A paradise for adventurers on New Zealand’s South Island, with bungee jumping, jet boating and so more much on offer.
With its glorious scenery and exciting adventure sports, New Zealand’s South Island is a much-visited destination for lovers of the great outdoors from across the globe. Situated between the country’s longest lake, Lake Wakatipu, and the Ben Lomond mountain, Queenstown is the region’s hub, attracting everyone from hikers and campers to mountain bikers and skiers, all of whom come to enjoy the captivating beauty of the country.
With its temperate oceanic climate, Queenstown benefits from warm summers with average temperatures reaching 25°C, long days and cool nights perfect for exploring the landscape. Between May and July, you’ll see the snow-capped peaks that envelop the cityscape, making the region ideal for anyone with a passion for the white stuff.
You don’t have to go far to find somewhere to explore. Board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, take a cruise to Walter Peak, or visit High County Farm for a taste of traditional farm life. Or for incredible views around the region and some great hiking around Lake Wakatipu, take the Skyline Gondola up to the top of Bob’s Peak.
With world-class facilities across Queenstown, adventure sports enthusiasts flock from all over the world to enjoy the thrills on offer. Head for the Kawarau Suspension Bridge where you can go bungee jumping at the first such commercial platform in the world, and take the plunge some 43 metres down. Or you can take a ride down the Shotover River on the Shotover Jet, an exciting and heady jet-boat experience.
Even if you choose to stay in Queenstown, you’ll feel the great vibe around the city in its bars, restaurants and hotels. Check out Steamer Wharf for some fun entertainment as well as plenty of fine local cuisine and wines available for you sample. For a more peaceful day out, pay a visit to the Queenstown Gardens for a leisurely stroll and a picnic in the sunshine.
Situated to the southwest of South Island, you can reach Queenstown by plane, bus or car. Cars are widely available to hire, making it easy to explore the region. Popular throughout the year, the snow season is the area’s peak time with accommodation selling out fast. If you need gear for your hiking or skiing adventures, there are plenty of local shops offering equipment around town.
Go for a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Wakatipu in this peaceful suburb in the foothills of Ben Lomond, one of Queenstown’s most iconic mountains.
Top hotels in Queenstown
Estimated price for 1 night / 2 adults
Heritage Queenstown
4.5 out of 5
91 Fernhill Road, Queenstown
NZ$213
per night
15 Dec. - 16 Dec.
This family-friendly Queenstown hotel is located near the airport, within 1 mi (2 km) of Steamer Wharf and Lake Wakatipu. Skyline Gondola and Queenstown Gardens ...…This family-friendly Queenstown hotel is located near the airport, within 1 mi (2 km) of Steamer Wharf and Lake Wakatipu. Skyline Gondola and Queenstown Gardens ...WWW…
4.4/5Wonderful! (2,495 reviews)
"After having a cancelled flight, we stayed at 4 different hotels in the 9 days we spent in Queenstown. Heritage is by far the best - with amazing views, pool, spa, sauna, and the quality of a typical 5 star resort you can't go wrong. Though the distance to the downtown core may be a deterrent, they ..."…""After having a cancelled flight, we stayed at 4 different hotels in the 9 days we spent in Queenstown. Heritage is by far the best - with amazing views, pool, spa, sauna, and the quality of a typical 5 star resort you can't go wrong. Though the distance to the downtown core may be a deterrent, they ..."WWW…"
Situated on the waterfront, this luxury hotel is within 3 miles (5 km) of Lake Wakatipu, Remarkables Park Town Centre and Queenstown Event Centre. Alpine Aqualand ...…Situated on the waterfront, this luxury hotel is within 3 miles (5 km) of Lake Wakatipu, Remarkables Park Town Centre and Queenstown Event Centre. Alpine Aqualand ...WWW…
4.5/5Wonderful! (2,316 reviews)
"Upon checkin, I was notified that I was "guest of the day." Because of that, the friendly employee stated I would get free valet parking, an upgraded room, free breakfast with drinks at the coffee bar, and a discount if I used the spa. I thought it was gimmick to try to sell their spa treatments. ..."…""Upon checkin, I was notified that I was "guest of the day." Because of that, the friendly employee stated I would get free valet parking, an upgraded room, free breakfast with drinks at the coffee bar, and a discount if I used the spa. I thought it was gimmick to try to sell their spa treatments. ..."WWW…"
Situated on the waterfront, this luxury apartment building is within 3 miles (5 km) of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Gardens and Skyline Gondola. St Josephs Parish ...…Situated on the waterfront, this luxury apartment building is within 3 miles (5 km) of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Gardens and Skyline Gondola. St Josephs Parish ...WWW…
4.1/5Very Good! (1,089 reviews)
"Best hotel we ever stayed! Great location with unbeatable lake and snow mountain view. We could even stay in the room with balcony to enjoy the views."…""Best hotel we ever stayed! Great location with unbeatable lake and snow mountain view. We could even stay in the room with balcony to enjoy the views."WWW…"
A great location for water sports, New Zealand’s third-largest lake is an impressive natural landmark framed by soaring mountains and encircled by walking trails.
Take lessons on the baby slopes, tear up fresh power at a higher elevation or attempt daring stunts in the terrain parks at this popular mountain resort.
Skiers and snowboarders will find plenty of inviting slopes at this ski mountain, known for being one of New Zealand’s best venues for freestyle snow riding.
Join our seamless day trip to Milford Sound on board brand new glass-roofed coaches connecting with a spacious purpose built catamaran. Board the coach in Queenstown and travel alongside Lake Wakatipu and through farming countryside to Te Anau where you will enjoy a short rest stop.
Milford Sound Sunriser - Early Coach & Cruise Full Day Tour
NZ$149
Be the first Queenstowners of the day to discover beautiful setting of Milford Sound on this comprehensive early departure coach & cruise day tour. Explore for yourself on this scenic glass roof coach ride and fjord cruise.
For Lord of the Rings fans, this is the trip where Nomad Safaris really does take you There and Back again. Bring the films to life with our authentic replica props, dress up and take photos, or simply soak up the scenery.
Really enjoyed our trip to Queenstown, we will be back in the future.
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveller
13 Nov. 2019
The Pier, Finz and Farelli’s Italian are well worth a visit.
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveller
10 Nov. 2019
Scenery was well worth the visit. Only down side is tourist pricing for everything, i would say around 40% more expensive than anywhere else in NZ for food a drinks.
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveller
10 Nov. 2019
Amazing location, stunning views even in the summer time without the snow.
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveller
7 Nov. 2019
Queenstown was very picturesque with all the mountains and hill tops. It was a nice and relaxing trip.
4/5 - Good
Pickytravellers
6 Nov. 2019
Beautiful place, great for holidays with family, partner, honeymoon, relaxation but weather is a bit cold and dry and food is too expensive so not a place to live but definitely great for holidays.
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