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The adventure capital of New Zealand. From bungy jumping and jetboating to Milford flights and 4WD tours, Queenstown will satisfy the most ravenous appetite for sightseeing and adventure.

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With spectacular coastal and alpine scenery and more things to see and do per square km than anywhere else on the planet, NZ is a playground for thrillseekers and a haven for relaxation.

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White sandy beaches, friendly people, unique wildlife, a rich cultural diversity and more famous landmarks than you can poke a stick at. Do you really need any more reasons to visit Australia?

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The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. World famous for its warm tropical climate, snorkelling, diving and reef cruises, Cairns also offers plenty of great sightseeing and adventure activities.

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Welcome to MoaTrek

New zealand small group tours, the best of new zealand in a small friendly group.

Hi, we’re MoaTrek and since the 1970s, we’ve been sharing our favourite holiday spots with visitors to New Zealand on our small group tours. We grew up here and have been exploring the country since we were kids – and now we’ve bottled a lifetime of Kiwi holiday memories into our tours. From North to South, you won’t miss a thing – Milford Sound, Queenstown, the Bay of Islands, Abel Tasman, Rotorua, Tongariro, the West Coast Glaciers and Aoraki/Mt Cook – plus a few of our secret spots you may not know so well, but many of our guests tell us were their absolute favourites.

MoaTrek is a family owned company, started in 1971 and run with a few more “extended” family around these days including of course our great “Kiwi Guides”. We’ll look after you every step of the way.

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Christchurch > Christchurch | 3 included activities

Enjoy our amazing South Island highlights. Discover Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park, stay in Queenstown, cruise and fly Milford Sound, visit Haast’s lush rain forests, experience Franz Josef Glacier, and Punakaiki’s rugged coastline.

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Queenstown itinerary – best things to do in Queenstown in 3, 5 & 7 days

• October 6, 2022
• New Zealand , Oceania

Queenstown is fun, bustling with life, offers insanely scenic views, incredible nature, and a vast playground spread over forests, mountains, lakes, and valleys. It is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand (for a good reason, or rather several good reasons!), but Queenstown can also be laid back and calm.

So whether you want a calm and relaxing getaway, a fun and adventurous escape, a mind-blowing culinary experience, or luxurious pampering, Queenstown won’t disappoint!

I was lucky enough to call Queenstown home and for this, it will always have a special place in my heart. But you don’t need to move here to fall in love with this beautiful town!

Below I’m sharing my insider knowledge and carefully crafted itineraries with recommendations on the best things to do in Queenstown in 3, 5, and 7 days.

Queenstown itinerary overview – the best of Queenstown, New Zealand

How many days in queenstown, where to stay in queenstown, day 1 – qt town and lake cruise, day 2 – glenorchy, paradise and party, day 3 – adventure and wine, day 4 – milford sound cruise, day 5 – wanaka and haast pass road trip, day 6 – hikes and views, day 7 – mt. cook np day trip, day 1 – qt town, lake cruise and adventure, day 2 – glenorchy, paradise, skyline and party, day 3 – day trip of choice, getting to queenstown, getting around in queenstown, where to eat in queenstown, best time to visit queenstown, planning a trip to queenstown, reliable travel insurance.

Queenstown must-do’s

Short on time? These are the best,  most unique things to do in Queenstown  that you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on!

Canyon Swing Milford Sound tour Dart River Funyak and Jet Boat Paradise Valley TSS Ernslaw Lake Cruise

For several years I’ve been lucky enough to call Queenstown home and putting together an itinerary for a place this close to my heart brought up all sorts of feelings.

Mostly, it felt impossible to squeeze all this beautiful town has to offer into just a few days. But below are my best attempts to create a balanced experience that will give you a pretty good taste for this little piece of heaven on earth.

I’ll be giving you plenty of information with links to other relevant articles for each place or activity whenever I mention it for the first time in the 7-day itinerary. But since these activities repeat for different itineraries I left those as a list and you can refer back up for more info when needed.

As many as you can! I came to Queenstown for a couple of days but ended up staying for several years. And I’m not the only one who did so.

Three days is the minimum you’ll need to experience Queenstown and its immediate surroundings. Queenstown is also a great hub to explore the lower part of the South Island and five days or more will allow you to do some day trips and explore the wider area.

Accommodation in Queenstown is plentiful and there are options for any budget and preference. I recommend you stay Downtown or on Queenstown hill if you don’t have a car since you can easily walk here. This is also the best place to base yourself if it’s your first time in Queenstown.

Scenic Suites Queenstown  

GREAT VALUE & DELICIOUS BREAKFAST

Located at the edge of town this complex boosts breathtaking views and comfortable facilities at a great price. The food here is delicious too!

CHECK PRICES

Kamana Lakehouse

MODERN, BEAUTIFUL & FANTASTIC VIEWS

With breathtaking views, floor to ceiling windows and its contemporary decor, this modern lake house might just be our favourite place to stay in Queenstown, not to mention the delicious buffet breakfast!

Shotover Penthouse & Spa

CENTRAL, OPULENT AND PERFECT

This Penthouse is something else. Located smack in the middle of town and boosting some incredible views and a massive terrace with a hot tub, this apartment can sleep 6 and is perfect for groups.

Read next: Best accommodation in Queenstown

7 day itinerary

A week in Queenstown is perfect to really take in everything this town has to offer and explore some of the surroundings. With 7 days at your disposal, you’ll be able to take it easy in Queenstown or, if you prefer your holiday to be packed, you can squeeze in a few more hikes and activities.

Queenstown town

Start the day by exploring Queenstown town and take a stroll around. Most of downtown is pedestrian only and there are plenty of shops, cafes, and food options for you to explore. Hop into Vudu Cafe for brunch or grab breakfast on the go from Ferg Bakery , pop into Remarkable Sweet Shop, grab a hot chocolate from Cookie Time, or ice cream from Patagonia . Explore the waterfront and marvel at the incredible Lake Wakatipu. You can also check out the underwater observatory or get your share of adrenaline early on and try Jet skiing or Hydro Attack. For some bad weather fun check out the Ice Bar or Fear Factory .

Wakatipu Lake Cruise

Wakatipu Lake is best explored from the water so you should definitely book a boat cruise and take in the views from a different perspective. There are many lake cruises available, but I highly recommend you book the TSS Ernslaw. This century-old steamship is somewhat of an icon in Queenstown and you can visit the engine room and learn about its history. There is also an option to book a cruise with lunch, high country dinner or animal farm visit.

For the ultimate experience book the Walter Peak Fly/Dine/Cruise tour which includes a scenic flight over Arrowtown, Coronet Peak, Queenstown, Wakatipu lake, and all the way to Walter Peak. The flight is followed by a farm tour, dinner, and a TSS Earnslaw cruise back to town.

For a budget-friendly alternative, check out the Million Dollar cruise.

Book your lake cruise: TSS Ernslaw Steamship Cruise TSS Earnslaw & BBQ Buffet Lunch TSS Earnslaw & Dinner at Walter Peak Farm TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Farm Walter Peak Fly/Dine/Cruise  Million Dollar Cruise

Queenstown Gardens

On the outskirts of town, along the lakefront, you’ll find the Queenstown Gardens. There is a nice walking path along the lake and into the rose gardens that offers stunning views over the lake, the Remarkables and the waterfront. If you’re up for some fun you can hire a frisbee at a hostel or sports shop in town and join the locals for a round of frisbee golf. For a different experience you can also join this Segway tour that explores the gardens and the waterfront.

Book your tour: Segway lakefront tour

Queenstown Hill

Depending on how much time and energy you have left, you can head up to Queenstown hill for some incredible views and a magical sunset. Alternatively, grab dinner or drinks in town for the perfect end to your first day in Queenstown.

Queenstown to Glenorchy Scenic Drive

We can all agree that Queenstown is stunning. But the scenery gets even better when you venture outside of town. The road from Queenstown to Glenorchy runs alongside the shimmering blue Wakatipu Lake and the mist-covered mountains provide the perfect backdrop while the drive takes you through the forest and along cliff edges, with a new spectacular view around every bend.

Read next: Queenstown to Glenorchy Scenic Drive

Glenorchy town

Glenorchy is a small charming town at the very edge where the Dart river flows into Wakatipu Lake and is a popular escape from Queenstown. Here you can enjoy pristine nature, fabulous scenery, eat some wonderful food, go on hikes and even get your adrenaline fix with some thrilling activities.

Read next: Best things to do in Glenorchy

Dart River Jet Boat or Funyaking

Funyaking is one of the most fun (as the name suggests) activities in New Zealand. It starts with a thrilling jet boat ride up the Dart River, complete with commentary courtesy of the wonderful guides, then the boat drops you off upstream. Here you’ll step into your funyak and slowly drift downstream, get a chance to jump into some pools, have a picnic and get a chance to see some of the LOTR filming locations.

Book your adventure: Dart River Funyak and Jet Boat Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Experience

Drive to Paradise

If you continue driving up from Glenorchy past Diamond Lake and over a few streams you get to a place that is literally called Paradise , and for lovers of the outdoors this place is true to its name.

The scenery is simply epic with massive mountain ranges in every direction and the Dart River meandering through the landscape like a massive snake. With scenery like this, it’s no wonder this area was chosen as a filming location for LOTR!

Book your adventure: Paradise Valley

Read next: Lord of the Rings filming locations

Party the night away

Queenstown is not just scenic and surrounded by nature, but it offers great nightlife too! The fun begins with happy hour already in the afternoon and can go on till the early morning hours. For happy hour head to 1876 (4-6 PM daily) or World Bar (4-5 PM and 9-11 PM). Join a pub crawl for a night of ultimate fun or continue the evening at some of the town’s favorite bars and clubs like The Bunker, Surreal, Cowboys, Bungalow, or Vinyl Underground.

Get your adrenaline fix

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. The crazy Bungy jumps, canyon swings, zip lines, jet boats, and God knows what are part of the reason why more than three million visitors rush to Queenstown each year!

No visit is complete without an adrenaline rush and screaming your lungs out. There is no shortage of blood-pumping activities for you to choose from so pick whatever makes your heart stop and have fun.

I absolutely loved the Shootover Canyon Swing where you first jump down into a 60-meter free-fall to then swing for more than 200 meters through the Shotover Canyon. They offer  a whole array of crazy and funny jump styles to spice things up and they’ll mess with you for added fun.

The Shotover Jet is another favorite of many. On the Shotover Jet boat, you’ll zip through the canyon, getting dangerously close to the edge and spinning in circles. But I have to be honest, I was expecting a bit more thrill from it.

If you’re into mountain biking then the Queenstown Bike Park is a no-brainer. Queenstown offers some of the world’s best MTB trails and you can take advantage of the gondola or MTB taxi on the way up.

Other awesome things you can do include Skydiving , Rafting, Canyoning, 4WD and so much more. Just take your pick below!

Choose your adventure: Shotover Canyon Swing Zipline Adventure Shotover River Rafting Shotover River Jet Boat  Kawarau River Rafting and Jet Boat Queenstown ATV Tour Mt Aspiring Canyoning Skippers Canyon 4WD Tour Tandem Paragliding Southern Glacier Helicopter Flight

Enjoy some wine

Otago is known as one of the best wine regions in New Zealand and the Pinot Noir here is to die for! There are plenty of wine-tasting tours to choose from but on a sunny day it doesn’t get any better than hopping on a bike and doing the Queenstown wine trail. Some of the more popular ones include Gibbson Valley Winery, Peregrine Wines and Waitiri Creek Winery. Just make sure you have a sober driver or hire one so you can enjoy this day safely.

Book your wine tour: Guided Ebike Wine Tour Bike The Wineries Half Day Tour Central Otago Wine Tour with Lunch Hop on Hop off Wine Tour

End the evening with a visit to the quaint Arrowtown, a historic little village full of charm. Head out to Fork & Tap for drinks and dinner, here you’ll be able to join the fun at the Irish night every Wednesday.

Or end the evening with a visit to Dorothy Browns Cinema. This is the cutest and quirkiest boutique cinema with miss-matched armchairs and pink chiffon curtains screening both contemporary and arthouse films and serving amazing cheese boards and wine at your seat.

Milford Sound is often named the 8th wonder of the world and it should absolutely be on your New Zealand bucket list! Imagine hundreds of waterfalls, lush rainforests, steep fjords, minimal light or sound pollution, the prettiest sunsets and sunrises, and that’s only the start!

While Queenstown and Milford Sound are only 70 km away from each other in a straight line, a massive mountain range separates the two. If you want to drive to Milford Sound, the only option is still to go all the way around the Humboldt and Eyre mountains or hop on a scenic flight.

The best way to tour Milford Sound is a  coach, cruise & flight tour from Queenstown as it lets you see Milford from all vantage points – air, water, and land. It also includes a scenic drive with plenty of stops along the gorgeous Milford Road.

Since flying ain’t cheap most people opt for a coach & cruise tour which is much more affordable but you won’t get a chance to see the fjords from above, and it takes quite a bit longer. Alternatively, you can drive to Milford Sound on your own accord and hop on a boat cruise once there.

Book your Milford Sound trip: Coach, cruise & flight tour from Queenstown Small group tour from Queenstown Small boat cruise from MS Cruise and kayak tour from MS

Best Milford Sound tours

Your guide to Milford Sound

Crown range drive and Cardrona Valley

The drive from Queenstown to Wanaka is a treat in itself with beautiful views around every corner. Just take it easy as the road is steep, narrow and windy. There are plenty of stopping bays along the way for you to take in the views but don’t take too long, the best is yet to come!

Have you even been to Wanaka if you didn’t take a photo of  that Wanaka tree ? This willow tree stands alone in the water, about 15 meters from the shore. It has been photographed hundreds of thousands of times and it is Wanaka’s most popular tourist attraction. To be fair, it is a really picturesque shot with the Southern Alps in the backdrop.

Wanaka is Queenstown’s smaller sister and it’s just as scenic. Take a stroll through town and along the lakefront. If you like hiking you won’t want to miss Roys Peak and Diamond Lake Track.

Haast pass and Blue Pools

Drive past beautiful Lake Hawea and head into the stunning Haast Pass. This mountain pass is a UNESCO World Heritage area and it is easy to see why. Deep gorges, thundering rivers and waterfalls, and rainforest-covered mountains are everywhere you look.

The Blue Pools are an absolute must-stop. Two suspension bridges hang above the incredibly blue water, and if you’re keen on a dip in the ice-cold water you can jump from the second bridge into the pools.

Next up is Wilsons Creek. Not far from the road, Wilsons Creek flows through an unmarked and unnamed but gorgeous little gorge (pun intended), with small waterfalls dropping down everywhere.

2 minute drive from Wilsons Creek lie the popular Fantail Falls. Personally, we weren’t really impressed with the Fantail Falls, but since they’re basically next to the road checking them out doesn’t really cost you any time. There is however another, more appealing reason to visit this spot.

When you’ve made it through Haast Pass you actually arrive on the West Coast of New Zealand. From here beautiful coastal views stretch out as far as you can see and impressive mountain ranges tower on the back. Depending on how much time you have left (you still need to drive back to Queenstown today) you might be able to check out some of the beaches or even Lake Matheson.

Read next: West Coast Road Trip

Queenstown Skyline

It’s time to see Queenstown from above! Either take the Tiki Trail or ride the Gondola up from on Brecon Street to Bob’s Peak. Here you can go for a fun Luge ride, walk the Skyline Loop, grab a snack at Market Kitchen Café, go Zip lining down the world’s steepest zip line, or soar over Queenstown in a paraglide.

Book your adventure: Zipline Adventure Above The Skyline Quads Tandem Paragliding

Ben Lomond hike

If you like hiking then you’ll love Ben Lomond, arguably one of the most rewarding day hikes in New Zealand. The views from the summit are truly epic, no matter which direction you look. Beautiful Queenstown down below, Lake Wakatipu winding in front of you, the Remarkables and Bayonet Peaks across the lake in the distance, Moke Lake far below on the other side and the Southern Alps stretching behind it.

This hike is quite challenging and it takes 4-6h from the top of the gondola, or add an extra 2h if you’re walking up from town. But trust me, it’s worth the effort!

Read next: Ben Lomond hike guide

There’s no better way to relax those sore muscles after a big hike than soaking up in a hot tub.

You’ve probably seen photos of the Onsen pools all over Instagram. These private hot tubs offer gorgeous views over the Shotover Valley and are definitely a bucket list item in Queenstown so make sure to  book them well in advance.

While absolutely fabulous and definitely a must-try, the Onsen pools are quite pricey and often booked out, but worry not, Millbrook Resort might not be as popular on Instagram, but the pools, set in a beautiful garden outside, are just as hot and wonderful. You don’t have to stay at the resort to visit the hot pools and can purchase a day ticket to the pools, sauna, and fitness facilities.

The drive to Mt. Cook NP is already mind-blowing and you’ll be driving over stunning Lindis Pass and along the incredible Lake Pukaki. Trust me, you’ve never seen anything as blue! This big, bright blue glacial lake is wrapped in big mountains (seriously big) and shows the magnificent Mount Cook towering above them all on the other side of the lake.

Make sure to do the Hooker Valley hike. This 10-kilometer long return track offers countless breathtaking views and looks different around every bend. It takes you through a wide river valley with snow-capped mountains on both sides, goes over big suspension bridges, over boardwalks through the high tussock grass and ends at a glacial lake speckled with icebergs right under Mount Cook.

Mount Cook and its surroundings are an incredible sight no matter from where you look at it, but the impressive perspective is without a doubt from the air. There are several small airports in the area offering experiences like a helicopter flight around the mountain including a landing on the Tasman Glacier, or a scenic flight around the mountain in a ski plane. And if you’re into more adrenaline-filled activities, how about you go  skydiving over Mount Cook National Park !

Book your Mt. Cook trip: Mt Cook Small Group Tour Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Tour Mt Cook Tour and Sky Dive Combo Skydive Mt. Cook Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo

Best hikes in Mt. Cook National Park

Lord of the Rings filming locations

5 day itinerary

By picking up the tempo and having a tighter schedule you can do almost everything I’ve outlined in the week-long itinerary, but you will have to compromise on day trips and hikes. On the last day you can pick between a trip to Wanaka and Haast Pass, alternatively, you could to the LOTR tour or visit Mt Cook NP as outlined above.

Wakatipu Lake Cruise | TSS Ernslaw

Queenstown Gardens | Segway lakefront tour

Queenstown Hill or Queenstown Skyline and Bob’s Peak | Tandem Paragliding

Queenstown to Glenorchy Scenic Drive | Glenorchy and Paradise Half-Day Explorer

Glenorchy town | Glenorchy Kiwi Special Tour

Funyaking | Dart River Funyak and Jet Boat

Drive to Paradise | Paradise Valley

Party the night away | Pub crawl

Get your adrenaline fix | QT adventures

Enjoy some wine | Ebike Wine Tour | Hop on Hop off Wine Tour

Arrowtown | Half-day tour

Milford sound | Milford Sound tours from QT

Hot Pools | Onsen hot pools

Crown range drive and Cardrona Valley | Cardrona High Country Horse Treck

Wanaka | Arrowtown & Wanaka tour from QT | Wanaka 4×4 Explorer

3 day itinerary

If you only have 3 days in Queenstown then your itinerary will get pretty packed, but you’ll still be able to do most of the highlights.

Queenstown Gardens | Segway Lakefront tour

Get your adrenaline fix or enjoy some wine | QT thrills | wine tours

Queenstown Skyline and Bob’s Peak | Tandem Paragliding

Milford Sound | Milford Sound tours from QT

or Wanaka | Arrowtown & Wanaka tour from QT

Hot pools | Onsen hot pools

There is an international airport in Queenstown and most people will fly in here. Landing in Queenstown is a treat of its own so make sure to secure a window seat as the views over Dart Valley, Wakatipu Lake and Aspiring National Park will make your jaw drop.

To get into town, book this airport shuttle to your accommodation. Or better yet, hire a rental car so you’ll have more flexibility and you’ll be able to do some of the day trips and scenic drives in the area.

Queenstown city center is fairly small and mostly closed to traffic so walking is your best bet. Most tours and activities will pick you up in town or at your accommodation so you can get by without a car if you’re staying central.

If you want to explore Wanaka, Glenorchy, Arrowtown or the wider surroundings then renting a car is your best bet. You’ll also need wheels if you’re staying in Fernhill, Frankton or further out of town.

Often I struggle to suggest enough good restaurant options but with Queenstown I’m struggling to narrow it down to just a few. The culinary options in Queenstown are plentiful, diverse and so incredibly good! These are some of my favorites (but there are so many more great restaurants!)

Botswana Butchery – For all you meat lovers, Botswana Butchery is a must! Choose from a selection of fine cuts with the perfect marble score and enjoy the impeccable service.

Bazaar – a marketplace foodie experience with no menu. The journey through the food market starts with desert and ends with the best views over Wakatipu lake and the Remarkables. An experience not to be missed.

Tanoshi Cow Lane – One of the best Japanese restaurants I’ve ever been to. The sashimi here is something else.

Atlas Cafe – My go-to place for Friday after work beer and steak. I’ve lost count of the hours spent in this little hole in the wall. And if you can’t find the loo, try the fridge door.

The World Bar & Restaurant – Taking pub food to a whole new level and home to teapot cocktails. The World Bar is also a fun place for a few drinks at night.

Taco Medic – Best option for a quick bite on the go. But there is nothing quick about the way the meat was cooked! Braised for 6-12 hours, these tacos will melt in your mouth!

Vudu Cafe – My favorite brunch spot. Try the eggs benny or pancakes and drink all the coffee you can.

The best time to visit Queenstown is in late spring or summer when the days are longer, the weather is warm and the outdoors can become your playground.

Queenstown is also great in winter, especially if you’d like to ski or snowboard in New Zealand.

But in all honesty, any time is a good time to visit Queenstown! This town is lively and filled with amazing things to do no matter the season. Just keep in mind that the peak of summer and peak of winter can get quite busy and pricey.

Queenstown is a treat to visit and here is so much to do and see here! I’m sure you’ll love this little corner of New Zealand, just as you will love the rest of the country.

To help you plan your NZ trip I’ve prepared a series of  New Zealand travel guides  and you can find out more about the Coromandel Peninsula in the articles below.

Queenstown & Glenorchy : Where to stay in Queenstown – best accommodation Best things to do in Queenstown in winter Queenstown to Glenorchy scenic drive Best things to do in Glenorchy

Milford sound: Best Milford Sound tours Best things to do in Milford Sound Te Anau to Milford Sound scenic drive

NZ South Island: 2 & 3 week South Island itineraries Christchurch to Queenstown road trip

Best skydiving in New Zealand

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and I’ve learned that the hard way!

Now I always get insured before leaving and  Travel Insurance  Masters is my go-to platform to find the best insurance options for a specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria. This way you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations  here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

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We care deeply about delivering memorable experiences that will exceed your expectations.

How it all started….

With a few friends, we got together (wine in hand of course) and planned what we felt would be an epic premium wine tour. Looking at each component of the tour in detail, our goal was to personalise the ordinary and systemise the extraordinary through every step of the tour to ensure we could deliver consistent, top quality and unique wine tours daily.

After significant trial and error in a historic and cluttered market, we had created the top-rated (Trip Advisor) Queenstown wine tour boosting the most 5 star reviews that year, we knew we were onto something!

With the same eye for detail, we started penning ideas (wine in hand of course) for creating or re-creating existing tour offerings and adding our own flare… fast forward 18 months and Altitude Tours was not only a wine tour company, we were taking guests sightseeing to Glenorchy, Paradise, around the Wakatipu basin and providing private charters and transport – we were becoming a ‘small group big adventure’ company.

More tours mean more staff and more space so we moved from our home lounges/kitchen benches into our own offices and operational base and soon after were presented with an opportunity to acquire the top-rated small group Milford Sound coach operator called ‘The Milford BBQ Bus’ which had been operating for over 25 years and had carved out a very unique and personal offering with a cult-like following. This acquisition was a natural addition to our own small group travel experiences and gave us an introduction to sightseeing tours into Fiordland.

Throughout our rapid growth, we committed to continually making sure our tours were delivered in line with our original vision and have spent an enormous amount of time and money training our guides, creating systems and maintaining a high level of product delivery.

Our commitment to detail extends to the creation of our own Altitude wine and beer accreditation which we established with an external consultant. All our guides must have taken and passed this course (theory and practical) to be able to guide any of our wine tours.

We love tourism, we want to not only be involved in the future we are working hard toward regenerative tourism, we want to be a leader in showing the communities we work within and the environment can be improved by tourism.

Covid19 has been a challenging time, so while we were either in lockdown or twiddling our thumbs with little to no customers, we have been head down tail up curating new experiences and are always in search of new adventures which sit within our vision and mission… standby for more Altitude experiences coming soon!

Our vision To create and operate the world’s best day tours.

Our Mission To provide unforgettable, sustainable and unique small group premium New Zealand experiences, connecting visitors and the local community in a harmonious way.

We’re serious about creating and curating experiences , if we aren’t in the office, we are on tours constantly discussing and working out how to make them better. We systemise anything we do that is extraordinary and we personalise anything that is by default ordinary.

If you’ve been on any of our tours and have any ideas or feedback (no matter how big, small or crazy) please feel free to email us.

Nigel Hobbs  – [email protected] Heidi Farren – [email protected]

HUMBLE BRAGS

Multi-award winning tour operator..

We are proud to be a Qualmark Gold awarded company with many of our tours being rated and awarded top within their categories.

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Sustainably conscious experiences., the altitude team., book an altitude experience..

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour

Christchurch to queenstown via mt cook & tekapo small-group tour (one way).

Christchurch To Queenstown via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo. This one-way, small group, fully guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier. The ultimate way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Highlights:

• Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepard 
• Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park 
• Tasman Glacier, Lake Pukaki
• Lindis Pass, Kawarau Gorge
• Christchurch - Your tour starts in the stunning city of Christchurch. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventurous day but also point out and guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.
• Geraldine – Departing Christchurch we then make our way through the impressive Canterbury plains with plenty of amazing New Zealand farmland and countryside to see along our way to Geraldine. Arriving in this quaint town we will stop for a quick morning tea.
• Lake Tekapo – Exiting Geraldine we head towards the famous blue lakes of Lake Tekapo but to get there first we must go through some impressive alpine passes with amazing views. As we come over the hill to Tekapo you will be stunned by amazing view of the lake. 
• Church of the Good Shepherd – Once in the township of Tekapo you will have time to explore the very popular Church of the Good Shepherd, see the Mackenzie Sheep dog and get those Instagram worth shots of Lake Tekapo before we continue to Mt Cook. 
• Lake Pukaki – Turning west we begin to enter the Aoraki National Park and Lake Pukaki begins to emerge in front of us. Lake Pukaki is one of the bluest lakes you will ever see and is stunningly framed by the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. We stop for some amazing photos and to just marvel at the sight that we are beholding. It’s not hard to see why many Lord of the Rings scene were filmed nearby and we will point them out for you. 
• Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park – While in the national park you have 2.5 hours free time to enjoy free walks/hikes or one of the extra optional activities. Some of our recommendations include: Tasman Glacier Walk, Scenic flights (see the region from the air and land on the Tasman Glacier) or Mt Cook Visitor Centre & Hermitage Hotel. Whatever you decide to do we will pick you up and drop you off where you need to go and make sure you are well looked after. 
• Tasman Glacier – One of our recommendations during you free time is the Tasman Glacier Lake walk and viewpoint. Icebergs can usually be seen floating in the lake in summer, and in winter, the lake freezes over. The track leads through the glacier’s old terminal moraines with amazing views of the glacier, river and lake.  
• Mt Cook Information Centre – Arriving at Mt Cook Village, weather depending, we should get some amazing shots of the mountain itself.  At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is New Zealand’s highest peak, however, the mountain can be viewed without any acclimatisation whatsoever from the village which is just 750m above sea level.
• High Country Salmon - Farewelling Aoraki/Mt Cook Village and making our way back to Queenstown we stop in at High Country Salmon, a local salmon farm, where you can feed the fish and taste some of the freshest salmon in New Zealand.
• Lindis Pass – Climbing in altitude, Lindis Pass has amazing views down through the valleys. Being one of only three alpine roads through the otherwise impassable Southern Alps. 
• Jacksons Orchard – During summer months when the sun is still up as we get close to Queenstown we often stop at Jacksons Orchard to try or buy some delicious local fruit or real fruit ice cream.
• Kawarau Suspension Bridge – Nearing Queenstown we then make our way through the stunning Kawarau Gorge passing stunning views, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge and the famous Roaring Meg Lookout. 
• Queenstown – Sadly the tour must come to an end as we enter Queenstown and say our goodbyes. 

Inclusions:

• Small Group
• Fully Guided Tour 
• Picnic Lunch

Optional Extras:

• Scenic flights with Glacier landings 
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

For further information on luggage, pickup locations, cancellation policy etc please  read our FAQ's  at the bottom of our home page. 

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Home » Oceania » New Zealand » Queenstown

QUEENSTOWN Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

If you crave adventure and adrenaline-fuelled fun, then Queenstown is the place to go! The city is widely regarded as the adventure capital of the world and never ceases to impress.

Queenstown is located at the bottom end of South Island, New Zealand. Surrounded by rugged, snow-capped mountains and mirror-like lakes, the scenery is simply breathtaking! Of course, the world got to know much of this stunning backcountry from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

The area is home to some of New Zealand’s premier ski resorts, and is actually the birth place of It was also the birthplace of bungee jumping.

If you’re planning a trip to Queenstown, check out our recommendations for making the most of your holiday. This is the perfect guide to the city, and will ensure an incredible 3 days in Queenstown!

A Little Bit About this 3-Day Queenstown Itinerary

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Queenstown is full of history and incredible nature spots that are second to none in this world! It’s not called the Adventure Capital of New Zealand for no reason. It has something for every traveler, from sprawling parks to incredible museums and delectable food, there is so much fun to be had in Queenstown!

Whether you’re spending one day in Queenstown or you’re backpacking New Zealand with no plan, there are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! I’d personally suggest taking at least two-three full days in Queensland to explore the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but that’ll guarantee a lot of stress. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.

In this itinerary, you’ll find three days packed with action, culture, history and adventure. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in. I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there, and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot.

Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. It’s your adventure in Queenstown after all! Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip.

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3 Day Queenstown Itinerary Overview

• Day One: Coronet Peak | Lake Wakatipu | Botanic Gardens | Kiwi Birdlife Park | Skyline | Onsen Hot Pools
• Day Two: The Remarkables | Queenstown Hill | Lake Hayes | Arrowtown | Gibbston Valley Winery
• Day Three: Moke Lake | Nevis Valley | Shotover River | Fergburger | Walter Peak High Country Farm | Ben Lomond Track | Queenstown Mall | Peregrine Wines | Lakes District Museum

Queenstown is a small vacation town on the banks of Lake Wakatipu. That said, it is still worth reading up on the different areas to stay in Queenstown before deciding on where to book your accommodation! For this reason, I would like to introduce you to two popular areas in town and help you choose your ideal spot on your vacation in Queenstown.

For a great stay in Queenstown with idyllic viewpoints of the lake, you may want to stay up on the hillside, at the base of Queenstown Hill. The accommodation around here tends to be a bit pricier, but the experience is well worth the money!

If you want to stay in the center of the action, then Downtown Queenstown is the place for you.

This area is abuzz with restaurants, shops, bars and cafes. Everything you need will be within walking distance, except the ski slopes, of course.

For a budget-conscious stay, I’d recommend checking out the hostels in Queenstown . Each of them offers a comfy bed and a safe place to rest your head. Hostels will be the easiest way to keep your travel costs low. If you are still on a budget but have a little more to spend, motels in Queenstown are super cosy and ideally located.

Best Hostel in Queenstown – Nomads Queenstown

A backpackers with one of the most amazing views in Queenstown, Nomads has a vibrant atmosphere and is a great choice for young travelers! From the balcony, you’ll be greeted with views of snow-capped mountains. The hostel is perfectly situated in the heart of Queenstown, just a short walk away from loads of shops. The staff here are super friendly and helpful too!

Best Budget Hotel in Queenstown – Melbourne Lodge

Melbourne Lodge is one of the most popular lodges in Queenstown , offering a pleasant stay at an affordable price. The rooms are large and have huge windows to let in lots of light, and offer a great view of the surrounding area. The outdoor deck overlooks Queenstown Bay and Gondola. Accommodation options include private rooms, budget rooms and self-contained studios and apartments!

Best Luxury Hotel in Queenstown – Heartland Hotel Queenstown

Heartland Hotel Queenstown offers luxury accommodation and breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains! The hotel boasts a brasserie that serves amazing breakfast buffet daily! Hotel staff members go out of their way to make guests feel like royalty. The hotel has a distinct alpine cabin feel to it with all the bells and whistles of a luxury hotel.

Spending 2 days in Queenstown is just long enough time to experience a few highlights. The first day Queenstown itinerary has a little bit of everything in it, including outdoor activities, animal encounters, and a spa treatment!

9:00AM – Coronet Peak

Approximately 10 miles north of downtown Queenstown lies the picturesque ski and snowboard destination of Coronet Peak. Open during the winter months, this ski area features 32 slopes, two terrain parks, a tubing park and a ski school!

The slopes are geared to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, so beginners, intermediates and advanced visitors will all feel right at home. While the ski slopes are closed from October to May, visitors will still be able to drive to the top and take in the beautiful surroundings in summer.

To get to Coronet Peak, you can take a Snowline Express shuttle departing from central Queenstown’s Snow Centre.

• Cost: Lift passes from $69 USD
• Getting there: Shuttles leave between 8 and 11:30 am, return shuttles start at 1:30 pm, and cost around $13 USD.
• How long should I spend there: at least 2-3 hours to enjoy some good skiing.

1:00PM – Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is NZ’s third-largest lake. The lake bed sits below sea level, reaching a maximum depth of 1,243 ft! Legend has it that the lake’s shape is the burned outline of an evil giant that was burned sleeping with his feet drawn up.

The lake can be experienced in any number of ways. By boat, it can either be a leisurely steamboat ride or an exhilarating jet boat ride! Take in the marine life below deck in the underwater observatory or enjoy a paddle in a kayak.

The water is icy cold, so even on scorchingly hot days, you may not want to spend too long in the water! But if you fancy some sun, head down to Marine Parade to find the closest thing to a beach in Queenstown.

• Getting there: Drive for 15 minutes on Glenorchy-Queenstown Rd.
• How long should I spend there: Around 30 minutes should be enough to see the lake, unless you want to do water sports.

1:30PM – Botanic Queenstown Gardens

Queenstown Gardens is a perfect city escape on any Queenstown itinerary. This pretty park is found a small piece of land that sticks out into Lake Wakatipu.

There are a number of activities and landmarks inside the park, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and natural vegetation. In addition to some large exotic trees and a rose garden, the gardens feature an 18-‘hole’ disc golf course, an ice-skating rink, skate park, lawn-bowls club and tennis courts.

A gentle stroll around the peninsula and gardens takes about half an hour. Out near the point, there’s a memorial to Captain Robert Scott (1868–1912), leader of the doomed South Pole expedition, which includes an engraving of his moving final message.

• Getting there: it’s in the centre of Queenstown
• How long should I spend there: About an hour should be enough time

2:30PM – Kiwi Birdlife Park

If seeing the cute and mysterious kiwi bird is on your Queenstown itinerary bucket-list, then this is your best chance to do so! This family-friendly attraction is Queenstown’s premier destination for animal-spotting.

The Kiwi Birdlife Park is home to 10,000 native plants and birds! Inside, you’ll find over 30 species of animals, including tuataras and scores of birds like brown kiwis, black stilts, falcons and rainbow lorikeets.

One of the highlights has to be the darkened kiwi houses that are home to the national bird of New Zealand!

Insider tip:  Try and catch the kiwi feeding show that happens five times daily!

• Cost: $35 USD
• Getting there: it’s a 10 minute walk from the last stop.

3:30PM – Skyline Queenstown

Located right next to Kiwi Birdlife Park is Skyline Queenstown, where you can take a gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak! The gondola takes you through pine forest and up to almost 1,400 ft above sea level. Once at the top you’ll be treated to panoramic views that will take your breath away!

There is a cafe and restaurant to grab a bite to eat at or enjoy a hot beverage when it’s chilly outside, a souvenir shop and an observation deck that you may not want to leave! For more exciting thrills there are also a number of activities you can take part in to get your adrenaline flowing.

There is an exhilarating downhill luge course, bungy jumping, zipline courses and a mountain bike track. Of course, if you just prefer to walk around, there are many good hiking routes too!

Insider tip:  You can take the Tiki Trail to hike to the top, instead of taking the gondola. The hike takes around an hour for someone of average fitness level!

• Cost: $28 USD
• Getting there: It’s right next to the last stop.
• How long should I spend there: Around 20 minutes to enjoy the view and take photos.

5:00PM – Onsen Hot Pools

After a long day of adventure visiting Queenstown attractions a good soaking in a hot tub will be just what the doctor ordered! For some relaxation with a view, make sure to add the Onsen Hot Pools to your Queenstown itinerary!

The soothing effects of the Onsen Hot Pools are just as good in summer as they are in winter. Onsen boasts several idyllic, cedar-lined hot pools overlooking the Shotover River, and massage rooms that provide an overall boutique day-spa experience, second to none!

While the daytime views are gorgeous, a nighttime soak when the stars light up the sky is an unforgettable experience! It is also a great place to experience a Queenstown sunset.

Insider tip:  A free shuttle service from the corner of Camp and Shotover Street can be requested when booking!

• Cost: From $41 USD
• Getting there: it’s a 10 minute drive from the last stop along Gorge Rd
• How long should I spend there: as long as you wish! Though after an hour your skin starts to wrinkle like a dried prune.

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The second day of our Queensland trip itinerary explores a little further beyond the city limits, but is guaranteed to knock your socks off! There is adventure, history and adrenaline-fuelled fun all in one.

9:00AM – The Remarkables

The huge mountain range you can see to the east of Queenstown is called The Remarkables. It’s a mountain summit with ski slopes and winter activities that lives up to its name!

A long, twisting road climbs up the mountains just outside of town and leads to an excellent ski resort! The drive is one of the most scenic drives you can take in Otago and can take up to an hour if you stop to take in the vistas.

In addition to the ski slopes that are great fun in winter, there is also a great little hike to Lake Alta that you can do in summer. It takes about 90 minutes there and back, and the trail is a lot quieter than Ben Lomond.

If skiing isn’t your preferred choice of activity, I highly recommend taking a scenic flight over the glaciers, fiordland national park and snow top peaks of The Remarkables by helicopter. It will be an experience you’ll never forget!

• Cost: From $13 USD
• Getting there: If you don’t have a car, you can catch the Snowline Express shuttle to The Remarkables from 8 – 11:30 am daily, and back from 1:30 pm, during the ski season
• How long should I spend there: At least 2-3 hours to enjoy some skiing.

1:30PM – Queenstown Hill

Queenstown Hill, or Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness) in the native Maori language, is a small hill overlooking the city. It is particularly popular for its Time Walk trail, one of the best free things to do in Queenstown !

The mile-long trail takes between 2-3 hours to complete. The walk was designed to showcase the past, present and future of Queenstown. As you make your way along the track, you’ll come across the popular ‘Basket of Dreams’ sculpture as well as six information plates that inform you about the different epochs of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown.

The reward when reaching the summit is fantastic 360-degree views of the area, including Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Karawau River!

If you would like to stop for a snack before descending, you might enjoy a little picnic on the shore of the small mountain lake.

Insider tip:  Take some snacks and stop for a scenic picnic beside the small mountain lake, before descending down again!

• Getting there: it’s a 30 minute drive along Remarkables Ski Field Access Rd
• How long should I spend there: Around 30 minutes to see the views.

2:00PM – Lake Hayes

For another incredibly scenic stop on your Queenstown itinerary, head to Lake Hayes. Located a few miles east of Queenstown, the lake is a perfect pitstop on the way to Arrowtown!

Lake Hayes is also known as the mirror lake, for the beautiful reflections that can be seen witnessed early in the morning. For this reason, it is one of New Zealand’s most photographed lakes. Of all the pictures you take during your 2 days in Queenstown, a picture of Hayes Lake is very likely to make your friends back home the most jealous!

Around the lake, there are plenty of tables and chairs, and large grassed areas available for picnics and recreational activities. There is also an 8km loop around the whole lake to enjoy the tranquil setting from all angles.

• Getting there: it’s a 12 minute drive along State Hwy 6
• How long should I spend there: Around 1 hour to see the views and have a picnic.

3:00PM – Arrowtown

A short 20-minute drive from Queenstown is the former gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown. This historic gold mining town is a charming and quirky town located on the banks of the Arrow River, is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is known for its breath-taking fall colors!

The main street is lined with well-preserved buildings from the late 19th century. Much of the place has an interesting story to tell, and is well worth a stop when touring Queenstown!

In addition to historical tales and loads of old-time character, the town also has pleasant walking trails, technical mountain biking routes, gorgeous picnic spots and quaint streets.

• Getting there: It’s a 10-minute drive along Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Rd.
• How long should I spend there: Around 2 hours should be enough time.

5:00PM – Gibbston Valley Winery

For a touch of class on your Queenstown itinerary, make a stop at one of the region’s finest wine farms! Gibbston Valley is the Central Otago Wine Region’s oldest commercial winery, and one of the closest to Queenstown. Established in the early 1980s, its vineyards are perched up the rugged schist mountains near Kawarau Gorge.

The high altitudes and diversified climatic conditions combine perfectly for the production of Pinot Noir, which Gibbston Valley achieves with great success! The winery is home to New Zealand’s largest wine cave and is well worth a look around.

For a chill day out, grab a few tastings and enjoy their wines and a cheese board in a pleasant setting. The winery also has mountain bikes that can be hired for the day and two fantastic cycling trails running through the property.

Insider tip:  To ensure your whole group can enjoy themselves, take advantage of the shuttle service to and from Gibbston Valley!

• Getting there: It’s a 10 minute drive to Central Otago Wine Region via McDonnell Rd and State Hwy 6

Nomads Queenstown

A backpackers with one of the most amazing views in Queenstown, Nomads has a vibrant atmosphere and is a great choice for young travelers! From the balcony, you’ll be greeted with views of snow-capped mountains.

• Linen Included

If you plan on spending more than 2 days in Queenstown, you’ll be happy to hear that there is still lots more to see and do! For your convenience,I have included extra activities to provide the perfect 3-day itinerary!

• A picturesque lake with stunning views and photo opportunities
• Walk around the perimeter of the lake on The Moke Lake Loop Track
• A great place for some peace and quiet within 20 minutes from the city

On a beautiful day, there are few better places to visit around Queenstown than Moke Lake! Load up the rental car with food and drink, and head to the lake for a picnic. Moke Lake is yet another stunningly scenic spot, but you won’t believe how peaceful it can be even being so close to the city!

Like everywhere in Queenstown, it’s surrounded by gorgeous mountains inviting you to relax and enjoy yourself. The stunning lake is framed by mountains and is a popular spot for walking, cycling, camping and in warmer temperatures, even swimming.

The Moke Lake Loop Track is a popular short, undulating walk and mountain biking trail. The trail takes you right around the edge of picturesque Moke Lake, through grassland and surrounded by towering mountains. After a short climb, you will be rewarded with a stunning view overlooking the lake!

There are picture opportunities all the way around the lake that will make anyone envious. On a clear day, you will not find a place with water so still and air so silent!

In addition to walking and biking, you can also indulge in a bit of fishing, or enjoy a leisurely paddle across the lake in a canoe or kayak.

Nevis Valley

• Home to the biggest rope swing and 3rd highest bungy jump in the world
• Enjoy locally produced dishes in a fine dining setting at Rata Restaurant
• Enjoy the largest rope swing in the world.

The Nevis Valley is one of Queenstown’s most iconic adventure sights! It is famous for being home to the biggest rope swing in the world!

This stop is an absolute must, and should feature on every adventure seeker’s 3-day itinerary in Queenstown! At 440 feet, the Nevis Bungy platform is also the third-highest in the world! The valley is slightly off the beaten track, and can only be accessed via a shuttle service.

Nevis Bungy is operated by AJ Hackett Bungy, the world pioneer of Bungy Jumping! The company actually originates from Queenstown and is now established as a world leader in the adventure activities tourism industry.

Insider tip: Take advantage of bungy jumping packages and bungy at 2 or 3 of the best bungee jumping locations in the world, right here in Queenstown!

Shotover River

• The Shotover River is the best place in Queenstown to enjoy a jet boat ride or white water river rafting
• Grab a tasty craft beer and dig into a delicious wood-fired pizza at Canyon Food & Brew Co, right next to the river
• The best place for action water sports such as jet boating

The Shotover River is well known among thrill-seekers as one of the best rivers for jet boating and white-water river rafting! Even if you only spend one day in Queenstown, make sure you book an activity on this iconic river!

The Shotover River is 47 miles long flowing south from the Southern Alps through to the Kawarau River. It is a unique attraction that offers some of the most talked-about water sport activities in New Zealand!

Jet boats are fast and agile vessels that are capable of skimming over the water at breakneck speeds and can turn on a dime. While there are lots of other jet boat rides around Queenstown, the Shotover is by far the best and most iconic! A jet boat ride will leave you breathless after all the screaming and laughing you’ll be doing.

The drivers are super skilled, and comfortably take the jet boats through their paces, charging through the narrow canyon it feels like you are so close to the rocks you could reach out and touch them! For adrenaline junkies, this is the best way to end off 2 days in Queenstown.

• This well-known burger joint makes the biggest burgers in Queenstown
• If you are looking for quantity, pop in for a food adventure at great value for money
• They are open from 8 am – 5 am daily

When it comes to food and drinks in Queenstown, there are plenty of good quality options. Eating out at restaurants can get costly, fast, so it’s best to take advantage of meal deals and happy hours where possible to save some cash!

However, if there’s one place you just have to try in Queenstown, it’s Fergburger. If you know some people that have visited Queenstown before chances are you’ve already heard about this iconic establishment.

Fergburger is known for making large, hunger-busting burgers! No matter what time of day or night you go, you’re likely to see people lining up to get a burger. The burgers are so big it’s best to go on an empty stomach!

Once you’ve got your order, head down to the waterfront where this is a great floating bar on an old boat that has good happy hour drink prices and a BYO food policy. Alternatively, Fergburger is open until late at night, making it the perfect pitstop on the way home after a full night of drinking.

Walter Peak High Country Farm

• Walter Peak High Country Farm is a unique New Zealand experience for all ages
• Perfect family adventure activities.
• Has some incredible afternoon tea.

If you’re keen to slow things down with a short break from an adrenaline-filled Queenstown itinerary, then a stop at Walter Peak High Country Farm is what you need! At Walter Peak, you’ll get a close-up of the high country way of life.

Located across the water on Lake Wakatipu’s south-western shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm is an idyllic place to spend a relaxing few hours. The farm offers a unique farming experience with sheep-shearing demonstrations, encounters with Scottish Highland cattle and afternoon tea.

See the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks or stroll through the lakeside gardens. This is a stop where the whole family can enjoy a unique New Zealand experience!

Ben Lomond Track

• A tough day-hike that rewards you with amazing views at the summit
• For this Queenstown point of interest it’s best to take your own snacks with you
• Some incredible views from the top of the peak

The Ben Lomond track is a tough hiking trail for outdoor enthusiasts who’d prefer to keep their feet on the ground. It’s a full-day hike that can take fit and experienced hikers up to 8 hours round-trip!

For safety reasons, the trail is only open from the beginning of November through until the end of March. The trailhead starts at the top of the Skyline Gondola on Queenstown Hill, which can be accessed via gondola or by foot, starting on the Tiki Trail.

The hike presents amazing views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and across the lake, and they just keep getting better the higher you climb. The route takes you over varied terrain of alpine and wooded landscapes!

At the summit of Ben Lomond, at over 5,500 ft, you’ll be treated to unbeatable views of the surrounding landscape. A fitting reward for your efforts!

Queenstown Mall

• Shop to your heart’s content along Queenstown’s leafy high street
• You can find all the designer labels, small boutiques and sports gear you need
• There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can recharge for your next round of shopping

Queenstown is home to a great variety of fashion boutiques, retail outlets and shopping centers. This cosmopolitan New Zealand resort town has become a shopper’s paradise of late, and has plenty to offer shopaholics and budget-conscious buyers alike!

It’s pretty common to find central shopping locations, or high streets, in New Zealand towns and cities. In New Zealand clusters of retail outlets lining the street are referred to by locals as malls.

Queenstown’s Mall Street is no different, and a walk along the paved walkways will uncover a pleasant showcase of designer boutiques, restaurants, souvenir shops, and international clothing labels. Big brands found on The Mall include yoga giant Lululemon Athletica, Australian retailers Country Road and Witchery, and local lingerie brand, Bendon.

With Queenstown being very compact and walkable, finding another shopping complex is never far away! Once you’re done browsing The Mall and still want more then head to O’Connells Shopping Centre.

O’Connells is found inside a multi-story building, right at the heart of Queenstown. Here you’ll find the iconic sportswear label Canterbury of New Zealand, and the more budget-friendly snow/street fashion outlet Alta.

Peregrine Wines

• A wine farm with a beautiful setting and award-winning wines
• Save some time for a pleasant wine tasting experience at their cellar door
• Admire the architecture as you take a short break from all the adventurous activities on your Queenstown itinerary

Queenstown is a city surrounded by intimate wineries and beautiful vineyards. The area’s microclimate makes it perfect for cultivating a variety of grapes, but it is undoubtedly best known for its Pinot Noir.

A winery visit is a must-do when spending 2 days in Queenstown!

Located in the Gibbston Valley, Peregrine Wine Farm has a beautiful setting with rugged mountains providing a striking background. Peregrine prides itself on growing premium Pinot Noir and white varieties on the estate while using sustainable methods that are kind on the environment. The winery is also actively committed to the conservation of New Zealand’s native bird species.

It’s not just the wine that is stunning here, but the architecture too. The modern tasting room with its roof that resembles a rising wing has also been adorned with an accolade or two. Peregrine’s architecture, wines and hospitality will leave a lasting impression on your 3 days in Queenstown.

The cellar door is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm for wine tasting experiences.

The Lakes District Museum

• This museum tells the story of early inhabitants and historical events in the region
• The displays are very interesting and provide great insight into the town’s past
• Browse the book shop or admire the artworks to round off your museum experience

The Lakes District Museum is appropriately located in the old mining town of Arrowtown. It is surprisingly extensive and is set around three historical buildings, one of which used to be the town’s original bank.

The museum tells the story of early Maori tradition, the arrival of the European settlers and the gold rush era during the 19th century. Historic scenes and structures are accurately recreated, including a grog shanty, blacksmith workshop and a Victorian schoolhouse. There are many exhibits and displays that are interactive and informative, which appeal to both young and old.

There is also an art gallery attached to the museum that showcases old and modern art. Visitors interested in more in-depth stories from the area’s past will find loads of books on offer in the book shop.

A visit to the museum will definitely spark intrigue, so it’s quite handy that the Arrowtown information desk can be found there too. Don’t be shy to ask for tips for exploring the rest of the town or surrounding areas. You can even hire a pan and try your hand at finding gold flakes in the Arrow River!

The museum is open daily from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

The best time to visit Queenstown entirely depends on the reason for your visit.

Weather-wise, the best time to visit would be between December and February when the good weather promotes loads of outdoor activities. If you’re headed over to take advantage of fresh powder on the ski slopes, then a Queenstown trip would be best suited for June or July.

These two reasons – summer weather and the ski season – mean that there are two distinct high seasons in Queenstown.

If you’re looking for adventure and to escape the Northern Hemisphere winter, it’s one of the best places to visit in December for sure.

Spring is known to be the cheapest time of the year for Queenstown travel, as there are many outdoor activities to get busy with but without the peak crowds. Autumn brings the most unpredictable weather in Queenstown, with fluctuating temperatures and the high chance of rain. For this reason, it is best to choose a different time of year to see the city.

Check out the helpful guide below to decide for yourself when to visit Queenstown!

Getting around Queenstown is super easy, as there is a wealth of public transport options available here – depending on your destination, you’ll have your choice of public buses, taxis, shuttles, ferries and water taxies for your next ride.

However, as most of the attractions are outside the city center, I recommend hiring a car and driving, especially as you will need to drive up mountains and hills.

The center of Queenstown is a very walkable city, so if you are staying fairly central then most of the time you may not even opt for motorized transport at all! The most affordable mode of transport is the public buses, which also happens to have the most extensive coverage of Queenstown.

If you plan on staying a while or are predominantly going to take the bus to most of the stops on your Queenstown itinerary, then I suggest investing in a GoCard for public transit. The GoCard reduces every trip to just over $1 USD!

Taking a taxi in Queenstown is a good option when the bus services are no longer running, or if your destination is far from the bus route. Water taxis offer a more direct route across Lake Wakatipu from Steamer Wharf, with multiple jetties dotted around the lake.

Queenstown is a hub for adventure sports, and shuttles to and from some hard-to-reach hiking trails are available. To ensure you get the shuttle you require, it‘s advised to book in advance.

Overall, Queenstown is a safe city with very few things to worry about. However, it is still a good idea to take precautions to ensure your personal safety as many of the people in town are visitors too.

If you have a car, the one thing you may need to watch out for are car break-ins. Wherever you’re parked, it is advisable to lock your doors and don’t leave anything of value within eyeshot.

New Zealand is one of the safest countries for solo travelers, but women should still take the usual precautions for safety both in the city or out in the countryside.

When preparing for a great adventure outdoors it’s advisable to tell someone where you’ll be and what time you expect to be back. Take enough food supplies and pack emergency clothing for adverse weather conditions.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Sometimes you think you just won’t need it… But if and when you do need it, travel insurance can really be a lifesaver.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Queenstown itinerary.

How many days do you need in Queenstown?

The perfect amount of time to spend in Queenstown, in my opinion, is three days.

What should I add to my Queenstown winter itinerary?

Coronet Peak is the ideal place to visit in the winter as it’s a famous skiing and snowboarding park.

What is a must-see attraction in Queenstown?

The Kiwi Birdlife Park is one of my favourite attractions in Queenstown and is perfect for animal lovers.

Is Queenstown worth visiting?

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, so if you like adrenaline fueled holidays, it is definitely worth visiting.

By now you should have all the information you need to have a great vacation in Queenstown!

Queenstown is Otago’s most popular city to visit, and you’ll easily see why. The long list of adventure sports, shopping opportunities, scenic outdoor locations and wineries combine to make Queenstown a great holiday destination!

Queenstown is a fantastic base from which to see more of Otago. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a day trip and go exploring the countryside if you have enough time! For many people, taking a vacation is the highlight of their year. I’m confident that with my help on what to do in Queenstown, it will be the trip of a lifetime for you too!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Quad Biking - Nomad Safaris

Personalised guided Quad biking tour, exploring the trails on Queenstown Hill. All levels catered for - safe, fun & exclusive terrain!

Adventure Air Ziplining - Ziptrek Kea Tour Skydiving - 12000ft Nzone Skydive Mt Cook Scenic Flight - True South Flights Jet Heli Luge Skyline Gondola - High Five Kayaking - Milford Sound Cruise & Kayak Mt Cook Fly & Glacier Explorers - Glenorchy Air Nevis Bungy & Jetboat Combo Thrill Seeker Combo - Oxbow Adventure Co Skydiving & Nevis Swing Combo Milford Sound Fly, Walk, Cruise, Fly Nevis Bungy & Rafting Combo Skydiving & Nevis Bungy Combo Jet Boat & Skydive Combo Nevis Swing & Jet Combo Nevis Swing & Raft Combo Skydiving & Jet Boat Combo Skydiving Jet Heli Raft - Shotover Freefall Helicopter Flight - Earnslaw Burn Express Helicopter Flight - Glacier Express Helicopter Flight - Queenstown Essential Helicopter Flight - Remarkables Scenic Skydiving - Skydive Wanaka Hang Gliding - Skytrek Aerotow Hang Gliding Heli Hike - Flight & Mount Cook Heli Hike from Queenstown Heli Skiing - Alpine Heli Ski 4 Runs Heli Skiing - Alpine Heli Ski 6 Runs Heli Skiing - Harris Mountains Heliski 10 Runs Heli Skiing - Harris Mountains Heliski 4 Runs Heli Skiing - Harris Mountains Heliski 7 Runs Heli Skiing - Harris Mountains Heliski Mt Cook Helicopter Flight - Alpine Scenic Helicopter Golf - Over The Top Helicopter Wine Tour - Altitude Tours Indoor Skydiving - iFLY Airborne Indoor Skydiving - iFLY Family Pack Milford Fly/Cruise/Fly & Dart Jet Combo Milford Sound Heli Cruise Heli - Heliworks Milford Sound Helicopter & Dart River Jet Onsen Hot Pools & Nevis Swing Combo Paragliding - G Force Tandem Paragliding Paragliding - Skytrek Summer Paragliding Parasailing - Solo Paraflight Parasailing - Tandem Paraflight Parasailing - Triple Paraflight Rafting - Landsborough River - 3 days & 2 nights Skydiving & Raft Combo Skydiving - 15000ft Nzone Skydive Skydiving - 9000ft Nzone Skydive Swing Jet Heli Raft - Shotover Canyon Combo Ziplining - Ziptrek Kereru Tour Ziplining - Ziptrek Moa Tour Bungy - Kawarau Bridge Bungy - 43m The Original Bungy - Nevis Bungy Jump - 134m NZ's Highest Nevis Bungy & Swing Combo Nevis Catapult - Worlds Biggest Catapult Nevis Swing Flying Fox - Shotover Canyon Fox Skydiving - Skydive Southern Alps Indoor Skydiving - iFLY Kickstart Private Heli Skiing - Over The Top Ski the Tasman ex Queenstown - True South Shotover Canyon Swing & Canyon Fox Combo Canyon Swing - Shotover

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Queenstown - Adventure

Queenstown New Zealand , is the undisputed adventure capital of the world! Whether it's bungy jumping from a 134m cable car, Ziplining through the forest, throwing yourself out of a plane from 15,000ft, jetboating at 80km/h through the famous Shotover Canyons or heliskiing through the driest powder in the southern hemisphere, you're sure to find an activity that will not only scare your pants off but will also leave you grinning for a year. New Zealand Queenstown is the kind of place where skydiving is as much a tourist attraction as nature walks. In Queenstown New Zealand , the sky is the limit, literally.

A traveller with a taste for adventure has a choice between white water rafting, jet boating, skydiving , horse riding, bungy jumping paragliding, mountain biking, offroading and four wheel driving. Queenstown New Zealand offers dozens of options for fun, adventure and excitement. Whether you crave adventure daily, or just like to have your pants scared off occasionally you will find what you are looking for.

With so much on offer, your hardest decision will be what not to do! New Zealand Queenstown has long been on the map for adrenaline junkies all over the world. Whether you are looking into skiing in Queenstown , or want to go a little harder and bungy jump in Queenstown, with the number of activities available in Queenstown , New Zealand you will never be bored.

However long you plan on spending in Queenstown, double it... and bring plenty of cash, 'cos it's easy to spend up large but I promise, these memories will last a lifetime!! Once you leave Queenstown New Zealand, you will be coming back year after year, and leave a little bit wilder each time.

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Kayaking - Funyaks

A full day option, lunch included. 1.5 hr Jetboat ride through Lord of the Rings country, a 4wd adventure and easy canoeing down the Dart river.

Horse Riding - High Country Horses

Enjoy horseback in the Rees River, Glenorchy surrounded by picturesque mountain views, and glacial fed river-crossings. For beginners to experienced.

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise - RealNZ

Explore Doubtful Sound with a spectacular boat cruise from Manapouri including optional coach transfers from Queenstown

Jet Heli Luge Skyline Gondola - High Five

Includes the Shotover Jet, a scenic helicopter flight with alpine landing, gondola to the top of Skyline Queenstown and ride the Luge.

Awesome Foursome - Bungy Jet Heli Raft

Shotover Jet ride through the Canyons,134 metre AJ Hackett Nevis bungy, thrilling helicopter flight and white water rafting down the Shotover River.

Jet Heli Raft - Shotover Trio

Combine jetboating with Shotover Jet, a helicopter flight over Queenstown and white water rafting down the Shotover River.

Skydiving Jet Heli Raft - Shotover Freefall

Tandem skydive, jetboat through the Shotover Canyons, take a spectacular helicopter flight, and white water raft down the Shotover River.

Jet & Heli - Heliscenic

Includes the Shotover Jet, the world's most exciting jetboat ride and a 20 minute scenic helicopter flight, landing on the summit of The Remarkables.

Paragliding - G Force Tandem Paragliding

Take an exhilarating Tandem Paragliding flight from the top of the Skyline gondola over Queenstown. Look for the 9am early bird special.

Swing Jet Heli Raft - Shotover Canyon Combo

The giant Nevis Swing, a spectacular helicopter flight over Queenstown, jet boating the Shotover River & white water rafting in the Shotover Canyon.

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7 Awesome Things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand @WndrngWrld

Queenstown is located on the South Island of New Zealand , on the shores of the lightning bolt that’s Lake Wakatipu, at the base of the majestic Southern Alps. Almost 3 million visitors are drawn to Queenstown every year, making it one of the most popular spots in New Zealand because there’s a lot of things to do in Queenstown.

Some people just visit to breathe in the fresh mountain air, but we guarantee you there are tons of awesome things to do in Queenstown. Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is the perfect spot to get your adrenaline fix.

However, there’s more to this resort town than extreme sports. From great festivals to awesome hikes, bike trails, and of course shopping and wellness, Queenstown has it all. Whether it’s summer or winter, the surrounding scenery is simply breathtaking, all year round. Convinced yet?

Note: The photos in this post are taken in the fall.

Here are 7 Awesome Things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand

1. Go Bungy Jumping

Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping. You truly can’t leave without trusting a couple of cords to keep you from jumping to your death. There are three options that we know of, with heights ranging from 43 to a whopping 134 meters. All of them are owned and operated by AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand, the first ones in the world to be awarded the ‘S’ mark for exceptional safety and quality assurance. They’ve had over 1.5 million people jumping or swinging, so you can sleep on both ears.

First, there’s the AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy , the first commercial bungy spot in the world, just 20 minutes from Queenstown. Here you jump off of the Kawarau Bridge towards the stunningly blue water of the Kawarau River, 43 meters below. Bonus: the autumn colored scenery adds to the awesomeness of the experience and your photos. You can opt to jump in tandem and/or touch the water.

Not high enough for you? Then try the Nevis Bungy , if you dare. It’s New Zealand’s highest bungy, situated 45 minutes from Queenstown. If you haven’t gotten cold feet by the time you get there, you’ll be jumping towards the Nevis River that’s flowing 134 meters below you.

Still not epic enough for you? Then lastly there’s the Ledge Bungy , the only night bungy site in New Zealand. Situated 400 meters (not a typo) above Queenstown, the views over the lighted city are spectacular. To make your jump even more epic, you can choose a jumping style from their ‘Jump Menu’: a twist, a flip or a handstand? You name it! Unfortunately this option is only available in winter.

Apart from bungy jumping, there are swings and zip rides too, and recently they’ve built the canyon Fox, a swing with a unique rail launch. You can find all the information and pricing on the AJ Hackett and Shotover websites. Bungy Jumping, it’s over in a second, but you leave with eternal bragging rights!

2. Admire the View from The Remarkables Road

In winter, Queenstown becomes a ski resort. People from all over the country (and world) come down to Queenstown to explore one or more of the four major ski areas. One of them is The Remarkables mountain range. When visiting outside of the snow season, you can hike along the ski lifts and head up The Remarkables Road for a scenic drive . This 13 km gravel road is the highest public-access road you can drive in New Zealand, providing jaw-dropping panoramic views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, against a Southern Alps backdrop. About 6 km into the drive there’s a sharp turn, where you’ll see a trig on top of a small hill on your right. If you don’t plan on hiking The Remarkables, you can turn back here, as the views don’t get much better when going higher.

You can also check out these Queenstown ski packages  that are available for all ages and skill levels.

3. Go Flyboarding

Flyboarding isn’t as popular as bungy jumping yet, but it’s up and coming. If you don’t care about getting wet, this might be the best bang for your buck in Queenstown when it comes to extreme sports. What the hell is flyboarding , I hear you think. Well, you’ll be dressed up in a wetsuit, a life vest, and a helmet, and your feet will be strapped to a fly board. After some onshore training by a certified Flyboard instruction, you’re ready to hit the water. The Flyboard on your feet is connected with a jet ski through a hose. The jet ski will basically push the water through the hose, blasting it out of the jet outlets on the bottom side of your Flyboard, lifting you up in the air. If you manage to keep your balance, you’ll be flying like a superhero above the water. Excited yet?

When we visited, Flyboard Queenstown was the only Flyboard operator in Queenstown.

4. Drive the Queenstown – Glenorchy Scenic Drive

The Queenstown – Glenorchy Scenic Drive follows the upper part of the lightning-shaped Lake Wakatipu, all the way up to Glenorchy. This 46 km winding road takes you along a couple of well-marked stops with gorgeous views. About 28 km from Queenstown, right before 25 Mile Creek , there’s a lesser known, but amazing stop.

You can park on this small unsealed road and walk up right to the edge of Lake Wakatipu. There’s a pebble beach, making this spot perfect for some stone skipping, and a fallen tree conveniently positioned to watch the beautiful colours of the sunset behind the mountains. So romantic!

5. Go on a Jet Boat Ride

Can’t get enough of the adventure activities on offer in Queenstown? Here’s another one for you: a Jet Boat Ride. It’s one of the first adventure activities in the history of Queenstown. There are a ton of options for jet boat rides in Queenstown. Prices only differ slightly, and locations go from the Shotover and the Kawarau River, to even Lake Wakatipu. You’ll be speeding through narrow canyons, zigzagging around boulders, and doing 360° spins, only skimming the water beneath the boat. Hold on tight for that wild ride!

6. Hike the Queenstown Hill Time Walk

The Queenstown Hill Time Walk is a gorgeous 2-hour scenic hike . The first part of the trail zigzags uphill through a pine forest, taking you to the open summit area. Along the path, you can find information plaques telling about the history, present, and future of the area. In the end, there’s the Basket of Dreams , an artwork referring to the future. Beyond the Basket of Dreams, there are 360° jaw-dropping panoramic views. For an even better view, continue your hike to the highest point, the Te Tapunui summit, right where there’s a sign “private land.”

7. Stand in Line for an Hour for an Epic Fergburger

Did all those hikes, views and adrenaline rushes make you hungry too? End the day with an epic burger from Fergburger. Granted, there are waiting times of over an hour, but the burgers are worth it! If you can’t bring yourself to waste time to stand in line for a burger, but want to know what all the fuss is about, try a Fergburger for lunch. Waiting times are supposed to be shorter at noon.

Continuing your explorations beyond Queenstown? Check out our blog post 34 Amazing Things to do on the South Island of New Zealand .

Find accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand

Where to stay in queenstown, new zealand.

Road tripping through New Zealand? Park your campervan at Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde

Creeksyde is a great place to stay overnight if you  hired a campervan  in Queenstown . It’s centrally located just a 4-minute walk from Queenstown’s vibrant center and the Skyline Gondola and a 6-minute drive from the Shotover Jet. The Coronet Peak Ski Field is 20 minutes’ drive away.

Set in pretty gardens with Horne Creek running alongside, the property offers fully self-contained motel apartments and ensuite rooms with private bathroom facilities. Guests enjoy free parking. Wireless Internet access plans can be purchased from reception or online via the WiFi login page.

Rather go Glamping on a remote location? Get a heli to Mountainhut.nz

The emphasis is on glamping (glamour camping) and simplicity so you can better experience the exhilaration of sleeping high on Mt Larkins with your friends or family. A wood burner fire keeps the hut warm and cozy. Experience tenting or snow caving around the hut.

Want some more luxury? Let yourself get pampered at Matakauri Lodge

Situated on Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge offers luxury suites and villas, each with a private terrace featuring unspoiled mountain and lake views.

Only a 7-minute drive from the center of Queenstown, and a 15-minute drive from Queenstown International Airport, the Lodge is a wonderful base from which to explore the many experiences and activities for which the town is famed.

Facilities include a luxury day spa, outdoor heated infinity swimming pool with spa pool, and a fully equipped fitness center. The lodge’s stylish shared lounge and dining spaces feature open fireplaces.

Here’s a low-budget and mid-range hotel as well, in case the campsite and glamping hut don’t fit your style or audience:

Absoloot Value Accommodation

This property is 2 minutes walk from the beach. Located on the lakefront in the center of Queenstown, Absoloot Value Accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms.

Absoloot Value Accommodation offers a choice of private rooms and dormitories. Every room has an en-suite bathroom and security card entry.

Millennium Hotel Queenstown

This property is 6 minutes walk from the beach located in central Queenstown. The hotel is a short walk to the local shopping and entertainment areas. Millennium Hotel Queenstown enjoys a central location offering great access to the Coronet Peak, Remarkables, and the Cardrona Ski-fields.

All rooms at Millennium Rooms are air-conditioned with separate seating areas and writing desks. It offers spacious, elegant rooms featuring marble bathrooms. Guests receive complimentary bathroom amenities during their stay.

About the Writer

From there they started their round the world trip, exploring SE Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and North America, before heading back home exactly 11 months and a week later. Scuba diving and Thai food are just two of the passions they discovered on that epic trip. Although they’re back home now, both working on Brecht’s growing online business, they keep wandering the world from their home base in Belgium, documenting everything on their travel blog Wandering the World .

Social Media:  Facebook: Wandering the World Instagram: @wandering.world Twitter: @WndrngWrld

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2 thoughts on “ 7 Awesome Things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand @WndrngWrld ”

Great article with some amazing ideas! I’m looking forward to going to Queenstown soon, thank you for the advice and great pictures!

Queenstown certainly is the South Island’s hub for adventurous activities! I loved the time that I spent in Queenstown and in fact the entire South Island. There was almost never a dull moment, with an abundance of beautiful sights to see.

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor

Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

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Queenstown is an incredible natural playground providing a range of sights to see and things to do for all styles of travel.

Each of the  seasons  has its own special vibe in Queenstown, and most activities can be accessed all year round. World-renowned for its  adventure , Queenstown is home to a huge choice of adrenaline activities including  jet boating ,  bungy jumping , white water  rafting ,  skydiving  and even  indoor thrills  – all guaranteed to get your blood pumping! 

In the cooler months Queenstown transforms into a world-class winter resort, with four  ski areas  and a range of activities,  bars ,  restaurants  and ways to relax and unwind.

You can even combine a round of  golf  one morning with a tour of some of our Gibbston  wineries  to discover why Central Otago Pinot Noir is famous on the world stage.

If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace there’s plenty of  recreational activities  to be found, including  hiking  and  biking  trails to explore, guided tours,  boat cruises ,  scenic flights  or  spa  and  wellness  options to help you relax and unwind.

Discover things to do in Queenstown below.

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10 Queenstown Travel Tips for First-Timers [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, tips for visiting queenstown.

Queenstown is its own little bubble. The buzzing tourist town sits on the edge of the grand Lake Wakatipu surrounded by majestic mountains and harbouring an array of exciting activities. It has its set of quirks and trends unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. With that in mind, we’ve put together this list of Queenstown travel tips for first-timers, that will be useful for international and local visitors alike.

If you need more general travel tips in your life, be sure to check out the 31 Tips for Travelling in New Zealand . Oh, and you might want to bookmark  The Complete Travel Guide to Queenstown – that will be handy.

1. There’s More to Queenstown than Bungy Jumping

Queenstown might have a name for itself being the “adventure capital”, but many first-timers don’t realise just how much there is to do in this town. Wine tours , lake cruises, hiking trails , helicopter flights , golf courses , bike trails, snowsports , nightlife , day trips to national parks, white water rafting, jet boating and paragliding are all on the activity menu here, and that’s barely the half of it. Take a look at some of our Queenstown articles to see what’s really available to do in Queenstown. That way, you’ll leave with no regrets. Good places to start include the 20 Epic Adventure Activities in Queenstown and  45 Best Things to Do in Queenstown .

2. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely

The accommodation offering in Queenstown is extensive and can be a little overwhelming. There are accommodation options from luxury hotels to backpacker joints; from the town centre to a lengthy bus ride away from the town centre. We’ve made your research a little easier by compiling our top Queenstown accommodation picks into different travel styles. Check out these listicles to find the perfect accommodation for you:

• The 50 Best Accommodations in Queenstown
• 10 Best Hotels in Queenstown
• 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Luxury Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Family Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Romantic Accommodation in Queenstown
• 10 Best Accommodation in Queenstown for Foodies
• Where to Camp in Queenstown
• 5 Free Camping Spots in Queenstown

3. Book Your Accommodation as Soon as Possible

Speaking of accommodation, make sure you book your accommodation as soon as possible! Even with the huge amount of accommodations available, the town can get booked up quickly especially in summer , during the school holidays , and for the Queenstown Winter Festival .

4. Freedom Camping is a No-No

For those that are road-tripping around New Zealand in a campervan, campercar or motorhome, be aware of the strict freedom camping rules in Queenstown. You cannot park up and camp for free for the night anywhere in Queenstown. In fact, even if you park your campervan in a public car park on an evening and are not sleeping in it, you’re still likely to receive a fine. For camping in Queenstown, you can either stay in a holiday park or return your rental campervan to a Queenstown depot while staying in the town.

See rental companies with Queenstown depots in The Best Campervan Rental Companies in Queenstown , as well as safe places to camp in  Where to Camp in Queenstown .

5. Don’t Visit Too Early for the Ski Season

For those seeking some snow, Queenstown has an epic ski season. But a mistake that first-timers make is booking a ski holiday too early in the season. While ski fields may be open from mid- June /early July , that doesn’t mean that all the trails are open. You’ll be paying full price for a lift pass to use only a fraction of the ski field. We recommend waiting until August to get the best conditions for a ski holiday. Find out more in The Ultimate Guide to the Queenstown Ski Season .

6. Know How to Get Around

Queenstown might have a small town centre, but its suburbs are spread far and wide, as are its activities. The first mistake that first-timers make is that they think they will have to find their way to most activities. This is not the case, as most activity providers provide pick-ups or have a central Queenstown transport to their activity for free (usually at the Station Building on the corner of Duke and Shotover Street). Second, if you’re staying outside of the town centre, then know that some suburbs are up to 1-2 hours walk away. Bus services and taxis are available, so take a look at Public Transport in Queenstown for more tips.

7. Pack a Jacket

Needless to say that you will need to pack warm clothing for Queenstown in the winter season (June-August). However, even in summer (December-February), it’s smart to have some warm layers, like a jacket, with you. While Queenstown experiences warm and long sunny days during summer, it can get pretty chilly when the sun goes down or is stuck behind a cloud all day.

Get more packing tips in What Clothes to Pack to Travel in New Zealand , as well as the right weather expectations from  Queenstown Weather & Climate: What is the Weather Like in Queenstown?

8. Keep an Eye on Your Budget

Queenstown is one of the most expensive towns in New Zealand. Your budget can easily spiral out of control if you do a paid activity every day. We recommend filling out some of your time with some of the free and cheap activities to do in Queenstown. See our recommendations in 30 Free or Cheap Things to do in Queenstown , as well as more money-saving tips in   The Travel Guide to Queenstown on a Budget .

9. Don’t Queue for a Fergburger

Ah, the famous Fergburger . Everyone knows about this burger joint with its oversized burgers, but first-timers tend to not know that you don’t have to join the hour-long queue to order your burger. Just have a look at the menu outside of the burger takeaway, place your order at 03 441 1232 and pick your burger up later. Alternatively, Devil Burger also does outstanding oversized burgers. See more recommendations in The Top Cheap Eats in Queenstown .

10. Rent a Car for at Least Part of Your Stay

If Queenstown is your main base for your holiday in New Zealand, then we fully recommend taking the time to get out of its little bubble and see some of the real New Zealand. Rent a car or a campervan and do a road trip to Milford Sound (over a couple of days – if you want to do it in one day, take one of the 10 Best Milford Sound Tours from Queenstown instead). Take a day trip to historic Arrowtown or scenic Wanaka . Take a trip down the Kawarau Gorge and the Gibbston Valley to stop at some wineries . The list goes on!

Take a look at some of The Best Car Rental Companies in Queenstown or  The Best Campervan Rental Companies in Queenstown , as well as places to visit in  The Best Day Trips from Queenstown .

More About Queenstown

And that’s just a concise list of our Queenstown travel tips! See the following guides for more advice for first-timers:

• The Complete Travel Guide to Queenstown
• The Food Guide to Queenstown: Places to Eat & Food Tours
• The Travel Guide to Queenstown for Families
• The Travel Guide to Queenstown on a Budget
• The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Queenstown
• The Luxury Travel Guide to Queenstown
• Queenstown – Guide for Backpackers

Finally, plan the rest of your travels around the South Island using the  South Island in Two Weeks: Road Trip Itinerary and South Island in One Week: Road Trip Itinerary .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Queenstown New Zealand (Regional tourism website)
• Queenstown Lakes District Council (Local council website)
• Otago Regional Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Related posts, the travel guide to queenstown for families [2024], the best time to visit queenstown, 20 things to do in queenstown with kids 👪 [2024], 10 best luxury experiences in queenstown 🥂 [2024], 13 best foodie experiences in queenstown 🍔 [2024], 15 best things to do in glenorchy: activities, tours & hikes ⛰️ [2024], recommended for you, otago – guide for backpackers, 20 best things to do on stewart island 🔥 [2024], 10 best things to do in murchison, destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Queenstown, New Zealand

These are the best places to stay, dine, and experience in Queenstown.

Amy Louise Bailey is a freelance content creator and media specialist. Her work has been published in Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , Elle , Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Pursuits , and Robb Report .

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Queenstown is revered for its stunning scenery, snowcapped mountains, and thrilling adventures that draw visitors from around the world. The town a must on any New Zealand itinerary — and for good reason. It’s extremely safe, easy to navigate, and there are great accommodation options at various price points.

It's also the nation’s most popular ski destination and a gateway to pristine terrain, including Cardrona , Coronet Peak , and The Remarkables — each open seasonally from June through October.  But Queenstown is equally magnificent during the summer months, when it’s warm enough to swim in Lake Wakatipu and wander around the beautiful Queenstown Gardens .

As Destination Queenstown’s chief executive Mat Woods points out, "Spring and summer are the perfect time to explore it all." He adds, "[Visitors can] choose from multiday hikes or short walks , explore over 130 kilometers of Queenstown trails on two wheels, play at one of eight spectacular golf courses, or wine and dine around Queenstown’s award-winning wineries and breweries."

That’s another major highlight: the flourishing (and scenic) local wine industry, with vineyards nestled into dramatic landscapes like an alpine version of Tuscany. Six subregions account for wine production in the Central Otago region, but most people gravitate toward Amisfield in Lake Hayes for leisurely alfresco lunches and its signature pinot noir. And if you’re into the après-ski scene or seeking a lively restaurant, the dining in central Queenstown is world-class. 

There's something for everyone in this supremely beautiful playground, and ahead, we've outlined the best ways to experience it.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Queenstown is New Zealand's adventure capital, where bungee jumping was born and a variety of thrill-seeking activities can be found.
• Some of the country's most impressive luxury hotels are located in Queenstown, including The Carlin, which offers airport transfers via Bentley, Porsche, or Maserati.
• Oenophiles can explore a range of rustic yet sophisticated wineries that boast award-winning pinot noirs.
• Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy skiing, hiking, cycling trails, and boating amid spectacularly scenic landscapes.
• The food scene is excellent, from Michelin-star dining to delicious casual spots serving burgers and pies.

Matakauri is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular luxury lodges, so it’s no surprise it was recently added to Rosewood’s star-studded portfolio. The intimate, 13-room lakeside retreat is located 10 minutes from the main city center, allowing guests to immerse themselves in unparalleled peace and quiet and enjoy otherworldly views of The Remarkables.

Rosewood Matakauri

Eichardt’s private hotel.

Eichardt’s has long been the grande dame of Queenstown, located in a prime position in the city center, right on Lake Wakatipu. The building itself is a historic masterpiece that could be mistaken for a former castle, but interiors exemplify modern opulence, with cozy fireplaces, plush furnishings, and sprawling marble bathrooms with heated flooring — lovely in the snowy winter months.

Courtesy of QT Queenstown

QT Queenstown

QT made its New Zealand debut with this Queenstown location, blending its playful brand of luxury with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. Rooms include millennial-friendly amenities such as Dyson Airwraps, cocktail-making stations, Chromecast, Kevin Murphy bath products, and contemporary decor with neon accents — photogenic backdrops for the inevitable big nights that follow.

The Carlin has redefined luxury hospitality in the South Pacific. Owner Kevin Carlin set out to create a "beyond five-star hotel experience of luxury, fine dining, health, and wellness," and that next-level vision is evident before guests even arrive, with access to a private jet and airport transfers via Bentley, Porsche, or Maserati. Inside, the ultra-luxe theme continues, and on weekends, Carlin, who is an esteemed concert pianist, plays at the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant, Oro .

Blanket Bay

Although it’s a 40-minute drive from central Queenstown, Blanket Bay is one of the country’s most impressive luxury lodges and a destination in and of itself where people can truly disconnect. The rustic retreat is situated in Glenorchy, on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with knockout views of the Humboldt Mountains and an excellent restaurant. Rooms are available in the main lodge, along with stand-alone chalets and sprawling villas for those seeking more privacy (ideal for multigenerational groups). 

InSydeMedia/Getty Images

Book a helicopter tour.

"Taking a helicopter ride to the west coast and into the Fiordland, with panoramic views of the glaciers and rain forest, is absolutely magical," explains Hoss Vetry, vice president of operations for APAC at Rosewood. And Over The Top is hands-down the best local provider, hosting tours from a state-of-the-art Eurocopter, which features a glass front that allows for maximum views. Passengers will experience postcard-worthy locations that are usually inaccessible: sky-high peaks in the Southern Alps, rustic beaches, and the main highlight, flying over the Milford Sound — one of New Zealand’s most famous natural wonders.

Get an adrenaline rush on the Shotover Jet.

Carving through the Shotover River in a speedboat has long been one of Queenstown’s most popular adventure activities. It’s an adrenaline rush from the moment you step on and strap in, zipping through narrow gorges and canyons at 50 mph, making 360-degree spins along the way. While this is one of the more famous things to do in Queenstown, there are many similar adventures worth trying.

Embark on one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.

If you’re into hiking, three of New Zealand’s Great Walks are accessible from Queenstown — Routeburn Track, Kepler Track, and Milford Track. Not only are these multiday expeditions excellent exercise, they’re also a great way to see the country’s natural beauty up close. Bookings are required and can be made via the Department of Conservation . 

Hit the ski fields.

Queenstown is the most popular ski destination in the country (along with Wanaka, located a 50-minute drive away), and in the winter season, which runs from June through October, skiers and snowboarders flood in to hit the slopes. Whether you consider yourself a beginner or advanced, there are several locations that are suitable for varying levels of ability; check out Cardrona , Treble Cone , Coronet Peak , or The Remarkables . Or, if you prefer heli-skiing, Southern Lakes Heliski is a great local provider with access to 800 runs across seven mountain ranges.

Go wine tasting.

Whether you like group tours or prefer to explore at your own pace, it’s worth allocating a day to exploring Queenstown’s world-class wineries. One of the best providers is Queenstown Wine Trail (which offers group and private tours), but if you’re doing it on your own, the ones to prioritize are Amisfield , Kinross , Gibbston Valley , and Rippon in Wanaka (the site of many destination weddings). 

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Queenstown’s retail scene has been elevated with the redevelopment of O’Connells in the city center, which contains a two-level DFS department store with internationally renowned brands such as Kenzo, Tom Ford, Stella McCartney, La Mer, Chloe, and Gucci Beauty, along with an array of local designers. It also has an excellent food court on the lower level called Eatspace , featuring street food-style vendors and a variety of international cuisines. 

Angel Divine

This multibrand boutique has a well-curated collection of women’s designer fashion, shoes, and accessories. Here, you’ll find everything from Frame denim to Ulla Johnson dresses to Veja walking shoes. It also has a selection from some of New Zealand’s most famous designers, including footwear darling, Kathryn Wilson, plus Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Karen Walker, and Zambesi. 

Remarkable Sweet Shop

A treat for children and adults alike, the Remarkable Sweet Shop is a haven for candy and some of the best homemade fudge you’ll ever try. It's particularly famous for its crème brulée fudge, as well as its distinctly Kiwi flavors, like rocky road and white chocolate raspberry ripple — the perfect gift to bring back home.

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton’s Queenstown boutique is a prime example of design that complements the environment, appearing like an alpine gallery with a floating fireplace and its signature handbags displayed like art. It has a destination-appropriate collection of bags, accessories, and leather goods, should you feel like a splurge, and is conveniently located right below Eichardt’s ultra-luxe penthouse on Marine Parade.

Seletti Concept Store

Seletti is a chic concept store with a selection of contemporary European fashion brands, including Isabel Marant, Anine Bing, and Ganni, plus some of the most stylish furniture and entertaining goods around. There are locations in both Queenstown and Arrowtown. 

Bardeaux has been the place for cocktails since I was a student studying nearby in the early 2000s. It’s a cozy, elegant bar with a huge fireplace, comfortable seating, and everything from local wines to expertly mixed cocktails and whiskeys. The music is always great, as is the crowd.

Barmuda has a similar vibe to Bardeaux and is located conveniently nearby on Searle Lane, just a one-minute walk away. Here, you’ll find everything from local wine and beer to cocktails that can be enjoyed indoor or in the courtyard, should the weather permit. And if you’re visiting later in the evening, DJs usually play well into the night. 

Eichardt’s Bar

In addition to offering world-class cocktails, Eichardt’s Bar has an excellent tapas menu, which, in my opinion, is some of the best food in Queenstown. The setting is cozy and intimate, with plush seating and a crackling fireplace. Order the Treacle Cherry Smoke for a bit of drama. 

Botswana Butchery

With a warm ambience and decadent menu, Botswana Butchery is a popular restaurant that's worth booking in advance. It’s located just across from Eichardt’s on Marine Parade, and it’s a great place to experience traditional New Zealand cuisine. Here, you’ll find a variety of seafood and meat dishes, including delicious clam chowder, oysters, lamb, and crispy duck. 

If you’re looking for fine dining, Rata is an excellent option, launched by one of New Zealand’s most famous Michelin-star chefs, Josh Emett. A la carte options are available, but the tasting menu — which includes locally sourced specialties like crayfish croustade, wagyu sirloin, and blue cod — is recommended.

For something casual you can take away, opt for Fergburger . It has been an institution for more than 20 years, serving some of the most delicious burgers with fresh, local ingredients. The menu is extensive and includes classic beef burgers alongside chicken, vegetarian, pork, fish, and even venison options. It’s so popular, you’ll need to time your visit to avoid getting stuck in an hour-long line. 

Jervois Steak House

This renowned Auckland restaurant recently opened within the confines of the glossy Sofitel Queenstown, serving its signature steaks along with a variety of seafood options and a six-course degustation menu. The wine and cocktails are also top-notch.

Madam Woo is a lively restaurant with delicious Malaysian-meets-Asian-fusion cuisine and aromatic cocktails. Some of the best dishes include the beef rendang , prawn dumplings, and the nasi lemak (a Malaysian specialty). It’s centrally located and always has a vibrant atmosphere.

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"Queenstown is a year-round destination, so there's always something exciting happening," explains Vetry. "November to March tends to be the busiest for international travelers, while April to May is a great time to visit for calm weather, fewer crowds, and the famous fall Arrowtown leaves. Our springtime — September to October — is another beautiful time of year, when the air is crisp and there's still snow on the mountains. For ski lovers, July through September offer the best conditions. We tend to have mild winters, so you can ski in the morning and play a round of golf or enjoy a winery lunch in the afternoon."

In June, the area celebrates Matariki, the Maori new year and the newest public holiday. Vetry adds, "Travelers visiting during this time can join the Winter Lights Festival and see the Matariki constellation rise over the mountains near dawn for a genuinely uplifting cultural experience. Additionally, in June, the light festival Luma will thrill travelers of all ages."

The best way to get there is to fly into Queenstown Airport , and Air New Zealand has multiple flights from various domestic cities each day (there are also direct routes from Sydney across the ditch in Australia, on Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar). Most travelers take a flight from Auckland, which takes just under two hours. Once you reach the airport, there are taxis and car rental companies, or if you’re staying at one of the hotels listed, transfers are available. But if you’re embarking on a bigger South Island road trip , it’s easily accessible by car and has some gorgeous views, whether you’re coming from Dunedin or further afield.

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This historic gold mining town is something out of a storybook, with a strip lined with quaint boutiques, eateries, and art galleries. It’s only a 20-minute drive from central Queenstown, making for a lovely day trip. "Travelers who like to hike should explore the walking trails from Arrowtown Village up into the beautiful hills," advises Vetry. "Upon completing the hike, you can grab a cocktail, craft beer, or local wine at The Blue Door in Arrowtown, a location that's the dictionary definition of a hidden gem."

"Glenorchy is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Walkers, photographers, and adventurers have all found themselves captivated by this amazing wilderness and a quieter way of life," explains Gabriella Diaz, Imperium Collection's operations manager. Another lovely way to explore it is by TSS Earnslaw , a historic boat that does multiple tours a day. "It’s a fantastic afternoon at any age,” Diaz adds. “Their barbecue dinner at Walter Peak, alongside a visit to their farm, takes you back to the historical farming lifestyle and offers an appreciation of the hardworking team who helped New Zealand farming become a thriving industry.”

"For those who like biking, a cycle ride through Gibbston Valley wine region is the perfect way to [taste] the area’s world-class wines," says Vetry. In addition to wineries, it’s also home to the historic Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, the site of the world’s first commercial bungee jump. If you’re looking for an exhilarating activity, book a bungee or swing , or for something slightly less daunting, a zip-lining ride is an equally fun option. 

"The beauty of Queenstown is that once you've arrived, you don’t need independent transport as most of the activity operators provide transfers as part of their experiences," advises Woods. Diaz agrees, adding, "You don't need a car to stay within Queenstown itself — everything is within walking distance, and there are transport options are plenty." Those options include the following:

Rental Cars: There are several car rental companies conveniently located at Queenstown Airport, so you can rent a vehicle on arrival. Sixt is our go-to, with the best customer service and car options, but there are other companies, too, including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz.

Bus: Buses are clean and reliable and offer connections near and far. They are a popular option for commuters coming into Queenstown each day. The timetables are viewable here .

Ferries: Ferries are available, but they're more geared toward locals in the broader region who are commuting in to work in central Queenstown — more residential areas rather than attractions. The timetables can be viewed here .

Taxis: Queenstown Taxis offers an easy way to get around. The company is available 24/7 and has the largest fleet of cars in Queenstown, but it can be quite expensive.

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California Governor Newsom launches abortion travel ban ad campaign in Alabama

By Dave Pehling

Updated on: April 22, 2024 / 1:41 PM PDT / CBS San Francisco

California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking aim at states considering abortion travel bans with the launch of a new ad campaign.

Newsom's Campaign for Democracy ad is set to air in Alabama starting Monday. The governor tweeted out the ad in a social media post Sunday morning.

Alabama’s abortion ban has no exceptions for rape or incest. Now, Republicans are trying to criminalize young women’s travel to receive abortion care. We cannot let them get away with this. pic.twitter.com/gHbYJYlEXk — Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) April 21, 2024

The text with the video post reads, "Alabama's abortion ban has no exceptions for rape or incest. Now, Republicans are trying to criminalize young women's travel to receive abortion care. We cannot let them get away with this."

The 30-second commercial shows two nervous young women driving in a car passing a sign that reads "State Line 1 Mile." 

"We're almost there. You're gonna make it," the passenger tells the woman behind the wheel just before they hear a siren and are pulled over by a state trooper.

"Trump Republicans want to criminalize young Alabama women who travel for reproductive care," a voiceover says as the state trooper walks up to the car.

"Miss, I'm going to need you to step out of the vehicle and take a pregnancy test," the trooper says, waving a test stick in one hand. The next shot shows the driver leaning on the hood of her car as the trooper puts her in handcuffs.

"Stop them by taking action at RightToTravel.org ," the voiceover intones as the ad ends.

Alabama is currently weighing a bill that would make it a crime to help women travel outside the state in order to receive an abortion. The ad is part of a larger effort to combat travel bans across the United States. Newsom was behind a similar ad that ran in Tennessee.

The RightToTravel.org website says that those two states and Oklahoma are considering bills that ban minors from traveling out of state to get an abortion without parental consent, even if it's a case of incest or if there is abuse in the family.

It isn't the first action the governor has taken in the political battle over abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June of 2022. Two days after the ruling, Newsom partnered with the governors of Oregon and Washington to issue a multi-state commitment promising to defend access to reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives.

In September of that year, he launched a billboard campaign in seven of the most restrictive anti-abortion states urging women seeking the procedure to come to California for treatment. He also signed more than a dozen new abortion laws  protecting women's reproductive rights and ordered the state to end its contract with Walgreens after the pharmacy giant  indicated it would not sell an abortion pill by mail in some conservative-led states . 

• Gavin Newsom
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Dave Pehling started his journalism career doing freelance writing about music in the late 1990s, eventually working as a web writer, editor and producer for KTVU.com in 2003. He moved to CBS to work as the station website's managing editor in 2015.

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In 2024, The MICHELIN Guide is announcing the first ever MICHELIN Keys — a brand new distinction that recognizes the most outstanding hotels across the world. Head here for everything you need to know about the new Key distinction, and visit this page to explore the full list of Key hotels in the United States.

The Three Key distinction is the highest hotel honor in The MICHELIN Guide. Earning One Key (80 properties) or Two Keys (33 properties) is difficult enough, but only 11 hotels earned Three Keys in the United States. Of those, four can be found in New York City. The Three Key hotels excel in all five criteria used to judge hotels by our Inspectors. But in this series , we thought it fitting to focus on just one of those criteria — the most photogenic of the five — architecture and interior design. Below, take a look at the interiors and exteriors of each of our four Three Key hotels in New York City.

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The Chic Home: French styling for couple’s Queenstown condo unit

Home & Decor

SINGAPORE – As an interior designer, Ms Vivian Chen believes that everything built in a home needs to serve a purpose, and it is important to strike a balance between function and form.

“To me, the aesthetic is like the book cover and the functional aspect, the content. The two go hand in hand and, together, they make up a book,” says the design director of home-grown studio Muwu Construction.

This philosophy guides all her projects and, of course, her own home – a 635 sq ft condominium unit in Stirling Road which she shares with her husband, financial adviser Michael Chan, and their dog. The couple are in the 20s to 30s age group.

Every space, cabinet and piece of furniture is designed and selected to address a specific need in the couple’s daily routines and habits – right down to the exact spot for keys, where the vacuum cleaner should go and where to stash snacks.

As they purchased the unit from the developer, the finishes and fittings were all new. They retained the built-in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, bathroom fittings and doors.

Some new carpentry and lights were added, and the existing tiled floor was overlaid with vinyl that matched the existing doors. The rest was styling.

Ms Chen likes French vintage style, but never had the chance to try it out until she got her own place.

“As it is the first time I am working with this style, I had to figure out the wainscoting aspects, the proportions and other details,” she says. “It was also a challenge to try and match the finishes and fittings provided by the developer.”

She also took into consideration her husband’s preference for having minimal loose furniture within the home, and opted for built-in as far as possible.

“I like to have a fixed, allocated space for everything so that when I come home, it is all where it was before and not all over the place,” he says. The second bedroom has been set aside for his racing simulators, and doubles as a guest room.

Earthy tones such as cream and brown have been applied on most of the walls, new built-in cabinets, furniture and flooring, complemented by teal on the wainscoting wall behind the sofa.

The renovation works, which cost about $20,000, took around a month. The couple moved into the home in September 2022.

Ms Chen says working on her own home has helped her become a better designer. “The questions that I asked myself as I designed our home, I now also ask my clients.”

This, she adds, helps her approach each project with a clearer sense of purpose.

• This article first appeared in Home & Decor Singapore. Go to homeanddecor.com.sg for more beautiful homes, space-saving ideas and interior inspiration.

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