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Picture of Queenstown, New Zealand

Travel Guide for
Queenstown

New Zealand

Temperate, four distinct seasons, mild summers, cool winters

Introduction

Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic alpine peaks, Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand’s South Island. Originally a gold mining town, it now boasts a vibrant, cosmopolitan vibe with luxurious lodges, chic restaurants, and buzzing nightlife.

Mid-August brings the heart of winter, offering crisp, clear days perfect for skiing and snowboarding with your friends at world-class resorts like Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. Discover the local wine scene with private tours or unwind in exclusive spas, all set against breathtaking snowy backdrops—ideal for an unforgettable group getaway.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates15-22 August 2025

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHotel, apartment or house, villa

Interests and Activities:

festivals and eventssightseeing and toursoutdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainmentgastronomy

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Picture of Queenstown, New Zealand

Key Facts

Location

Otago Region, South Island

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Religion

Christianity (dominant), Secular

Population

15,300

Language

English, Maori

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type I plug

Time zone

UTCNZST/NZDT (UTC+12)

Country code

+64

Internet access

Broadband, fiber widely available; fast, affordable

Climate

Temperate, four distinct seasons, mild summers, cool winters

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Map

Logistics

The easiest way to reach Queenstown is by direct flight; Queenstown Airport connects to major cities like Auckland, Wellington, Sydney, and Melbourne. For high-budget travelers, flying business class offers extra comfort and stunning aerial views during descent. Private jet charters are also available for ultimate luxury and flexibility.

There is no train service to Queenstown, but luxury coach tours and private transfers from Christchurch or Dunedin provide scenic journeys through the Southern Alps. Helicopter transfers are a stylish option, turning travel into an adventure. Weather in August can bring snow and occasional delays, so check schedules and allow extra time for winter travel.

Weather

Queenstown enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers (December–February) averaging 20–30°C and crisp, cool winters (June–August) bringing snow to the surrounding mountains. The climate is generally dry, but weather can change quickly due to the alpine setting.

From August 15 to 22, expect winter conditions: daytime highs around 5–10°C and lows close to 0°C. Occasional snowfall and morning frosts are common, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Extreme weather is rare, though brief snowstorms may temporarily affect travel.

Winter in Queenstown is lively, with bustling après-ski bars, cozy restaurants, scenic lake cruises, and popular ski festivals. Nightlife thrives, and winter adventure tours like snowshoeing or heli-skiing offer memorable outdoor experiences during this period.

Food & Drink

Queenstown’s food scene is vibrant, with fresh local lamb, venison, green-lipped mussels, and south island salmon on many menus. Signature Kiwi experiences include tasting Central Otago pinot noir and indulging in Manuka honey treats. Fergburger is iconic for gourmet burgers, and Rātā, by celebrity chef Josh Emett, showcases upscale New Zealand cuisine.

For elegant group dining, try Botswana Butchery for top-notch steaks or The Bunker for intimate fine dining and creative cocktails. Rooftop bars like Reds Bar offer stunning lake views, while Vudu Café serves excellent brunches and coffee. Queenstown caters well for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diets—just check menus for details.

Tipping isn’t expected but is appreciated for great service, typically 10%. Book reservations in advance, especially during ski season or summer, to ensure the best culinary experiences for your group.

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Hangi

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Pavlova

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Lamb Roast

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Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

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Whitebait Fritters

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Accommodation

Queenstown offers luxury hotels like Eichardt’s Private Hotel and The Rees Hotel, both boasting stunning lake views and premium amenities. Exclusive villas and apartments, such as those managed by Touch of Spice, are ideal for groups of friends looking for privacy, space, and top-notch service. Popular booking sites include Booking.com and Airbnb, but using a specialist agency can unlock unique, high-end properties.

Consider staying in central Queenstown for vibrant nightlife and dining, or opt for the peaceful neighborhoods of Fernhill or Kelvin Heights for dramatic scenery. August 15–22 is peak ski season, so book well in advance; demand and prices for upscale accommodations are significantly higher during this period. Splurge-worthy stays and seamless service await!

Itinerary

Kickstart your journey by settling into Queenstown, soaking up the lively alpine atmosphere and experiencing a warm welcome with friends in the heart of the adventure capital.

Skyline Gondola Ride & Panoramic Views

Begin your adventure by riding the iconic Skyline Gondola to Bob's Peak with your friends. Enjoy sweeping vistas over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, and take memorable photos. A great way to orient yourself in Queenstown while sharing excitement for the days ahead.

Dinner at Rātā by Josh Emett

Indulge in a gourmet welcome dinner at Rātā, Queenstown’s acclaimed restaurant by chef Josh Emett. Savor modern New Zealand cuisine with seasonal ingredients and a superb local wine list. Perfect for relaxed, high-budget dining with friends.

Stroll Along Queenstown Bay & Marine Parade

Take a leisurely evening stroll with your group along Queenstown Bay and the bustling Marine Parade. Soak in the lively alpine vibe, check out local musicians, street performers, and explore artisan ice cream shops along the waterfront.

KJet Queenstown Jet Boat Ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers

KJet Queenstown Jet Boat Ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Hang on during this thrilling Jet boat ride that travels at high speeds on two rivers, covering more ground with a longer time out on the water than similar tours in the region. Leaving right from the Main Town Pier in Queenstown, scream with delight as your jet boat zooms across Lake Wakatipu, spins in circles on the Kawarau River, and navigates the shallow waters of the Shotover River. Be prepared to have heart-racing fun on this roller coaster of a ride!

4.7 (555 reviews)

From $82 USD

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Attractions

4.9 (76 reviews)
Arrowtown to Queenstown Full-Day Bike Adventure

Arrowtown to Queenstown Full-Day Bike Adventure

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover one of Queenstown’s ultimate biking adventures on this self-guided ride from historic Arrowtown to central Queenstown. Shuttle to Arrowtown, get fitted with a top-quality bike, and receive all the tips you need. Follow the breathtaking Arrow River Trail, crossing a spectacular suspension bridge before joining the Twin Rivers Trail. Ride alongside the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers with sweeping views, fun undulations, and a few rewarding climbs to Queenstown. Covering 36 km, the ride takes 3.5–4 hours. An electric bike option makes the climbs easier and lets you enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace. Finish in the heart of Queenstown at Around The Basin’s shop (3 Searle Lane), leaving you with a real sense of achievement and memories of one of the town's most unforgettable adventures. Shuttle departures from Queenstown: • SUMMER (1 Sept – 30 Apr): 9:00 am • WINTER (1 May – 31 Aug): 10:00 am

From $56 USD

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4.9 (54 reviews)
Golden Hills Horse Trek in Central Otago

Golden Hills Horse Trek in Central Otago

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Two hour Top Hill Trek This two-hour trek takes you through the breathtaking hills of Central Otago’s backcountry, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt Pisa range. This popular trek is perfect for all riding abilities and offers an unforgettable journey through picturesque fruit orchards and rolling hills.

From $106 USD

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5.0 (31 reviews)
20 minute Queenstown Scenic Flight

20 minute Queenstown Scenic Flight

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

View the spectacular sights of Queenstown and the Wakatipu basin from above, aboard this 20 minute scenic flight.

From $118 USD

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4.9 (323 reviews)
Family Adventures Rafting and Sightseeing Trip in Queenstown

Family Adventures Rafting and Sightseeing Trip in Queenstown

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Raft the gentle upper reaches of the Shotover River on this half-day trip through Skippers Canyon. You'll drive from Queenstown through a former gold-mining region and learn about this significant part of New Zealand's history. The Class I and II rapids are suitable for ages three years old and up.

From $177 USD

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4.6 (24 reviews)
Bike The Wineries (3/4 Day) - Ride Through Queenstown Vineyards

Bike The Wineries (3/4 Day) - Ride Through Queenstown Vineyards

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

From Arrow Junction to the Gibbston Valley, this ¾-day self-guided adventure blends scenic trails with world-class wine. Start with a shuttle from Queenstown to Arrow Junction (7 km beyond Arrowtown), where you’ll be set up with a quality bike, trail map, and all the tips for a seamless ride. Wind your way 6 km (4 miles) through dramatic river gorges, crossing the Edgar Swing Bridge and passing the iconic Kawarau Bungy Bridge, before rolling into Gibbston - the heart of Central Otago’s wine country. Take your pick of 6+ wineries, a gin tasting room, and a local tavern along the way, with time to enjoy multiple stops depending on your pace. The full ride covers around 17 km (11 miles) of undulating, scenic trail, finishing at a winery of your choice, where our shuttle will meet you for the return to Queenstown. With Queenstown’s most experienced bike tour operator, you’ll enjoy expert support, local knowledge, and a ride that’s as memorable as the wine.

From $65 USD

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4.9 (158 reviews)
Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown

Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Air Milford hosts you on an intimate experience, combining two incredible scenic flights into Fiordland National Park with a Nature Cruise through the fiord itself. Enjoy reserved seating for Air Milford passengers aboard the cruise and commentary from the passionate skippers while exploring the nooks and crannies along the edge of the fiord, nudging into sheer rock faces to examine flora and fauna in detail. Enjoy return flights to Milford Sound so you can experience its beauty from all angles.

From $467 USD

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5.0 (57 reviews)
Milford Extended Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

Milford Extended Helicopter Tour from Queenstown

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Explore the spectacular Fiordland National Park by air on this half-day Milford Sound helicopter flight from Queenstown. Fly over Milford Sound by helicopter with a guide, and gaze out over the cliffs, waterfalls, and forests below. Stop for a stroll in Milford Sound for fine views over Mitre Peak, then land on a West Coast beach and a glacier or alpine. Along the way, gain insight into Milford Sound’s impressive geography and see sides of the region many visitors miss. This 2.5-hour tour includes round-trip travel from your Queenstown hotel.

From $812 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

New Zealand: Experience it ALL in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

INSTANT

You absolutely will not find another tour out there as packed with activities and attractions as this one, provided by CharlieTheTraveler. You will also not find another tour out there that offers it all "FIRST CLASS," yet for a relatively low price. We have thousands of travelers taking this specific tour every year-and that's because no competitor can beat us on quality, price & substance: ► 2 Flightseeing Tours, 1 Over Milford Sound & 1 Over Mount Cook ► Jet-Boating Top-Speed Along a Turquoise-Colored River ► A World-Famous Suspension Bridge Jump (optional) ► Zip-Lining ► Cable Car Ride Over Stunning Landscape ► 4-Wheel Driving in a Scenic Valley (seasonal) ► Boat Rides Around Icebergs (seasonal), Fjords & a National Park & Inside a Cave ► A Cruise on a Historic Steamship ► Visits to Boiling Geothermal Sites ► Bathing in a Mud Spa ► Glacier-Hiking ► A Tour of Lord of the Rings’ Movie Set ► A Show Demonstrating Centuries-Old Native Rituals

From $6047 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Queenstown Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour

Queenstown Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Hop on Hop off Beer Tours run every Thursday - Saturday night from 5pm - 10pm with easy pick-up and drop-off in Queenstown centre. This evening beer tour allows all you beer buffs to have x4 1hr stops at some great locations and trial some delicious local brews. Check out some of the great specials and discounts offered exclusively to Hop on Hop off customers at each stop!

From $77 USD

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FAQ

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