What are the best landmarks to visit in the South Island of New Zealand?

The South Island boasts incredible landmarks. For breathtaking scenery, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound fjords are unparalleled, offering dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife. Queenstown, nestled beside Lake Wakatipu, is known for its adventure activities and stunning mountain views. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park showcases New Zealand's highest peak, while Hokitika Gorge's vibrant turquoise waters are a photographer's dream. Abel Tasman National Park offers golden sand beaches and lush forests, perfect for kayaking and hiking.

What are the best hotels with a swimming pool in South Island?

Split Apple Retreat is among the best hotels with a swimming pool in South Island.

What is a good itinerary to experience the best of the South Island, New Zealand?

A two-week itinerary could start in Christchurch, exploring the city's Botanic Gardens and Canterbury Museum. Then, head to Queenstown for adventure activities like bungy jumping and white-water rafting. Continue to Wanaka, known for its picturesque lake and stunning mountains, before driving to the West Coast, visiting Hokitika Gorge and Franz Josef Glacier. Spend time in the Fiordland National Park, exploring Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound by boat. Finally, journey north towards the Kaikoura coast for whale watching before returning to Christchurch.

What are the most popular 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in South Island?

Among 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in South Island, The Rocks Chalets , The Rocks Chalets and Sans Souci Inn are the most popular ones.

What is the best time to visit the South Island of New Zealand?

The best time to visit depends on your priorities. Summer (December-February) offers warm weather, ideal for hiking and swimming, but it's peak season with higher prices and more crowds. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) provide pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds and better deals. Winter (June-August) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in Queenstown and other mountain resorts, but many areas will have limited access due to snow.

What are the best luxury hotels in South Island?

Awaroa Lodge , Ocean View Chalets and Abel Tasman Lodge are among the best luxury hotels in South Island.

What traditional local food should you try in the South Island of New Zealand?

Definitely try some New Zealand lamb, renowned for its quality. Seafood is abundant, especially on the West Coast; try Bluff oysters or fresh crayfish. Hāngi, a traditional Māori method of cooking food in an underground oven, is a unique culinary experience. Try some local cheeses, like Canterbury cheese, and sample some craft beers from the many breweries across the South Island.

What are the best family friendly hotels in South Island?

The best family friendly hotel in South Island is Pohara Beach Top 10 Holiday .

Are there any unknown or hidden places that should be on your list in the South Island of New Zealand?

The West Coast's Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes are a lesser-known gem, showcasing fascinating coastal formations. Lake Sumner Forest Park offers serene hiking trails and stunning scenery away from the usual tourist crowds. The Catlins, in the south, feature unique wildlife and dramatic coastal landscapes, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

What are the best pet friendly hotels in South Island?

The best pet friendly hotels in South Island are Awaroa Lodge and Awaroa Lodge .

What are some authentic ways to meet locals and discover their traditions in the South Island of New Zealand?

Staying in smaller, family-run accommodations or farm stays provides opportunities to interact with locals. Joining guided walks or tours led by local experts can offer insights into the region's history and culture. Visiting local markets and farmers' markets allows interaction with producers and provides a taste of local life. Participating in a Māori cultural experience, such as a hangi dinner and performance, offers a deeply immersive experience.

What are the best hotels with jacuzzi in South Island?

Split Apple Retreat is the best hotel with a jacuzzi in South Island.

What should visitors know about the weather and natural risks in the South Island of New Zealand?

The South Island's weather is highly variable. Be prepared for all conditions, even in summer. Mountain areas can experience sudden changes, with snow possible even in warmer months. Strong winds and rain are common, especially on the West Coast. Be aware of potential hazards like flash floods, particularly after heavy rainfall. Always check weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor activities.

Are there any special items you’ll need when traveling to the South Island of New Zealand?

Pack layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential. Sturdy hiking boots are needed for exploring trails. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are crucial, even on cloudy days. Insect repellent can be helpful, especially in forested areas. A reusable water bottle is recommended for staying hydrated.

Compare all Hotels in South Island

8.7 6679 reviews

Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers

hotel, Hong Kong

The Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers is conveniently located on Nathan Road in Kowloon, close to the bustling shopping area and a short walk from the Temple Street Night Market. This 5-star hotel receives very good user ratings for its service and facilities.
The hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms with modern amenities and stunning city views. Guests can enjoy a range of dining options, relax in the spa and sauna, or work out in the fitness centre.

8.7 2935 reviews

Fino Hotel & Suites

hotel, Christchurch

Fino Hotel & Suites is in Christchurch city centre, just a short walk from the Christchurch Casino and Town Hall. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings.
The accommodation offers spacious suites with modern kitchens and indoor/outdoor dining areas. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a sauna, spa, restaurant, bar, and bike rentals.

8.8 7975 reviews

Wharney Hotel

hotel, Hong Kong

The Wharney Hotel is situated in Wan Chai, a short 3-minute walk from Wan Chai MTR Station, close to Hong Kong Arts Centre and the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre. This 4-star hotel is highly rated by previous guests, with consistently good reviews for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of facilities for a comfortable stay, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and restaurant. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of room service, free Wi-Fi, and parking.

8.5 103 reviews

Wheels And Reels Accommodation

hotel, Mossburn

Wheels and Reels Accommodation is a hotel located in Mossburn, 103 kilometres from Invercargill Airport.
This family-friendly lodging offers garden views, an on-site restaurant and bar, free WiFi, and rooms with patios and private bathrooms, providing a convenient base for exploring Mossburn's hiking, fishing, and cycling opportunities.

8.2 1938 reviews

The Garden Hotel

hotel, Christchurch

The Garden Hotel, a 3-star establishment in Christchurch's Shirley district, is conveniently located 10.6 km from Christchurch International Airport and a 15-minute drive from the city centre, near Shirley Golf Course and Palms Mall.
This family-friendly lodging offers free on-site parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, a restaurant serving international cuisine (Wednesday-Sunday), a bar, and self-service laundry facilities; nearby attractions include the Avon River and Horseshoe Lake Reserve.

8.4 2720 reviews

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

hotel, Dunedin

The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is located in central Dunedin, just a short walk from the train station and The Octagon, the city's main square. It's a 4.5-star hotel, highly rated by previous guests for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hotel is a blend of historical architecture and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of on-site facilities including a restaurant, bar, casino, fitness centre, and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, plus a complimentary breakfast.

9.1 96 reviews

Nugget View Kaka Point Motels

hotel, Kaka Point

Nugget View Kaka Point Motels offers a prime seaside location in Kaka Point, situated within a 5-minute walk to Kaka Point Scenic Reserve and Kaka Point Beach, and 8.7 kilometres from Nugget Point Lighthouse.
This 4-star accommodation provides individually decorated guest rooms with private balconies or patios, complimentary wireless internet, a terrace, and a garden with scenic views, alongside in-room refrigerators and microwaves for guest convenience.

8.1 76 reviews

The Halswell

hotel, Christchurch

The Halswell, a 3-star hotel in Christchurch's Halswell district, is situated approximately 6.4km from Christchurch Railway Station and within a 10-19km radius of attractions such as Hagley Park, Orana Wildlife Park, and the Christchurch Art Gallery.
This Christchurch lodging offers 20 square metre rooms, each sleeping up to three guests and featuring a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, fridge, microwave, and electric kettle; free WiFi is available throughout the establishment.

8.5 1439 reviews

Riverside Hotel Marlborough

hotel, Blenheim

The Riverside Hotel Marlborough is situated in Blenheim, close to the town centre and just a short drive from Marlborough Airport. This 4.5-star hotel is highly rated by guests, who praise its cleanliness, location, and overall value.
The hotel offers a range of modern rooms with comfortable amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a variety of facilities on-site, including a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, garden, and fitness centre.

9.1 15477 reviews

Royal Plaza Hotel

hotel, Hong Kong

The Royal Plaza Hotel is conveniently located in Mongkok, a bustling district known for its vibrant markets and lively atmosphere, just a 45-minute subway ride from Hong Kong International Airport. This 5-star hotel consistently receives very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel offers spacious and elegantly decorated rooms with large flat-screen TVs and city views. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including an outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, a spa, and a variety of dining options.

8.8 11196 reviews

Eaton Hk - Langham Hospitality Group

hotel, Hong Kong

Eaton HK is located in Kowloon, a short walk from Jordan MTR Station and a 22-minute walk from West Kowloon High Speed Rail Station, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of modern rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool, a fitness centre, and a variety of restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant and a casual burger joint. There's also a cinema auditorium, radio station, co-working space, music venue, art gallery, and curated local retail, making it a vibrant cultural hub.

9.0 1303 reviews

Paroa Hotel

hotel, Greymouth

The Paroa Hotel is located on the outskirts of Greymouth, just 1 kilometre from South Beach and a short walk from the town centre. The hotel has consistently received excellent ratings from guests for its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of rooms and apartments, all featuring modern décor and self-catering facilities. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a restaurant serving fresh local cuisine, a bar, a spa, a garden with BBQ facilities, a terrace, a jacuzzi, and a convenience store.

Best South Island luxury hotels (4 and 5 stars)

Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best luxury hotels

9.2 250 reviews

The Waimate Lodges

hotel, Waimate

The Waimate Lodges are located in Waimate, approximately 56 kilometres from Timaru Airport.
This 4-star lodging offers guests free Wi-Fi, private parking, and select rooms with kitchenettes; a shared lounge and terrace are also available.

8.2 168 reviews

Noah's Boutique Accommodation Moeraki

hotel, Moeraki

Noah's Boutique Accommodation Moeraki is located directly across from the beach in Moeraki, just 2 kilometres from the famous Moeraki Boulders and a short drive to a nearby cafe. This 5-star guesthouse has received consistently excellent ratings from previous guests for its cleanliness and location.
This accommodation offers a mix of private rooms and suites, all with their own private bathrooms and entrances. Each room comes with free Wi-Fi, and the property has a shared kitchen, outdoor seating area, BBQ facilities, and a terrace with stunning sea views.

8.9 6908 reviews

Park Hotel Hong Kong

hotel, Hong Kong

The Park Hotel Hong Kong is conveniently located in Kowloon, just a five-minute walk from Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station and the Miramar Shopping Centre. It's a four-star hotel with excellent user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers. The hotel offers a range of rooms with city views and spacious interiors, all featuring comfortable amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel's restaurant, bar, and room service, as well as convenient services like a concierge, currency exchange, and laundry facilities.

9.1 3318 reviews

Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

hotel, Blenheim

The Chateau Marlborough Hotel is located in Blenheim, a short 30-minute drive from Picton Ferry Terminal, making it a convenient base for exploring the Marlborough region. It's a 5-star hotel with very good user ratings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The hotel offers a range of spacious and comfortable suites, perfect for families or couples. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spa, a restaurant and bar, and free on-site parking.

Best South Island hotels with a pool

Among the 4 accommodations in South Island, here are the 4 best hotels with a pool

8.6 6047 reviews

The Perkin Hotel

hotel, Kowloon

The Perkin Hotel is a 3.5-star hotel situated in the lively Tsim Sha Tsui district, within easy reach of Knutsford Terrace, Miramar Shopping Centre, and Granville Road. It is consistently rated highly by guests for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of amenities and services to enhance your stay, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, and room service. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi in public areas, free newspapers, and a TV in a common area.

9.0 3988 reviews

Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay By Ihg

hotel, Hong Kong

Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay, An Ihg Hotel, is conveniently located in the bustling Causeway Bay district, just a short 0.5 km walk from Times Square and the Causeway Bay MTR station. This 5-star hotel is highly rated by guests, with excellent reviews for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of modern rooms, each featuring a spacious layout and comfortable amenities. Guests can enjoy access to a variety of facilities, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and restaurants, as well as a terrace and garden for relaxation.

8.8 1540 reviews

Scenic Hotel Marlborough

hotel, Blenheim

The Scenic Hotel Marlborough is located in Blenheim's Wine Country, a short walk from the town centre and close to the railway station and airport. This 4.5-star hotel has received very good user ratings for its accommodation, cleanliness, and location.
The hotel offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, restaurant and bar, as well as comfortable rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.

9.5 336 reviews

The Spire Hotel

hotel, Queenstown

The Spire Hotel is situated in central Queenstown, just a short walk from Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens, making it a great base for exploring the town. It's a 5-star hotel with excellent user ratings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The hotel offers a range of modern and well-appointed rooms with spacious layouts. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness centre, a spa, and a restaurant, along with a bar and room service.

Frequently Asked Questions about hotels in South Island

What are the best landmarks to visit in the South Island of New Zealand?
The South Island boasts incredible landmarks. For breathtaking scenery, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound fjords are unparalleled, offering dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife. Queenstown, nestled beside Lake Wakatipu, is known for its adventure activities and stunning mountain views. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park showcases New Zealand's highest peak, while Hokitika Gorge's vibrant turquoise waters are a photographer's dream. Abel Tasman National Park offers golden sand beaches and lush forests, perfect for kayaking and hiking.
What are the best hotels with a swimming pool in South Island?
Split Apple Retreat is among the best hotels with a swimming pool in South Island.
What is a good itinerary to experience the best of the South Island, New Zealand?
A two-week itinerary could start in Christchurch, exploring the city's Botanic Gardens and Canterbury Museum. Then, head to Queenstown for adventure activities like bungy jumping and white-water rafting. Continue to Wanaka, known for its picturesque lake and stunning mountains, before driving to the West Coast, visiting Hokitika Gorge and Franz Josef Glacier. Spend time in the Fiordland National Park, exploring Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound by boat. Finally, journey north towards the Kaikoura coast for whale watching before returning to Christchurch.
What are the most popular 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in South Island?
Among 2, 3 and 4-star hotels in South Island, The Rocks Chalets, The Rocks Chalets and Sans Souci Inn are the most popular ones.
What is the best time to visit the South Island of New Zealand?
The best time to visit depends on your priorities. Summer (December-February) offers warm weather, ideal for hiking and swimming, but it's peak season with higher prices and more crowds. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) provide pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds and better deals. Winter (June-August) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in Queenstown and other mountain resorts, but many areas will have limited access due to snow.
What are the best luxury hotels in South Island?
Awaroa Lodge, Ocean View Chalets and Abel Tasman Lodge are among the best luxury hotels in South Island.
What traditional local food should you try in the South Island of New Zealand?
Definitely try some New Zealand lamb, renowned for its quality. Seafood is abundant, especially on the West Coast; try Bluff oysters or fresh crayfish. Hāngi, a traditional Māori method of cooking food in an underground oven, is a unique culinary experience. Try some local cheeses, like Canterbury cheese, and sample some craft beers from the many breweries across the South Island.
What are the best family friendly hotels in South Island?
The best family friendly hotel in South Island is Pohara Beach Top 10 Holiday.
Are there any unknown or hidden places that should be on your list in the South Island of New Zealand?
The West Coast's Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes are a lesser-known gem, showcasing fascinating coastal formations. Lake Sumner Forest Park offers serene hiking trails and stunning scenery away from the usual tourist crowds. The Catlins, in the south, feature unique wildlife and dramatic coastal landscapes, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
What are the best pet friendly hotels in South Island?
The best pet friendly hotels in South Island are Awaroa Lodge and Awaroa Lodge.
What are some authentic ways to meet locals and discover their traditions in the South Island of New Zealand?
Staying in smaller, family-run accommodations or farm stays provides opportunities to interact with locals. Joining guided walks or tours led by local experts can offer insights into the region's history and culture. Visiting local markets and farmers' markets allows interaction with producers and provides a taste of local life. Participating in a Māori cultural experience, such as a hangi dinner and performance, offers a deeply immersive experience.
What are the best hotels with jacuzzi in South Island?
Split Apple Retreat is the best hotel with a jacuzzi in South Island.
What should visitors know about the weather and natural risks in the South Island of New Zealand?
The South Island's weather is highly variable. Be prepared for all conditions, even in summer. Mountain areas can experience sudden changes, with snow possible even in warmer months. Strong winds and rain are common, especially on the West Coast. Be aware of potential hazards like flash floods, particularly after heavy rainfall. Always check weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor activities.
Are there any special items you’ll need when traveling to the South Island of New Zealand?
Pack layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential. Sturdy hiking boots are needed for exploring trails. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are crucial, even on cloudy days. Insect repellent can be helpful, especially in forested areas. A reusable water bottle is recommended for staying hydrated.

Nearby regions

Best South Island hotels with air conditioning

8.5 1466 reviews

Grand Arden Monaco Nelson

hotel, Nelson

The Grand Arden Monaco Nelson is situated in the Waimea Inlet district, a short drive from Nelson city and the airport, offering a peaceful setting overlooking the inlet. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel provides self-contained apartments with kitchens, dining areas, and living spaces, allowing for greater flexibility and privacy. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a swimming pool, tennis court, fitness centre, spa, and restaurant, as well as free parking and Wi-Fi.

8.6 1089 reviews

Donegal House

hotel, Kaikoura

Donegal House, a hotel in Kaikoura, offers a family-friendly stay with a garden, shared lounge, and terrace, providing complimentary WiFi and free private parking, with rooms featuring flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. This accommodation is situated in Kaikoura, a region celebrated for its natural beauty and marine life, though travellers should consult the New Zealand Transport Agency for current road conditions following recent earthquake impacts.
This establishment is ideal for families, boasting a playground and offering convenient amenities such as a fridge in guest rooms, with check-out between 08:00 AM and 10:00 AM, requiring advance notification for late check-ins.

8.2 3890 reviews

Ibis Christchurch

hotel, Christchurch

The Ibis Christchurch hotel is conveniently located on Hereford Street in the city centre, just a short walk from the Avon River and popular shopping streets like Cashel Street Mall. This 3-star hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay with very good user ratings.
The hotel features 155 modern rooms, each with a floor area of 18 square metres. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, room service, and parking.

8.9 17125 reviews

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui

hotel, Hong Kong

The Hyatt Regency Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui is situated in the bustling Tsim Sha Tsui district, just a short walk from the famous Nathan Road and the Avenue of Stars. This 5-star hotel consistently receives very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, all featuring comfortable furnishings and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel's outdoor pool, fitness centre, and a variety of dining options, including a Chinese-style bar and a cafe serving international cuisine.

Best South Island hotels with a balcony

8.8 5083 reviews

Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel

hotel, Hong Kong

The Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel is situated in Wanchai, a lively district on the waterfront, just a short distance from the city centre, Victoria Peak and Lan Kwai Fong. This 5-star hotel enjoys very good user ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hotel offers stylish rooms with marble bathrooms and a range of amenities including a landscaped pool, fitness centre, spa, tennis court, and multiple dining options. Guests can also enjoy stunning harbour views from the award-winning Dynasty Restaurant, which serves classic Cantonese cuisine.

8.6 591 reviews

Lands End

hotel, Bluff

Lands End Hotel is situated on the rugged coastline of Bluff, just a short drive from local restaurants and the Bluff Maritime Museum. This 4-star hotel has received very good user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hotel offers a range of rooms with either sea or garden views. You can enjoy a comfortable stay with amenities such as a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, a private bathroom with bathrobes, free Wi-Fi and a continental breakfast.

8.7 280 reviews

Waipiata Country Hotel

hotel, Waipiata

Waipiata Country Hotel is situated in the small town of Waipiata, approximately 116 kilometres from Dunedin Airport, offering a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse provides free Wi-Fi, private parking, a restaurant, bar, tennis court, garden, and terrace; guests can also enjoy on-site dining and nearby hiking and cycling trails.

8.4 9474 reviews

Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees

hotel, Hong Kong

Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees, a 4-star hotel in Hong Kong, is conveniently located on the eastern Kowloon shore, offering easy access to Mongkok and the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, with Sung Wong Toi Station just 600 metres away. This establishment provides a 32-inch flat-screen TV and mini-bar in its rooms, alongside an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna, and dining options at Café 8 Degrees and the Garden Terrace.

Hotels in South Island

12 Cheap hotels in South Island

Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers

Fino Hotel & Suites

Wharney Hotel

Wheels And Reels Accommodation

The Garden Hotel

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

Nugget View Kaka Point Motels

The Halswell

Riverside Hotel Marlborough

Royal Plaza Hotel

Eaton Hk - Langham Hospitality Group

Paroa Hotel

The Waimate Lodges

Noah's Boutique Accommodation Moeraki

Park Hotel Hong Kong

Carnmore Chateau Marlborough

The Perkin Hotel

Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay By Ihg

Scenic Hotel Marlborough

The Spire Hotel

Grand Arden Monaco Nelson

Donegal House

Ibis Christchurch

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui

Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel

Lands End

Waipiata Country Hotel

Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees