queenstown

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. Washed down with 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.

shotover jet boat

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. 

hikes + trails

Queenstown is filled with plenty of scenic hikes and trails. The Harbour View Path is 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.

If you’re looking for something a little more challenging without committing to a full day hike then Queenstown Hill 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.

onsen hot pools

Since 2007, Onsen Hot Pools has 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.

arthurs point

arrowtown

wanaka

Central Otago has something for everyone, with Wanaka and Arrowtown just a stones throw away. World class vineyards in the Gibbston Valley, and day trips to UNESCO World Heritage site Milford Sound. I would recommend adding Queenstown to your next trip through the Otago region.

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.

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 average $45 for the 15min journey into Queenstown.