restaurant interior with a bar area, seating arrangement, and a view of the outside.

5. The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo
United States
Daniel
฿3,407
฿3,918 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
The Godley Hotel
A modern building with large windows and a view of mountains.
A modern living room with a sofa, armchair, and a coffee table. There is a large window offering a view of mountains and a building.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk with a television, a chair, and a balcony with a view.
A view from a balcony overlooking a lake with mountains in the background.

6. Lake Tekapo Village Motel

Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Ben
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
A modern interior with large windows offering a view of a mountainous landscape and a bridge.
A modern building with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.
A modern multi-story building with large glass windows and stone pillars.
A modern bedroom with a large bed, wooden wall paneling, a sliding glass door to the outdoors, and a mounted TV.

7. Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Dan
฿11,757
฿13,520 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
A swimming pool with a wooden table, a bottle, and glasses.
A kitchen with a granite countertop, a sink, and a dining area with a table and chairs.
A playground with swings and a slide, a gravel area, and a lake with mountains in the background.
A residential area with houses, a swimming pool, and a lake with mountains in the background.

8. Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
United States
HARDIK
฿7,117
฿8,185 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Mantra Lake Tekapo
A bedroom with a large window, a bed with a blue throw, and a nightstand with a lamp.
A row of cabins with solar panels, set against a mountainous backdrop.
A compact kitchen with a microwave, kettle, and a small refrigerator. There is a sink with a faucet, and a cabinet with drawers. A dark door is visible on the right side.
A modern room with a large window, a black leather sofa, a white table with chairs, and a grey armchair.

9. Aoraki Court Motel

Aoraki Court Motel
Mount Cook
United States
Leah
฿9,551
฿10,984 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Aoraki Court Motel
A modern building with multiple units, a parking area, and a grassy landscape with a wooden deck.
A compact kitchenette with a sink, toaster, kettle, and microwave.
A modern bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a white vanity with a mirror, and a towel rack with two towels.
A modern living room with a blue sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a TV mounted on the wall.

10. Woolshed Suites

Woolshed Suites
Lake Tekapo
United States
Whitney
฿3,955
฿4,548 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Woolshed Suites
Two glasses of white wine on a small table with a view of mountains and a lake.
A hotel room with a large bed, a view of mountains through a balcony, and a table with chairs outside.
A room with a large window offering a view of mountains and a lake.
A dining area with a view of mountains and a lake, a painting on the wall, and a modern interior design.

11. Ranginui at Lake Tekapo

Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Stephen
฿10,831
฿12,456 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
A modern mobile home with a patio area featuring a wooden bench, a table, and potted plants.
A modern living room with a sofa, a wooden table, and a TV on a stand.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and a fireplace.
A row of compact, modern mobile homes with a gravel driveway and a wooden deck.

12. Mackenzie Motels

Mackenzie Motels
Fairlie
Australia
Palitha
฿2,901
฿3,336 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Mackenzie Motels
A modern living room with a grey sofa, a coffee table with a plant, a TV on the wall, and a dining area with wooden chairs.
A modern living room with a large sliding glass door, a sofa, a coffee table, and a small side table with a plant.
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a wardrobe, and a kitchenette.
A modern house with a wooden deck, large glass windows, and a clear blue sky.

13. RodmanStar Apartment

RodmanStar Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Michael
RodmanStar Apartment
A neatly made bed with a dark headboard, two bedside lamps, and a window with curtains.
A motel sign with the name 'Aorangi Motel' and contact information.
A patio with two metal chairs and a small table, a potted plant, and a window with white curtains.
A room with two beds, a sofa, a coffee table, a desk, and a wall-mounted lamp.

14. Aorangi Motel

Aorangi Motel
Fairlie
Australia
Daniel
฿2,969
฿3,414 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Aorangi Motel
A modern building with a glass facade, a covered outdoor area, and a mountainous backdrop.
A modern kitchen with marble flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a buffet area with various food items.
A staircase leading to a room with a mountain view through large windows.
A balcony with a view of a parking area and mountains.

15. Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Mount Cook
Canada
Elaine
฿5,079
฿5,841 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
A window with a view of a natural landscape, including trees and mountains.
A room with large windows offering a view of a lake and mountains. There is a wooden chair and a small table with bottles.
A living room with a wooden wall, a flat-screen TV, a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a chandelier.
A snow-covered residential area with a stone wall, a bench, and a house with a snow-covered roof.

16. Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa

Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Melanie
฿5,060
฿5,819 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Tekapo1929 Lakefront Villa
A well-maintained lawn with a clear view of a lake and mountains in the background.
A scenic landscape with a road, grassy areas, and mountains in the background.

17. Three Rivers Lodge

Three Rivers Lodge
Lake Tekapo
United States
Janice
Three Rivers Lodge
A modern house with a sloped roof, large glass windows, and a wooden exterior.
A modern building with a sloped roof and a small entrance.
A modern living room with a sofa, TV, and a view through a glass door.

18. Sky Valley

Sky Valley
Lake Tekapo
New Zealand
Matthew
฿3,886
฿4,469 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Sky Valley
A modern house with a wooden deck and large windows, set against a starry night sky.
A hotel room with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a chair, and a wooden wall panel.
A modern kitchen with a stainless steel microwave, a brick-patterned backsplash, and a set of knives on the counter.
A modern kitchen with a microwave, coffee maker, and knife block.

19. Alpine Studio Coulson

Alpine Studio Coulson
Lake Tekapo
Australia
Anonymous traveller
฿3,556
฿4,089 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Alpine Studio Coulson
A modern house with a glass door entrance, white brick walls, and a dark roof.
A living room with a sectional sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and a table.
A building with a white brick exterior, large windows, and a paved entrance area with a rock garden.
A hotel room with a large bed, a nightstand with a lamp, and a window with curtains.

20. Jero Apartment

Jero Apartment
Lake Tekapo
Canada
Marc
Jero Apartment
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Holiday Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel
A swimming pool with a stone accent wall, a hot tub, and a patio area with chairs and an umbrella.
A swimming pool with a stone surround, lounge chairs, and a view of mountains.
A living room with a stone fireplace, red sofas, and a wooden coffee table.
A bedroom with a large bed, bedside tables, a wooden bench, a wardrobe, and a door leading to a bathroom.

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

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

Rainforest Deluxe

Rainforest Deluxe
Franz Josef Glacier
"Absolutely beautiful location with well equipped rooms"
Rainforest Deluxe
Aparthotel
A modern hotel with multiple floors, large windows, and a well-lit entrance.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a small table, and a view of mountains through a large window.
A modern bar area with a glass enclosure, bar stools, and a seating area with a sofa and a small table.
A modern interior with a sofa, a staircase, and a wall-mounted shelf with plants.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Frankton
"Very helpful staff, room was very clean"
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Holiday Home
A building named 'Skyrim Lodge' on Jimmy's Lane with a starry night sky.
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.
A modern kitchen with a grey door, black cabinets, a white countertop, and a built-in oven.

Skyrim Lodge

Skyrim Lodge
Lake Tekapo
"This small but perfectly adequate room was perfect for our overnight stay. The only hutch was our aircon didn't work on a very morning but everything else was great"
Skyrim Lodge
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 clear view of a swimming pool with a glass barrier, wooden deck, and a backdrop of mountain ranges.

Lake Resort by Marsden

Lake Resort by Marsden
Mount Pisa
"Wonderful stay of five nights! Awesome rooms, superb location, next level breakfasts, staff so friendly & accomodating! 4 mins to Cromwell & so close to all the other amazing places - Clyde, Bannockburn, Wanaka, Queenstown, Alexandra & lots of either quaint places. Will definitely be back!!!"
Lake Resort by Marsden
Aparthotel
A balcony with a table and chairs, a bottle of wine, and two wine glasses.
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.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining table, and chairs, a kitchen area with appliances, and a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a mountain view.

Quest Queenstown

Quest Queenstown
Frankton
"Nice and clean room with wonderful amenities. Very friendly staff."
Quest Queenstown
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 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.

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Great stay"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Aparthotel
A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a small table, a TV, a fireplace, and a sliding glass door leading to a patio with outdoor furniture.
A building with a flat roof and a small window, surrounded by dense greenery and a mountain in the background.
A modern kitchen with a 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.

Punga Grove

Punga Grove
Franz Josef Glacier
"Great location,nice rooms. "
Punga Grove
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 hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a television, and a balcony with a view of the outdoors.
A modern kitchen with a central island, built-in microwave, and a large window offering a view of the landscape.

Avalon Manor Motel

Avalon Manor Motel
Motueka
"Fantastic friendly host, lovely room, a great place to stay!"
Avalon Manor Motel
Aparthotel
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of snow-capped mountains.
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 two-story house with a stone facade, a wooden front door, and a garage.
A swimming pool with a view of mountains and a lake.

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts
Wanaka
"Great accommodation and good location "
Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts
Aparthotel
A modern building with a flat roof, large windows, and a balcony.
A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.
A modern apartment with a kitchen, dining area, and living room.
A modern building with a glass balcony overlooking a parking area and a mountainous landscape.

Central Park Apartments

Central Park Apartments
Cromwell
"Our room was clean and so far the most easiest check in ever. We had booked the place for a couple of nights and it did not disappoint"
Central Park Apartments
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 living room with a sofa, a glass coffee table, and a lamp. There is a glass wall with the text "WEST FITZROY APARTMENTS" visible.
A modern interior with a glass door leading to a living area, a potted plant, and a decorative metal piece on the wall.
A modern hotel room with a bed, a desk, and a kitchenette. There is a balcony with a railing.

West Fitzroy Apartments

West Fitzroy Apartments
Christchurch City Centre
"Great central location, friendly staff and nice quiet rooms"
West Fitzroy Apartments
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 kitchen with a stainless steel countertop, a kettle, a toaster, and a wooden shelf with kitchenware.
A rural area with multiple cylindrical silos and a small building.
A modern hotel room with a curved ceiling, a bed with white bedding, two black pillows, and a white towel on the floor.

SiloStay

SiloStay
Little River
"Unusual property with clever use of space. Comfortable and quiet with restaurant next door. Hosts and information provided excellent!"
SiloStay
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.
An indoor swimming pool with large windows offering views of mountains and a lake.
A modern room with a large window overlooking a lake and mountains, furnished with a sofa, table, and chairs.

Marina Terrace Apartments

Marina Terrace Apartments
Wanaka
"Clean room, nice amenities, walking distance to town"
Marina Terrace Apartments
Apartment
A modern building with a prominent 'K' logo, a well-maintained exterior, and a clear sky.

The Kilmore Collection

The Kilmore Collection
Christchurch City Centre
"Great location, good accomodation"
The Kilmore Collection
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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 mountain views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.
See properties
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.
See properties
A clear mountain stream surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks in the background.

Mount Cook National Park

9.8/10 (179 reviews)
Ski on a glacier, enjoy hot springs and tackle the peak where Sir Edmund Hillary trained for Everest in this spectacular part of New Zealand.
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A 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.
Photo by Paolo Corrales

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.
See properties

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 red speedboat on a turquoise river surrounded by rocky banks and dense green trees.

Top South Island Hotel Reviews

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

10/10 Excellent
"Just what you expect from a Hotel of this caliber."
Blair 2-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile
voco Queenstown by IHG

voco Queenstown by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room, helpful staff and overall a quiet stay. Just know it’s on a hill so it’s a bit of a walk from town though definitely doable. Bus stops right in front so perfect to travel to airport."
Julia 2-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
voco Queenstown by IHG
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

10/10 Excellent
"Cordial and welcoming reception, clean rooms, spectacular views, good food and ALL the staff are very friendly."
Kim Elise 1-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

8/10 Good
"Hotel was easy to find and in a perfect location for our needs."
Alliya 11-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

8/10 Good
"Amazing bed, so comfortable. Average food"
Leanne 1-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
Pinewood Queenstown

Pinewood Queenstown

10/10 Excellent
"Great cabin for the price. Handy location"
Karankumar 4-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Pinewood Queenstown
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

10/10 Excellent
"Good location"
Xinge 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Sudima Kaikoura

Sudima Kaikoura

10/10 Excellent
"Big and comfortable rooms, great restaurant and bar. Free parking"
Keli 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Sudima Kaikoura
Hotel Give

Hotel Give

10/10 Excellent
"Great place to stay. Great staff very helpful"
Leanne 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Hotel Give

More cheap stays in South Island

Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
฿1,957
฿2,250 total
20 Sept - 21 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (488 reviews)
Carnmore Hagley Park
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
฿2,036
฿2,341 total
2 Sept - 3 Sept
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (316 reviews)
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
฿3,028
฿3,482 total
3 Sept - 4 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (432 reviews)
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
฿3,191
฿3,670 total
2 Sept - 3 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very good! (770 reviews)
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Alps Motel Apartment Twizel

Alps Motel Apartment Twizel

17 Ruataniwha Street, Twizel Twizel
฿4,716
฿5,424 total
2 Sept - 3 Sept
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (158 reviews)
Alps Motel Apartment Twizel
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
฿5,079
฿5,841 total
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

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 iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly 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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