Best Luxury Hotels in South Island

South Island is probably one of the most beautiful places on earth. Gushing rivers, rolling hills and parkland, and dramatic coastlines all in the shadow of snow-capped mountains. Nearly all of the best luxury hotels in South Island perch amidst spellbinding scenery and there is a good choice of eco retreats, rustic chic lodges and cutting-edge design hotels. South Island is also famed for its adventure activities and many luxury hotels offer a wide range of outdoor pursuits with everything from bungee-jumping to heli-skiing. Our hotel experts have compiled a collection of their top picks of luxury hotels in South Island with something for everyone whether you are planning a family break or a romantic escape. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your trip?

For a romantic hideaway

Split Apple Retreat is an adults-only boutique hideaway in Abel Tasman National Park. Chic and contemporary, the floor-to-ceiling windows leave the rooms bathed in light and open out to the spacious private sundecks. Relax in the spa, dine on fresh organic food and swim in the infinity pool with waters that fade into the lake.

For families

Only reachable by water or air, Bay of Many Coves Resort is one of South Island's best luxury hideaways. The elegant suites and apartments are perfect for families, and there's so much to do: explore 50 acres of private bush, take the hotel kayaks or boats out onto the water, chill at the waterfront cafe or go dolphin spotting.
Matakauri Lodge is one of the best luxury family hotels in South Island. Lakeside, framed by mountains, these gorgeous villas and suites offer the intimacy, relaxation and fun needed in a family holiday (as well as babysitting services). Relax at the spa, gym or infinity pool, trouble free, or take a boat out onto the water for an adventure.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is a form of modern architectural wizardry and sustainability. The designer rooms are adorned with local art, the restaurant boasts its own vegetable and herb garden, and the Alpine views as you relax in the spa or pool have to be seen to be believed. Refreshingly cosy, it's one of the best luxury hotels in South Island for families.

For a luxury lodge

Minaret Station Alpine Lodge offers true Alpine luxury. On a glacial valley reachable only by helicopter, this gorgeous luxury South Island hotel is surrounded by streams and meadows. Cosy, warm and rustic-chic affairs with fur throws, Persian rugs, glass doors and fireplaces, it's the perfect place for couples.

For a country escape

Perfect for a wine holiday, The Marlborough Lodge is a country estate perched amidst rolling parkland. Elegant and contemporary, the uniquely-designed rooms and suites all have private balconies. Go on a wine-tasting tour tailored to your tastes, dine at the organic Harvest Restaurant, or enjoy a romantic cruise on the hotel's boat.
The Lindis sits in the enchanting Ahuriri Valley, surrounded by mountains, one of the best luxury lodges in South Island. Offering locally sourced food in the restaurant and spectacular horseriding trips, this is an intimate place of daring architectural design.
An escape pad set in a 19th-century mansion, Otahuna Lodge is one of South Island's best traditional luxury hotels. Sophisticated and elegant, the rooms have high ceilings, oil paintings, antiques and working fireplaces. Play croquet on the lawn or tennis and enjoy breathtaking views of the plains and Southern Alps.

For fishing

For one of South Island's best luxury hotels, Owen River Lodge has the warmth and intimacy of a home away from home. This luxury collection of whitewashed wooden fishing lodges are smart and snug, the vibe is wholesome, all set in a lovely garden framed by mountains. Take the hotel's dogs for a ramble, relax in the hot tub, go fishing in the rivers (the hotel provides equipment) or take a guided trek.

For an active holiday

Whether it's an active holiday or an escape to nature, Westhaven Retreat is one of the best luxury hotels of its kind in South Island. On a 1000-acre private nature sanctuary, it boasts its own secluded beach, an indoor pool in a glassy enclave, a sprawling spa, and an acclaimed restaurant. Go fishing with the hotel's own guide, or explore the water by kayak. Beauty in peaceful surroundings.
One of South Island most intimate luxury hotels for outdoor thrill seekers, Stoneridge Estate perches by a lake in the shadow of mountains, on a working vineyard. A small boutique, guests can book a traditional or contemporary suite and dine at the restaurant that serves up the best of local produce. From white water rafting to bungee jumping - you name it - it's offered here.
Blanket Bay is a luxury lodge on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, a snug getaway on a sheep, deer and cattle farm. Homely and rustic, with open fireplaces, timber beams, antique furniture and private balconies with views of the bay, you can go horseriding on the estate, heli-skiing or mountain biking. Perfect for the adventurer.
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is one of the best adults-only luxury villas in South Island and it has an unbeatable location of lakes and mountains. Perfect for couples, the interiors are cosy while the three-course dinners are a real treat. Offering everything from heli-skiing to cycling, thrill-seekers will be satisfied.
Annandale is a working coastal farm comprising of 5 separate rustic-chic residences sprawling over 6000 acres. In a quiet cove by the sea, it's easily one of the best luxury hotels in South Island for those wanting to keep busy. There's tennis courts, swimming pools, gardens, boats-for-hire, quad biking and kayaking, to name just a few.

For a wine hotel

Unique, secluded, in the heart of 'wine country', Te Koi Lodge offers chic, modern suites and villas overlooking the Waimea Estuary. Set within landscaped gardens, there's tennis, yoga and award-winning wines to be enjoyed. The rooms are spacious and stylish affairs, curated with local art, with private verandas. One of the best luxury hotels in South Island for couples.
One of South Island's most romantic luxury hotels, Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa is a stylish series of villas with private sundecks sitting in a picturesque Pinot Noir vineyard. Even the spa specialises in wine - vinotherapy! There's a sauna, cool cafe, lounge and cinema - a very chic choice.

For a luxury B&B

On the outskirts of Blenheim sits one of South Island's best luxury B&Bs, The Peppertree. An Edwardian villa in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, it offers romantic, unique rooms with designer pieces, free-standing baths and fireplaces - perfect for a snug evening with your significant other. A croquet lawn and bicycles to hire complete the picture.

An urban bolthole

The glitz and glamour of 1920s Paris awaits you at Sofitel Queenstown, undoubtedly one of the best value luxury hotels in South Island. 5 star French art de vivre with the vibe of a jazz bar, it's perfect for a romantic break. Marble bathrooms, a pampering spa and restaurant right in the heart of Queenstown.
The George is a sophisticated urban bolthole and one of the best luxury hotels in South Island for city style. Expect funky decor and local art on the walls while the rooms are simple and contemporary. The two award-winning restaurants are the real draw, renowned throughout Christchurch.

Still not sure where to book?

Try our list of 5-star hotels on North Island;
Or our collection of the best hotels in Southland;
There's also our top picks of Auckland's most romantic hotels to consider;
For something gourmet, try this guide to the best wine hotels in Canterbury or New Zealand;
Expand your search to include all our properties in New Zealand;
Contact one of our Gurus for advice.

The 19 Best Luxury Hotels in South Island

The George, Christchurch

Christchurch

Small luxury boutique hotel in centre of Christchurch. Local art on walls, top amenities and great views from rooms out to Hagley Park or River Avon. Two award-winning restaurants, access to a gym and free use of mountain bikes. City style done well.

Learning - The hotel's collection of innovative NZ art has been refined since the 1990s by curator Stephen Gleeson, also an NZ sculptor
Foodies - Executive Chef Chanaka Jayabahu heads award-winning 50 Bistro, specialising in seasonal fare. Great for keen foodies
Wine tasting - Enjoy 5-course Winemaker's Dinners, with each dish matched to wines from Misha's Vineyard & Langmeil Wines
Mountain biking - Borrow bikes & helmets from the hotel, and head out to explore the city or cycle along the Avon River

from $274 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Matakauri Lodge

Queenstown (569 Glenorchy Road)

Luxury lodge with wow factor in stunning location just seven minutes drive from Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu. Range of villas and suites available, all with private balconies and decks with views to distant mountains. Heated outdoor infinity pool, gym and spa. Blissful country escape.

Wine tasting - Private tastings at Mondillo Vineyard & Valli Wines, with lunch at Mt Difficulty or Carrick wineriesare exceptional
Honeymoons - Enjoy an intimate wedding or kickstart your honeymoon in a deluxe suite with dreamy lake views & gourmet fare
Golf - Arrive by helicopter for the unique part 3 golf experience atop Cecil Peak - expect amazing views!
Groups - Book the Owner's Cottage - with space for 8 guests - for an unforgettable family or group trip

from $449 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel

Queenstown

Luxurious boutique hotel in Queenstown with under-floor heating, New Zealand made and designed furniture and glass walled bathroms. Great alpine views, close to town centre and committed to eco-friendly practices.

Business meetings - A swish business-friendly hotel with meeting spaces and the capacity to host memorable functions with excellent catering
Riding - Ride around spectacular lakes, in the foothills of the mountains or at the filming locations from The Lord of the Rings
Skiing - Two minutes from the Skyline Gondola, and 10 minutes from Coronet Peak Ski Field, this is a great winter holiday choice
Cycling - Follow cycling trails around Queenstown and beyond - speak to the team to arrange bike hire

from $197 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Blanket Bay

South Island (Glenorchy)

Set on a sheep, cattle and deer farm on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, this luxury lodge has open fireplaces, schist stone and timber beams. Rooms with antique furniture, large double beds and private balconies overlooking the bay. There is mountain biking and riding on the farm.

Restaurant - Pacific Rim cuisine
Fishing - Close to Dart River
Restrictions on children - Must be 10 or over
Lakeside - On Lake Wakatipu

from $1519 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Bay of Many Coves Resort

Picton (Arthur's Bay)

Tranquil and private luxury eco-resort with spacious, elegant rooms & apartments. Outdoor decks & huge picture windows make the most of fantastic views over the bay. With a fine dining restaurant, private jetty, hot tub, outdoor swimming pool and 52 hectares of grounds.

Active Holiday - With 52 hectares of coastal grounds, the resort is perfect for active travellers of all ages to sail, kayak, swim & birdwatch
Groups - Families or groups will adore the two- and three-bedroom villas with private terraces and heaps of space
Birdwatching - Kereru, Tui and Weka emerge at dusk on the grounds, whilst the world's only King Cormorant breeding colony is nearby
Great walks - Trails wind through the resort's 52 hectares of private bush, alive with native birds

from $420 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Te Koi Lodge

Nelson (Mapua)

Luxury suites and villas set on Nelson's Bronte Peninsula with views across Waimea Estuary. Chic, modern and elegant rooms with private terraces and verandas. With a heated outdoor swimming pool amid lovely landscaped gardens, and gourmet dining plus award winning wines. Luxurious and indulgent!

Foodies - Experienced chef Ali & sommelier Ian Metcalfe create delectable dishes using regional produce paired with South Island wines
Romantic Break - Stunning luxury rooms and suites offer expansive views from private decks - an idyllic romantic escape
Trekking - Nature trails, bird watching and wildlife spotting abound in Abel Tasman National Park
Restaurant - Three-course gourmet dinners showcase the best local produce and seasonal delicacies

from $634 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Otahuna Lodge

Christchurch (Christchurch)

An historic mansion set in lush gardens at the foot of the cone of an ancient volcano. All suites have private sitting rooms and en-suite bathroom. Breakfast and 5-course dinner included using home-grown organic ingredients. A quiet country retreat, with many walking trails and sights close by.

Cooking classes - A cooking lesson with Chef Jimmy McIntyre provides an overview of the philosophies behind the Lodge’s celebrated food and wine
Garden - Stunning 118 year old gardens laid out by A.E. Lowe who trained at Kew Gardens & include a lovely potager, lake and Dutch garden
Back to Nature - The song of native birds invites guests to discover hidden glades, ponds and organic fruit, vegetables and nuts in the gardens
Other Activities - Embark on the TranzAlpine, which traverses the South Island’s majestic landscapes, arriving into Arthur's Pass National Park

from $822 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Sofitel Queenstown

Queenstown

This five-star hotel brings the French art de vivre to Queenstown. The opulent guestrooms feature marble bathrooms, underfloor heating and plush New Zealand possum throws. Sample tapas at the hotel's stylish 1789 Wine & Jazz Lounge after a rejuvenating spa treatment.

Local exploring - Set in the heart of Queenstown, this hotel makes a great base for exploring in and around New Zealand's South Island
Spa breaks - Boasting a full-service spa with exclusive product ranges, book this hotel for your next city spa break
City Style - With luxury interiors and a central location, book this hotel for chic city charm
Sights nearby - Visit Milford Sound, a fjord known for towering Mitre Peak, plus rainforests and waterfalls like Stirling and Bowen falls

from $193 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa

Queenstown

A small luxury hotel boasting an enviable setting within a Pinot Noir vineyard in Queenstown. Stylish villas offer private sundecks with spectacular views, indulgent bathrooms and open-plan living spaces. With both a spa and private dining on offer, nothing has been missed here.

Foodies - Renowned chef Anthony Gradiska has created a sumptuous fine dining experience accompanied by the best local wines.
Other Activities - Enjoy a picnic for two with a bottle of regional wine especially prepared by the hotel's chef
Wine tasting - Tour the Gibbston Valley's own vineyard, chat to winemakers & taste wines in the cellar
Spa breaks - Winner of New Zealand's Best Resort Spa 2020 & 2021 at the World Spa Awards

from $520 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

South Island

Four luxury villas set in an outstanding lakeside location. Each spacious villa is minimalist in design with large picture windows spectacularly framing the views. The service is second to none and the location is ideal for adventure enthusiasts. Perfect for a romantic break.

Romantic Break - Think outdoor hot tubs and absolute privacy - the perfect spot to run away for a romantic break
Country Escape - With five star services and a fabulous lake side positioning this is a luxurious rural escape
Tennis - Use a hotel raquet and play a game of tennis on the outdoor court
Private Hot Tub - Each villa comes with its own private outdoor hot tub.

from $835 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Marlborough Lodge

Blenheim

This hotel offers accommodation on a luxury country estate in New Zealand's Marlborough wine region. The individually designed guest suites are elegant and contemporary, with views across the parkland from a private balcony. Sample the region's gourmet cuisine at the hotel's Harvest Restaurant.

Country Escape - Nestled on a beautiful, heritage estate in the Marlborough region, book this hotel for an authentic New Zealand country escape
Romantic Break - With elegant suites, a gourmet restaurant and endless grounds, this hotel makes an exceptional setting for romantic getaway
Foodies - Marlborough is famous for its gourmet food and good wine; enjoy both at the hotel's romantic Harvest Restaurant
Restrictions on children - Children eight years and older are welcome to stay when the hotel has other guests

from $847 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Split Apple Retreat

Tasman

This intimate lodge is nestled within the Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand. Each of the 3 luxury guest suites has floor-to-ceiling sliding doors leading to private decks and a saltwater pool with sweeping ocean views. Feast on trademark Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine & unwind at the spa.

Foodies - Split Apple is celebrated for its focus on gourmet Asian-Medieterranean dises that help the body to achieve optimum good health
Kayaking - Take a day-long boat trip into the Abel Tasman National Park with kayaking around Tonga Island's seal colony
Romantic Break - At just three suites, this exclusive retreat makes the perfect destination for a romantic couples' getaway
Wellbeing - Unwind in the Japanese spa, FAR-infrared sauna, large steam room, yoga pavilion & meditation theatre

from $1443 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Stoneridge Estate

Queenstown

A small boutique hotel set on a picturesque vineyard with spectacular mountain views. Choose a contemporary or traditional suite, feast on local produce with the 5-course degustation menu, and relax in the hot tub. Ideal for intimate weddings, adventurous holidays & wine tasting holidays.

Country Escape - Set on a beautiful vineyard & surrounded by mountains, this is an idyllic rural retreat
Wine tasting - Follow the Queenstown Wine Trail, beginning at Stoneridge's own Cellar Door
Views - Stunning views over Lake Hayes to the mountains beyond.
Weddings - A sublime spot for an intimate wedding or elopement

from $330 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Annandale

Akaroa (Pigeon Bay)

Exclusive getaway set on a working coastal farm, midway between picture perfect Akoroa and Christchurch. A series of secret private residences are peppered around the estate, ranging from a classic cottage to a contemporary seascape retreat plus the original Homestead, updated for the 21st century.

Romantic Break - With a tranquil location, first-class facilities and beautifully appointed villas, book this hotel for an idyllic romantic break
Families - With spacious self-catering villas that can accommodate up to twelve people, book this hotel for a unique family getaway
Country Escape - Set in the beautiful landscape of Annandale on a working farm, book this hotel for an authentic escape to the country
Great walks - Beyond the farm, the greater Banks Peninsula is renowned for its hiking trails, with routes ranging from 10 minutes to 3 hours

from $1057 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Peppertree

Blenheim

A quaint Edwardian villa turned luxury boutique hotel in the picturesque Marlborough wine region. Sumptuous rooms are individually styled and the best have free-standing baths and working fireplaces. The wrap-around terrace is a lovely spot to sample regional wines. A tranquil country escape.

Sights nearby - Molesworth High Country Farm Tours focus on early pioneers and farmers, with day-long trips into the rural Marlborough landscape
Country Escape - A luxurious Edwardian villa set within the beautiful Marlborough wine region
Garden - The Peppertree has its own olive grove, orchards and 328 Chardonnay vines
Birdwatching - Get close to beautiful birds on kayaking trips with Driftwood Eco-Tours

from $444 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Lindis

South Island

A unique luxury lodge set in the breathtaking Ahuriri Valley on South Island. The custom-designed property reflects the landscape inside and out, with an undulating slatted roof, Spotted Gum wood panelling and masonry detail. With its own stables, the landscape is best seen from horseback.

Foodies - With a gourmet restaurant onsite offering dishes curated from locally sourced ingredients, foodies are well-catered to here
Romantic Break - With luxurious suites, a romantic restaurant and stand-out location, book this hotel for an induglent couples' break
Country Escape - Set in the spectacular landscape of the Ahuriri Valley, book this hotel for a contemporary country getaway
Fishing - Go fly fishing on the the Ahuriri River, one of the best stretches of water for the sport in the world

from $1451 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Minaret Station Alpine Lodge

South Island

This luxury lodge is set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks in Wanaka, New Zealand. Accessible only by helicopter, the hotel offers unique vistas across an alpine meadow from cosy guest chalets. Try your hand at heli biking, a fresh way to explore the mountains.

Local exploring - Choose from a range of hotel packages to help you explore the area, with helicopter access to surrounding sites of interest
Active Holiday - This hotel offers an excellent programme for active guests, from mountain biking to trekking and fly fishing
Families - The hotel chalets are perfect for a family stay, with additional roll-out beds available for children
Fishing - Enjoy a day of backcountry fishing with a hotel package; enquire with your room reservation for more details

from $1619 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Westhaven Retreat

Tasman (Golden Bay)

A luxury lodge in a truly epic location - set on the coast within a 1000-acre private natural wilderness sanctuary. Spacious interiors are made of natural materials with large picture-frame windows. A highly acclaimed restaurant and expansive spa are a welcome respite after a day spent outdoors.

Back to Nature - The 350 hectare private peninsula is a natural wilderness sanctuary located beside a marine wildlife area and a national park!
Romantic Break - With fine-dining, a spa, and a very remote location - it doesn't get much more romantic than this
Beach Life - The property boasts its own stretch of deserted beach
Great walks - Take day long hikes along the coast and find secluded beaches, incredible rock formations and the largest Nikau Palm forest

from $878 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Eleven Owen River Lodge

Tasman (Nelson)

A luxury collection of wood-built fishing lodges in picturesque surroundings. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with en-suite bathrooms and verandas. Meals are prepared with fresh ingredients sourced locally or from the garden, served with excellent wines in a warm and cosy communal dining room.

Fishing - Fly fishing for brown trout is the real draw, with 29 rivers & streams nearby. Tuition, equipment & heli-fishing are arranged
Foodies - Head Chef Ryan uses exceptional local produce to create high end fine-dining
Active Holiday - A breathtaking setting for an active holiday, with a focus on fly fishing
Great walks - Take the hotel's dogs and head out on a long ramble

from $880 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The 19 Best Luxury Hotels in South Island

For a romantic hideaway

For families

For a luxury lodge

For a country escape

For fishing

For an active holiday

For a wine hotel

For a luxury B&B

An urban bolthole

Still not sure where to book?

The 19 Best Luxury Hotels in South Island

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