Queenstown attractions
Queenstown, New Zealand, sits on the shores of the South Island’s Lake Whakatipu, which is set against the dramatic Southern Alps.
Renowned as the "Adventure Capital of New Zealand", it’s also a base for exploring the region’s vineyards and historic mining towns. There's bungy jumping off Kawarau Gorge suspension bridge and jet-boating on the Shotover and Dart Rivers. In winter, there's skiing on the slopes of The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Queenstown was carved out of the land by glaciers, rivers and lakes, but it has been shaped by innovative adventurers and entrepreneurs from New Zealand and around the world.
We can assist you with your Queenstown adventures and attractions, just visit Reception for assistance and ideas during your stay.
Within 5 minutes walk
One Mile Creek
Take in the lake and the edge of the shoreline. Dip your toes in the ice-cold lake or throw yourself in it if you are brave! There are BBQ spots under the willow trees and a playground at the end by the Fernhill roundabout. There is also access to the One Mile Track which takes you past an old hydro scheme powerhouse and a small waterfall to connect with other local tracks. A great place to see glowworms at night!
Steamer Wharf
In front of the apartments and just a hundred metres to the left, is a collection of restaurants to suit everyone. Our picks are The Pier (for a romantic lakefront meal), Altas (to connect with the local cycling enthusiasts), Finz (for decadent seafood), Flame (for a family dinner), Public (if you are meeting a bunch of mates) or Little Blackwood (for a cocktail).
See them all at: www.steamerwharf.co.nz
Story of Lake Whakatipu
You can go for a walk along the waterfront, towards the main beachfront jetty, and take in the boats and lake views while reading the story of Lake Whakatipu on the jetty wall. Keep walking to the Queenstown Gardens and you will be ready for a delicious Patagonia ice cream by the time you get back!
TSS Earnslaw
Regardless of whether you are planning to take a cruise on this coal-fired steamship or not, taking a walk along the pier when it’s setting sail is a must-do on a visit to Queenstown.
To see sailing times, or to book a cruise go to: www.realnz.com
Within 15 minutes walk
Queenstown Gardens
The Queenstown Gardens are just a few minutes walk from town and offer a beautiful, tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle.
The landscaped gardens include plenty of places to sit and relax. Pristine lawns, water features, a wide variety of trees and a rose garden all combine to provide that perfect escape. The gardens also feature several significant memorials.
Within the gardens is also a popular place for disc golf enthusiasts to challenge the network of 18 holes. Frisbees can easily be purchased from most outdoor shops in the town centre.
Queenstown Bay
Queenstown’s main beach, which looks straight towards Cecil and Walter Peaks, is perfect for a swim on a hot day. But that’s just one of the reasons you’ll find Queenstown Bay a popular spot for visitors during summer. There’s a pontoon at the far end of the beach, with paddle boards, kayaks and other water sports toys available for hire in the summer months.
Art Gallery District
So many places to choose from depending on your taste and budget. From the Artbay Gallery space to the Vesta Design gift shop in a cute historic cottage, Queenstown has lots of creative spaces to discover!
For an up-to-date list from here to Wanaka, see: www.lakesartstrust.co.nz
Skyline
Take a stroll up the Brecon St steps and you’ll find the gateway to Skyline Queenstown. Jump aboard the gondola to access iconic views of the surrounding area accompanied by an array of activities.
Relax at the Market Kitchen Cafe, or dine at the Stratosfare Restaurant. The more adventurous can enjoy the thrill of carving it up on the purpose-built luge track.
www.skyline.co.nz
Around Queenstown
Bungy Jumping
Queenstown is the Adventure Capital of the World, according to pretty much everyone. Strap up at the world’s home of bungy, the Kawarau Bungy Centre, freestyle it up at the Ledge, or stare fear in the face out at the Nevis.
Queenstown Zipline Tour
Fly through the beech forests of Queenstown on a thrilling zipline adventure that departs from the Skyline Gondola summit. There’s options ideal for families (kids aged 6 and up), adrenaline-pumping options with 21 metre drops and adventurous flights down the world’s steepest zipline drop of 30 stories. Either way, eco guides ensure your safety so you can focus on the ride and spectacular views of Lake Whakatipu.
Wine tours
Being at the heart of some of the best wines in the world, naturally Queenstown is a great hub for a wide range of wine tours. Local operators will plan your afternoon, visiting spectacular vineyards throughout the Whakatipu basin, Gibbston Valley, Bannockburn and Cromwell. Whether you’re an aficionado or simply want to enjoy an afternoon out with friends, there will be an experience on the cards for you.
Queenstown Hill
Queenstown offers several short walks and hikes in and around the area that give you the opportunity to explore and enjoy this amazing part of the country.
The Queenstown Hill time walk is a 500-metre climb through pine forest to the summit of Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness). Be sure to stop by the popular 'Basket of Dreams' sculpture on your way up or down.
When you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding land and some of Queenstown's main landmarks.