South Island holiday rentals

Why visit South Island

• Majestic Southern Alps: Experience awe-inspiring mountain vistas and pristine landscapes ideal for outdoor adventures.
• Serene Lakes: Discover tranquil lakes perfect for reflection and water activities amidst natural beauty.
• Rejuvenating Hot Springs: Unwind in nature’s spa with soothing hot springs set in picturesque surroundings.
• Historic Churches: Explore charming historic churches that reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Enjoy the warm, welcoming spirit of local communities and indulge in delightful culinary experiences.

Popular types of accommodation around South Island

Discover the breathtaking beauty of South Island, New Zealand, where stunning landscapes meet unforgettable experiences. From the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps to the tranquil shores of Lake Wanaka, South Island offers a myriad of attractions for every traveller. Enjoy the vibrant culture, explore national parks, and indulge in world-class cuisine. For your stay, choose from popular holiday rentals such as private holiday homes, lodges, and apartments, ensuring a comfortable base for your adventures.

• Private Holiday Homes: Experience the charm of a secluded retreat, ideal for families or couples seeking a truly private escape in South Island.
• Lodges: Enjoy the comfort of a cosy lodge offering a blend of nature and modern amenities in scenic South Island.
• Apartments: Relish a stylish and contemporary apartment setup, perfect for a flexible, independent holiday on South Island.
• Cottages: Embrace the quaint appeal of a traditional cottage, providing a warm and inviting setting for your South Island getaway.**

Top attractions near South Island

South Island, New Zealand offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences and romantic escapades. Visitors can explore its stunning lakes, rejuvenating hot springs and historic churches, all set amidst breathtaking scenery. Ideal for couples and nature enthusiasts, the island promises a memorable holiday filled with natural beauty and serene landscapes.

• Lake Tekapo: A stunning glacial lake renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery, perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic strolls along the beach.
• Tekapo Springs: A serene hot spring retreat offering outdoor pools and wellness treatments, providing a tranquil environment for relaxation amidst picturesque mountain views.
• Church of the Good Shepherd: An iconic stone church celebrated for its unique architecture and cultural significance, set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring landscapes, ideal for reflection and photography.

Things to do recommended for couples

Seeking a romantic getaway on New Zealand's South Island? Enjoy a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland, explore the charming streets of Arrowtown, or take a sunset cruise on Lake Wakatipu, soaking in the stunning views together.

Things to do recommended for families

Families exploring South Island can embark on an unforgettable adventure at the enchanting Christchurch Botanic Gardens, or enjoy thrilling activities at Adventure Park. Don't miss the chance to visit the stunning Franz Josef Glacier, where kids can experience the beauty of nature up close.

Things to do recommended for groups

Explore the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park on a guided group hike, or embark on a thrilling jet boat ride on the Dart River. Experience the rich Māori culture through a traditional feast in Christchurch, perfect for bonding with your fellow travellers.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation around South Island

When travelling with a group, family, pets, or seeking longer stays, it's important to prioritise your filters accordingly. Here are some helpful booking tips for Stayz.

• Traveling to South Island with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you'll require, along with amenities like a fully equipped kitchen or outdoor areas for group gatherings. Thankfully, you can easily filter for these features, and much more, on Stayz.
• Traveling to South Island with young kids: Travelling with young children can present its own set of challenges. It's essential to prioritise their comfort and safety, along with suitable amenities, such as a private swimming pool. Additionally, it’s wise to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to South Island: For many, a family holiday wouldn't feel complete without their furry companion by their side. If this resonates with you, we invite you to explore Stayz properties that welcome pets. Most of these pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels comfortably at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting South Island: If you're in search of holiday rentals offering discounts for stays of a month or more, you've come to the right place. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rentals. Don’t forget to include preferences such as a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search as well.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand offers a diverse travel experience, ideal for outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and romantic escapes. Visitors can explore breathtaking natural landmarks and family-friendly neighbourhoods, all while enjoying the warm, welcoming spirit of the locals. This destination promises a blend of rugged wilderness and charming hideaways, perfect for creating unforgettable memories during your holiday in this captivating island region.

• Lake Tekapo: Nestled as a suburb, Lake Tekapo offers travellers an immersive outdoor escape, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and romantic ambience. Located 11km from South Island, this charming locale provides easy access to a range of recreational areas and shopping spots, as well as relaxing body treatment centres. Visitors can enjoy the local lakeside views, explore nearby national state parks and gaze upon majestic mountains, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and couples seeking a serene retreat.
• Tekapo: Located 13km from South Island, Tekapo is another inviting suburb that promises a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and picturesque landscapes. With its focus on scenic beauty and a romantic atmosphere, travellers can indulge in leisurely pursuits at recreational areas, browse local shopping venues, or even enjoy a rejuvenating body treatment. The area is also renowned for its proximity to a shimmering lake, protected national state park and impressive mountain ranges, offering a well-rounded experience of New Zealand’s natural splendor.
• Mount Dobson Ski Area: Situated 24km from South Island, Mount Dobson Ski Area is the ultimate destination for those keen on outdoor pursuits. Known for its stunning scenery and romantic allure, it invites visitors to partake in exhilarating skiing and golf on its expansive ski fields. The area is further enhanced by nearby attractions including a scenic lake, a national state park and a striking mountain, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best time to go to South Island

If you're planning a trip to South Island, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is December. Peak season runs from December to February, while off-peak times, like May to June and August tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

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	Slightly Low
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	Average
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

Booking with Stayz is simple

Are you eager to make the most of your next holiday? Being flexible with your travel dates can lead to considerable savings, as prices often fluctuate. Additionally, you'll find that booking an extended stay can provide you with even greater discounts. To discover a Stayz property that aligns with your budget, feel free to utilise our filters to sort by price, location, and type of holiday rental.

Stayz Trips: Planning made easy

Stayz's innovative Trip Board offers you a dedicated area to plan new journeys, resume previous adventures, or review and organise your itineraries. Properties you have previously saved or booked are now conveniently categorised as Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To access your Trip Boards, please visit: https://www.stayz.com.au/trips

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.