Queenstown

The magical scenic flight every Kiwi should do

Flying with this little scenic airline might just be the most magical four hours you'll spend on Earth. You'll race down Queenstown Airport's short runway and launch into the sky near Lake Hayes, turn above Coronet Peak, then head into the glaciated heart of the Southern Alps. It's hard to appreciate the sheer scale of the mountains in this part of the world, without flying among hundreds of peaks. Read more

Soak in a candle-lit hot tub

Certainly one the best ways to enjoy some “me time” (or indeed “couple time”) is just a short 10-minute drive from downtown Queenstown. The Onsen Hot Pools opened in 2007 with a mission to bring Japanese bathing traditions to New Zealand. Since then, the pools and day spa have been catering to the weary muscles of skiers, hikers or just locals and tourists who need to get away from it all. There’s a range of indoor and outdoor cedar hot tubs, but the biggest decision you’ll have is whether to have a glass of still or sparkling wine. Read more

Ride inside a giant mechanical shark

If you've spent any time on Queenstown waterfront, you would have probably seen a sizeable mechanical shark flying around the lake. It's called Hydro Attack, described as a mix between a fighter jet and a torpedo. During the 20-minute trip, you'll skim along the surface of Lake Wakatipu up to 80 kilometres per hour. You'll do rolls, the shark will dive up to two metres underwater and then leap out up to six. Read more

The most iconic Queenstown adventure activities

You can't visit the adventure capital of the world without having an adventure. There’s something in the air in Queenstown that inspires visitors to not just step, but leap out of their comfort zones, with thrills to be had above the clouds, in the water, and on land. From zooming down one of the world’s steepest ziplines to throwing yourself off a ledge with nothing more than a piece of elastic around your ankles, many of these crazy experiences were dreamed up right here – and they’ve been doing it for ages. Read more

New Zealand's most picturesque tiny town

When in Queenstown, there is one side trip you can't miss. A drive to Glenorchy, on the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, is a feast for the eyes. First, you get to enjoy the spectacular road that weaves along the lakeside with mountains on either side. When you make it to the town itself, your first stop is usually the lakeside red shed framed against the mountains. It is a social media star. But dig a little deeper, and the village is full of hidden gems that are just as worthy of a picture. Read more

The best times to be in and around Queenstown

There are few places in New Zealand which can truly claim to be pumping all year round, but Queenstown is certainly one of them. Whether rain, shine or snow, there is always something happening in Queenstown and the surrounding areas. Run past lakes and mountains in the "world’s most beautiful marathon", walk through a wonderland of light installations, and celebrate the rainbow community at one of New Zealand's premier LGBTQ+ events. Read more

Screaming-good monster truck madness

If adrenaline runs through your veins, you can't miss Oxbow Adventures on your next trip to Queenstown. Here, visitors can push custom-made buggies to the limit across hilly desert-like landscape in Gibbston Valley and weave jet sprint boats around islands on a lake at lightning speed. The buggy rides start with a quick drag race, before a dipping into a drop bowl – almost like a massive sinkhole in the middle of the track. Read more

Slide around in NZ's only ice bumper cars

This crazy new ride can be found at the Queenstown Ice Arena. Kids will love them: they are controlled by two joysticks, and steering on ice is as hard as it sounds. You'll spend a lot of time spinning out and bumping into each other as you learn to control the slippery machines. The experience runs for ten minutes - it's the best fun you can have on four wheels. Read more

Go flying on an electric surfboard

One of the region's newest attractions sees riders fly on water. Fliteschool Queenstown will teach you how to use an e-foil; it's essentially an electric surfboard with a propeller that foils above water. A one-and-a-half-hour lesson will provide you with everything you need to know, and it's said to be easier than kiteboarding, snowboarding, or skiing to learn. Read more

Paraglide off the side of a mountain

Wherever you are in Queenstown you’re bound to enjoy some spectacular views, but the best perspective is definitely from above – which is why you should consider booking a paragliding flight. Coronet Peak Tandems offers the highest take-off points in Queenstown, from the famous Coronet Peak skifield. In summer, there are two take-off options to choose from. But in winter you can go up in the chairlift to reach the snow launch point at 5400ft. Read more

The spectacular zipline that feels like a rollercoaster

If there's one zipline to try anywhere in the country, this is it. It has an enormous cliff, stunning views of Mt Aspiring National Park, and zips that race down rivers. Near Glenorchy, on the lower slopes of a mountain, Paradise Ziplines' beautiful course sees seven lines zigzag down the valley. The 'Orc Chasm' is one of the most spectacular. The wire is in the centre of a fast-flowing river, encased in native bush. It's as if we've entered a tree tunnel, and will zoom down the rapids just a few metres above the water. Read more

The new craze hitting Queenstown's mountains

The Yooner is a blessing for those of us who don’t know how to ski or snowboard. At first, this slightly mysterious French invention looks like you're riding an elaborate broomstick down a mountain. But if you take a little closer look, this contraption is nothing but genius. Somewhere between sled and a single ski, it's a little like a bike to ride. Just lift your feet and start sliding down the hill. Steer by leaning to each side and brake by pulling back on your grip stick. Read more

The best hidden walks in and around Queenstown

Take the trails less travelled and you’ll get the full at one with nature experience: One undiluted by clicking cameras and countless pairs of activewear-clad legs. Some of our favourites include a trail once used by Māori settlers travelling to the West Coast, a mini version of the enormously popular Roys Peak Track, and a hike to a hidden glacial lake most visitors to Queenstown never see. The scenery is often just as remarkable as the likes of the actual Remarkables, and you’re far more likely to have it all – or almost all – to yourself. Read more

Believe the hype about these world-famous burgers

You realise that this is not your regular burger bar when you see the queue clogging the pavement along Queenstown’s Shotover Street. In the 20 years since it began, Fergburger has become an institution, and for very good reason. Its wide range of burgers, from 3/4lb meat patties to tofu, are freshly prepared every day, well cooked, carefully assembled, and delicious. Read more

Where to dine in for a special night out

Whether you have a hot date, an anniversary or birthday to celebrate, or you just want to find somewhere for a good old-fashioned meal, these fine dining restaurants will give you and your guests a night to remember. Exquisite atmosphere, service and the country’s finest cuts of meat and seafood are all part of the package. How about sitting down for a gourmet Southland cheese roll, kina pappardelle or kūmara ravioli? Read more

Where to eat and drink with the whole family

Wining and dining in Queenstown doesn’t need to start and end with winery restaurants, especially when the entire family is in tow. Between Glenorchy, Queenstown, Frankton and Arrowtown you can sit down at an Italian eatery for fresh pastries and pasta, enjoy cheap and cheerful tacos in the heart of the city, fill up on giant New York-style pizza, and visit a grassy beer garden with its own trampoline. Read more

The country's coolest pizzeria

While Cardrona might be one of the most recognisable ski fields in the country, few realise it's also home to one of the most spectacular pizza parlours. The only way to get to Captain's Pizzeria is by snowboarding or skiing down an intermediate level trail. Essentially, you need to earn the right to eat there. It's worth the effort, with one of the best pizza views in the world (we're a little biased, of course). Read more

Treat your taste buds at this chocolaterie

Walk into Patagonia Chocolates on the Queenstown lakefront and you'll see giant taps pouring out velvety smooth melted chocolate in white, milk and dark varieties. Customer favourites include the tramontana ice cream and dulce de leche, but you can’t visit without trying the Signature Hot Chocolate. Made from milk, cream and real chocolate, this decadent warming beverage is a family recipe from co-owner Lorena Giallonardo’s childhood in Buenos Aires. Read more

The cafe where cheese dreams come true

You don't really need an excuse to visit the historic village of Arrowtown, but if you are looking for one – let it be cheese. The beautiful town is home to the Gibbston Valley Cheese Cafe, which offers a delicious selection of cheese dishes. Don't go past the fresh baguette, warmed and stuffed with cheese, chorizo and local chutney. Or the double cream brie, oven-baked with caramelised onion and served with fresh bread. Read more

A luxury Swiss-style escape

The five-star Hotel St Moritz sits a few hundred metres back from Lake Wakatipu, with uninterrupted views of The Remarkables. The hotel has the feel of an opulent ski chalet, which is apparent the moment you walk in, with large exposed beams, retro chandeliers, and a roaring fireplace. Aside from the view and grand setting, the hotel's best feature is its location. It also has a series of hot tubs nestled in the garden, which are the perfect way to unwind after a big day exploring. Read more

Scandinavian style on the Queenstown hillside

The magnificent view across Lake Wakatipu is just one of the highlights at this boutique hotel on the hillside, especially when sitting in one of the three private hot tubs. There’s a real Scandinavian feel to Kamana Lakehouse. The Space is a welcoming combination of bar, lounge and restaurant with comfortable seats around suspended fireplaces. Real birch trees in the lobby add to the Scandi vibe; and even the ski storage room is artfully designed. Read more

Quirky and modern alpine luxury

Luxury boutique hotel QT Queenstown sits along Lake Wakatipu’s shoreline and capitalises on the incredible views that the region is so famous for. Billed as the “peak of alpine luxury”, this artsy hotel manages to be quirky and modern, and cosy at the same time. The lobby impresses instantly with its pop-art style decor and a fireplace suspended from the ceiling, while the restaurant and bar are two of the best places to watch the sunset over the Remarkables. Read more

This new luxury escape is big on the freebies

Guests receive the royal treatment and a whole lot of freebies at Stay of Queenstown. This luxurious seven-suite escape is a blend between a hotel and lodge and sits overlooking the lake and mountain ranges. It's run by an interior designer turned hotelier, who greets every guest with six-star attention to detail. The luxurious touches make this feel like a high-end lodge – just without the price tag. Read more

Stare at the Southern Alps from these luxury pods

Walking in to Glenorchy's EcoScapes, it's not immediately clear what all the fuss is about; you're greeted by a cute little kitchenette and couch. But when you turn into the bedroom, you can expect to utter one simple word: wow. The bedroom is designed like a cube, with an enormous window framing Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped mountains that loom over her. And with the flick of a button, the room transforms into the country's coolest cinema – all to enjoy with just one other person. Read more

Queenstown accommodation for those on a budget

It may have a reputation for being a bit heavy on the wallet, but there are some reasonably priced places to crash in the adventure capital. Discerning budget travellers wanting to spend less on accommodation so they can spend more on activities can choose from self-contained pods which start as low as $29 a night to smart hotels accessible by the magic of technology. The best bit: Most of them situated very close to all the action. Read more

For more information visit queenstownnz.co.nz