Queenstown Travel Guide, New Zealand

The best things to do in Queenstown are a mix of scenery and adrenaline. This resort town on the South Island of New Zealand has a small resident population of a few tens of thousands, and it sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, backed by steep alpine ranges.

It is known as an adventure capital, with bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving and paragliding on offer, but it also suits visitors who prefer quieter days. You can walk the lakeside, ride a gondola, visit wineries in the nearby valley, or take a scenic cruise.

In winter, nearby ski areas draw snow-sports visitors, and in summer the long days suit hiking and lake activities. Queenstown is also a base for day trips to Milford Sound and for longer walks, which makes it a strong first stop on a South Island trip.

Skyline Gondola and Bob’s Peak

The gondola climbs from the edge of town to a viewpoint above Lake Wakatipu, with views of the Remarkables. Allow one to two hours, longer if you add a meal or a luge ride. Go near sunset for the best light, and check current ticket prices.

Bungy jumping and adventure activities

Queenstown is the home of commercial bungy jumping, with several sites in the area, plus jet boats, canyon swings and skydiving. Book ahead in summer and read each operator’s safety and cancellation terms. Weather can affect schedules.

Lake Wakatipu cruise

Boat trips on the lake, including a historic steamship, give an easy way to see the mountains from the water. Allow one to two hours. Look for departures at different times of day, and bring a warm layer since it can be windy.

Arrowtown

The former gold-mining village about 20 km from Queenstown has historic buildings, autumn colour and good cafes. Allow a half day. It is reachable by bus or car, and the walks along the river are a good way to see the area.

Gibbston Valley wineries

The valley east of town is known for pinot noir and has a number of cellar doors. Allow half a day, and arrange a driver, tour or designated driver, since distances can be long. Check opening times and tasting fees.

Walks and ski fields

Short trails such as the Queenstown Hill walk offer views from the edge of town, while the Remarkables and other ski fields operate in winter. Check conditions and gear needs, and book lift passes and lessons in advance for peak weeks.

Queenstown has two high seasons: summer for hiking and lake activities, and winter for skiing. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so layers are essential in any month.

Autumn is a good compromise, with colour in Arrowtown and fewer crowds. Book early for school holidays and ski season weekends.

Queenstown Airport is about 7 km from the town centre and has direct flights from major New Zealand cities and some from Australia (check current routes). Buses and taxis connect it with the centre in roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Some travellers also fly into Dunedin or Christchurch and drive, which takes longer and may be affected by winter weather.

Within the town, the compact centre is walkable, and a local bus network links the main suburbs and Arrowtown. Taxis and ride-hailing exist, though can be limited at busy times.

For day trips such as Milford Sound and Glenorchy, many visitors take guided tours or rent a car. Mountain roads can be icy in winter, so check conditions and carry chains if needed.

Queenstown is a resort town, and prices rise in peak seasons, so book early and decide how close to the centre you want to be.

• Town centre: convenient for restaurants, bars and tours, suiting first-time visitors, though it can be noisy at night.
• Frankton and the lakeshore: a short drive or bus from the centre, with more affordable motels and easy access to the airport.
• Arrowtown: a quieter village stay with cafes and walks, suited to those who prefer a calmer base and have a car.
• Self-catering and lodges: good for groups and longer stays, especially in ski season.

Check cancellation terms, because weather can alter plans.

Two days cover the basics, but three to four allow you to add a major day trip, and you can easily fill a week with activities. Weather affects many outdoor plans, so leave a spare day if you can.

1. Day 1: the gondola, a lake cruise and an evening in the town centre.
2. Day 2: Arrowtown and the Gibbston Valley wineries, or a bungy or jet boat activity.
3. Day 3: a day trip to Milford Sound or a longer walk, with an early start.

Milford Sound

The fiord in Fiordland National Park is the best-known day trip, with waterfalls and steep cliffs. It is a long day, whether by coach or by flight, so start early and check road and weather conditions before you go. Book cruises in advance.

Glenorchy

This small village at the head of Lake Wakatipu is reached by a scenic road of about 45 minutes. It offers walks, horse riding and views, and works well as a half-day outing with a lunch stop.

Wanaka

The lakeside town to the north is about an hour and a half by road, via the Crown Range, and has its own lake, walks and a laid-back feel. It suits those who want to see a second town on a day trip or an overnight stay.