Drama is a byword for Queenstown, a lakeside resort town surrounded by the Southern Alps on New Zealand's South Island. Whether you're here to hike, ski, bungee jump – this is the birthplace of the sport – or go white-water rafting down Shotover River, this is a destination of big thrills and bigger landscapes.
Queenstown lives up to its reputation as the 'Adventure Capital of the World'. You can try bungee jumping off the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge – the world's first commercial bungee site – or ride a jet boat on Lake Wakatipu at speeds of up to 95 kph. Heli-skiing in the Remarkables mountains is popular during winter months, while skydiving over the Wakatipu Basin is offered year-round. Alternatively, take the Skyline Gondola up Bob's Peak for equally spectacular views of town.
Outside Queenstown, there's much to see. Lord of the Rings fans flock to nearby Glenorchy and Lake Wanaka to see locations featured in the films. A 15-minute drive away, Arrowtown offers a glimpse of history with its 19th-century buildings and gold mining roots. Despite its greater distance from Queenstown, Milford Sound is a worthy journey for its glittering fjord, waterfalls and marine life.
Adventure can be found throughout Queenstown, but this mountain escape offers something for laid-back travellers, too. Numerous upscale spa resorts make good use of Lake Wakatipu's shoreline, while Queenstown Gardens offer a tranquil respite in the centre of town. At the end of the day, grab a bite to eat from local favourite Fergburger and watch the sunset on Queenstown Bay beach.
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From £245 per night
Most popular time to visit | October–December |
Cheapest time to visit | January–March |
Local currency | NZD 10 = £4.74 |
Language | English |
Average weekend price | £154 per night |
Average weekday price | £160 per night |
Typical stay | 2 nights |
Lake Wakatipu
5.7 miles from city centre
Since visiting 5 years ago, Queenstown has changed so much!
25 March 2024
Since visiting 5 years ago, Queenstown has changed so much! So many more things to do & it’s just beautiful! I enjoyed our stay and the limitless things that you can do, especially with children! Would definitely recommend!! Really enjoyed King Pin arcade and the Beef brisket tacos at El Camino Cantina (the restaurant right outside). The Queenstown mall was a great place to explore on foot & the Cookie Bar never disappoints! Also CANNOT go wrong with the classic Ferg Burger 🤤 We didn’t get to take the kids on the Gondola & Luge due to the fact they were sick but would recommend that too!!!! From our trip 5 years ago, memories are still vivid and still as memorable as ever!
When flying into Queenstown, it was so unreal, like a going...
25 March 2024
When flying into Queenstown, it was so unreal, like a going to another world. Beautiful scenery, fresh air, it felt so peaceful. It's friendly and quiet, I've never been to a place like this. Enjoyed the gondola ride and a nice yummy lunch at the restaurant. Enjoyed the restaurants, walking along the lakeside and seeing many people. There was a market day with many great stalls selling crafts, jewelry and food. Great vibe 😁
It was amazingly beautiful.
22 March 2024
It was amazingly beautiful. The weather was perfect and the amenities were also up to part. Great restaurants, super nice walkway around the lake, perfect for people who likes to run like me. It was an amazing experience.
We stayed out in the Five Mile shopping development in...
19 March 2024
We stayed out in the Five Mile shopping development in Frankton, near the airport. But we have been to Queenstown many times before and it is always a great place to come to. Some much beauty and lots of fun things to do. Just be aware that on-street parking in the downtown Queenstown area is impossible, so select one of the parking garages accessed from Isle Street. Cost is typical for New Zealand-- expensive. But you'll be better off parking in one them then spending our time driving around looking for a place to park.
Queenstown is a stunning place to visit for scenery.
18 March 2024
Queenstown is a stunning place to visit for scenery. There are many activities to participate in. I participated in a 5 day cycle ride on excellent trail which were well marked and maintained. It's easy to walk around the town, even at night. Lots of eateries. The town was upgrading roads from the airport but it was well managed and causing minimal inconvenience. There is a bus to and from the airport to city which costs $2 NZD a trip (with a Bee card which can be purchased at the airport for $5 NZD).
Queenstown is a beautiful place and we toured around the...
17 March 2024
Queenstown is a beautiful place and we toured around the area by car. So much to see and views are just amazing. Queenstown is a great place for adventure. You can go on the Gondola and then ride down on the luge. We went on the Shotover Jet which is so fast and exciting. Also went in the OLSEN spa pools which was very relaxing and looks over the valley. There is so much to do and if you are an adrenalin junky, then this is your town. Be prepared to spend money as the cost of food, accommodation and the tours etc are expensive. Great place to visit
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