Queenstown

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Queenstown

Queenstown, the self-proclaimed 'world's capital of adventures', has, without a doubt, earned this title. The birthplace of bungee jumping, and home to all manner of adrenaline pumping activities, from luge and jet-boating to canyon swinging, attracts thousands of adventure lovers every year. Set on the edge of the giant Lake Wakatipu, in the Otago region, this intimate town transforms itself into a buzzing ski resort during winter, thanks to its two appealing ski-fields that suit sport lovers of any abilities.

The City

Begun as a gold mining camp in the 1860s, Queenstown's heart today is a compact district with a friendly yet grown-up air. Narrow streets brim with lively bars and restaurants, cosy backpacker hostels, stylish hotels and local boutiques. Given the town's unique layout, the choice is yours — wander in the city heart, feel your pulse race on a thrilling jet-boat ride, hike up a mountain, soak up a lake view, or take a breather from urban life and head to the countryside to taste the region's celebrated wines like the richly full-bodied Pinot Noir. At the city's fringe, hop on a cable car to the mountain peak for a sweeping panorama, or settle in for a hearty traditional dinner. Tracing the southern side of the lake, your gaze will catch the Remarkables — so named for the "remarkable" light effects that dance on their slopes. During the summer, their hues shift from mauve to deep red at sunset, while in winter, their snow-clad peaks present a sight that's nothing short of breathtaking.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Branded the "Adventure Capital of the World", Queenstown never falls short on thrill-inducing offerings. From bungee jumping and luge rides to white water rafting and jet boating, it's a hotbed for heart-racing exploits. The area's unique topography caters to a multitude of water-sports and lake cruises, and also offers a plethora of breathtaking excursions amidst unspoilt nature.

Whitewater Rafting

The Shotover and Kawarau rivers serve as premier locales for exhilarating whitewater rafting, presenting thrilling rapids and an immersive, wild backdrop. Buckle up in your safety gear and navigate the turbulent Class I and II rapids of the Shotover River. With the guidance of an expert, you'll take on the river's swirling currents and …

Bungee Jumping

AJ Hackett runs three top-notch bungee jumping locations in Queenstown, which span from the historic Kawarau Bridge Bungy — the birthplace of bungee jumping standing at 43m (141ft) — to the towering Nevis Highwire Bungy. With an intimidating height of 143m (440ft), the latter ranks among the highest bungee jumps …

Jet Boating

Get your blood pumping with adrenaline with a high-octane Jet Boating ride as you whizz down the Shotover or Kawarau river, skimming just inches away from the rugged canyon walls. These jet boat escapades promise heart-racing speed, exhilarating thrills, and a generous helping of those signature 360-degree spins. Feel the rush of the wind …

Canyon Swing

Step off the edge of a cliff 109m (360ft) above the Shotover River on the world’s highest swing: the Shotover Canyon Swing. As they developed 10 different jump styles, there’s a level of thrill to suit …

Luging

Test out your driving skills around the hairpin bends of the Skyline Luge as you hurtle on a gravity-powered vehicle. It operates from 9 am to dusk, and tickets are available from the Skyline Gondola terminals. Truly thrilling and with a stunning view across Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, this will be a …

Lake Cruises

Take it easy and try something a little more leisurely by discovering Queenstown on one of the many boats that cross lazily Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown Fishing Charters offers a variety of cruise options, from fishing cruises to elegant …

Kiwi Park

Located in the heart of the hectic Queenstown, this wildlife sanctuary is an oasis of calm. Star attractions include the iconic kiwi bird and the tuatara, a unique 200-million-year-old reptile species which has a ‘third eye’ on the top of its …

Walks & Trails

Queenstown is the perfect destination for ramblers, flaunting a stellar range of walking trails — from the challenging Ben Lomond Summit Track to the more leisurely Frankton Arm Walkway skirting Lake Wakatipu's shoreline. Here, you can hike amidst the untouched grandeur of New Zealand's …

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown is an adventure for the whole family that is located only five minutes from the city centre. It is reached by Gondola cableway that ends with a sweeping view of the city-centre and Lake Wakatipu, a restaurant, a playground for kids and the opportunity to bungee …

Queenstown Gardens

Perched on a petite peninsula on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Gardens form a lush oasis that offers a tranquil retreat. These meticulously manicured gardens afford spectacular views of the lake and mountains, making it an idyllic spot for a picnic. Thanks to its close proximity to the city centre, accessing this serene …

Jacks Point Golf Course

You don't have to be a professional golfer to go to Jacks Point and enjoy the surroundings or the impeccable service at the clubhouse. It is an 18 holes par 72 championship course that offers its golfers both a challenge and an unforgettable …

Moke Lake

Moke Lake, despite its proximity to Queenstown, provides a peaceful sanctuary away from the city buzz, along with an abundance of outdoor activities. You can amble along the scenic track encircling the lake, take a tranquil horseback ride, cast your fishing line, enjoy a paddle in a kayak, or whizz around on your cycle. …

Queenstown Mini Golf

Queenstown Mini-Golf offers entertainment for kids and families, providing a course equipped with 18 themed holes that can be booked for parties. Take a break from extreme sport activities and pop in for a …

Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak is the most popular ski area in Southern New Zealand, and it is located only a 20 minutes drive away from the city. The view up the mountain makes you feel on top of the world, and the dramatic slopes are provided with tracks for snow lovers of any …

Queenstown Ice Arena

This is not just another ordinary ice-skating experience. This ice arena, situated in Queenstown Gardens, is equipped with an LED light system, ice sleds, and hockey gears for the more competitive ones, offering activities for all …

Arrowtown

If you feel the urge of escaping the city for a day trip, you can venture to Arrowtown, a former gold-rush town located 25 minutes from Queenstown. Nowadays, this picturesque town is home to a number of delightful heritage buildings as well as inviting cafés, restaurants, boutiques and …

Dining

Whether it's top-tier dining establishments or charming eateries spilling onto scenic streets, Queenstown's food and drink scene is a delightful trifecta of quality, diversity, and affordability. And that's not all — with a host of cafes and restaurants dishing up both local and international flavours, you're guaranteed a smorgasbord of options. The crème de la crème of eateries, and undoubtedly the most sought-after, are nestled by the lake, providing sweeping vistas of Wakatipu Lake. It's the ideal spot for a bit of people-watching or simply soaking in the view.

Public Kitchen & Bar

The Public Kitchen and Bar offers local cuisine and boasts a superb waterfront location. On the menu, you can find dishes such as grilled marinated skirt steak, burgers, and salmon with fried capers, as well as a vast selection of …

Winnies

Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar

Boasting panoramic views of Queenstown skyline, Stratosfare is as much an experience as a delicious meal. Alongside the views, its ample selection of New Zealander delicacies compete for attention, offering a fine-dining experience of exceptional …

Captains Steak & Seafood Restaurant

Captains stands out as one of Queenstown's top culinary destinations, and it's an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a relaxed breakfast or lunch. This classy establishment offers a diverse menu, with the seafood and ribs receiving particularly high praise. It's a dining experience you wouldn't want to …

Fergburger

Fergburger has a reputation of serving the best burgers in town and it certainly live up to the hype. The restaurant has become an institution in town by serving beef, lamb or deer burgers, as well as vegetarian …

Jervois Steak House

Jervois Steak House is where to go to for a great selection of meat in all forms. Try their signature Prime Rib from a 150-day grain fed Black Angus, patiently roasted and prepared to perfection, or sample some "coq au vin" chicken. You won't find yourself short of …

Rātā

Rātā serves European-inspired contemporary cuisine. The menu might be a bit pricey, but give it a chance and you will find it worth your time. The food is beautifully decorated and it comes along with a fine wine selection and an outstanding …

Farelli's Trattoria

Farelli's Trattoria is a picturesque Italian restaurant with Vespa themed interiors, and some traditional specialities that will take you away to Italy. The dishes are made of the freshest seasonal ingredients, cooked to perfection by experienced …

Botswana Butchery

Botswana Butchery offers an amazing lake view, soothing log fires and a contemporary menu that features both dinner and lunch options. This little cottage is a popular dining place in Queenstown. Be sure to book your table in …

No5 Church Lane

No5 Church Lane is both a cocktail bar and an unsurpassed Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. It combines a great selection of entrees, main dishes and tasty bites, including signature cocktails, selected champagne and …

1876 Bar & Restaurant

With a history that, as the name reminds, dates back to the 1876, this restaurant is a landmark in Queenstown. It has a quaint, intimate outdoor seating area and serves great-quality pub food with options of seafood and New Zealand flavours. 1876 livens up at night, hosting DJs or live music on a regular …

Tanoshi

Situated in the central Queenstown, Tanoshi is a teppan and sake bar who offers a fun and intimate dining experience. Besides serving traditional Japanese cuisine from the teppan grill, the menu also has contemporary interpretations of Japanese classics including dishes like grilled scallops with wasabi mayo, crispy fried pork with smoked sauce and grilled …

Taco Medic

Craving for some Mexican food? Then head over to this food track called Taco Medic where all tacos are made with fresh, daily-pressed corn masa tortillas and are gluten-free. The tacos are filled with the freshest local seasonal produce and with fresh fish or quality meats. There are a few covered benches where you …

Cafes

Queenstown, like the rest of New Zealand, is a hotbed of coffee culture. Kiwis are known for their discerning coffee tastes and their love of using cafes as social hubs. You'll find the majority of cafes in the heart of Queenstown, conveniently close to the shimmering Lake Wakatipu. Here, they serve up the beloved brew in a myriad of forms and styles to satisfy even the pickiest of coffee aficionados.

Joe’s Garage

Joe's Garage is an American-style minimalist cafe with a buzzing atmosphere and a welcoming ambiance. This fashionable cafe serves strong espressos along with delicious buns, panini and mouth-watering …

Vesta Design

Tucked in the back of Queenstown’s oldest house, this tiny cafe and design store offers a unique mix of history, contemporary design and traditional New Zeland art, showcasing unique gift ideas and pieces of art, as well as serving quality …

Vudu Cafe

A vibrant breakfast spot located in the bustling heart of the city, Vudu is a well-established meeting point in Queenstown. The cafe is a favourite among both locals and tourists alike, gaining popularity thanks to its locally roasted coffee beans and a huge cabinet of cakes and …

Patagonia Chocolates — Ice Creamery & Chocolaterie

Patagonia Chocolates is the ideal breakfast destination for a kick-start of the day. Serving delicious coffee, mouth-watering churros, smooth ice-cream and a hot chocolate that is to die for, this cafeteria in the city-centre will satisfy your sweet …

The Exchange

Pop inside this coffee shop with a fantastic reputation for serving fresh, tasty eats and arguably one of the best coffees in the Wakatipu. With mouth-watering options for breakfast and lunch including local wines, craft beers and locally roasted Octane coffee, you will for sure find something that will suit your …

The Coffee Club

Not only serving excellent coffee but also offers a large range of breakfast, lunch and dinner meals that are available at any time of the day. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, you can just relax and catch up with friends either inside or outside. The Coffee Club is a notorious Kiwi cafe …

Market Kitchen Café

At this modern and unique cafe, you can enjoy flavours and tastes from around the world from the multiple food stations. Everything from pizzas, curries to ice cream and crepes are served here. If you are craving for something sweet than dig in on the freshly made pastries, muffins, scones and cakes that are …

Odelay Cafe

With a large selection of fresh baking and cabinet food including breakfast, brunch and lunch menu, you will for sure find what you are looking for. Everything from coffee to cold press juice, salads, raw salads and homemade pies are offered on the menu. If the weather permits, enjoy your food in the courtyard …

Hole In One Cafe

Set in the original farm stables, The Hole in One cafe is a great place where to relax after a day's sightseeing while enjoying some delicious muffins, cakes or pastries, which are all freshly baked on site. With an extensive casual cafe-dining menu, they also cater food for the hungry …

Arctic Kitchen at Taste & Savour

This hidden gem boasts a sunny sheltered terrace overlooking the Shotover River with never-ending views of Central Otago’s striking mountain ranges. At this fully licensed cafe, with an additional wine and food store you can get organic coffee, delicious cabinet food made in-house and an all-day …

Bespoke Kitchen

Situated a mere five-minute walk from central Queenstown and offering an enchanting view of the bay and the Remarkables, Bespoke Kitchen is a haven for lovers of fresh, unprocessed and local cuisine. From a vegan (no-eggs) Benedict, to a variety of other unique and health-conscious choices, this hip cafe truly lives up to the …

Bars & Nightlife

Once you've had your fill of adrenaline-fuelled activities, it's time to paint the town red. Join the throng that flocks to the city as the sun dips below the horizon, sharing stories over a pint or two. And don't be fooled by Queenstown's sporty daytime persona — its nightlife is surprisingly diverse, with everything from pubs offering locally-brewed beers, to chic bars and clubs that could give any European hotspot a run for its money.

Bardeaux

Bardeaux is an upmarket bar with an extensive wine and cocktail list that is probably more New York than New Zealand. Its warm open fire makes it a popular winter night-time retreat which is normally open until 4 in the …

Eichardt’s Bar

A long-time local favourite, the upscale Eichardt’s boasts a vibrant atmosphere by providing its guests with comfortable sofas, a stunning fireplace and an impeccable service. In addition, its waterfront location donates a suggestive view of lake …

Minus 5° ICE BAR

Minus 5°, as the name suggests, is literally Queenstown’s coolest bar. Everything, from the walls to the seats and the glass you sip from, is made of ice, offering an unforgettable, yet icy, experience. Warm clothes are provided by the …

Surreal

Surreal is a restaurant that has both a dinner and lunch menu, where, after 10 pm, chairs, tables and couches are moved away, cocktails start flowing, and DJs start pumping out upbeat tunes, transforming the area into a happening dance …

The Bunker Restaurant

Located off the beaten path, The Bunker Restaurant is favoured by a late 20’s-to-40’s crowd who prefer their drinks to be shaken, not stirred, and only with top shelf spirits. The atmosphere is created by sophisticated interiors and an attentive service, allowing guests to relax over quality craft …

Pig & Whistle

A traditional English pub that attracts both tourists and locals alike, Pig & Whistle serves bangers and mash, pies or burgers, along with an ample selection of beers, wines and soft drinks. Live bands are hosted frequently, creating a lively atmosphere to mix and …

Barmuda

One of Queenstown’s favourite premium bar with a bit of class, Barmuda is an ideal place for an early drink in the courtyard or a late night party and is definitely well worth finding. With an extensive cocktail menu and wine list, you will for sure find something that will suit your …

Harry's Pool Bar

Nestled at the base of Brecon Street, you'll discover Harry's Pool Bar, a welcoming haunt boasting seven pool tables, widescreen TVs, a cosy open fire and a laid-back lounge area. The menu tempts you with thin-crust pizzas and an array of classic beers, wines and spirits. It's the perfect spot to chill with friends …

SKYCITY Queenstown Casino

Big Night Out Pub Crawl

One of the best ways to explore the vibrant nightlife in Queenstown is pub-crawling where you get the chance to party from bar to bar with a group of fun people. The staff are super friendly and free pizza and shots are included in the tour as well as discounted …

Rhino's Ski Shack

Rhino's Ski Shack is Queenstown's après ski bar that will transport you into the authentic European style but with a kiwi twist. With a tranquil atmosphere, this is a great place to unwind and socialize with friends whilst sipping on hot mulled wine and eating hot …

Smiths Craft Beer House

Grab a pint and try something new at this craft beer house where the focus lies on creative beer and food flavours. Smiths are keen to offer beverages from brewers who go off the beaten path to create something new, so this is for sure a place for any craft beer enthusiast. They also …

Stacks

Relax in the casual and contemporary Stacks Bar & Restaurant in Kawarau Village, where you can relish delicious and great value for money cuisine or just pop in for a drink. With a rustic interior design and two outdoor terraces, one of which is covered, this pub is the perfect place to meet up …

Little Blackwood

Situated on the water's edge in the heart of Queenstown, Little Blackwood seduces you with a pleasant cocktail menu, local beers and wines and if the hunger kicks in, cheese and meat boards as well as tapas style food are served. While you are enjoying your food and drink be amazed over the million-dollar …

Shopping

Queenstown is widely renowned for high-quality, locally-crafted products. From sheepskin items, leather goods, and pure wool hand-knits, to jewellery and outdoor wear, it's a shopper's delight. You'll encounter local designers sharing space with well-known international brands, whether in the bustling city centre malls or nestled within Queenstown's charming streets. The heart of the shopping district is conveniently located and pedestrianised, transforming your city centre stroll into an enjoyable retail adventure.