7 reasons to visit Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown sits on the serene shore of Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand’s South Island, where picturesque peaks meet rustic retreats. From hiking and boating in spring to skiing in winter, this resort town has everything you might want for a memorable getaway. 

1. Explore the suburbs 

Take a day trip to Paradise. To get to this rural town, drive around Lake Wakatipu, along what’s hailed as New Zealand’s most beautiful road. It’s here that many stunning scenes in The Lord of the Rings movies were filmed. For a tranquil walk or cycle by the water, hit the Lake Hayes Loop Track, which is just a 15-minute drive from Queenstown. Further afield, at the north end of Lake Wakatipu, you’ll find the majestic mountain landscapes of Glenorchy. Here, discover waterfalls and glacial formations on a scenic hike, or take a canoe trip down the Dart River.  

2. Enjoy Alpine sun 

With hot and dry weather, cool lakes and the sun setting well after 9pm, summer days in Queenstown are long and packed with activities. As evening falls, explore the vibrant live music scene. There are gigs galore at the many bars and pubs, including Walter’s Tavern  and The World Bar . 

3. It’s “affordable Aspen” 

While the average house price in US ski resort Aspen, Colorado, is out of reach for many local residents, house prices remain relatively affordable in Queenstown, lending New Zealand’s South Island ski resort town a down-to-earth feel. Yet, like Aspen, Queenstown offers excellent ski fields suitable for a variety of levels, as well as a lively après-ski scene and outstanding but affordable gourmet dining – hence the nickname “affordable Aspen”.

4. Check out markets selling artisanal produce 

The town’s vibrant markets are a must-visit if you want to sample regional specialities, meet local producers and purchase handmade artisanal souvenirs. Stroll along the lakefront at Earnslaw Park on Saturday morning and browse the plethora of ceramics, jewellery, leather goods, textiles, artworks and natural skincare on display at the many stalls. Foodies shouldn’t miss the Remarkables Market  in Frankton just outside of Queenstown, where you can load up on homegrown cheeses, pork sandwiches, gourmet sausages and decadent cakes. 

5. Dive into delicious meat and fish delicacies 

Queenstown’s culinary scene is as bold as its landscape. Two New Zealand beef patties, two eggs, bacon, cheese, onions, lettuce, beetroot, relish and a dollop of aioli is Queenstown institution Fergburger ’s behemoth burger, available 20 hours a day. Bring your appetite to whole lamb shoulder seasoned with rosemary and garlic . Craving seafood? Savour fresh New Zealand oysters on the waterfron at Finz . In the suburb of Arrowtown, Mora  serves seasonal dishes made from the freshest local ingredients in a relaxed courtyard environment.

6. Relive the gold rush 

Built in the 1930s, Sam Summers’ Hut is an old stone goldminer’s hut  where you can explore the town’s formative days. Sat on the Mount Crichton Loop Track, it’s an easily accessible spot, offering glimpses into early central Otago and New Zealand mining life. Other relics of the mining era from the 1860s to the 1930s include a large sluiced canyon and a 24-metre-long tail race tunnel through which gravel blasted off the cliffs was washed away.

7. Indulge in some New Zealand wine 

Enjoy the driest snow by day followed by the fizz of life at night. Queenstown is a 24/7 year-round party paradise. Try The Winery , a cellar door with hundreds of serve-yourself New Zealand wines, whiskies and port.

This story was originally published in December 2017 and updated in September 2025.