Queenstown: a first-timer's guide to the adventure capital

Why visit Queenstown

Queenstown packs more scenery and things to do into a small area than almost anywhere in New Zealand. In summer you can hike, bike, kayak and cruise; in winter it becomes a ski town with four ski areas within reach. It is busy, lively and international, and it is the easiest base for Fiordland.

In and around town

The Skyline gondola climbs Bob's Peak for the classic view over the lake and town, with a luge track and restaurant at the top. Down by the water, the century-old TSS Earnslaw steamship cruises across the lake to Walter Peak, a high country farm. Queenstown Gardens, on a peninsula beside the town centre, is a peaceful place for a walk.

For walkers, the Queenstown Hill track is a moderate climb with fine views, and the Ben Lomond Track is a full day hike to a summit high above the lake. Moke Lake, a short drive away, has an easy loop walk with mountain reflections.

Adventure

The Kawarau Bridge is where commercial bungy jumping began, and there are higher jumps and canyon swings nearby. The Shotover Jet spins through a narrow river canyon. Paragliding, skydiving, white water rafting and mountain biking are all on offer. Choose established operators, follow their safety briefings and check what your travel insurance covers.

Arrowtown and Glenorchy

Arrowtown, a twenty minute drive, is a well preserved gold rush village with tree lined streets, cafés and a small restored settlement where Chinese miners once lived. It is especially beautiful in autumn. Glenorchy, forty five minutes along a spectacular lakeside road, is a tiny settlement at the head of the lake surrounded by mountains, and the start of the Routeburn Track.

Wine country

The Gibbston Valley, on the road to Cromwell, is part of the Central Otago wine region, known for pinot noir. Many wineries offer tastings and lunches, and you can cycle between some on the Queenstown Trail.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound, in Fiordland National Park, is the most famous day trip from Queenstown. By road it is a long day, roughly four hours each way through Te Anau and the Homer Tunnel, followed by a cruise beneath waterfalls and sheer cliffs. Scenic flights are quicker. Te Anau is a good overnight stop to break the journey. Milford Road can close for avalanche risk, snow or slips, so check road conditions with the NZ Transport Agency before you go.

Winter and skiing

Coronet Peak and The Remarkables are the closest ski areas, with Cardrona and Treble Cone near Wānaka. The season usually runs from June to early October.

Food and drink

Queenstown has a big dining scene for its size, from the famous Fergburger to fine dining and winery restaurants. Book dinners ahead in peak season.

Getting there and around

Queenstown Airport has flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, plus Australia. Orbus public buses connect the airport, town, Frankton and Arrowtown, and water taxis cross the lake. Roads in the area are narrow and winding, and in winter you may need snow chains.

Planning tips

Queenstown is popular and accommodation fills up in summer, ski season and school holidays. Allow three to five days, including one for Milford Sound. See places to visit for our picks and use the free trip planner to fit Queenstown into a South Island route.