Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Queenstown
Queenstown is a lively resort town surrounded by stunning mountains and lakes. Known for its adventurous spirit, it offers a mix of outdoor activities, cosy accommodations, and vibrant dining options. Ideal for both holidaymakers and backpackers, Queenstown provides a welcoming atmosphere with affordable stays, easy transport, and a great base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
When to visit
Temp
Dec – Feb
Sep – Nov
8 – 22°C
46 – 72°F
Auckland’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Queenstown Adventure Activities | Experience a range of adventure activities in Queenstown, including bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating. Thrill-seekers will find plenty to enjoy. |
| Shotover Jet | Experience the thrill of the Shotover Jet, an exhilarating jet boat ride through the stunning canyons of the Shotover River. A must-do for adventure enthusiasts! |
| Fiordland National Park | Explore Fiordland National Park, renowned for its stunning fjords, towering peaks, and diverse wildlife. Take a cruise on Milford Sound for breath-taking views. |
| Kawarau Bridge | Visit the Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first commercial bungee jump site. Experience the thrill of jumping or simply enjoy the scenic views of the river and canyon. |
| Skyline Gondola & Luge | Ride the Skyline Gondola for stunning views of Queenstown, then enjoy the thrilling luge rides down the mountain. Perfect for family fun and breath-taking vistas. |
| Glenorchy | Take a scenic drive to Glenorchy, a charming town at the head of Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy hiking, kayaking, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. |
| Milford Track | Hike the Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Experience breath-taking scenery, waterfalls, and lush rainforests over a multi-day trek. |
| Queenstown Gardens | Stroll through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, featuring stunning landscapes, walking trails, and picturesque views of Lake Wakatipu. A great spot for relaxation. |
| Arrowtown | Visit Arrowtown, a historic gold mining town with charming streets, boutiques, and eateries. Explore its rich history and enjoy the scenic surroundings. |
| Onsen Hot Pools | Relax in the Onsen Hot Pools, offering private thermal pools with stunning views of the Shotover River canyon. A perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Queenstown has various transport options, including local buses, taxis, and shuttle services. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are available for convenient travel within the town. For a more scenic experience, bike rentals and walking are also popular. Queenstown’s compact size makes it easy to explore using these options.
Seasonality and Weather
Queenstown experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and mild summers. Summer (December to February) is warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). Autumn (March to May) brings cooler weather, with temperatures between 8°C and 18°C (46°F to 64°F). Winter (June to August) is cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F) and snow in higher elevations. Spring (September to November) offers mild temperatures of 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F).
The best time to visit is during summer or spring for the most pleasant weather.
Where to stay
Queenstown Central: The heart of the town, offering easy access to restaurants, bars, shops, and the lakefront.
Frankton: A quieter area with beautiful lake views and easy access to the airport and nearby wineries.
Fernhill: A peaceful, elevated area with stunning views, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Lake Hayes: A scenic, tranquil area just outside the town, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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