South Island Accommodation

The South Island of New Zealand promises breathtaking scenery, tranquil lakes, rugged mountains, wild rivers and verdant forest. A massive mountain chain, the Southern Alps, runs down its spine, with the country's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook at 3754 m. You will marvel at Fiordland with its glacier-carved landscape of drowned river valleys and towering peaks in 10 national parks. The South Island's largest city is Christchurch, characterized by gracious, manicured parks and English charm, then there's Dunedin, the country's best-preserved Victorian city.

Queenstown is known for its beautiful scenery. Horseback ride through the mountains, bungee jump over a ravine, or take a boat trip through the gorges. The township is located on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, and provides restaurants, bars and cafés. In the cooler months, skiers and snowboarders are spoilt for choice. Stay with Mantra, for great Queenstown accommodation.

Christchurch really is the gateway to the South Island and you don’t have to travel far to experience the best activities on offer – alpine resorts, golf courses, bungee jumping, whale watching, wind surfing and hot air ballooning are all within easy reach. Christchurch is a vibrant and beautiful city, full of spectacular gardens and leafy boulevards, fine art, music, theatre and dance, and a foodies scene that celebrates local produce and regional fare.

Lake Tekapo lies in the heart of the MacKenzie country, roughly half way between Christchurch and Queenstown. The imposing Southern Alps rise up behind the stunning azure blue lake to create a magical and majestic scene that you’ll never forget. The area is known for its remarkably clear skies and stargazing takes on a new meaning here – you’ll witness amazingly dense blankets of stars and you may even see a meteor shower.