Queenstown, New Zealand Travel Guide

Experience the thrill of a lifetime in Queenstown, New Zealand's premier destination for adventure, stunning landscapes, and world-class dining.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a breathtaking resort town in New Zealand's South Island. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this picturesque destination is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or someone looking to unwind amidst serene landscapes, Queenstown has something for everyone. Queenstown is often called the 'Adventure Capital of the World,' and for good reason. Here, you can bungee jump off the historic Kawarau Bridge, soar high above the town in a paragliding adventure, or experience the rush of jet boating through the Shotover River canyons. For winter sports enthusiasts, the town offers excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions at nearby resorts like Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. The town also boasts a vibrant arts and food scene. Stroll through the charming streets to discover art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Enjoy a meal at one of Queenstown's many fine dining restaurants, where you can savor local delicacies paired with world-class wines from the Central Otago region. Don’t miss a visit to the Queenstown Gardens, a beautiful park that offers leisurely walks and stunning views of the lake and mountains. For those who prefer a slower pace, Queenstown offers numerous scenic hikes and bike trails. Take a leisurely cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, or explore the nearby Gibbston Valley, famous for its vineyards and wine tasting tours. No matter your interests, Queenstown promises an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Queenstown.

Book adventure activities in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Layer your clothing as the weather can change quickly, even in summer.
Visit the Queenstown Gardens early in the morning for a peaceful experience and great photo opportunities.
Take advantage of the public transport and shuttle services to explore the surrounding areas without the hassle of parking.
Try the local Fergburger, a Queenstown institution known for its delicious, oversized gourmet burgers.

Explore Queenstown: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Queenstown

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Skyline Queenstown

Discover breathtaking views, thrilling activities, and delightful dining at Skyline Queenstown, New Zealand's premier tourist attraction.

4.6

Shotover Jet Queenstown

Discover the exhilarating Shotover Jet in Queenstown, where breathtaking views meet high-speed thrills on the stunning Shotover River.

4.8

Cardrona Alpine Resort

Discover Cardrona Alpine Resort, a year-round paradise for skiing, snowboarding, and summer adventures in the stunning Southern Alps of New Zealand.

4.7

Coronet Peak

Discover Coronet Peak, Queenstown's premier ski resort, where breathtaking views and thrilling slopes combine for an unforgettable alpine experience.

4.5

Best landmarks in Queenstown

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Skyline Queenstown

Discover breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Skyline Queenstown, where stunning landscapes meet exciting luge rides and delightful dining.

4.6

Coronet Peak

Discover the thrill of skiing and breathtaking views at Coronet Peak, Queenstown's premier ski resort and winter wonderland.

4.6

Cookie Time

Experience the sweetest side of Queenstown at Cookie Time, where fresh cookies, chocolates, and a cozy café atmosphere await you.

4.5

Kiwi Park Queenstown

Explore Kiwi Park in Queenstown, a wildlife refuge dedicated to New Zealand's native species and conservation efforts, perfect for families and nature lovers.

4.5

Best restaurants in Queenstown

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Fergburger

Discover the legendary Fergburger in Queenstown - home to gourmet burgers that redefine fast food with freshness and flavor.

4.6

Flame Bar & Grill

Experience the best of Queenstown dining at Flame Bar & Grill—where grilled perfection meets vibrant ambiance.

4.5

Yonder

Discover Yonder in Queenstown - where culinary creativity meets vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable meals.

4.5

Bella Cucina

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Bella Cucina in Queenstown—where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

4.6

Best bars in Queenstown

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Pog Mahones Irish Pub & Restaurant

Discover the heart of Ireland in Queenstown at Pog Mahones Irish Pub & Restaurant, where great food, drinks, and live music come together.

4.5

Pub on Wharf

Discover the lively Pub on Wharf in Queenstown, where delicious food, local brews, and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.4

1876

Discover the lively atmosphere of 1876 in Queenstown, where great drinks and delicious food meet local charm in a vibrant sports bar setting.

4.3

Pig & Whistle Pub

Discover the heart of Queenstown at Pig & Whistle Pub, where British charm meets local flavor in a lively atmosphere.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Queenstown

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Surreal Bar & Restaurant

Discover the electrifying blend of gourmet cuisine and dynamic nightlife at Surreal Bar & Restaurant in Queenstown, New Zealand.

4.4

Rhino's Ski Shack

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Queenstown at Rhino's Ski Shack, the ultimate night club experience blending bar and pub culture with live entertainment.

4.2

Upstairs @ The Bunker

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Queenstown at Upstairs @ The Bunker, your go-to cocktail bar for unforgettable evenings.

4.5

Soho Queenstown

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Queenstown at Soho, an adult entertainment club that promises unforgettable performances and a lively ambiance.

4.4

Best shops in Queenstown

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Queenstown Mall

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and breathtaking views at Queenstown Mall, the heart of retail in stunning Queenstown, New Zealand.

4.3

The Warehouse Queenstown

Explore The Warehouse in Queenstown, a versatile department store offering everything from clothing and toys to home goods and seasonal items, all in one place.

4.2

DF Souvenirs

Discover unique New Zealand souvenirs at DF Souvenirs in Queenstown, where every keepsake tells a story of adventure and culture.

4.4

Bound Books & Records

Discover the charm of Bound Books & Records in Queenstown, where literature, art, and music converge for an unforgettable cultural experience.

4.5

Explore Queenstown on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Queenstown, mapped for you.

Queenstown Essentials

Queenstown is accessible via Queenstown Airport (ZQN), which receives direct flights from major cities in New Zealand and Australia. If you're traveling from other international destinations, you may need to connect through Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a car to reach the town center, which is about a 10-minute drive away.
Queenstown is compact and most attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, public buses operated by Orbus are efficient and affordable, with routes covering popular areas like Arrowtown and Frankton. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available. Renting a car or bike provides flexibility, especially for exploring the scenic surroundings and nearby towns.
The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard. ATMs are plentiful in Queenstown. While many places accept contactless payments, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.
Queenstown is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings. There are no neighborhoods with high crime rates specifically targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.
In case of emergency, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Queenstown Medical Centre and Lakes District Hospital provide healthcare services. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Dress in layers due to changing weather conditions. Outdoor and casual wear is common. Religion: Respect all religious sites, even though Queenstown is generally secular. Public Transport: Offer your seat to elderly passengers and avoid eating on public transport. Greetings: A simple handshake or a friendly 'Kia Ora' (hello in Māori) is customary. Eating & Drinking: Try local delicacies like Fergburger and New Zealand wines. Don't tip, as it’s not customary in New Zealand.
Experience Queenstown like a local by visiting the Saturday Creative Markets at Earnslaw Park for unique crafts and artisanal foods. Take a stroll along the Queenstown Gardens for a tranquil escape. For a scenic drive, head out to Glenorchy along the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road. Engage with locals, who are typically friendly and enthusiastic about sharing their favorite spots.

When is the best time to visit Queenstown?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Queenstown

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Queenstown. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloKia ora
  [Key-ah or-ah]
- GoodbyeHaere rā
  [High-ree rah]
- YesĀe
  [Eye]
- NoKāore
  [Car-or-reh]
- Please/You're welcomeWhakawhetai
  [Fah-kah-fay-tie]
- Thank youNgā mihi
  [Nar me-hee]
- Excuse me/SorryWhakamā
  [Fah-kah-ma]
- How are you?Kei te pēhea koe?
  [Key teh pay-hea koh-eh]
- Fine. And you?Kei te pai. Ā, koe?
  [Key teh pie. Eye, koh-eh?]
- Do you speak English?Kei te korero koe i te reo Pākehā?
  [Key teh core-air-oh koh-eh ee teh reh-oh Pah-keh-ha]
- I don't understandKaore au i te mohio
  [Car-or-reh ow ee teh moh-hee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe pānui i te menewa, tēnā
  [Meh pan-oo-ee ee teh meh-neh-wah, teh-nah]
- I don't eat meatKaore au e kai kau
  [Car-or-reh ow eh kai cow]
- Cheers!Mauri ora!
  [Mow-ree or-ah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseKa hiahia ahau ki te utu, tēnā
  [Car hee-ah-hee-ah ah-how kee teh oo-too, teh-nah]
- Help!Āwhina!
  [Eye-fee-nah]
- Go away!Haere atu!
  [High-ree ah-too]
- Call the Police!Karanga i te Pirihimana!
  [Car-ah-ngah ee teh Pee-ree-hee-mah-nah]
- Call a doctor!Karanga i te doctor!
  [Car-ah-ngah ee teh dock-tor]
- I'm lostI wareware ahau
  [Ee wah-reh-wah-reh ah-how]
- I'm illAroha ahau
  [Ah-roh-ha ah-how]
- I'd like to buy...Ka hiahia ahau ki te hoko...
  [Car hee-ah-hee-ah ah-how kee teh haw-kaw]
- I'm just lookingKa kite ahau
  [Car key-teh ah-how]
- How much is it?He aha te utu?
  [Heh ah-ha teh oo-too]
- That's too expensiveHe rawa te utu
  [Heh rah-wah teh oo-too]
- Can you lower the price?Ka taea e koe te whakaiti i te utu?
  [Car tie-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kai-tee ee teh oo-too]
- What time is it?Ko te wahea?
  [Koh teh wah-heh-ah]
- It's one o'clockKo te tahi karaka
  [Koh teh tah-hee kah-rah-kah]
- Half past (10)Tekau ma rua
  [Teh-kow mah roo-ah]
- MorningAhiahi
  [Ah-hee-ah-hee]
- AfternoonAhiahi
  [Ah-hee-ah-hee]
- EveningPō
  [Poh]
- YesterdayInapo
  [Ee-nah-poh]
- TodayI tenei ra
  [Ee teh-neh-ee rah]
- TomorrowApopo
  [Ah-poh-poh]
- 1Tahi
  [Tah-hee]
- 2Rua
  [Roo-ah]
- 3Toru
  [Toh-roo]
- 4Wha
  [Fah]
- 5Rima
  [Ree-mah]
- 6Ono
  [Oh-no]
- 7Whitu
  [Fee-too]
- 8Waru
  [Wah-roo]
- 9Iwa
  [Ee-wah]
- 10Tekau
  [Teh-kow]
- Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...
  [Key heh-ah teh]
- What's the address?Ko te wāhitau?
  [Koh teh wah-hee-tow]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Ka taea e koe te whakaatu i ahau (i te mahere)?
  [Car tie-ah eh koh-eh teh fah-kah-tow ee ah-how ee teh mah-heh-reh]
- When's the next (bus)?He aha te wā roa?
  [Heh ah-ha teh wah ro-wah]
- A ticket (to ....)He tiketi (ki...)
  [Heh tee-keh-tee kee]

History of Queenstown

Before European settlers arrived, the area around Queenstown was inhabited by the Māori people. The Ngāi Tahu tribe, in particular, had a significant presence. They were drawn to the region's abundant resources, including the pounamu (greenstone) found in the rivers, which was highly valued for tools, weapons, and ornaments. The Wakatipu Basin, where Queenstown is located, was also a seasonal hunting ground for birds and eels.
Queenstown's history as a settlement began in the 1860s with the discovery of gold in the Arrow River. The region quickly transformed into a bustling gold rush town as prospectors from around the world flocked to the area. This gold rush era left a lasting impact on Queenstown, with many historic buildings and mining relics still visible today. The legacy of this period is celebrated in the local culture and various historic sites.
Queenstown was officially founded in 1863 and named by early settler William Gilbert Rees, who established a sheep station in the area. Legend has it that the town was named 'Queenstown' because it was deemed 'fit for Queen Victoria.' Rees's original homestead, the 'Rees Hotel,' still stands today as a testament to the town's early European settlement.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Queenstown began to attract visitors for its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The advent of the steamer 'SS Earnslaw' in 1912 opened up Lake Wakatipu to tourism, allowing easier access to the area's scenic wonders. The region's reputation as an adventure destination continued to grow, and today Queenstown is known worldwide for its outdoor activities, including skiing, bungee jumping, and hiking.
In recent decades, Queenstown has seen significant growth and development, evolving into a vibrant resort town. The local economy has diversified, with tourism, viticulture, and film production becoming key industries. Queenstown has also become a favored location for filmmakers, with movies like 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy showcasing its dramatic landscapes. The town's blend of historical charm and modern amenities continues to attract visitors from around the globe.