Adam Ford
While it’s renowned as New Zealand’s ski and adventure capital, Queenstown on the South Island has much broader appeal for travellers.
There’s something infinitely special about this relaxed city that cascades down the lower slopes of the surrounding Remarkables towards the shimmering emerald waters of Lake Wakatipu. At just on three hours flying time from Australia’s east coast, and with a cosmopolitan food and wine scene, a healthy number of cultural attractions, excellent shopping, and of course, plenty of adventure activities to get the pulse racing, there really is something for everyone here. One million visitors a year can’t be wrong!
Here are some tips for getting the most from your visit to Queenstown.
What’s the best time to visit Queenstown?
There’s no wrong time to visit this year-round destination. That said, summer is peak season and you’re likely to pay a premium for your accommodation. In winter, the town fills with skiers and snowboarders – predominantly from Australia – so again, expect to pay more for a place to stay. To avoid the crowds and higher prices, consider a spring or autumn visit. You’ll have more room to move, and you can enjoy the dramatic changing of the seasons (which is spectacular in this part of the world).
Where are the best spots to stay?
From hotels and hostels, to apartments, lodges, and of course Airbnbs, the accommodation options in Queenstown are many. Opt for a room with a lake view – it may cost a bit more, but you won’t be sorry! If you’re not going to have access to a vehicle during your stay, try and base yourself in and around the city centre. If you are going to stay a little further out of town, check whether the accommodation of your choice operates a shuttle bus and what it costs per trip.
For a contemporary lakeside stay, Oaks Shores offers one, two and three-bedroom apartment-style accommodation. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated. Closer to town, Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown is defined by Alpine styling, magnificent lake views, and your choice from a variety of spacious room types and suites – many of which have full kitchen facilities.
What about good places to eat?
The culinary scene in Queenstown full of creativity, innovation, and enthusiasm – and while this is a tourist mecca, standards are high and complacency is low. For stylish dining, impeccable service, and a superb wine list, book a table at Rata in the city centre. You’ll enjoy Michelin-starred celebrity chef Josh Emett’s take on slow cooked southern NZ classics.
Located just a few minutes’ drive from the city, on arrival you just know you’re in for something special at Sherwood. This upcycled motel complex has an onsite eatery that’s an absolute must-try. There’s a very strong emphasis on local produce, a really inventive menu, and impeccable presentation.
For amazing Malaysian and Chinese hawker-style cuisine, make your way to Madam Woo and try the mouth-watering Hawker Rolls!
Can you recommend some things to do?
Whatever your age, you should get into the gnarly vibe and give one or two adventure activities a go while in Queenstown. AJ Hackett’s original bungee jump over the Kawarau River is an iconic option – but for something slightly less extreme, book a seat on Shotover Jet’s jet boat ride along the twisting Shotover River. Jet boats are a New Zealand invention and this activity will see you ducking and weaving through the narrowest of ravines and gorges. It’s fast, furious, fun – and wet!
Exploring the local wine scene is also a must-do during your stay. The surrounding Otago region is known for pinot noir, chardonnay, pinot gris, and riesling. Book a wine tour with Queenstown Wine Trail Tours and visit a number of cellar doors, including historic Chard Farm and Gibbston Valley – home to New Zealand’s largest wine cave.
Adam Ford is editor of the Top Oz Tours & Travel Ideas website and a Daylesford-based travel TV presenter, writer, blogger, and photographer. He has travelled extensively through Europe, Asia, North America, Africa, and the Middle East. Adam hosts the top rating YouTube channel Oz and Beyond Travel Series and the fortnightly Travel Show (Wednesdays at 10am) with Robyn Rogers on Hepburn Radio.
