How to get from the Airport?

Bus: The Orbus public bus runs every 15-30mins and costs $10 per adult, or $2 if you have a Bee Card. Route 1 takes you from the airport to the city centre.

Airport Transfer: There are many different shuttle companies that operate from Queenstown Airport, on average they cost $30 per adult. Super Shuttle are a popular airport shuttle company that operate across New Zealand.

Taxi: There are many taxi companies operating from the airport, they typically use the meter and costs on average $45 for the 15min journey into Queenstown.

WHERE TO STAY

On my last trip to Queenstown, I stayed at a place that sadly no longer exists. Since then, I’ve been researching some great alternatives for when I return. Whether you're travelling on a budget or looking to splurge, Queenstown has accommodation options for every kind of traveller. Here's a shortlist of where I’d consider staying next time - covering a range of budgets from budget to luxury. From lively hostels to luxurious hillside villas, there’s something here for everyone.

Absoloot Hostel - If you’re looking for an affordable stay right in the heart of Queenstown, Absoloot Hostel is a fantastic choice. It’s popular with backpackers and solo travellers, offering a sociable atmosphere and clean, comfortable facilities. Pricing for dorm beds start at $50 NZD, and private rooms prices start at $170 NZD. The location is hard to beat, right on the lakefront, close to shops, bars, and restaurants. Plus, the views from the communal kitchen are incredible!

Kamana Lakehouse - For those after a quieter, more scenic retreat, Kamana Lakehouse offers boutique vibes with a touch of luxury - without the luxury price tag with rooms starting at $210 NZD.

Located a short drive from the town centre in Fernhill, the hotel overlooks Lake Wakatipu and the mountains beyond. Think tranquil views, modern design, and a restaurant that’s worth visiting even if you’re not staying there.

QT Queenstown - Stylish, central, and effortlessly cool, QT Queenstown is perfect for travellers wanting comfort and flair, with rooms starting at $370 NZD. Expect designer interiors, plush bedding, and impressive views from many of the rooms. It’s a great option for couples or solo travellers wanting something a bit more special, without going full-on luxury.

Azur Lodge - For a once-in-a-lifetime kind of stay, Azur Lodge is hard to top. This 5-star property features private villas perched on a hillside with panoramic lake and mountain views. Private villa prices start at $1,600 NZD per night (includes all-inclusive amenities).

It’s not just about the view, though, rates include gourmet breakfast, afternoon tea, evening drinks and canapés, and even airport transfers. If you’re celebrating something special (or just feel like treating yourself), this is the place to stay.

THINGS TO DO / DAY TRIPS

Shotover Jet - While in Queenstown, I took on the famous Shotover Jet along the historic Kawarau River. An exhilarating hour skimming across the water at 95kmph, with 360° spins, and travelling a distance of 44km towards the Gibbston Valley. Prepare to get wet as the driver races down the river, skimming rocks and trees, while navigating tight corners and zooming under two iconic bridges. With plenty of photo opportunities it’s worthwhile bringing your camera, but keep it somewhere safe and dry while the jets in motion, as you will get wet. I chose to sit in the back row as the driver advised that’s where you feel the twists and turns the most…and they weren’t wrong!

There are many different companies who offer jet boat rides along the Kawarau River, with varying lengths from 25 mins to 1 hour. Prices start around $110 [NZ], and most trips originate in central Queenstown, on the waterfront. 

Onsen Hot Pools - Since 2007, they have been offering luxury hot pool experiences, with views over the Shotover River + the local mountain ranges. With a tranquil day spa + cedar-lined hot pools, they are world renowned and popular for locals and tourists alike. Prices start around $120 per bather, which was unfortunately out of my budget when I visited, but this is top of my list the next time I am visiting Queenstown.

AJ Hackett Bungy - Take the leap off the world’s first commercial bungy jump site, a 43-metre drop over the Kawarau River.

The Nevis Swing - Set in the Nevis Valley, the Nevis Swing is one of the world’s largest and most thrilling swings, launching you from a 160-metre-high platform into a 300-metre arc over the dramatic canyon below.

Skyline Gondola / Luge rides – Ride the gondola for panoramic views, then race down the thrilling luge tracks (suitable for all ages).

Zipline Tour - Soar through the treetops on a fully guided zipline adventure in Queenstown, featuring four ziplines that build in length, speed, and height. Perfect for families and first-timers.

Skydiving over Queenstown – Enjoy a thrilling tandem skydive with spectacular views of the mountains and lake below.

Paragliding over Queenstown – New Zealand’s highest commercial launch site from 5400ft up Coronet Peak. Soar over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu for an memorable  experience.

TSS Earnslaw cruise on Lake Wakatipu – Enjoy a scenic cruise aboard this vintage steamship, often combined with a visit to Walter Peak Station.

hikes + trails

Queenstown is filled with plenty of scenic hikes and trails.

The Harbour View Path - A scenic walk accessible from the lake front, with paths running adjacent to the lake, you will be surrounded by crystal clear waters and stunning views of the mountains. Continue down this path to Queenstown Gardens - established in 1866, they are a tranquil space with rose gardens, and views across to Cecil and Walter Peak.

Queenstown Hill - If you’re looking for something a little more challenging without committing to a full day hike, then this is a steady 500m climb through pine forests, with spectacular views across Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables and beyond. When you reach the Basket of Dreams sculpture you’re only around five minutes from the summit. The sculpture created by Caroline Robinson was designed to allow you to reflect, be inspired and dream.

Tiki Trail - Starting from the base of the Skyline Gondola, this uphill track winds its way through native forest to the top of Bob’s Peak, offering stunning views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and The Remarkables. The hike is approximately 2.1 km each way and takes around one hour to complete.

Ben Lomond - A challenging 11km return track that takes around 6 to 8 hours, offering a rewarding climb with breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding peaks.

Bobs Peak - The hike to is a moderately steep 4km return track taking about 1.5 to 2 hours, offering stunning views over the town, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range.

Cecil Peak - One of Queenstown’s most remote and rewarding hikes, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. To access the mountain, you’ll first need to take a water taxi or private boat across the lake from Queenstown. From there, it’s a challenging, unmarked alpine route that takes the better part of a full day to reach the summit. The climb is steep, exposed, and requires good fitness, navigation skills, and preparation, but the panoramic views from the top make the effort well worth it.

Walter Peak - Best accessed by taking the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship or a water taxi to Walter Peak Station. From there, experienced hikers can embark on a challenging full-day trek up to the summit. The route is unmarked and demanding, with steep climbs and rugged terrain, so good fitness, proper gear, and navigation skills are essential. Those who reach the top are rewarded with spectacular views over the lake, Queenstown, and the surrounding mountains.

Arthurs Point - 10 minutes from central Queenstown, offering an easy to moderate walk with great views of the Shotover River and nearby hills. It’s a good spot for a short escape from town, with tracks like the Moonlight Track leading towards Moke Lake.

Food + Drink

Fergburger - Famously known for their high-quality burgers, it’s a landmark in itself when visiting Queenstown. With over 20 burgers on the menu; including breakfast, beef, chicken, fish, venison, lamb, pork + veggie options, there’s something for everyone.

Fergbaker - Voted #1 Bakery in Queenstown, adjacent to Fergburger on Shotover St, Fergbaker is a popular hotspot for those looking to try a famous NZ meat pie, alongside a selection of sandwiches, cakes + pastries.

Balls & Bangles - Shakes, Donuts, Bagels + Burgels, handmade in store since 2016. I chose the ‘Vegetarian Cold Bagel’ which was filled to the brim with beetroot, brie, fig conserve, greens & aioli. Followed by a mini Nutella donut, it was the perfect lunch for a day at the Lake.

Erik’s Fish & Chips - NZ owned and family operated, Erik’s uses locally sourced ingredients, from potatoes harvested in Canterbury to fresh fish delivered daily from Dunedin. They have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, and also cater to vegans, nut-free, dairy-free and halal preferences.

Patagonia Chocolates - Queenstown's original chocolate shop, and award-winning artisan ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt shop. You can also watch their ice-cream makers and chocolatiers at work from their upstairs lounge, while enjoying views over Lake Wakatipu.

Hells Pizza - Serving unique pizza combinations all across NZ since 1996, with veggie + vegan options available.

GETTING AROUND

Walking - The Queenstown CBD is very walkable, with most shops, restaurants, and lakefront attractions within a 10–15 minute walk. Scenic walks nearby include the Frankton Track, and the Queenstown Gardens loop.

Public transport - Orbus is Queenstown’s local bus network and the go-to option for affordable, reliable transport. The flat fare costs $2 NZD (with a Bee Card), $4 NZD without. You can buy a Bee Card for $5 at the airport, bus hubs, or online; top up and tap on/off. Buses run from early morning to late evening and consist of four main routes.

• Route 1: Sunshine Bay → Remarkables Park

• Route 2: Frankton Hub → Arrowtown

• Route 3: Kelvin Heights → Quail Rise

• Route 4: Jacks Point → Arrowtown via Queenstown

• Route 5: Lake Hayes Estate → Queenstown

I made the most of Queenstown’s public transport during my visit, taking the bus to and from the airport, as well as out to the nearby village of Arrowtown. Central Queenstown is fairly flat and compact, making it easy to explore on foot, until you start heading uphill towards the scenic viewpoints. It’s a walkable town with plenty to discover at a leisurely pace.