Queenstown - South Island, New Zealand

Queenstown, the hub of Central Otago, is the jewel in New Zealand's tourism crown. From a small sleepy lakeside town 30 years ago, Queenstown has grown into a sophisticated all year round resort town.

With its mesmerising mountain peaks, lush rainforest, shimmering lakes and andrenaline charged activities, Queenstown is hands-down New Zealand's hottest tourist destination.

While the scenery will take your breath away, most visitors are drawn here by the endless adventure activities. Commercial bungyjumping was born here, which spawned the birth of many other activities, from a 200 kilometre terminal velocity sky dive, to 360 degree jet boat turns in a narrow river canyon, or being taken to the top of the Harris Mountains for an unforgettable heliski experience.

For less adventurous lovers of the outdoors, Queenstown is at the doorstep of many great walks and tracks that lead you to remote wilderness locations and world famous views.

The area is also famous for its wine production with excellent vineyards to visit and indulge in.

Quieter respites can be found in Arrowtown, an historic gold mining town that still retains its original appearance and old town charm. Glenorchy, at the western end of Lake Wakatipu, is a sleepy quiet town and the gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park.

Queenstown Transportation

Queenstown Airport, 10 minutes from town, offers domestic air services to and from most New Zealand destinations, and also international flights from Australia.

A shuttle service operates between the airport and town. By road Queenstown is 6 hours, 15 minutes from Christchurch, 5 hours from Milford and 1 hour from Wanaka. Coach companies provide regular services.

Central Queenstown is great for exploring on foot. There are local taxi services and many rental car companies located at the airport. Drivers will have no problem navigating around the area, however parking in Queenstown is limited.

Central Queenstown

Nestled on the shores of deep blue Lake Wakatipu, central Queenstown is a small town, but has the energy and bustle of a small city. The town centre is compact and easy to explore on foot.

On the main streets of Shotover St, Beach St and the pedestrian Mall, you will find most of the facilities that cater for the 1 million visitors it draws annually.

Central Queenstown - More Information

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a living historic settlement 23 kilometres northeast of Queenstown. Arrowtown sits alongside the Arrow River - once the scene of a frantic gold rush.

Arrowtown - More Information

Glenorchy

A scenic 40 minute drive northwest from Queenstown is Glenorchy. Set against the picturesque mountains at the western end of Lake Wakatipu, this remote peaceful town is the gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park and can be a perfect retreat for a couple of days.

Glenorchy - More Information

Queenstown Accommodation

Queenstown Activities