The Local's Guide to Queenstown
Not sure where to start when visiting New Zealand's adventure capital of Queenstown? Find out where a local takes her friends to drink, stay and play.
Read article on Travel Insider
Queenstown
Few cities command such natural beauty as this New Zealand adventure hotspot. Surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Remarkables and crystal-clear water of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is the perfect playground for thrill seekers, nature lovers or those simply after a relaxing, luxurious weekend away. Plus, the food and wine scene is to die for.
If you’re visiting Queenstown in winter for a ski trip, there are plenty of accommodation options near the mountains. Cardrona is a family-oriented resort with lessons available for beginners plus advanced ski runs and snowboarding pipes for those after more adventure. Treble Cone, Coronet Peak and Arrowtown are popular resorts to stay near the snowfields with a variety of ski lodges, chalets, apartments and motel style accommodation available, some with free transport to the mountains. Central Otago is the area to stay to be located close to New Zealand’s top vineyards or to explore the historic mining town. If you’re heading to the South Island to take in stunning scenery or world-class hiking of Milford Sound and Fiordland – best to book Milford Sound Lodge or Knob’s flat in advance, with limited options available for camping.
Known around the world for being the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown also offers a softer side, with its emerging restaurant scene, internationally renowned golf courses and vibrant new wineries. The younger crowd head to Queenstown to ski, throw themselves out of planes, bungee jump off Nevis Bridge or take an extreme jet boat ride, however if you're looking for a relaxing weekend getaway you won't be disappointed either. Find a spot at the edge of Lake Wanaka and drink in the views, take a scenic plane ride over Milford Sounds, ride the Skyline Gondola or head further up the lake at Glenorchy for some stunning wilderness. A popular year round destination, there's a reason Queenstown has such an exciting reputation. Explore more experiences to add to your holiday itinerary.
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZ$)
Electricity
230V / 50Hz
Population
13,150
Seasons
The region is famous for having four distinct seasons. In summer the long, warm days leave plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors to kayak and hike while in autumn you can enjoy the sight of red and gold blanketing the hills. If you visit in winter you’ll experience the stunning snowcapped mountains, glaciers with tempertaures ranging from -6 to 15°C while spring transforms the area with bright colours.
From the airport
You'll find the airport on the eastern edge of Queenstown. Look out the window when you land or take off and enjoy the incredible views. You can get in to town by bus or by hiring a car or taxi, all readily available at the airport.
In and around the city
Queenstown is small enough that you'll be able to walk around the town and between it's more central locations and highlights. There are buses to get to the other parts of town and many hotels have shuttle buses that will ferry you at regular intervals. Hiring a car is highly recommended so you can enjoy the wider region at your own pace.
Important information
Disclaimer: ^ You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
Disclaimer: ^ Qantas Frequent Flyer members will earn 3 Qantas Points per A$1 value unless otherwise specified, for hotel stays booked through qantas.com/hotels, except Classic Hotel Rewards and Airbnb bookings. Points Club members will earn 25% more Qantas Points, and Points Club Plus members will earn 50% more Qantas Points. Qantas Points will be credited to your account at least 8 weeks after check-out. Qantas Points may be earned by the member in whose name the booking is made. Members will not be able to earn points on additional charges paid to the accommodation provider for extras (including cots, breakfasts and other incidentals) on check-in or check-out (as applicable).
Disclaimer: ~ Qantas activities are provided by Viator. Conditions apply.