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

1. The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments
Queenstown
Australia
Yuxuan
NT$9,193
NT$10,572 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

2. QT Queenstown

QT Queenstown
Queenstown City Centre
Australia
Olivia
NT$6,219
NT$7,152 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
QT Queenstown

3. Millbrook Resort

Millbrook Resort
Arrowtown
Australia
Layne
NT$9,671
NT$11,121 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 27 - Oct 28
Millbrook Resort

4. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa
Queenstown City Centre
Japan
Yuji
NT$8,969
NT$10,314 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa

5. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Novotel Christchurch Airport
Christchurch Airport
Australia
jignesh
NT$5,179
NT$5,956 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Novotel Christchurch Airport

6. Sudima Christchurch City

Sudima Christchurch City
Christchurch City Centre
Australia
Kelly
NT$6,950
NT$7,992 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 10 - Oct 11
Sudima Christchurch City

7. Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG
Frankton
Australia
Jason and Josephine
NT$3,432
NT$3,946 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

8. Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
Kawarau Falls
Australia
Kacie
NT$5,820
NT$6,693 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 16 - Oct 17
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9. voco Queenstown by IHG

voco Queenstown by IHG
Queenstown City Centre
Australia
Rupert
NT$4,617
NT$5,309 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
voco Queenstown by IHG

10. Mi-pad Queenstown

Mi-pad Queenstown
Queenstown City Centre
Australia
Yujia
NT$3,716
NT$4,383 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 13 - Oct 14
Mi-pad Queenstown

11. Edgewater

Edgewater
Wanaka
United States
Drew
NT$5,912
NT$6,798 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Edgewater

12. Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse
Fernhill
United States
Mingjun
NT$6,068
NT$6,978 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Kamana Lakehouse

13. Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
Queenstown
United States
Mark
NT$4,400
NT$5,061 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

14. Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery
Queenstown City Centre
Australia
Belinda
NT$5,974
NT$6,870 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

15. Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Distinction Dunedin Hotel
Dunedin City Centre
Australia
Cole
NT$3,728
NT$4,287 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Distinction Dunedin Hotel

16. Coronet Ridge Resort

Coronet Ridge Resort
Arthur's Point
Australia
Kimberley
NT$13,152
NT$15,125 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Coronet Ridge Resort

17. Fable Dunedin

Fable Dunedin
Dunedin City Centre
Australia
Craig
NT$3,155
NT$3,629 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Fable Dunedin

18. Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
Queenstown City Centre
Australia
Thurston
NT$5,041
NT$5,797 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

19. Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile
Frankton
Australia
Amitkumar
NT$3,900
NT$4,485 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 20 - Oct 21
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

20. Crowne Plaza Christchurch by IHG

Crowne Plaza Christchurch by IHG
Christchurch City Centre
Australia
Phuong
NT$5,023
NT$5,777 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 7 - Oct 8
Crowne Plaza Christchurch by IHG
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Vacation Rentals in South Island

Aparthotel

Lake Resort by Marsden

Lake Resort by Marsden
Mount Pisa
"We had a beautiful view of the mountains and the lake below our room. The staff was friendly and helpful."
Lake Resort by Marsden
Aparthotel

Wanaka Luxury Apartments

Wanaka Luxury Apartments
Wanaka
"Great location"
Wanaka Luxury Apartments
Villa

Suncrest Villas

Suncrest Villas
Cromwell
"The place looks brand new and is well appointed."
Suncrest Villas
Aparthotel

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Queenstown
"Awesome, will stay here again!"
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Camping

The Huts at Lakes Edge

The Huts at Lakes Edge
Lake Tekapo
"New Build Accommodation. Nice and warm. Amazing views of Lake Tekapo. Great facilities. No easy parking outside of unit."
The Huts at Lakes Edge
Aparthotel

Quest Queenstown

Quest Queenstown
Frankton
"Great place to stay"
Quest Queenstown
Aparthotel

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
"Great location, lovely property with incredible views."
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Aparthotel

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

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 🙌"
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Aparthotel

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka

Clearbrook Motels Wanaka
Wanaka
"Staff and location was great."
Clearbrook Motels Wanaka
Aparthotel

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts

Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts
Wanaka
"Great location especially if you are planning to ski at Cardrona or Treble Cone."
Alpine Resort Wanaka – A THC Hotels and Resorts
Aparthotel

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments

Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Albert Town
"Good location"
Alpine Junction Townhouse Apartments
Treehouse

Rainforest Deluxe

Rainforest Deluxe
Franz Josef Glacier
"Beautiful hotel"
Rainforest Deluxe
Aparthotel

Central Park Apartments

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"
Central Park Apartments
Aparthotel

Alpine Motel

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

Avani Queenstown Hotel

Avani Queenstown Hotel
Queenstown
"Great spot , beautiful rooms"
Avani Queenstown Hotel
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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.
See properties
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.
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 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.
See properties
A fountain with three swans and water spouting from the top.

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.
See properties
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

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

8/10 Good
"Easy to get too, good amenities, good for my family."
Leticia 1-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels
Pinewood Queenstown

Pinewood Queenstown

8/10 Good
"Nice clean accomodation. Better for 2 adults thsn 4, as the actual.bed is really comfortable and as usual the sofabed is better for 1 adult than 2 , but would be fine with kids."
Jo 1-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Pinewood Queenstown
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

10/10 Excellent
"Very comfy beds. Fantastic location"
Charmaine 1-night trip
Posted 20 hours ago
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile
Mi-pad Queenstown

Mi-pad Queenstown

8/10 Good
"Nice one to stay, very close to city center."
Yujia 4-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Mi-pad Queenstown
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Just what we needed as a crash pad for one night near the airport (but could have stayed longer), great room layout for a young family with a bunk bed, nice views, good breakfast and super helpful staff. Would definitely recommend!"
Amber 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park by IHG
Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

10/10 Excellent
"Staff was most helpful. We never did get a reservation to eat dinner in the hotel. Grab bars in showers would be welcomed."
Jeffrey 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Kamana Lakehouse
Garden Court Suites And Apartments

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

10/10 Excellent
"Studio was great and well equipped. Location is perfect for walking into Queenstown. All staff are friendly and welcoming"
Georges 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Garden Court Suites And Apartments
The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"😆"
Cameron 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
The Godley Hotel
Lakes Edge Lodge

Lakes Edge Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Cheap stay with lakefront view of Lake Tekapo, but has all the necessities you need although the accommodation is small. Beautiful, quiet location. with laundry which was nice for us."
Stephen 1-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Lakes Edge Lodge

More cheap stays in South Island

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka

212 Brownston Street Wanaka
NT$1,442
NT$1,700 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (76 reviews)
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Wanaka
High Country Motel and Backpackers

High Country Motel and Backpackers

23 Mackenzie Drive Twizel
NT$1,950
NT$2,242 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
includes taxes & fees
High Country Motel and Backpackers
Carnmore Hagley Park

Carnmore Hagley Park

22 Riccarton Road Christchurch
NT$2,106
NT$2,422 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (490 reviews)
Carnmore Hagley Park
Lakes Edge Holiday Park

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury
NT$3,164
NT$3,639 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
includes taxes & fees
Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

Nomads Queenstown Backpackers

5-11 Church Street Queenstown
NT$3,397
NT$3,907 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
includes taxes & fees
Nomads Queenstown Backpackers
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Bowen Drive Mount Cook
NT$5,412
NT$6,224 total
Oct 20 - Oct 21
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels

Hotels in South Island with star-rating

Find out more about South Island

Top reasons to visit South Island

  • Stunning Natural Scenery: South Island features breathtaking landscapes, including the Southern Alps, serene lakes, and picturesque harbors like Marlborough Sounds.
  • Adventure Activities: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the region offers skiing at Roundhill Ski Area, hiking trails, and various adventure sports.
  • Charming Cities: Explore vibrant cities like Queenstown and Christchurch, known for their friendly locals and rich cultural experiences.
  • Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in natural hot springs, perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to cozy motels, catering to all traveler preferences.

Find great hotels near South Island

South Island, New Zealand offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to cozy motels, catering to all types of travelers. Whether you're seeking a hot spring retreat, an adventurous ski vacation, or simply a relaxing getaway, you'll discover plenty of options to enhance your experience. Explore the best South Island hotels and read reviews to find the perfect stay that meets your needs and preferences.

  • Lake Tekapo Village Motel: This charming 3.5-star motel provides a cozy retreat for travelers seeking a tranquil escape near the beautiful Lake Tekapo. Rated at 8.6 out of 10 by guests, the motel embodies a ski and hot spring theme, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy winter sports and rejuvenating hot springs. With natural hot springs nearby and easy access to ski shuttles and lifts, guests can indulge in outdoor adventures and relaxation alike. The inviting atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular choice for families and couples wanting to experience the stunning South Island landscape.
  • The Godley Hotel: A 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, The Godley Hotel offers an adventure-filled experience set against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo. The hotel features a hot spring theme, boasting access to nearby natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Adventure seekers will appreciate the variety of on-site and nearby recreational activities, including kayaking, snowboarding, horse riding, waterskiing, and snow tubing. This hotel strikes a balance between comfort and excitement, making it a great choice for those eager to explore the great outdoors.
  • Lakes Edge Holiday Park: With a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Lakes Edge Holiday Park stands out as a budget-friendly option for eco-conscious travelers. This eco-certified property embraces sustainable practices while providing a comfortable stay near Lake Tekapo. Guests can enjoy the serene natural surroundings and engage in various outdoor activities without compromising their environmental values. The holiday park offers a welcoming atmosphere for families and groups looking to experience the beauty of South Island while minimizing their ecological footprint.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Explore charming cities like Queenstown and Christchurch, where friendly locals and breathtaking scenery await. Discover picturesque harbors, such as those in Marlborough Sounds, and indulge in family-friendly activities or intimate moments in nature. Whether you're hiking through the Southern Alps or relaxing by serene lakes, South Island promises unforgettable experiences that cater to all travelers.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11km from the heart of South Island, Lake Tekapo is a charming suburb renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors flock here for romantic getaways and scenic landscapes, particularly during peak seasons in April and December to January. The tranquil lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and the stunning national state park, offers various recreational activities, from leisurely strolls to invigorating hikes. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in local body treatments or enjoy the quaint shopping area that adds to the area's charm.
  • Tekapo: Located about 13km from South Island, Tekapo shares a similar allure with its neighbor, boasting stunning outdoor vistas and romantic settings. While visitor numbers peak from November to January, the area remains inviting year-round. The picturesque lake and the nearby national state park serve as perfect backdrops for exploration and relaxation. With plenty of recreational areas and a variety of shopping options, Tekapo is an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and leisure in a serene environment.
  • Mount Dobson: Situated roughly 16km from South Island, Mount Dobson is a suburb that captivates outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Known for its ski fields, this area sees an influx of visitors during the peak months of March and December to January. Beyond skiing, Mount Dobson offers access to cultural centers and stunning natural landmarks. Whether you're shopping for unique souvenirs or enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the lake and national state park, Mount Dobson promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Things to do in South Island

Shopping

Located in the heart of Christchurch, the Westfield Riccarton offers a variety of shops for fashion and souvenirs. For a unique experience, visit the Otago Farmers Market in Dunedin, where local artisans showcase handcrafted goods and fresh produce, perfect for finding memorable gifts.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil surroundings at Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, where you can indulge in yoga sessions and nourishing plant-based meals. Enjoy guided hikes through breathtaking landscapes, allowing for both relaxation and connection with nature, enhancing your overall well-being.

At the Polynesian Spa in Rotorua, unwind in natural mineral pools with stunning lake views. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages and skincare therapies, providing a rejuvenating experience amidst a serene setting.

Visit the Blue Pearl Retreat for holistic wellness practices, including meditation and wellness workshops. The peaceful environment encourages self-reflection and rejuvenation, making it an ideal spot to recharge and reconnect with yourself.

Discover the beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park through guided kayaking tours. Embrace the stunning coastline and enjoy the tranquility of the crystal-clear waters while immersing yourself in the natural surroundings.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping in Queenstown, where you can leap from heights above the stunning Shotover River. For a unique adventure, explore the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park on a guided kayak tour, immersing yourself in nature's beauty and tranquility.

Nightlife

In Christchurch, the trendy bars in the Central City offer vibrant atmospheres with live music and craft cocktails. Queenstown's nightlife buzzes with lively pubs and clubs, providing stunning lakeside views and thrilling late-night activities.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

To save money during your trip to South Island, consider visiting in June or August to September when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Saturdays, which are the cheapest days. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for additional savings. Look for green banners indicating special deals, and always compare room rates to find the best prices for your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around South Island are June and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around South Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around South Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around South Island is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations on the South Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, New Zealand is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance. With stunning lakes, relaxing hot springs, and charming churches, this region offers a variety of attractions for cultural experiences. Whether you're looking to explore breathtaking scenery or enjoy outdoor activities, South Island has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable vacation.

  • Lake Tekapo: Nestled 3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo features stunning turquoise waters surrounded by mountains. It's an ideal spot for beach activities, scenic walks, and romantic picnics, offering breathtaking views that change with the seasons.
  • Tekapo Springs: Located 11km away, Tekapo Springs is a serene hot spring destination where you can unwind in natural mineral pools. The outdoor setting enhances relaxation, making it a perfect place to rejuvenate while enjoying the picturesque landscape.
  • Church of the Good Shepherd: This charming church, situated 11km from South Island, reflects the region's rich culture and history. Its stunning architecture and scenic backdrop make it a popular site for photography and contemplation.

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

Traveling to South Island, New Zealand, is convenient with three major airports. Christchurch Airport (CHC) is 171km away, with nearby hotels like Bealey Quarter and Hotel Give, both about 8km from the airport, offering shuttle services. Queenstown Airport (ZQN), located 187km away, has excellent hotel options such as Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1km from the terminal. Nelson Airport (NSN) is farther at 365km, with quality accommodations like Palazzo Motor Lodge, 5km from the airport. All these hotels provide accessible transport options to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth arrival experience.

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