Queenstown tourism guide - Winter 2025

ACTIVITIES • SHOPPING • BARS • RESTAURANTS

Your guide

Planning a holiday is exciting, but with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve partnered with Tourism Guides to create this authentic pre-arrival guide, giving you insider knowledge on the best experiences and the top companies to book with.

Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know before you arrive, including:

• Insights on the region

• Top things to do – from adrenaline-fuelled adventures to scenic experiences

• Best shopping – local gems and must-visit stores

• Leading bars and restaurants – where to eat, drink, and unwind

Many of Queenstown’s most popular activities and restaurants book out days or even weeks in advance, so we recommend reading this guide now and securing your bookings early to avoid missing out.

Get ready to experience Queenstown at its best – we can’t wait to welcome you!

Queenstown

Surrounding region

Queenstown History

Queenstown is the perfect destination to experience the magic of winter.

To understand how Queenstown’s striking landscape of steep, jagged mountain ranges and deep waters were formed, we must look back around 15,000 years. This was the time of an ice age, and New Zealand was a land covered in glaciers. The area we now know as the Whakatipu Basin was covered by a huge glacier travelling from the high rainfall catchment area of the Dart and Rees valleys. As the glacier moved slowly over the landscape, it carved out the large trough to form the lake bed of Lake Whakatipu.

If you head out on a lake cruise during your visit to Queenstown, you will likely see the immense peaks of Cecil Peak and Walter Peak. Look closely at Cecil Peak, and you will notice horizontal scratches on its flanks. These are known as striations and are deep gouges left behind by the glacier as it moved past. Smaller peaks such as Mt Nicholas have a less jagged appearance as they were smoothed over when the glacier simply ran over them. Thousands of years after the ice had melted in the valleys and the lakes were full, human activity began in the Whakatipu.

Māori History

Ngāi Tahu is the Māori iwi of Queenstown and tangata whenua, meaning they are the people of this land. Ngāi Tahu lived and travelled across much of Te Waipounamu (South Island), and there is evidence Māori first made their way to Queenstown around 800 years ago. Ngāi Tahu travelled seasonally to the southern regions to gather food, hunt, and search for pounamu (greenstone). Pounamu was particularly abundant around the headwaters of Lake Whakatipu and the Routeburn and Dart valleys. The highly prized stone was valued for its strength and beauty and was carved into toki (adzes), mere (short clubs) and hei tiki (necklace or ear adornments).

Early European History

In the mid-19th century, Europeans began to venture into the harsh landscapes of the lower South Island. Those who made the journey through dense bush and over high mountain passes would have faced many challenges. It would have been a harsh landscape to navigate with little knowledge or experience; many were severely ill-prepared.

One such hardy pioneer was the surveyor Alexander Garvie. In 1857, he laid eyes upon a stunning, jagged mountain range near Lake Whakatipu. He named this mountain range, most suitably, The Remarkables. It is said that when Garvie surveyed the range and discovered it lay in a true north-south direction, he commented on this ‘remarkable’ phenomenon.

Those Europeans who managed to successfully make it to places like Queenstown, Wānaka, Kingston or Hāwea long before there were roads often did so with help from local iwi.

In 1853, Nathaniel Chalmers was guided by Māori chief, Reko, through the Nevis Valley to a summit where he cast his eyes upon Lake Whakatipu. While Chalmers would have been spellbound by the sight before him, he never had the chance to visit. Suffering from severe food poisoning, he returned down the Mataura River by a mokihikihi (flax leaf) raft to recover.

Three years later, Reko guided three more Europeans into the Whakatipu. John Chubbin, John Morrison, and Malcolm Macfarlane went further than Nathaniel Chalmers, reaching the shores of Lake Whakatipu – the first Europeans to do so. However, their success was short-lived. As the three men stood admiring the lake, Morrison threw a match used to light his pipe and started a fire. The landscape quickly went up in flames, forcing them and their horses into the lake to escape. While the inferno caused huge damage, it created a route through the dense vegetation allowing more visitors and their animals to access the southern end of Lake Whakatipu, leading to the start of the region’s agricultural era.

Agricultural Beginnings

Two of the most notable figures during the days of early European settlement were William Rees and Nicholas Von Tunzelmann, who arrived in the Whakatipu in 1859. It was no easy journey for the pair who made the epic trek from Oamaru on the East Coast over the Crown Range to the Whakatipu, battling speargrass, matagouri and steep alpine terrain as they went.

It was a coin toss that would determine the fate (and fortune) of Rees and Von Tunzelmann. Both men had decided to stay and farm the new territory, and they decided a coin toss would determine what run-hold each would take. Rees won the toss and opted to take the parcel of land where Queenstown now stands. It would turn out to be a wise choice. Von Tunzelmann took the land on the other side of Lake Whakatipu, establishing a farm close to where Mt Nicholas is now found.

Rees established a merino sheep farm, grazing up to 3,000 animals. Both men enjoyed a few years of farming before the discovery of gold would change everything. Rees successfully rode a wave of good fortune, going on to establish a timber mill on Pigeon Island, building government offices, churches, the masonic lodge, a hotel and the hospital. Von Tunzelmann did not fare so well and was eventually forced to leave his land after disease, rabbit infestation, and financial hardship hit hard.

For William Rees, however, things took a decidedly fortuitous turn one day in 1862. One of Rees’ musterers, Jack Tewa, removed a gold nugget from the Arrow River. What followed would set in motion one of the greatest gold rushes of the time and a lucrative deal for Rees.

While Jack Tewa’s name will always be linked with that infamous first gold strike, it is not the first time his name appears in the history books. While transporting two visitors home from Rees’ station by boat, Jack Tewa and his boat capsized. Jack heroically fought to keep both men alive in the freezing waters, battling for hours to paddle the sunken vessel to shore. One of the party didn’t survive, but the other did, thanks to Jack’s heroic effort to set off on foot to raise a rescue party. Jack was acknowledged with a medal from the Humane Society of Britain. Jack’s Point, just south of Frankton, is named after this courageous local.

The 1860s Gold Rush

While Jack Tewa’s gold strike is considered the first in the district, it wasn’t long before more gold was uncovered. The discovery of gold changed the Whakatipu from a pastoral outpost to a bustling gold mining settlement.

More gold was discovered along the Shotover River from Arthur’s Point to deep in Skippers Canyon. Two men trying to rescue their dog that had been swept away in the fast-flowing river spotted gold. It is said that they had gathered 25 pounds of gold by the end of the day.

While William Rees never went directly into gold mining, he greatly benefitted from the gold rush. The law of the time required grazing land to be vacated for mining when a viable claim was discovered, and so Rees received 10,000 pounds compensation for his Queenstown land. Rees went on to become a pillar of the community and was involved in many aspects of life in the district. He turned one of his woolsheds on the lakeshore into the Queen’s Arms Hotel to provide lodgings to the many miners, traders and visitors that poured into Queenstown’s premium hotel stays.

Queenstown was booming. But it wasn’t always an easy life. Miners lived in canvas or tin shelters along the river valleys. There were freezing conditions to endure in winter, and hard living often led to fights, murder and general discontent.

Arrowtown was known as Fox’s during the gold rush and was home to around 1,500 miners. The heyday was short-lived, and miners were soon leaving in search of other gold strikes around the world. The local government was concerned about the declining population and encouraged Chinese miners to journey to New Zealand to find their fortune. The newly arrived Chinese miners discovered gold fields that had been largely stripped by previous miners. Despite this, the Chinese prospered and set up stores, market gardens and a bank. By the 1930s, there was a flourishing Chinese settlement in the area. Today, you can visit the Chinese Settlement precinct in Arrowtown, where a preserved strip of houses and stores gives an insight into what life would have been like nearly 100 years ago.

The growth of Queenstown is irrevocably linked with gold. However, gold rushes don’t last forever; eventually, the gold dwindled, and so did the population. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the next boom would hit Queenstown.

Tourism in Queenstown

The new gold turned out to be tourism. Word of Queenstown’s immense beauty had spread across New Zealand and around the world as a result of the gold rush. It wasn’t long before tourists began to replace gold miners. In the early days of tourism, Queenstown was known as a tranquil place to come for fishing, hiking, water activities and perhaps a bit of hunting. Modest holiday homes sprung up along the lakeshore in areas like Frankton and Kelvin Heights.

Things started to ramp up in the second half of the 20th century. First, it was the opening of Coronet Peak in 1947. The South Island’s first commercial ski field firmly put Queenstown on the map and would lay the foundation for the district’s reputation as a world-class ski resort. In 1950, a groundbreaking boat appeared on the rivers around Queenstown. The first jet boat trips took off from the Kawarau River in 1959 and the Shotover River in 1960. Jet boating would go on to establish itself as the quintessential Queenstown thrill activity.

In 1967, a gondola was built on Bob’s Peak, ferrying visitors up to a spectacular viewpoint. The Skyline Gondola is one of the stalwarts of the tourism scene and has grown into a multi-experiential offering that is firmly established as a Queenstown must-do.

In the early 1980s, the first Pinot Noir grapes were planted on a hunch in the Gibbston Valley. It turned out to be a good hunch. The region’s hot summers, cold winters, and long, dry autumns create the perfect climate for Pinot Noir grapes. Nearly forty years later, the region is regarded as one of the best pinot regions in the world.

The first commercial bungy jump took flight in 1988 on the Kawarau River. This leap would irrevocably establish Queenstown as the place to go for adrenaline and thrills.

Today, Queenstown offers something for everyone, far beyond adventure and adrenaline. Visitors flock here for winter snow sports, luxurious lodges, and world-class wine. They come for breathtaking outdoor landscapes, hiking, and the chance to escape the everyday. Queenstown truly has something for everyone, no matter the time of year.

TOP things to do in Queenstown

Walking & Hiking / pages 12–13

With over 140km of well-maintained trails around the region, Queenstown is a walker’s paradise. The Queenstown Hill walk and the Ben Lomond summit are two of the most rewarding and popular options close to central Queenstown. Travel a little further, and you’ll find many more, including some of the New Zealand Great Walks. Whether you’re after a short scenic stroll or a challenging full-day hike, the region offers breathtaking views at every turn. Lush native forests, alpine ridges, and crystal-clear lakes make each trail a unique experience.

Water, Air, Land, & Indoor Activities /

pages 20–51

Queenstown is known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ for good reason. It was here that the world’s first commercial bungy jump started, along with New Zealand’s first skydive. Queenstown is also home to world-class downhill bike parks and ski fields. Any day of the year, Lake Whakatipu and its rivers buzz with jet boats, rafting, kayaking, cruises, and much more. High above, fixed-wing planes, helicopters, and hot-air balloons transport sightseers over spectacular vistas, and on the ground, 4WD tour companies trek into majestic landscapes.

Biking / pages 58–61

With world-class downhill tracks and a range of carefullymaintained bike parks, Queenstown attracts downhill bikers from around the world. Bike trails cater to both experienced technical riders and absolute beginners. For easier riding, there’s also an extensive trail network winding through the district’s lakes, rivers, wineries and backcountry.

Winter Sports /

pages 14–19

Queenstown is one of the top snow destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, with four ski fields offering terrain for all skill levels. Carve groomed slopes, tackle terrain parks, or explore backcountry trails. With stunning alpine scenery, top-tier facilities, and a buzzing après-ski scene, it’s the perfect place to embrace winter.

Wineries & Wine Tours / pages 52–57

Gibbston and Central Otago wines are globally recognised –particularly Pinot Noir, which thrives in the region’s cool, dry climate. Gibbston, a valley just a half-hour drive from Queenstown, possesses an impressive selection of wineries and cellar doors offering up delightful wines and delicious food.

Golfing / pages 62–63

Queenstown is home to five spectacular golf courses offering top-class fairways and stunning scenery, making it New Zealand’s leading golf holiday destination. There’s also a 9-hole course in Frankton, along with other courses throughout the region.

Shopping / pages 82–87

Queenstown has three main shopping areas. Arrowtown’s main street offers a selection of boutique clothes shops, art galleries and souvenir outlets. Frankton is where you’ll find large supermarkets and retail stores. However, most visitors love the variety of shopping options in the heart of Queenstown.

Restaurants & Cafés / pages 96–105

The region punches above its weight in terms of the variety and quality of restaurants and cafés. Amisfield in Arrowtown reigns supreme and is regularly named New Zealand’s best restaurant. Any restaurant in Queenstown needs to be able to compete with the best in the business; the result is an incredible offering of top-class restaurants and chefs covering a wide range of cuisines. From casual lakeside dining to fine-dining experiences, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion, making Queenstown a true food lover’s paradise.

Exploring the Region / pages 64–81

Just over the hill, Wānaka makes an excellent day trip from Queenstown. Explore the Cardrona Valley on the way there and Cromwell on the way back. At the head of the lake, Glenorchy, on the edge of Mt Aspiring National Park, is a must-see, and so is a visit to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound in Fiordland.

Bars & Nightlife / pages 88–95

Queenstown comes alive when the sun goes down. The town is known for its pumping nightlife scene, and there is plenty on offer in the heart of town. On the main streets or down hidden side streets, there is every type of bar and club you can think of. Arthurs Point offers breweries and gin tasting, Frankton is home to some of the region’s best bars, and Arrowtown boasts a selection of beer gardens and eclectic hidden bars. No matter the vibe you’re after, Queenstown has you covered.

TOP FREE things to do in Queenstown

Visit Macetown

6–8 hours round trip if self-driving (faster with a guided tour)

Macetown is the best-preserved mining town in the region and is a hotspot for tourists that will not let you down. Access is from the Arrowtown carpark, up roughly 15km of dirt road that crosses the Arrow River multiple times. You can walk or cycle there, but with over 22 river crossings each way we would suggest a 4x4 as the best option. If you don’t feel comfortable driving yourself then there are companies that offer guided 4x4 trips.

Visit the Queenstown Gardens and Play Frisbee Golf

1–2 hours for 18 holes

Loved by the locals, playing frisbee golf at Queenstown gardens is a fun way to spend an hour or two. There are 18 holes located throughout the gardens, conveniently placed behind the multitude of trees, just begging for people to try and throw their frisbees in them. Although it’s free to play you will have to rent a frisbee in town, with Small Planet offering affordable frisbee rentals for tourists. The picturesque lakeside gardens are a must see whilst in town even if frisbee golf doesn’t interest you.

Visit the Time Tripper Underwater Cinema and Observatory 30 minutes

Time Tripper (page 24) is located at the pier down two flights of stairs under Lake Whakatipu. The film takes you back 90 million years to the time of the dinosaurs and brings you through the ages to modernday Queenstown learning about Māori Legends along the way. Then from the underwater observatory you experience 15 mins of the diving ducks, eels, and trout being fed. Okay, so it’s not free but at only $20 per adult and $10 per child, it’s close enough and well worth the money.

Hike Queenstown Hill

2–3 hours return trip

Walking up Queenstown hill is a must do! If you type Queenstown hill walking track into google maps it will direct you to the start of the trail at Belfast Terrace, and from there it takes roughly one hour to get to the viewpoint. The walk is all uphill however once you get to the top the views are truly breathtaking! We’d suggest hiking up there for sunrise, but if you’re not a morning person then it’s also beautiful at sunset and well worth the hike.

Hike Ben Lomond

3–4 hours walking for saddle return trip, 6–8 hours for summit return trip

This 14km hike takes you to the highest peak in Queenstown with 360° views across the mountains and lakes. The hike begins with the ‘Tiki Trail’ which connects Brecon Street and the top of the gondola (using the gondola can save a lot of time). It’s well signposted from the top and after a walk along the saddle you will reach the hike to the summit. The summit hike can be daunting for some, but the views from the saddle are still spectacular. Check the conditions before walking in winter.

Visit Moke Lake

1–2 hours return trip – recommend spending a couple of hours once there

From Queenstown drive along the road to Glenorchy for roughly ten minutes until you see the ‘Moke Lake Road’ signpost and turn to the right. After driving up the hill and along the gravel road you will discover the picturesque lake surrounded by steep mountains. There is a 2–3 hour walking trail that goes around the lake, or you can sit lakeside and enjoy the peaceful and idyllic nature surrounding you. A true hidden gem!

Drive the Glenorchy Road

2 hours return trip – recommend making a day and exploring Glenorchy

This drive is one of the most spectacular in NZ. It takes roughly 1 hour each way although there are multiple beaches and viewpoints along the way you will want to take advantage of. One of the best is Bob’s Cove which we would recommend stopping at. We would suggest allocating the day for Glenorchy as there are a myriad of things to do in this majestic wonderland. View the Glenorchy section on pages 68–71 to find out more.

Visit Arrowtown

1 hour drive return trip

Recommend minimum of half a day to explore Arrowtown

A visit to the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown, about 30 minutes from Queenstown, should not be missed. To learn about the mining history, you can visit the old Chinese Settlement or the region’s main museum the Lakes District Museum. Arrowtown is also renowned for having some of the best boutique clothing and souvenir shopping in the region. It is also home to a vibrant dining scene, offering exceptional cuisine and fine wines. View the Arrowtown section on pages 64–67 to find out more.

Drive the Skippers Canyon Road

4–6 hours return trip

Skippers Canyon Road is 22km of single-lane dirt road that clings to the side of the canyon with vertical drops on the side. The road was created for gold miners and the Shotover River below is one of the richest gold-bearing rivers in the world. Most rental companies don’t insure for this road and a 4x4 is necessary. If you don’t feel comfortable driving yourself then Pure Glenorchy (page 41) and Off-road Adventures (page 42) offer guided trips, and Skippers Canyon Jet offers jet boating (page 25).

Walk or Cycle from Beach to Beach

2–3 hours walking for return trip, or 1 hour for cycling return trip

Starting at the beach in Queenstown, the trail goes around Queenstown Gardens and links up with the Frankton Track, which takes you along the lake’s edge to Frankton Beach. You can stop at the marina halfway along for a coffee or beer at The Boat Shed Café (page 105). Frankton Beach offers BBQ facilities and toilets, making it a perfect spot to relax, swim, or enjoy a picnic. Bicycle rentals are available from Around the Basin Bike (page 61).

IN and AROUND Queenstown

Not sure what to do or where to go? Well, here’s a breakdown of the locations in and around Queenstown to help you plan your holiday.

While you could easily spend your whole holiday exploring what’s on offer in Queenstown, there is so much to see outside Queenstown as well. We recommend you leave extra time in your itinerary to explore the areas beyond Queenstown.

Queenstown CBD

Perfectly positioned on the lakefront, central Queenstown is a joy to explore. Not only can you take in the views, but you’ll also find most of the town’s bars, restaurants, cafés, retail stores, and souvenir shops here. It’s easy to access on foot, including the impressive lakefront and tranquil Queenstown Gardens. Most of Queenstown’s hotels are found here, as well as the pick-up points and booking offices for activity operators.

Frankton (7km from Queenstown)

Frankton has two main hubs, located on either side of Queenstown’s International Airport, with Remarkables Park on the lower side, and Five Mile on the upper side. Both hubs host the town’s supermarkets and a variety of shops and department stores, a large selection of restaurants and a couple of bars. Country Lane is the newest village, located not far from Five Mile, and has a variety of shops, activities and eateries including the popular honey tasting at Buzzstop and a locals favourite restaurant called Sundays which is set in a historic church. Frankton also has its own 9-hole golf course, the town’s swimming pool and events centre (page 48), indoor go-karting, and a beach at Frankton Arm.

DART RIVER ADVENTURES

Arthurs Point (6km from Queenstown)

Arthurs Point is located just out of Queenstown on the back road to Arrowtown. Several activities operate in Arthurs Point along the scenic Shotover River, including Shotover Canyon Swing, where you can swing above the river on a bungy cord, and Shotover Jet (page 23) which offers thrilling jet boat rides through the canyons. Along Arthurs Point Road, there is Strike Bowl for ten-pin bowling and Onsen Hot Pools. There is also a gin tasting bar, and one of the locals favourite chill-out spots – the Canyon Brewing restaurant and beer garden (page 95).

Skippers Canyon (9km from Queenstown)

The road to Skippers Canyon is a place that evokes many superlatives. Some say beautiful, some say dangerous, however, everyone agrees, it is impressive. Skippers Canyon was once one of the biggest settlements in the district during the gold rush of the 1860s, and today has become an attraction for tourists and locals. The Skippers Road is accessed off the road to Coronet Peak ski area. The road is a 13-kilometre, narrow, unsealed road that clings to the side of Skippers Canyon. With vertical drops on either side and the Shotover River below, it is a journey best done with professionals. Most rental companies forbid the use of their rental cars on the road. However, Pure Glenorchy (page 41) and Off-Road Adventures (page 42) offer guided tours, and Skippers Canyon Jet (page 25) offers jet boating.

Arrowtown (19km

from Queenstown)

Arrowtown is a must-visit when in the region. This quirky, heritage gold-mining township oozes character. The town boasts amazing dining options, including the internationally acclaimed restaurant, Amisfield. There is also the Lakes District Museum, boutique clothing stores, souvenir shopping and the historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement. Arrowtown is also where you will find three world-class golf courses. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, the town offers scenic walking and cycling trails, including the famous Arrow River Trail and Macetown Track. To find out more, visit the Arrowtown section on pages 64–67.

Macetown (road starts 19km from Queenstown)

Macetown is a gold mining ghost town and one of the best-kept secrets in the region. This historic area is accessible via an off-road track along the gold-bearing Arrow River in Arrowtown. With over 22 river crossings both ways and steep, rough terrain, it is only accessible with a 4WD vehicle. Even then, it is not for the fainthearted. Keen locals will cycle or walk the Macetown trail, but we suggest an off-road tour is the best option.

Gibbston (28km from Queenstown)

Gibbston is regarded as one of the leading wine-producing regions in New Zealand. Its ideal climate produces award-winning Pinot Noir. There are many wineries, cellar doors and restaurants throughout the valley. For more information, visit the Wineries & Wine Tours section on pages 52–57. Gibbston is also home to Oxbow Adventure Co. (page 39) where you’ll find all the action of off-roading, jet boat sprints, and clay bird shooting. The valley is also known for its breathtaking landscapes, with scenic walking and cycling trails winding through vineyards and along the Kawarau River.

Moke Lake (14km from Queenstown)

Moke Lake is a hidden gem on the road to Glenorchy that is easily missed but shouldn’t be overlooked. Time at Moke Lake is a chance to get away from it all, even though you’re only 14km from Queenstown. Surrounded by mountains, this tranquil lake is the perfect place for a relaxing picnic, a swim, or a walk around the two-hour loop track.

Glenorchy (46km from Queenstown)

Glenorchy is a small town at the head of Lake Whakatipu with unbelievable scenery. The drive to Glenorchy is spectacular and a must-do, and with only one road in and out, a trip to Glenorchy is a true wilderness experience. The unparalleled scenery has featured in many Hollywood blockbusters, most famously the Lord of the Rings trilogy. If you’re looking to explore these cinematic landscapes up close, Pure Glenorchy offers specialised LOTR tours as well as general Glenorchy tours (page 41). Find out more on pages 68–71.

Crown Range Drive (68km from Queenstown to Wanaka)

The Crown Range is the highest main road in New Zealand and the most popular way to get to Wānaka from Queenstown. The road zigzags up the steep Crown Terrace before heading over the Crown Range pass (1,121m) and down into the Cardrona Valley. It is a drive full of photo opportunities so leave plenty of time for the journey. Find out more info on pages 72–75.

Cardrona (46km from Queenstown)

Cardrona is a small township in the Cardrona Valley between Queenstown and Wānaka. The settlement is steeped in gold mining heritage and is best known for its world-class ski fields. The historic Cardrona Hotel is a must-visit, boasting one of the best beer gardens in the area, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes. You can find out more on pages 72–75.

Wānaka (68km from Queenstown)

Just under an hour’s drive from Queenstown is the picturesque town of Wānaka. With its stunning lakeside setting framed by mountain ranges, Wānaka is similar to Queenstown, just a little quieter. Browse the main streets for dining and shopping or relax on the beachfront. There is plenty of hiking and backcountry exploring as well as a trip to Hāwea and Lake Hāwea on the way to the West Coast. Wānaka is also home to the renowned Treble Cone Ski Area, the very popular Skydive Wanaka, and the mysterious world of illusions and mazes at Puzzling World. You can find out more on pages 72–75.

Cromwell (59km from Queenstown)

Cromwell can be done as a day trip from Queenstown via the Gibbston winery region or as a stop-off on the way back from Wānaka. Cromwell is one of New Zealand’s largest fruit-growing regions, and you can sample its famous stone fruit at the local stalls and pick-your-own orchards. Cromwell’s Highlands Motorsport Park is a world-class race track and motorsports museum with high-octane activities like go-karts and hot laps. Make sure you leave time to explore Gibbston and visit one (or more) of the many cellar doors along State Highway 6 on the way back to Queenstown. You can find out more on pages 72–75.

Fiordland (Te Anau, Milford Sound & Doubtful Sound)

Fiordland is home to what is often regarded as New Zealand’s most spectacular natural wonders, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Here, you will also find the picturesque township of Te Anau and many other jewels of the Fiordland National Park. Fiordland is accessible by a scenic flight to Milford Sound Airport or by driving from Queenstown to Te Anau and then either turning north towards Milford along the Milford Road, or south towards Manapouri and Doubtful Sound. No trip to Queenstown is complete without a flight or cruise through this World Heritage listed area. To find out more, see our Fiordland section on pages 76–81.

MILFORD SOUND

Walking & Hiking

Whether you’re a mighty mountain hiker or a gentle lakeside stroller, Queenstown offers a feast of walking and hiking options. And the good news is, many of Queenstown’s most impressive day walks are easily accessible from the centre of town.

You don’t have to go far to see spectacular scenery in Queenstown, and the best way to soak up is on foot. Queenstown offers everything from short, easy walks to multi-day hikes into the national parks. We have listed a few of the highlights below for you. Make sure you check the weather conditions and snowfall before setting off on any of the walks.

Queenstown’s Walks

Frankton Track

Take a relaxed lakeside stroll along the Frankton Track, with spectacular views across Frankton Arm. The walk from central Queenstown to Frankton takes around an hour – or longer if you take advantage of a café (or beer) stop at Queenstown Marina. If you want to continue the walk, then the trail continues to the end of Kelvin Heights.

Queenstown Gardens

The walk around Queenstown Gardens is a three-kilometre loop track through a spectacularly diverse setting with artworks, a duck pond, and monuments. The botanical garden was established in 1866 and has been a much-loved treasure of the town ever since.

Queenstown Hill

This steep walk – considered one of Queenstown’s best short walks – requires a good level of fitness. The track starts at Belfast Street above central Queenstown and follows a steady incline before finishing just above the tree line. Here, you can take in the jaw-dropping views over Lake Whakatipu and The Remarkables beyond.

Ben Lomond

At 1,748m, the summit of Ben Lomond offers dizzying lake and mountain views, breathtaking scenery, and is well worth the challenging hike to get there. Begin walking at One Mile Creek with the option to hike to Ben Lomond Saddle (3–4 hours return) or Ben Lomond Summit (6–8 hours return). Be prepared for possible icy conditions and snow above the bush line between April and November, and always check the weather conditions before setting off.

Moke Lake

Just 15 minutes from Queenstown, Moke Lake is an incredibly picturesque and tranquil spot, offering stunning views and serenity. A six-kilometre loop track around the lake takes two to three hours to complete and can also be done by bike.

Great Walks near Queenstown

To access any of the Great Walks, you will need to travel to Glenorchy or Te Anau. There are a number of track transport services operating from Queenstown. While all the Great Walks are multi-day hikes, most offer the opportunity to walk part of the track as a day hike.

Milford Track

It takes four days and three nights to hike the Milford Track in Fiordland National Park. The world-renowned track covers 53 kilometres of spectacular scenery in a small section of Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. The Milford Track is a journey through lush rainforest, along pristine rivers, lakes, and high alpine passes.

The Routeburn Track

This point-to-point walk can be hiked in either direction with the option to start in Fiordland at The Divide (85km from Te Anau) or from the Routeburn Shelter (25km from Glenorchy). The Routeburn Track typically takes three days and two nights to complete. Alternatively, there are huts along the way where you can stay for the night and return if you just want a shorter day hike.

The Kepler Track

The Kepler Track is considered one of the most popular Great Walks in Fiordland, thanks to its proximity to the township of Te Anau. This three to four-day hike begins by Lake Te Anau and is renowned for its impressive diversity of scenery and the challenging hike up Mt Luxmore.

MILFORD TRACK

Winter Sports

Queenstown is the perfect destination to experience the magic of winter.

As one of the premier skiing and boarding destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown attracts thousands of visitors each winter season. While it’s known for its world-class ski fields, Queenstown offers many other options for once-in-a-lifetime winter experiences.

Queenstown’s ski history dates back to 1947 when local Queenstowner Bill Hamilton installed a rope ski tow at Coronet Peak, heralding the start of the country’s ski industry. Coronet Peak developed rapidly over the years, and by 1985 The Remarkables opened on the adjacent mountain range. Queenstown had staked its claim as a world-class snow destination.

Ski Fields

Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak is one of New Zealand’s most popular ski resorts, and for good reason. With over 700 hectares of skiable terrain, it’s perfect for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, offering wide, open runs and some challenging black diamond runs for the more experienced skiers. Coronet Peak is just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, making it an easy and convenient choice.

The Remarkables

Located just 40 minutes from Queenstown, The Remarkables offers a wide range of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, including some of the best terrain parks in the country. With breathtaking views of Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding mountains, The Remarkables is a must-visit.

Cardrona Alpine Resort

Cardrona is a 1 hour 15 minute drive from Queenstown and home to one of the biggest terrain parks in the country. As well as offering features and jumps to keep even the most experienced park riders challenged, Cardrona recently expanded with an extra 65 hectares of skiable terrain at Willow Basin. With such diversity, it’s no surprise Cardrona is loved by everyone, from beginners and families to Olympic athletes.

Treble Cone

A 1 hour 45 minute drive away in Wānaka, you’ll find Treble Cone. Covering over 550 hectares, it’s known for its challenging terrain, steep runs and off-piste skiing. Most runs are intermediate or above, making it a favourite for those who love their downhill. The views from the top are breathtaking, with stunning lake and mountain views in every direction.

Other Winter Thrills

Away from the bustling ski fields, Queenstown’s winter adventures take you deeper into the wild.

Heli-skiing

In winter, heli-skiing and heli-boarding are the most exciting way to find untouched powder. Harris Mountains Heli-Ski boasts more than 400 runs to choose from across the Southern Alps, with options for all skill levels. You can find Harris Mountains HeliSki on page 18.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

For a peaceful winter adventure, snowshoeing and hiking offer a unique way to explore Queenstown’s alpine landscapes. Popular spots include The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Snow Farm, where trails wind through snow-covered valleys and ridges. Local operators such as Basecamp Adventures and Queenstown Mountain Guides offer guided experiences, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek in the fresh mountain air.

Queenstown Snowmobiles

It’s double the adventure with an exhilarating heli-snowmobiling experience with Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters. The trip starts with a scenic helicopter flight over Queenstown before landing in exclusive snowmobiling terrain in the Garvie Plateau near the Nevis Valley. From here, you’ll hop onto a snowmobile and zip through pristine snowfields. This thrilling adventure is suitable for all experience levels and is guided by experienced professionals. You can find Queenstown Snowmobiles on page 17.

HARRIS MOUNTAINS HELI-SKI

CORONET PEAK

Transport to the Ski Fields

There are several ways to get to the ski fields from Queenstown, including buses, private transport, and driving yourself. Buses are the most popular option, with several companies offering daily services to the ski fields. The buses typically depart from central Queenstown and offer return trips in the afternoon. Private transport options, such as taxis and shuttles, are also available.

For a more luxurious experience, Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters (page 33) and

Over the Top Helicopters (page 32) offer ski-field transfers, providing a unique and unforgettable way to access the slopes.

If you’re driving yourself to the ski fields, make sure you know the road conditions. Some ski field roads are sealed, but not all, and poor weather and ice often make conditions challenging. Ensure you always carry snow chains in your vehicle, as roads are often inaccessible without them.

Ski and Snowboard Rentals

Ski and snowboard rentals are available in central Queenstown and on the ski fields. In Queenstown, several rental shops offer a wide range of equipment, including skis, snowboards, boots, and poles. Rental prices vary depending on the quality of the equipment and the length of time you need it.

Due to the quality of their equipment and service, Browns Ski Shop (page 19) has become the leading option in town for ski and snowboard equipment. They are especially popular due to offering free equipment for children and equipment delivery (and pick-up) from most hotels.

If you’re looking to purchase your snow gear, there are many shops in Queenstown that specialise in winter sports equipment as well as the much-loved merino base layers made from premium merino wool.

Off-piste Relaxation

And at the end of the day, don’t forget après-ski. After a long day on the slopes, Queenstown offers a plethora of luxurious and relaxing activities to pamper weary bodies. You can cozy up by the fireplace at one of the many bars in town with a hot toddy or local craft bar. Many bars also offer delicious light bites or share plates, perfect for refueling after a day on the snow.

Queenstown has many spas where you can relax and unwind as skilled therapists soothe tired muscles and rejuvenate your body and mind. Nadi Wellness is the most popular and offers massages, infrared saunas, and yoga classes from their base in town. For the ultimate indulgence, visit Onsen Hot Pools. Nestled in the mountains overlooking the Shotover River Canyon, these private pools provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of town while you take in the stunning views before you.

THE REMARKABLES SKI FIELD

BROWNS SKI SHOP

WILDERNESS SNOWMOBILING ADVENTURE

Queenstown Snowmobiles offers New Zealand’s only heli-snowmobile adventure. If you’ve always wanted to try snowmobiling, now you can! Join the ultimate snow experience –snowmobiling is one of the most adrenalinepumping, action-packed winter adventures you can do.

Fly along the western face of the Remarkables, over the Hector Mountains, across the Nevis River Valley to our base on the Garvie Mountain Range. Gain exclusive access to trails and back country riding. You’ll be cruising across pristine snow at an altitude of up to 6000ft above sea level. There are stunning views and plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos.

What’s included

• Return scenic helicopter flight to and from our snowmobiles base operated by Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

• 1.5 hours riding your own snowmobile

• Professional and qualified local guides

• Full tuition and training provided so no previous experience is required

• Gear (overalls, boots, gloves, goggles, helmet)

What to bring

Queenstown Snowmobiles occurs in an alpine environment during the winter and early spring months. It can be very cold so dress warmly. We recommend woollen garments and layers. You will need:

• A warm hat

• Sunglasses for your flight, but we provide goggles for your snowmobile experience

• Bring your camera or GoPro with you, but the use of drones is strictly prohibited

• A day pack and a bottle of water are handy

• If you have your own ski/snowboarding clothing and/or snowboarding boots, it will be appropriate for the activity

Important information

• The minimum child age is 6 years old

• Children aged 6–14 years old can ride as pillion passengers with an accompanying adult

• 15 years and over are considered adults, and can operate their own snowmobile, subject to ability and the guide’s discretion – proof of age is required

• Maximum of 5–6 pax per trip

• We require all individual passenger weights at the time of booking

THE ULTIMATE SNOW EXPERIENCE

Harris Mountains Heli-Ski has been guiding skiers and boarders to some of the best snow and terrain New Zealand has to offer for more than 40 years.

Our team has decades of local and international experience, not only in heli-ski guiding, but in all aspects of mountaineering and alpine flying. We know these mountains, let us show you why we love them!

Experience - 4 Runs

The perfect day out for those of all abilities wanting to take a relaxed approach and really enjoy the experience of being out in the mountain environment. Explore a variety of amazing terrain for an unforgettable heli-ski experience.

Classic - 7 Runs

The Classic New Zealand heli-ski day. Our most popular option for boarders and skiers alike from intermediate to expert ability. With more runs and a faster pace this is undoubtedly a full day of untracked pleasure.

Max Vert - 10 Runs

For hardened powder purists who know they’ll push the limits! Skiers and boarders who are fit and strong can feast on the “Max Vert” challenge in the powder playground of their dreams.

Mount Cook - 5+ Runs

Start your adventure with an awe-inspiring flight from Queenstown or Wānaka to the Aoraki Mount Cook region, home of NZ’s highest mountain and some of its best high-altitude heli-skiing. Enjoy five runs in this magnificent environment, plus a picnic lunch. Feeling exhilarated? Your group can also upgrade for extra runs before your unforgettable scenic flight home.

Private Heli-Ski Charters

Make the most of our expertise with a private charter, offering ultimate convenience and flexibility. We tailor your heli-ski day to suit you, giving access to endless untracked terrain. Hop between mountains, ski at your own pace, and enjoy exclusive freedom. Available in Queenstown, Wānaka, and Aoraki Mount Cook.

Queenstown - 35 Shotover Street

Wānaka - 99 Ardmore Street

Both locations in the CBD

QUEENSTOWN’S PREMIER SKI AND SNOWBOARD RENTAL SHOP

Browns Ski Shop has been perfecting ski and snowboard rentals since 1980!

We have a hassle-free system in place to ensure no stress and maximum slope time. There is nothing we won’t do to make your holiday one to remember. We take our time to ensure a proper boot fit, no matter how long it takes. We have the biggest range of boots to cater for all foot sizes and shapes. We know boots can make or break a winter holiday!

Kids rent free

With us kids can rent for free! For every adult renting skis or snowboard, one child 9 years old or younger in the family can rent skis/snowboard, boots and helmet for free! Two adults would mean two aged 9 or under with free gear, etc..

The best gear

Most of our rental gear is brand new each season. We have a huge range of the latest 2025 demo skis/boards available to hire, and a large fleet of Step-On snowboard bindings. All our equipment is tuned every time it comes back from a rental to ensure it’s perfect for the next customer. Easyto-turn gear makes for a perfect snow day. All clothing is washed after every use.

We deliver

Free delivery and pick up from hotels in central Queenstown. Let us do the lugging around so you can save your energy for the slopes.

Taking days off

We have a unique “day off” policy, perfect for those wanting to skip a day on the slopes. Return your skis or snowboard by 10am (or the evening before) to avoid charges for that day. Keep your boots, poles, and clothing, so no re-fitting is needed. At the end of your hire, we’ll refund any unused days.

Workshop

We have amazing workshop facilities in Queenstown, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery that makes your gear as good as new! The same attention to detail goes into tuning our rental gear as into customers’ own skis and boards. This ensures all our rental customers have the best experience on the snow.

No hidden extras

Insurance for accidental damage is included in rentals. Helmets are free for children and youths. Wrist guards are free with all board rentals.

Sweet Gear, Sweet Service, Sweet Holiday

Water Activities

With lakes and rivers in every direction, Queenstown is home to an array of incredible water activities. From high-adrenaline thrills to relaxing scenic cruises, the only challenge water lovers will have here is deciding what to do.

SHOTOVER JET

Situated on Lake Whakatipu and surrounded by a stunning array of rivers, canyons, and fiords, Queenstown is a premier destination for water and lake activities. Whether you’re after a leisurely lake cruise or an adrenaline-pumping river adventure, this region offers something for everyone.

The rivers around Lake Whakatipu are alive with activity year-round. From iconic jet boats performing thrilling spins to the excitement of whitewater rafting, river surfing, and kayaking, there’s no shortage of water fun. Even simple pleasures like funyakking offer enjoyment.

Queenstown is also the gateway to the world-renowned Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound in Fiordland. These spectacular natural wonders draw visitors from around the world. Just a four-hour drive or a 45-minute flight from Queenstown, these fiords are a must-see. For more information, see the Fiordland section on page 76.

With so many water activities to choose from in Queenstown, it’s hard to pick just one. We suggest diving in and trying a few to experience what the region has to offer fully.

To understand where each company operates and the unique experiences they offer, refer to the breakdown of rivers and lakes below and on the next page. We’ve handpicked some of the finest operators in the region to ensure you can explore Queenstown’s waterways with confidence, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply breathtaking views.

Jet boating

One of Queenstown’s most popular water activities is jet boating. The jet boat, invented by Kiwi farmer Sir William Hamilton, revolutionised how rivers were navigated in New Zealand. Shallow rivers were no longer a barrier, thanks to Hamilton’s waterjet propulsion system. Now synonymous with adventure, these boats give both Kiwis and tourists access to otherwise unreachable places.

In Queenstown, jet boats zip along the Shotover, Kawarau and Dart rivers and across Lake Whakatipu. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 95 km/h, jet boats can operate in just 5 cm of water and perform thrilling 360-degree spins. For the ultimate thrill, Oxbow Adventure Co.’s Jet Sprint experience (page 39) accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 2.5 seconds while delivering up to 4 G-forces.

Fishing

Queenstown is also an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts. Unreel Fishing offers exclusive fishing charters on the Kawarau River and surrounding lakes. Known for its trout and salmon, Lake Whakatipu is a prime spot to cast a line. Whether you’re fly fishing or trolling, Unreel Fishing provides expert guides to help you make the most of your time on the water.

The rivers around Lake Whakatipu are alive with activity yearround

Lake Whakatipu

Carved during the last ice age, Lake Whakatipu is about 80km long and 5km wide at its widest point. Its distinctive S-shape stretches from Glenorchy to Kingston and is framed by towering mountain ranges like The Remarkables. While the lake has numerous tributaries, it only has one outflow.

For a peaceful way to enjoy the beauty of Lake Whakatipu without the adrenaline rush, cruise aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw steamship. Nicknamed ‘Ernie,’ this 1912 Edwardian steamer, once used for transporting sheep and passengers, now provides a tranquil journey to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Lake Whakatipu operators

KJet –Jet boating (page 24)

KJet –Time Tripper underwater cinema (page 24)

Unreel Fishing –Fishing charter (page 27)

UNREEL FISHING

TSS EARNSLAW

Shotover River

The fast-flowing Shotover River originates from the mountain ranges beyond Queenstown and flows south for 75km before joining the Kawarau River. Once one of the richest gold-bearing rivers in the world, it played a central role in the Queenstown gold rush of the late 1800s. Though the gold miners have long gone, traces of their legacy remain, with historical sites and mining artefacts scattered throughout Skippers Canyon in the river’s upper reaches. Skippers Canyon Jet provides jet boat trips in this historic section of the Shotover River.

Further downstream, near Arthurs Point, Shotover Jet operates in the narrow and dramatic Shotover River canyons. The lower section of the river is where Shotover Jet and KJet speed through shallow, winding waters before the river meets the Kawarau.

Shotover River operators

Shotover Jet –Jet boating (page 23)

KJet –Jet boating (page 24)

Skippers Canyon Jet – Jet boating (page 25)

Dart River / Te Awa Whakatipu

The Dart River, also known as Te Awa Whakatipu, flows for 60km from the Dart Glacier in the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Mt Aspiring National Park, through the Dart River Valley and aptly named Paradise, before finally reaching Lake Whakatipu at Glenorchy. This braided river winds through ancient native beech forests and majestic mountain ranges, which gained global fame as locations in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Ngāi Tahu is the sole operator permitted to run trips on the Dart, offering jet boat and funyak (inflatable kayak) experiences in this awe-inspiring landscape. High Country Horses also offers guided horse trekking adventures in the area, allowing you to explore the spectacular landscapes surrounding the Dart, adding a unique way to experience this breathtaking region.

Kawarau River operators

KJet –Jet boating (page 24)

Unreel Fishing –Fishing charter (page 27)

Kawarau River

The Kawarau River is the sole outflow of Lake Whakatipu, flowing east for 60km through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge before merging with Lake Dunstan in Cromwell. With its rapids and strong currents, the Kawarau has earned a reputation as a playground for adventure enthusiasts.

KJet operates jet boats here, while Serious Fun Riverboarding offers river surfing, boarding, and drifting. Unreel Fishing holds exclusive rights as the only fishing charter allowed on the river.

For the truly daring, AJ Hackett operates a 43-metre bungy jump from the Kawarau Bridge, with the option to dip into the river below. The Kawarau bungy was the world’s first commercial bungy operation.

Dart River / Te Awa Whakatipu operators

Dart River Adventures –Jet boating and funyakking (page 26)

High Country Horses –Horse trekking (page 71)

SKIPPERS CANYON JET

KJET

DART RIVER ADVENTURES

THE ICONIC

QUEENSTOWN

JET BOAT EXPERIENCE

Shotover Jet offers the world’s most exhilarating jet boat ride – strap in to experience the beauty of the Shotover River canyons like never before! Prepare for a thrilling adventure as our high-performance boats reach speeds of up to 90 km/h, skimming across just 10cm of water. Race through narrow canyons, inches away from towering walls, as your expert driver masterfully navigates the rapids, performing stunts that will make your heart race.

Owned by Ngāi Tahu, the Māori guardians of this land, Shotover Jet offers a connection to Kimiākau (the Shotover River) that runs deep. Long before Europeans arrived, our tīpuna (ancestors) navigated these waters, gathering food, plants, and precious pounamu (greenstone/jade). We now invite you to join us on this sacred awa (river), to experience an adventure you’ll remember forever.

Why Choose Shotover Jet?

• Designed for Thrills: Our boats are specifically engineered to ride the shallowest parts of Shotover canyon, ensuring an experience that’s as safe as it is thrilling

• Expert Drivers: Our drivers are the best in the business, training for more than double the hours required by industry standards

• Exclusive Access: Shotover Jet is the only operator with permission to take manuhiri (customers) through the stunning Shotover canyon

• Unmatched Safety: Your safety is our top priority. Our fleet of twin V8-engine jet boats are built to the highest standards and undergo rigorous maintenance and risk management

What Awaits You

• A 25-Minute Ride: That’s thrilling from the moment you leave the jetty

• Frequent Departures: Every 15 min in peak times

• Intimate Experience: Our jet boats carry a maximum of 14 passengers

• Convenient Location: Just 6km drive from Queenstown or catch a free shuttle from The Station Building Queenstown

Get Ready for Adventure

• Safety Gear: Life jackets are mandatory and provided for all guests

• Dress Warm: We recommend a jacket, hat, and gloves, as well as eyewear for protection

• Facilities on Site: Free parking, retail, restrooms, secure lockers, viewing areas, and a neighbouring restaurant

• Camera Restrictions: Only forehead-mounted, hands-free GoPro cameras are allowed

• Family-Friendly: Children must be at least 1m tall (1.2m in certain river conditions)

• Health Considerations: This experience isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals, and those with specific medical conditions or back/neck issues should consult with us before booking

Opening Times

• From 9am – 5pm

• Open 7 days a week

Pricing Information

• Family Pass is for 2 adults and 2 children

• Discounted rates for students and seniors

• Prices are subject to change but correct at the time of printing

Reach speeds of up to 90 km/h

THE ORIGINAL JET BOAT RIDE

Departure location

Departing every hour on the hour from the Main Town Pier and Queenstown Marina

KJet takes you on an unforgettable journey through the mighty Shotover and Kawarau Rivers!

Take on the world’s first commercial Jet boat ride. The biggest, fastest, and most exciting Jet boat ride was born in the summer of 1958 and has been thrilling customers ever since.

One Epic Ride

Get ready for an insane 60-minute high speed Jet boat ride thundering across three waterways traveling at speeds of up to 95kph in the fastest and meanest Jet boats in town. Blast across Lake Wakatipu and down the world-famous Shotover and Kawarau Rivers with 45km of unforgettable thrills, 360 ̊spins and exhilaration in one of the world’s most stunning locations. Experience real Jet boating in water that’s less than 5cm deep in places.

Two Mighty Rivers

Get more bang for your buck with two stunning rivers: the shallow braided channels of the Shotover River and deep green waters of the Kawarau River, complete with lots of thrilling 360 spins.

Will I get wet?

Part of the fun with Jet boating is the spray and drama! We recommend you bring your own waterproof jacket and sunglasses.

A ride on KJet, is an hour of your life you’ll never forget

We capture every Jet boat ride with our hightech photo and video equipment, so you can hold on tight for those thrilling 360 spins and sit back and enjoy the ride.

Time Tripper Underwater Theatre

Discover what’s hidden under Lake Wakatipu. Located at the Main Town Pier, Time Tripper is a 30-minute underwater experience including a state-of-the-art animated movie and 15 minutes of underwater viewing where you can see the diving ducks, slinky eels and massive trout.

Time Tripper tells the story of the creation of the Wakatipu region, starting 90 million years ago when dinosaurs roamed the earth, taking the viewer through to present day Queenstown. It’s the only place in Queenstown that visually tells the story of the legend of Lake Wakatipu.

Time Tripper sessions are every quarter past and quarter to the hour from 9.45 am till late.

Pricing Information

• KJet child age is 5–14, infants aged 2–4 are free with an accompanying adult

• Time Tripper child age is 3–14, infants aged 0–2 are free and may need to sit on a caregiver’s lap

• Family pack is for 2 adults and 2 children

Live Fast. Play Loud.

QUEENSTOWN’S ULTIMATE

JET BOAT ADVENTURE

Bus stop on the Camp Street side of the Station Building

Queenstown CBD Be there 10 mins before

Skippers Canyon Jet offers unbeatable value with a spectacular guided tour of Skippers Canyon, followed by a thrilling jet boat ride through the narrowest canyons on the Shotover River.

The Jet Boat Tour begins with a guided drive into historic Skippers Canyon with onboard commentary from our knowledgeable drivers. You will be escorted into a land rich in gold mining history and stunning scenery via the infamous Skippers Road which was carved out of the vertical rock face by miners over 130 years ago. Getting to the boat is half the adventure!

Once on the boat you will feel your adrenalin surge as you power deeper into Skippers Canyon through the most dramatic canyons on the Shotover River. Our highly skilled jet boat drivers manoeuvre the boat just inches from the sheer canyon walls and keep the excitement levels high with speeds in excess of 80kmh and a series of full 360 degree spins.

Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Tour is the only jet boat ride where you get to experience historic gold mining relics that still remain in the river and Lord of the Rings locations.

What to bring

• Please dress for the conditions on the day

• Dress warm and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water and sunglasses

• Dress extra warm if it’s winter or cold outside!

Package includes

• Guided tour into Skippers Canyon

• Informative commentary provided by our knowledgeable bus drivers

• 30 minute jet boating experience on the upper Shotover River

• Spectacular scenery and photo opportunities

• Spray jackets and life jackets for the jet boat trip

• Return transport to central Queenstown

Important information

• This is a true backcountry experience – getting there is half the fun!

• We recommend using the toilet in the Station Building before departing Queenstown

• Please advise if you have any medical conditions, back problems, or are pregnant

Come with Skippers Canyon Jet for an experience like no other.

Two trips in one – Getting to the boat is half the adventure

Dart River Adventures is nestled within the spectacular Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area, offering exclusive access to the breathtaking Dart River Valley. Experience an adventurous jet boat ride while hearing stories of our land including legends of Māori, who travelled the greenstone trails.

Wilderness Jet Experience

Journey from the head of Lake Whakatipu up the braided Dart River, past towering mountain ranges and ancient native forests. Exploring the dramatic landscape made famous by Hollywood blockbuster movies, inaccessible by any other means. This 2-hour adventure is perfect for manuhiri (customers) who prefer a more relaxed pace while taking in the towering mountain ranges and ancient native forests.

Funyakking

For a more adventurous experience, combine the thrill of a jet boat ride with the tranquillity of a Funyak – inflatable kayak. After jetting upstream from Glenorchy, you’ll follow our expert kaimahi (guides) and paddle back downstream in a Funyak, exploring hidden streams, rock pools, and the dramatic beauty of a secluded chasm. This full-day adventure includes a gourmet picnic lunch, followed by a coach ride through Paradise and Glenorchy.

What to Bring

• Winter Essentials: Sunglasses, a warm hat, gloves, sunscreen, and warm outer layer

• Camera: Capture the stunning scenery

• Safety Requirements: Children must be at least 3 years old for jet boating and 5 years old for Funyakking (minimum height: 1m)

• Health Considerations: This experience is not recommended for pregnant women. If you have specific medical conditions or suffer from back or neck problems, please inform us when booking to ensure we can assess and advise on your suitability

Getting there

The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is a must for anyone visiting the area. It offers stunning lake views, dramatic mountains, and breathtaking landscapes at every turn. With multiple bays and photo opportunities along the way, it should not be missed.

• Complimentary Shuttle: Our shuttle departs from The Station Building at 25 Shotover Street in the Queenstown CBD

• Self-Drive Option: Allow a minimum of 1 hour to drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy. Please drive to the conditions

Pricing information

• Child rates are for 5–15 years old

• Family Pass is 2 adults and 2 children

CAST AWAY YOUR STRESS

Departure location

Queenstown Marina

Between Queestown and Frankton

5km from Queenstown CBD

unReel Fishing offers charter tours down the Kawarau River or on Lake Whakatipu, providing an unforgettable experience with lasting memories. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, get ready for an adventure like no other.

Your river fishing tour or lake fishing tour will be hosted by long-time local Mike Johnson who has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to hunting and fishing in the region.

Having spent the past 15 years immersed in the tourism industry, with over 10,000 hours of boating experience, predominantly navigating the lakes and rivers of Whakatipu, Mike’s familiarity with these waterways is unparalleled.

Lake fishing tour

Explore the 399m deep Lake Whakatipu surrounded by breathtaking scenery made famous by the Lord of the Rings.

• Fishing from a 8.5m custom design boat

• Catch Chinook salmon, Rainbow trout, and Brown trout

• Trawling with downriggers, lead core line, and surface lines to get down deep where the fish are

River fishing tour

We are the only fishing charter permitted to fish down the crystal clear fresh waters of the Kawarau River.

• Travel down the river on a custom made jet boat

• Fishing from the boat and from the shore

• Mainly catching Rainbow and Brown trout

• Trophy sized trout in the river

Private fishing charter

A Private fishing charter with unReel is an exclusive fishing experience that allows you to have the boat and skipper all to yourselves. Private fishing charters are a great way to have a more personalized fishing experience, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler.

What’s included

• Fishing gear

• Life jackets and safety equipment

• Safety and fishing training

• We’ll clean and bag any fish you want to keep

• Drinking water

What’s not included

• Fishing licence (you can purchase online through the Fish & Game website or onboard)

• Any refreshments or snacks

Your reel New Zealand Fishing Experience

Air Activities

Surrounded by national parks, much of Queenstown’s incredible scenery is inaccessible by road. The solution? Take to the skies.

MILFORD SOUND SCENIC FLIGHTS

There is no shortage of incredible wilderness areas to explore around Queenstown. Ten of New Zealand’s thirteen national parks are on the South Island, including Mt Aspiring National Park and the 1.2 million hectares of Fiordland National Park, right on Queenstown’s doorstep. However, with landscapes predominantly consisting of steep mountain ranges, glaciers, lakes, and dense forests, accessing the wilderness can be challenging. That’s why scenic flights are so popular in Queenstown. A helicopter or fixed-wing plane is the best way to see the stunning scenery surrounding Queenstown.

With numerous directions to fly and various landscapes to visit, each scenic flight operator offers a unique twist on flightseeing trips to maximise the views. Helicopters provide opportunities to land in remote locations or connect with activities like jet boat trips or 4WD tours. Alternatively, you can do something truly unforgettable, such as landing on a glacier, picnicking on a mountaintop, accessing a remote river for wilderness fly fishing, or flying to a vineyard for a private tour with the winemaker.

Fixed-wing flights can take you to destinations like Fiordland or the West Coast, allowing you to reach these locations faster, spend more time enjoying the sights, and add a remarkable touch to your holiday. For an extra thrill, consider aerial activities such as paragliding, hang gliding, parasailing, hot air ballooning, and the ultimate adventure: skydiving.

Queenstown Flights

You can do something truly unforgettable, such as landing on a glacier…

Queenstown Airport is the hub for scenic flights, offering both helicopter and fixedwing excursions. Flights operate around the Whakatipu Basin and further destinations like Fiordland for Milford Sound and the West Coast for the glaciers.

A popular trip close to Queenstown is a scenic helicopter flight over The Remarkables. This flight allows you to take in the stunning scenery over Lake Whakatipu, the surrounding peaks like Walter and Cecil Peak, the Crown Range, and, of course, The Remarkables. For a touch of luxury, you can choose to include a landing with a glass of bubbles and a picnic.

A little further from Queenstown is Skippers Canyon. This flight takes you from Queenstown Airport over Coronet Peak, along the Shotover River, and the sheer sides of Skippers Canyon, once a bustling gold mining township in the late 19th century. Both Over the Top and Glacier Southern Lakes offer a selection of Queenstown scenic flights incorporating The Remarkables and Skippers Canyon.

Winery flights are a highlight, with a visit to Gibbston Valley’s wineries being a popular activity. Arriving by helicopter enhances the experience. Over the Top Helicopters offers a luxury day that includes a helicopter flight to a vineyard and a private meeting with the winemaker.

Glenorchy, located at the head of Lake Whakatipu, is another breathtaking destination. A scenic flight to this incredible area offers a range of options, including glacier landings and Lord of the Rings locations.

GLACIER SOUTHERN LAKES HELICOPTERS

Flights Around the South Island Helicopter and fixed-wing flights offer access to landscapes otherwise unreachable by vehicle or requiring serious hikes. One top destination is Fiordland. This UNESCO World Heritage area is truly remarkable, especially from above. From a helicopter or plane, you can appreciate the vast forests, hidden alpine lakes, and numerous glaciers. Milford Sound Scenic Flights offers flights to Milford Sound, including the popular fly-cruise-fly option. This involves a flight from Queenstown Airport to Milford Sound Airport, where you board a cruise boat for a trip on the

fiord. Alternatively, you can fly over Milford Sound without landing.

A flight up the West Coast to the worldfamous glacier country allows you to see a different kind of landscape. Here, you can fly over the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps and the wild coastline of the West Coast. A True South flight takes you to Franz Josef, where you can connect with a helicopter flight to land on the glacier. Flying over the glacier is an incredible way to witness Mother Nature at work as you soar over the immense névé that feeds the glacier.

Adventure Activities

It wouldn’t be Queenstown without an adrenaline option. If you’re seeking thrills in the air, Queenstown has plenty to offer, including skydiving, paragliding, hang gliding, and parasailing. You might spot the parasailing wing over the lake or the paragliders descending from Bob’s Peak above the Skyline Gondola or Coronet Peak. This is a thrilling way to take in the scenery.

Skydiving

Skydiving, for many, is the ultimate bucketlist experience. Jumping out of a plane provides the ultimate rush, and skydiving in Queenstown and Wānaka offers the added thrill of freefalling over one of the most picturesque landscapes on the planet. NZONE offers tandem skydives from 9,000, 12,000, or 15,000 feet, giving up to 60 thrilling seconds of free fall. Skydive Wānaka (page 74) offers the thrill of freefall from up to 15,000 feet with uninterrupted views of the world-renowned lakes and mountains below.

Hot Air Ballooning

Hot air ballooning might be the once-ina-lifetime experience you’re looking for. Queenstown’s hot air balloon operator, Sunrise Balloons, runs sunrise flights over the Whakatipu Basin. A hot air balloon moves slower than a helicopter, allowing you to take in all the details of the landscape below.

SKYDIVE WANAKA

TRUE SOUTH FLIGHTS

NZONE SKYDIVE

EMBRACE THE FEAR

NZONE Skydive offers tandem skydives from 15,000ft over Queenstown, showcasing some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery. This is undeniably one of the best places to skydive in the world! Established in 1990 as New Zealand’s first tandem skydive operation, NZONE Skydive is now celebrating over 35 years of skydiving and has welcomed more than 350,000 tandem skydive customers.

Why jump out of a perfectly good airplane?

It takes a special kind of person to jump from an aircraft at 15,000ft into thin air. It takes courage. Harnessed to an experienced, highly qualified skydive instructor, you will step out of the aircraft door and experience up to 60 seconds of freefall, reaching speeds of 200km/hour – terminal velocity!

There is no such word as “try.” There is only “do” or “did not do.” Expect sensory overload as your mind, soul, and body fight against every natural instinct for selfpreservation. The impact of this moment on your

life cannot be overstated. The personal challenge is immense, and achievement has never felt sweeter.

The only thing preventing you from experiencing one of life’s most primal and transformative moments is your own mind. You must choose –will you go through life saying, “Yes, I did it,” or knowing you had the opportunity but walked away from becoming the best version of yourself?

Capture Every Second!

Such a significant chapter in your life deserves to be recorded. Make your skydive experience last a lifetime with a video and photo package captured by our team. Take home New Zealand’s most advanced skydive photo and video pack, stored on your own personal website, so you can relive and share the experience over and over – YOU DID IT!

All Skydives Include:

• A scenic flight to altitude (15–20 minutes)

• Up to 60 seconds of adrenaline-pumping freefall

• 3–4 minutes under canopy

• Memories that will last a lifetime!

Over 35 years of skydiving with over 350,000 Tandem Skydive Customers

YOUR ITINERARY

Over The Top – the helicopter company is New Zealand’s leading luxury helicopter operator, since 1986 we have specialised in tailor-made experiences that deliver guests a once in a lifetime helicopter excursion.

Safety is paramount. Over The Top and our pilots are proud recipients of National & International helicopter Safety Awards. Including the Director of Civil Aviation Commendation Award. We operate the latest helicopters that are spacious and fully equipped for the discerning guest, including enhanced safety features, large viewing windows, leather seats and Bose noise cancelling headsets.

The Clubhouse

Located in downtown Queenstown, alongside Golf Federation, you’ll find our Over The Top Clubhouse where you can relax in the ambiance or enjoy 18 holes on our Trackman Golf Simulators. Our Concierge is available to assist with your itinerary, including a unique helicopter excursion, and can use local knowledge to share hidden gems, from art galleries to golf courses with private guides.

Remarkables Discovery

Fly to the top of the Remarkables mountain range for the best views of Queenstown. Walk amongst the tundra, and breathe in the alpine air.

Picnic On The Peak

Fly to a secluded alpine location to enjoy your gourmet picnic. This is the perfect immersive experience for a proposal, special occasion or to simply lie back and absorb the scenery.

Milford

& Fiordland Highlights

Fly over the Southern Alps to the stunningly beautiful Milford Sound, fly down the fiord before landing on a remote West Coast beach. Head inland to the glacier areas for a final landing before flying back over alpine lakes and rivers to Queenstown.

Out The Back Alpine Kitchen

Visit the delights of yesteryear on NZ’s smallest high-country station. Enjoy exclusive access to a restored 1860’s Goldminers Cottage, an outside Alpine Kitchen and ‘The Dirty Nugget Saloon”. With helicopter access only, this delightful excursion allows you to “time travel” and glimpse a pioneer mining lifestyle. Enjoy the ambience whilst your pilot prepares your alpine BBQ luncheon. Option to add on clay targets, archery and knife throwing.

Heli Ski Field Transfers

Helicopter ski transfers provide fast, scenic access to top alpine resorts like The Remarkables, Cardrona, and Coronet Peak. Avoiding traffic, passengers enjoy stunning aerial views while maximising ski time on pristine slopes.

LET US TAKE YOU TO MAGICAL PLACES

Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters is locally owned (operated by Helicopters Queenstown 2020 Ltd) and have been pioneering glacier landings since 1980.

We operate a fleet of modern 6-seater & 9-seater large turbine engine Airbus helicopters serviced and maintained to ensure maximum passenger safety and comfort. All our maintenance procedures comply with New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority safety standards. Safety is always our main priority. Our pilots are highly experienced with extensive knowledge of the local mountain environment and all of our pilots have high flying hours.

We go above and beyond to provide unforgettable helicopter tours around Milford Sound, Queenstown, Middle Earth, Fiordland & Mt Aspiring National Parks.

We strongly recommend you make your flight bookings in advance and at the start of your Queenstown itinerary. If we cannot fly due to adverse weather, we can transfer your booking to another day.

What to bring

• Comfortable walking shoes/boots

• Windproof jackets and warm clothing

• Camera, sunglasses, hat, and sunblock

The Remarkables (flight 101)

Fly high above Queenstown and the Whakatipu Basin with amazing views of the lake and mountains. Includes a landing on the Remarkables.

Glacier Explorer (flight 105)

Our most popular scenic helicopter tour. Fly over the Queenstown Basin, Paradise Valley, Mt Aspiring National Park, and Skippers Canyon. Includes an alpine landing or a glacier landing.

Milford Sound + Cruise (flight 202)

Fly over spectacular alpine scenery to Milford Sound where you will enjoy a leisurely boat cruise through the iconic Milford Sound. Flight back includes a remote alpine or glacier landing.

Milford Extended (flight 203)

Fly over the Southern Alps and land at Milford Sound for a scenic walk. Then fly through the 16km of Milford Sound and land on a remote West Coast beach. One more alpine landing on the way back to Queenstown.

Queenstown Snowmobiles (page 17)

New Zealand’s only heli-snowmobiling adventure, with guided tours for individuals, families, and groups of up to six. No experience needed – an unforgettable winter experience not to be missed. No children under the age of 6 can participate. Child rates are for 6–14 years old.

EXPERIENCE THE WORLD’S BEST SCENIC FLIGHT!

Milford Sound Scenic Flights takes you to a world where the air is clear and invigorating waterfalls cascade from the sky!

Milford Sound Scenic Flights has been operating for over 40 years and are a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approved operator. We run under strict ruling where our modern fleet are subjected to regular maintenance checks as safety is paramount.

Milford Sound Fly Cruise Fly

Take off from Queenstown, and fly above the rugged backcountry of Central Otago, before heading westward to where the glacial-fed rivers empty into Lake Whakatipu. Witness what the power of nature has created over the years, as you journey over two remarkable National Parks; Mt Aspiring and the world heritage listed Fiordland National Park.

Upon landing at Milford Sound Airport you are welcomed to a view of the breathtaking Mitre Peak, standing tall at the head of the fiord. Surrounded by some of the most magnificent scenery in the world, you’ll board your Mitre Peak Cruises vessel and begin your voyage, cruising the length of the stunningly beautiful 16km fiord.

Complete your journey with a scenic flight over the Southern Alps back to Queenstown and be captivated by the awe-inspiring views, a perfect conclusion to an incredible adventure.

Milford Sound Coach Cruise Fly

Experience the perfect combination of a scenic coach ride to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, a cruise on the spectacular fiord and then top the day off with a flight over an untouched mountain wilderness back to Queenstown.

The road trip to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi is one of the world’s finest alpine drives. Sit back and relax as your coach driver takes you on a journey through the ancient beech forests of the Fiordland National Park. Your coach stops often for photo opportunities at some iconic viewpoints, before descending the Homer Tunnel into valleys dwarfed by towering mountain peaks. As you arrive in Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi, you are welcomed to a superb view of Mitre Peak standing tall at the forefront of the fiord.

Surrounded by some of the most magnificent scenery in the world, you’ll board your Mitre Peak Cruises vessel and begin your voyage cruising the length of the 16km fiord out to the Tasman Sea.

Complete your journey by flying over some of the most dramatic scenery in the world on your way back to Queenstown.

Important information

• On scenic flights, children under 2 years old and less than 11kg will sit on an adult’s lap

• Bring a camera, waterproof jacket, warm clothing, food & drink, sunscreen, and insect repellent

UNFORGETTABLE MILFORD SOUND & MOUNT COOK SCENIC FLIGHTS

True South Flights is Queenstown’s premium boutique flightseeing company. We are family owned and run and specialise in spectacular mountain flying through Fiordland and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

Consistently rated #1 on TripAdvisor and winner of the Travellers’ Choice 2024 award, we offer guaranteed window seats and captivating pilot commentary for an unforgettable experience.

Milford Sound Fly Cruise Fly

Our classic tour option starts with a scenic flight over the mountains to Milford Sound. Experience the majesty of Fiordland National Park from the air as you descend into Milford Sound airport. Then take the 1h 45m nature cruise and view the fjord from sea level, get up close and personal with wildlife and waterfalls. Return to Queenstown in time to enjoy the amazing dining scene.

Milford Sound Scenic Flight

For the time precious traveller, take our wonderful Milford Sound flight through Fiordland between the valleys and mountain peaks.

Tasman Glacier Heli Hike

A must do for the adventurous traveller! Starting with a one-hour scenic flight to Mount Cook, then a quick helicopter ride up to the glacier. You’ll get

to hike NZ’s longest glacier, exploring ice caves and seeing awe-inspiring ice formations on your small group tour.

Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike

Franz Josef Glacier is arguably NZ’s most famous. Steeper than its Tasman counterpart, this smallgroup hiking tour is higher on the glacier and boasts unforgettable views. Nestled above the striking West Coast rainforest, it provides a beautiful contrasting panorama.

Mount Cook Scenic Flight

If heli-hiking isn’t your thing we offer scenic flights to Mount Cook where you can take in the spectacular mountains and ice blue lakes in the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. We highly recommend upgrading to include the Mount Cook landing, for 30 minutes of ground time, to explore the scenery from up close for excellent photo opportunities.

What to bring

Sunscreen, warm layers, insect repellent, and your camera! Also bring lunch, snacks, or cash to purchase food.

Important information

• Infants who are 0–2 years old and under 15kg fly for free on their parent’s lap

• For heli-hiking options, the minimum age is 10

Land Activities

If there’s one thing Queenstown is never called, it’s dull. The town’s many land activities provide ample reasons for Queenstown to earn a reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand.

OXBOW ADVENTURE CO

OXBOW ADVENTURE CO

Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Whakatipu, The Remarkables, and Mt Aspiring National Park, Queenstown is a destination that truly impresses. The best way to experience it is by immersing yourself in its breathtaking landscape. With a variety of activities and tour operators available, you have options ranging from high-adrenaline thrills to serene sightseeing tours.

Queenstown’s activity providers offer diverse ways to explore the sights. Even arriving in Queenstown is an adventure. The flight into Queenstown Airport brings you thrillingly close to the mountain ranges and often includes a few bumps along the way. Driving into town, whether via the Crown Range from the north or the Devil’s Staircase from the south, sets the stage for an exhilarating experience.

Most activities in Queenstown revolve around soaking in the scenery, whether you’re finding the perfect lakeside spot for a drink, stopping for photos, or touring with a local guide. From its enviable location surrounded by wilderness, you can easily venture into the mountains to connect with nature or stay closer to town for thrilling or adrenaline-pumping activities. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to match your sightseeing desires. For one of the best views of Queenstown, ride the Skyline Gondola up to Bob’s Peak for a stunning 360-degree panorama. This unforgettable activity requires minimal walking.

Adrenaline Activities

Queenstown has been a hub of adventure and adrenaline for decades. The first commercial bungy site, established on the Kawarau Bridge in 1988, quickly became an iconic thrill. What began as a potential tourist fad has become a major draw, with countless visitors taking the leap.

Not far from Gibbston, Oxbow Adventure Co. provides a thrilling array of experiences, including jet sprint boats on a custom-built racecourse, off-roading with near-vertical hill climbs, and clay bird shooting. Off Road Adventures provides opportunities for dirt bike, quad bike, and buggy tours that traverse rugged trails and challenging terrain. These tours give visitors access to otherwise unreachable locations, offering unbelievable views and an authentic adventure in the great outdoors.

National Parks

Queenstown is an ideal base for exploring the immense wilderness areas and national parks. Fiordland National Park, Westland National Park, and Mt Aspiring National Park form part of the Te Wāhipounamu South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site covering 2.6 million hectares of protected land. Not far from Glenorchy, Mt Aspiring National Park spans 3,500 square kilometres of dramatic scenery on either side of the Main Divide. Hiking options here range from gentle day walks from Glenorchy to multiday treks like the Routeburn Track.

For a thrilling experience, Paradise Ziplines (page 70) takes you deep into the park near Glenorchy, soaring through ancient beech forests and above glacial rivers in the breathtaking wilderness of Paradise.

Wildlife & Conservation

New Zealand is renowned for its diverse birdlife, with the kiwi being the most famous. Kiwi Park in central Queenstown is dedicated to the conservation of these unique animals and offers an opportunity to see a kiwi up close. The park provides insight into the efforts to protect these iconic birds and allows visitors to observe them in a naturalistic setting.

Venture into the mountains to connect with nature.

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

KIWI PARK

Historic and Cultural Tours

Queenstown’s rich gold mining history is highlighted through tours of former gold rush areas. Gold was discovered on the Arrow River in 1862, sparking a gold rush that attracted miners from around the world. The Shotover River also became known as the second-richest gold-bearing river in the world. Although the gold rush era is long gone, remnants like old gold tailings and historic buildings remain.

Off-road 4WD tours take you to sites along Skippers Canyon along the Shotover River, where guides share fascinating stories of the gold rush days. Pure Glenorchy and Off Road Adventures both offer guided tours to Skippers Canyon.

Wineries & Wine Tours

Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and sparkling lakes, Queenstown’s landscape features an array of vineyards, offering scenic beauty alongside exceptional wine experiences. Picturesque rows of grapes, particularly world-class Pinot Noir, cover the terraces of Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell. Wine tours offer a great way to enjoy the scenery and sample wines from the world’s southernmost commercial wine region. For more information, check out the Wineries & Wine Tour section on pages 52–57.

Queenstown Scenic Tours

For those preferring a more relaxed approach, Queenstown offers plenty of scenic options. One such option is Segway on Q. From central Queenstown, you can ride a Segway along lakeside pathways and take a detour to the picturesque Queenstown Gardens. Segway on Q is a fun, family-friendly way to explore the area close to town.

Another way to enjoy Queenstown’s beauty is by bike. Around The Basin Bike (page 61) offers mountain bike rentals and self-guided tours to explore Queenstown’s 140km of scenic trails.

Glenorchy Scenic Tours

For breathtaking scenery, a trip to Glenorchy is a must. Just 45 minutes from Queenstown, Glenorchy is the last town before the majestic Mt Aspiring National Park takes over. It’s easy to see why this area has featured as the backdrop to many Hollywood blockbusters. The Lord of the Rings trilogy was shot throughout the region as Glenorchy perfectly matched the magical lands of Tolkien’s imagination. Pure Glenorchy provides trips into Glenorchy and the surrounding mountain ranges.

If petrol power is not your style, High Country Horses in Glenorchy offers a quieter way to explore the landscape. Located near the Rees River, High Country Horses offers trekking options ranging from one-hour rides along the river to five-day backcountry excursions into the wilderness. To find out more, see High Country Horses information on page 71.

SEGWAY ON Q

HIGH COUNTRY HORSES

PURE GLENORCHY

Adventure Co is a Thrill Seekers’ paradise nestled in the Gibbston Valley, surrounded by mountains, bluffs, wineries, and breweries.

Founded on a strong belief of fun, adventure and camaraderie, our one-of-a-kind adventures give Adrenaline Junkies from all walks of life an incredibly unique and unforgettable experience.

With an Off-Roader course, a purpose-built Jet Sprint Boat racetrack, and a Clay Target Shooting range, we deliver world-first experiences with our core value, ‘one step ahead’, at the forefront of everything we do.

CLAY TARGET SHOOTING

Ready, aim, fire!

• Let us welcome you to the Oxbow Gun Club, where you and your mates can enjoy a spot of healthy competition shooting clay targets out of the sky against one of New Zealand’s most magnificent backdrops

• One-on-one guidance from an experienced instructor, ensuring few clays get away alive

• We facilitate up to 6 shooters at a time on our custom-designed compact sporting field, which is equipped with eight automatic clay target throwers to suit all abilities

• Minimum age requirement of 13 years old

JET SPRINT BOATING - Learn how it feels to fly on water. Literally!

• Oxbow’s Jet Sprint Boats are the only four seaters in the world and are guaranteed to make a screamer out of everyone they have the pleasure of meeting!

• Jet Sprints are next level jet boating

• Accelerating at an incredible 0 to 100km in only 2.5 seconds and pulling 3–4 G-Forces

• Your expert Jet Sprint Boat driver will navigate their way around Oxbow’s very own racetrack before you’ve had a moment to catch your breath

• Minimum height requirement of 1.2m

ULTIMATE OFF-ROADING

Defy the laws of gravity!

• If you’re looking for the best off-roading experience in New Zealand, this is it

• Take a ride in the Ultimate Off-Roader, our oneof-a-kind, custom-built all-terrain vehicle

• It’s one of the most unique adventure experiences that you can have in Queenstown, perfect for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers

• Built for Oxbow by New Zealand Off-Roader Champion, Dan Cowper, this is the only place you can experience such a unique activity!

• Our Ultimate Off-Roaders are 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel steer, and have an extremely low centre of gravity, allowing them to practically go anywhere

• Minimum height requirement of 1.2m

Oxbow

QUEENSTOWN SIGHTSEEING ADVENTURES SINCE

2006

Departure location

The tour starts and finishes at One Mile Powerhouse Car Park 1km from Queenstown CBD

Segway on Q offers touring experiences around beautiful Queenstown on the selfbalancing Segway. It’s 1 or 2 hours of hands-on fun!

Each tour begins with a training session to ensure all riders feel comfortable and confident before setting off. Segway Smart Motion technology keeps riders balanced and in control. To propel the vehicle forwards, you simply lean forwards. To stop, just put your weight back. This sensation, while a little weird at first, is a thrill that everyone really enjoys!

Whether it’s your first time to ride or you’re a seasoned pro, Segway on Q have two amazing experiences for you!

Queenstown Tour - 2 hours

After a fun training session, embark on a two-hour Segway journey through Queenstown’s most scenic spots. Cruise along the lakefront, weave through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, and soak up panoramic views of Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Your guide will lead you through the town centre, past notable landmarks, and along picturesque trails while sharing fascinating local stories and insights.

Bay Ride - 1 hour

Get a taste of Segway riding with this one-hour tour along Queenstown Bay and through the scenic Gardens. After your training, spend the rest of your hour gliding along the waterfront, soaking up stunning lake and mountain views. With no commentary and less time to explore than the two-hour tour, it’s a fun and effortless way to experience Queenstown –perfect for both beginners and experienced riders!

Group Size & Customisation

Tours run with up to 8 people for a personal experience. Groups of 9 may be accepted on request. Trip times may be customised based on availability – just ask!

What to Wear & Safety

Helmets are provided, with gloves available on request for cooler days. Queenstown’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress warmly to stay comfortable during your ride. On cold days dress extra warm!

Weight Restrictions

For safety reasons, riders should be within the 35kg to 120kg weight range. If you’re slightly outside this range, please reach out to us to check suitability before booking.

Two-hour Segway journey through Queenstown’s most scenic spots

SCENIC LORD OF THE RINGS & GLENORCHY TOURS

Departure location

Outside the Marmolada Cafe

43 Camp Street

Queenstown CBD

We pick up from some central hotels

Pure Glenorchy is a local, family-owned NZ business, running quality tours since 2005.

We absolutely love showing off the breathtaking beauty of Glenorchy and its surrounding natural areas to our visitors – and of course, all of the incredible Lord Of The Rings film locations!

We also specialise in tours to the historical gold mining area of Skippers Canyon which is only accessible by 4x4 and very popular with locals and tourists alike.

Scenic Lord of the Rings Tour

Journey with us deep into Middle Earth and explore Lord of the Rings locations from Queenstown to Glenorchy. On your LOTR guided tour, you will discover breathtaking and iconic LOTR scenery from Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains and Ithilien! Hear ‘Behind the Scenes’ commentary on the making of the Trilogy from your local guide, and also learn about local history, flora & fauna.

What’s included

• Exclusive access to the epic views & LOTR filming locations on Arcadia Station

• Light morning or afternoon tea included

• Pick up from some central hotels

• Replica swords and costumes for classic LOTR photo opportunities

Skippers Canyon Private Tours

Explore the historic Shotover River along a trail hand-built by gold miners in the late 1800s. Travel in comfort in our luxury 4WD Landcruiser, taking in stunning views of the Central Otago landscape.

With photo opportunities at every turn, you’ll witness the steep gorge and the Shotover River below – one of the richest gold-bearing rivers in the world, making it the ultimate place to try your hand at gold panning.

What’s included

• Gold panning equipment

• Light morning or afternoon tea

• Pick up from some central hotels

• NB – this trip is not suitable for people with fear of heights or vertigo

Additional information

• Dress for the weather conditions

• Please bring a water bottle

• No large luggage items/prams

• No food to be eaten in vehicles

Pricing information

• Child rates are from 5–14 years old

• Skippers Canyon Private Tours are priced per vehicle and have a maximum capacity of 4 people (all ages)

Journey with us deep into Middle Earth and explore Lord of the Rings locations

QUAD BIKE, DIRT BIKE AND BUGGY TOURS

Off Road Queenstown invites you to embark on an unforgettable adventure! Whether you’re seeking solo thrills, family fun, team-building, or a heart-pounding ride with our seasoned drivers, we have an experience tailored just for you.

As one of Queenstown’s longest-standing familyowned adventure businesses, Off Road Adventures invites you to explore the great outdoors.

Embrace the outdoors with your choice of ride from Quad Bikes, Dirt Bikes & Buggies at our Adventure Park, nestled just 5 minutes from Queenstown, boasting over 650 acres of diverse trails. Venture beyond and discover the breathtaking scenery above the Queenstown Skyline. We also offer half, full-day or multi-day expeditions.

Join us for an unforgettable off-road experience –let the team at Off Road Adventures Queenstown be your guide to your next real adventure!

4x4 Adventure Quad Bike Tour

• 420cc 4x4 farm quad bikes

• Recommended for experienced riders

• Ride on dirt tracks with multiple creek crossings and hill climbs

Above The Skyline Quad Bike Tour

• Sports Quads! (Not farm quads)

• Small groups per guide ratios

• Learn the skills to ride WELL

• Tackle the mountain, reach the top!

Let’s Ride Dirt Bike Tour

• From flowing trails to single tracks

• Expert tuition from New Zealand champion & world ranked guides

• Tips and tricks to hone your technique

• Incredible views well-earned at the top

Challenger Buggy Tour

• Self-Drive or Guided

• Incredibly capable Yamaha sports machines

• Challenging terrain or a cruise to the top

• Amazing value for all, especially families

• Exclusive terrain & the best photo opportunities

• Only 5 minutes from Queenstown

• Over 4,000 five-star reviews

Private 4x4 Charter

• You decide the itinerary, tell us what you hope for, we’ll get you there

• Most experienced 4x4 guides in Queenstown, with over 35 years in these mountains

• Extensive knowledge of the history, geology and ‘secret spots’ of our Central Otago

Pricing information

• Buggy tours are $460 inclusive of up to 2 drivers in each 4 seater vehicle ($230 per person) –passenger rates are $60 per person for the additional 2 seats. (e.g. $580 for a full buggy, 2 can drive). Additional passenger seats may be available in guide buggy

• Private 4x4 Charter is per vehicle which can seat a maximum of 6 people

EXPERIENCE KIWI DAILY!

Kiwi Park is a 5-acre oasis in the heart of Queenstown, a family-owned and operated wildlife centre dedicated to saving our endangered wildlife species. Home to over 20 species of native wildlife, including New Zealand’s national icon, the Kiwi, and our ancient fossil, the Tuatara.

Kiwi Encounters

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience New Zealand’s most iconic bird

Enjoy an unforgettable experience viewing Kiwi while learning about these fascinating birds from our professional wildlife team. Our specially designed nocturnal house will provide you with the best Kiwi viewing in the country.

Conservation Show

Conservation in Action

Get up close and personal with our most fascinating, endangered wildlife in this entertaining 30-minute free-flight show. Presented by the park’s team of skilled and passionate wildlife professionals, this entertaining show will have you laughing, learning, and discovering just how special our native wildlife really is and the threats they face in the wild.

Self-guided Audio

Download the complimentary self-guided audio app to enjoy a highly informative self-guided tour of the park at your own pace. Available in multiple languages.

Show Times

• Kiwi Encounters (Oct-Apr) – 10am, 11am, 12.15pm, 1pm, 2.15pm, 3pm, 4.15pm & 5pm

• Kiwi Encounters (May-Sep) – 10am, 11am, 12.15pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3.45pm & 4.30pm

• Conservation Shows (Oct-Apr) – 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm

• Conservation Shows (May-Sep) – 11.30am & 3pm

Your Admission Ticket includes:

• Access to the park

• Self-guided audio tour

• Kiwi Encounters

• Conservation Show

• Honeybee centre

Private Tours

Enjoy a personal encounter with our unique, endangered wildlife guided by an experienced wildlife professional. This premium product offers a private Kiwi encounter. Check out our website for more information on this exclusive opportunity.

Opening Hours

• 9.30am – 5.30pm (Oct-Apr)

• 9.30am – 5pm (May-Sep)

• Open 7 days a week

Pricing information

• Child rate is 6 – 15 years old

• Family rate is 2 adults and up to 3 children

By visiting Kiwi Park you are directly supporting our conservation efforts!

The best Kiwi viewing in the country

Indoor Activities

Activities in Queenstown aren’t just limited to the outdoors. There’s a wealth of indoor activities around town to keep you entertained on those rainy days! We’ve selected a few of the highlights for you.

Queenstown is world-famous for its breathtaking scenery and adrenalinefuelled outdoor activities, but what many visitors don’t realise is the incredible variety of indoor experiences available.

Whether you’re seeking action-packed entertainment, relaxing wellness treatments, cultural experiences, or just a cosy retreat from the weather, Queenstown has something for everyone. From competitive challenges to artistic inspiration, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the region without stepping foot outside.

Sports and Recreation

The Queenstown Events Centre is the region’s hub for indoor sports and fitness. Located in Frankton near the airport, this state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of activities for all ages and abilities. Dive into Alpine Aqualand, where you’ll find a lap pool, a lazy river, hydro slides, and a kids’ play area. For those looking to stay active, the health and fitness centre boasts a fully equipped gym, group fitness classes, and even a rock-climbing wall catering to both beginners and experienced climbers.

For golf lovers, rainy weather doesn’t mean you have to put away the clubs. Golf Federation offers Queenstown’s only indoor golf simulator, providing a high-tech environment to work on your swing or play a round on a selection of world-famous courses. The venue’s fully licensed bar creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for casual golfers and serious players alike.

Relaxation and Wellness

If you prefer to slow down and unwind, Queenstown has a wealth of wellness options. Many hotels feature in-house spas, but for a true local favourite, head to Nadi Wellness. Located just minutes from the CBD, this well-established retreat offers massages, infrared sauna therapy, and yoga classes designed to refresh both the body and mind. With a holistic approach to well-being, it’s the perfect escape from Queenstown’s high-energy outdoor scene.

Bars and Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife, Queenstown doesn’t disappoint. The town is packed with cosy cafés, stylish cocktail bars, and lively pubs. One standout experience is Queenstown Ice Bar, located near the Skyline Gondola. Step into a world sculpted from over 30 tonnes of ice, where even the glasses are frozen. Enjoy a signature cocktail in this subzero wonderland and marvel at the impressive ice-carved interiors.

Indoor Thrills

Queenstown guarantees adventure –even indoors. If you have an appetite for adrenaline, you won’t be disappointed. Test your limits with indoor skydiving at iFLY, where you can experience the sensation of freefall without having to jump out of a plane. If you prefer a challenge on solid ground, try your hand at ice skating or trampoline dodgeball.

For those with a competitive streak, Game Over Queenstown offers an exhilarating indoor go-karting experience, alongside laser tag and a fully equipped arcade. It’s the perfect spot for families, groups, or anyone looking to add a bit of friendly competition to their Queenstown itinerary.

QUEENSTOWN

Entertainment & Games

Strike Bowl in Arthur’s Point offers a classic bowling experience, while Kingpin in Queenstown takes entertainment to the next level. Alongside bowling, Kingpin features a massive arcade packed with games for all ages and immersive escape rooms for those who love a challenge. With a mix of high-energy fun and interactive experiences, it’s the ultimate indoor destination for groups and families.

Art Galleries

Queenstown boasts a vibrant arts scene and a variety of creative workshops. Artbay Gallery (page 85) is leading the field and recently unveiled a flagship space dedicated to internationally acclaimed artist Virut, renowned for his striking collage-style portraits crafted from magazine cuttings.

Cinemas

Queenstown offers unique cinematic experiences beyond the typical movie night. Silky Otter Cinema in Frankton delivers luxury with reclining seats, a licensed bar, and in-seat dining. For a more intimate setting, Dorothy Browns in Arrowtown pairs films with fine wine and cheese. For something truly different, Time Tripper (page 24) takes you underwater beneath Lake Whakatipu, immersing you in the region’s prehistoric past and geological history.

Around the District

For those venturing beyond Queenstown, Puzzling World in Wānaka (page 75) offers one of the region’s truly unique attractions. Since 1973, it has mesmerised visitors with its optical illusions and challenging puzzles. The famous Great Maze provides hours of fun, and the Illusion Rooms will delight visitors of all ages.

Whether it’s a rainy day or perfect weather, some of the region’s best experiences might just be waiting for you indoors.

KINGPIN

TIME TRIPPER

MASSAGES, YOGA & WELLNESS

Nadi Wellness invites you to experience pure relaxation at Queenstown’s premier destination for holistic care.

Specialising in therapeutic massages, facials, yoga, and more, our expert therapists create personalised treatments to help you unwind and rejuvenate.

Whether recovering from a day of adventure or seeking a moment of peace, Nadi Wellness offers the perfect escape. Recharge your body and mind, and leave Queenstown feeling completely renewed.

Yoga

Our Queenstown yoga studio features inspiring yoga classes including slow flow, vinyasa, hatha and yin styles, workshops, yoga teacher trainings, and some of the region’s best yoga teachers. We run over 20 classes each week and offer a comfortable and welcoming space to relax, heal, grow and awaken.

Relaxation Massage

Melt away tension with this Swedish style massage, which uses long rhythmic strokes to lengthen and loosen stressed muscles. Recharge your body and mind with this deeply relaxing massage that helps promote circulation and calm the nervous system.

Deep Tissue Massage

Relieve sore and tired muscles with this therapeutic, deep tissue, sports massage. This massage is perfect for after adventure sports and increases circulation, aids muscle recovery and helps release knots and trigger points.

Couples Massage

Enjoy your massage side-by-side in our special couple’s room. Each of you will get to select the style of massage you would like and share this blissful and relaxing experience together.

Specialty Treatments (on request)

We can provide reflexology, reiki, TMJ release, hot stone massage, and a “4 hands” massage.

Infrared Sauna

Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas use infrared waves of light through lamps to make heat. The heat gently penetrates tissues and helps relieve joint pain and speed up muscle recovery, reduce blood pressure, and boost heart health.

Signature Facial

Whether it’s a 30 minute express facial or the full pampered treatment, our Signature Facial will enhance your youthful glow and leave your skin feeling deeply moisturised. We use all natural & organic New Zealand plant herbal extracts and high-quality products.

Namaste.

INDOOR POOL AND GYM FACILITIES

Joe O’Connell Drive, Frankton

7km from Queenstown CBD

Open from 6am - 9pm (Mon-Fri) and from 8am - 8pm (weekends)

Queenstown Events Centre sits beneath the stunning Remarkables mountain range, offering a premier multi-purpose indoor sports and events destination.

The centre offers a range of sport and recreation activities including a full service gym, multi pool aquatic centre, indoor courts and many outdoor fields perfect for any sport. Check out what’s on offer below!

Alpine Health and Fitness

Alpine Health and Fitness is a fully equipped gym featuring a wide range of modern gym equipment, training spaces, group fitness classes, plus you’ll get free access to Alpine Aqualand with any membership or casual entry purchase. The gym features:

• A powerlifting area

• Free weights section

• Outdoor area (Muscle Beach!)

• Stretch/functional area

• Cardio equipment

• Group fit training

• A cycle studio

If you need a fully equipped gym while on holiday, then Alpine Health and Fitness is the perfect place, with casual entry and 7 day passes available.

Alpine Aqualand

Alpine Aqualand is a multi-pool facility perfect for entertaining the family, relaxing or keeping fit. No matter what you’re looking for there is a pool designed for you, including:

• 25 metre lap pool with 8 lanes

• Leisure pool and lazy river. The lazy river is a 37 metre feature which is lovely to float around or used for aqua walking or jogging

• Two Hydroslides, catering for various heights

• Tapered toddler pool with water features

• Hot pool (must be 16 years or older)

Alpine Aqualand is an accessible facility that has handrail entry into all of our pools and disabilityfriendly ramps into the lap and leisure pools.

Climbing Wall

The Rockatipu Climbing Wall reaches a dramatic 12 metres in height. Our indoor wall features a wide range of climbs involving different styles and catering for complete beginners through to expert lead climbers. The wall features:

• 40+ climbs available for leading and top roping

• New Zealand climbing grades from 14 to 27 (FR 4c-7c; US 5.7–5.12d)

• Vertical and overhanging rock features

• Kids climbing courses

• Equipment hire (climbing shoes and harness)

EXPERIENCE WORLD-CLASS GOLF COURSES

Golf Federation, nestled in the heart of Queenstown, offers a unique indoor golf experience that combines cutting-edge technology with the comfort and convenience of a premier entertainment venue. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, our stateof-the-art Trackman radar systems provide the most accurate and immersive golfing experience available.

Play iconic courses indoors

With meticulously detailed simulations of some of the world’s most famous courses, including Pebble Beach and St Andrews, you can challenge yourself on the same fairways as the pros, all from the comfort of our indoor facility. Perfect your swing and enjoy a round of golf, regardless of the weather.

The Club House

Designed with the Golfer in mind, relax and unwind in our VIP lounge modelled after the 19th at a prestigious golf course. Connect with locals and other golfers, engage with our expert staff who are happy to share hidden gems and help you make the most of your Queenstown stay. This

warm and welcoming space is a place to mingle, securely store your luggage and create lasting memories, a haven in the heart of Queenstown.

Instant tee times at Queenstown’s best courses

What truly sets Golf Federation apart is our commitment to providing the best possible experience for our guests. We’re the only place in Queenstown where you can instantly book tee times at any of the region’s stunning golf courses. Whether you’re looking to fit in a quick round or plan a full day of golfing, our seamless booking service ensures you spend less time planning and more time enjoying the game.

Join us this winter

At Golf Federation, we’re passionate about golf and dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can enjoy the game, no matter the weather. Whether you’re looking to improve your skills, enjoy a casual round with friends, or simply soak up the atmosphere and have a drink in our new fully-licensed Clubhouse, we invite you to experience the best that Queenstown has to offer.

EXPERIENCE ENTERTAINMENT ON A ROYAL SCALE

Kingpin is an epic entertainment adventure waiting to be explored. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Cardrona Ski Field, The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Lake Whakatipu, this luxurious venue is the ultimate destination for indoor fun on rainy or snowy days.

With bowling, arcade games, karaoke, and more, there’s enough action-packed entertainment to keep you going all day. A little bit of everything ensures smiles all around, whether it’s a friendly catch-up or a family outing with kids of all ages. The venue also hosts private events, parties, and corporate bookings.

After all that fun (and winning, of course), sit back, take in the views, and explore the menu. The in-house bar and kitchen serve up an extensive selection of cocktails, mocktails, hearty meals, and share platters, catering to every dietary need.

Bowling

Ten pins. One ball. So. Much. Fun. Our state-ofthe-art lanes are perfect for partying, socialising, date night, or serious bowling competition.

Karaoke

Hope you’ve been practising in the shower because our karaoke rooms are ready. Loaded up with song lists included the gnarly classics and

the latest hits (updated monthly) and a restricted playlist if you’ve got younger singers with you. Plus, you can leave a card at the bar and order food and drink straight to your karaoke room!

Games

From the classics to the latest innovations, take gaming off the couch and explore our royal selection of arcade games. Don’t forget to exchange your tickets for a prize before you leave!

Escape Rooms

Reckon you’re a bit of a Sherlock Holmes? Test your powers of deductions in one of our cryptic escape rooms. Be warned: our games are not for the faint of heart (or those under 14 years old).

VR

The enemies might be virtual but the battle is real in our range of innovative, fiercely competitive VR gaming experiences. Upgrade your reality as you run, fight, explore and play.

Table Tennis

From the streets of New York to right here in Queenstown, TopSpin is the best way to show off your skills. Perfect for tournaments, parties, or to show your friends who’s best. After all, what’s a group hangout without a little friendly competition?

arcade games, karaoke,

QUEENSTOWN’S PREMIUM ICE BAR EXPERIENCE

Queenstown Ice Bar is the town’s coolest hotspot and most sophisticated ice bar experience, situated in the Upper Village, at the bottom of the iconic Queenstown Gondola.

Step into a cocktail lounge sculpted from nearly 30 tonnes of hand-carved ice. Featuring premium cocktails served in signature ice glasses within a striking, Scandinavian-inspired lounge bar, you’ll feel transported to an entirely different world.

There’s always something new to experience at the Ice Bar, with incredible ice sculptures changing every few months thanks to several blocks of ice, chainsaws, chisels, and one extremely talented ice carver, Victor.

Step through the doors, and you’ll be taken care of from the very first moment.

Enjoy premium crafted drinks from iconic glassware made of ice. Elyx packages include premium cocktails crafted with three different spirits, including the luxury Absolut Elyx vodka, or level up and opt for an Espresso Martini package.

Before

Complimentary luxe winter coats, gloves and boots are provided to keep you cosy. Faux fur hats and accessories are also available for hire or purchase.

During

The team will ensure that your group is taken care of with their expertly curated cocktail and mocktail menus, and world-class Ice Bar service.

After

Remember your Queenstown experience in style with a selection of signature Queenstown Ice Bar merchandise. They’ve got you covered with shot glasses, ice shot mounds, and faux fur hats.

Queenstown Ice Bar offers private sessions and exclusive venue hire, perfect for corporate events, cocktail parties, hens parties and special occasions. Bartenders, Ice Bar hosts, and even bespoke ice carvings are available. Enquire with our team about a tailored package.

Extra information

• Additional drinks and our famous ‘shot luge’ available for purchase in the ice bar

• All ages are welcome but under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

• NZ identification or a Passport will be required for all alcohol sales

• Each session runs for one hour, though depending on the start time of the next group, you may have the opportunity to stay longer to enjoy another cocktail or two

Wineries & Wine Tours

GIBBSTON VALLEY WINES

Central Otago is one of the world’s southernmost wine regions. Located at 45 degrees latitude, it sits along the same latitude as Burgundy, one of the world’s finest wine regions.

In a landscape largely dominated by merino sheep farming, a few brave and hardy pioneers planted grapes in Central Otago in the early 1980s. Although the first wine grapes were planted over a hundred years earlier, it wasn’t until the successful harvest of Pinot Noir in 1987 that the area began to attract the attention of viticulturists. Notable names from the early days include Rolfe Mills of Rippon in Wānaka and Alan Brady of Gibbston Valley, who believed that the region’s cold, dry climate and long, hot summers could produce results to rival the prestigious vineyards of France.

The first Pinot Noir vintage was released in 1987 by Gibbston Valley Wines. Today, Central Otago’s Pinot Noir and, more recently, a range of white varieties are consistently recognized as award winners and are considered on par with the best in the world. Around 80 percent of the wines produced in Central Otago are Pinot Noir. Pinot Gris is the most popular white variety, followed by Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc.

The cold climate of Central Otago presents many challenges for growing grapes. However, with great challenge comes great reward. In Gibbston, grapes benefit from a long growing season that provides ideal conditions for vines. In this cooler climate, the skins, seeds, and flesh ripen perfectly.

The winegrower’s greatest fear is frost, and in this region, the threat of frost lingers both at the start and end of the cool season. Vineyards have developed

methods to protect their grapes from frost, most commonly through the use of helicopters or frost fans. Central Otago experiences the country’s coldest, driest, and hottest temperatures. Growers have devised their own ways of working with the environment and its fluctuating climate. It is these seasonal variations that deliver the subtle differences in each year’s harvest.

With such prestigious wines grown in the region, it’s no surprise that wineries, restaurants, and cellar doors are high on the must-do list. The closest wineries to Queenstown are just twenty minutes away in Arrowtown, where some of the district’s most notable winery restaurants, including Amisfield, Mora, and Ayrburn, are located. Further down the road lies the famed ‘valley of the vines’, Gibbston. Along the Gibbston Highway, you’ll find vineyards and cellar

doors scattered on both sides of the road.

Half an hour from Gibbston is the Cromwell Basin, the area’s largest wine region. Vineyards and restaurants can be found throughout Bannockburn, Bendigo, Pisa, and Lowburn. This area accounts for around 70 per cent of all the vineyards in Central Otago.

Tour operators run wine tours to Gibbston and Cromwell, which is an ideal option if you want to sample wines, enjoy a long lunch, and avoid worrying about driving home. Alternatively, you could step things up with a helicopter flight into the vines. There is also a cycle trail that winds through Gibbston and its many wineries. You can hire a bike in Arrowtown and follow the Gibbston Wine Trail, a ride of just under nine kilometres along a well-maintained track that takes you past all the big names in wine throughout Gibbston.

Bike The Wineries with Around The Basin Bike Queenstown

3 Searle Lane, Queenstown

Prices start at $95

Experience the stunning landscapes and award-winning wine of Gibbston Valley with Around The Basin. Their self-guided bike tours offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore at your own pace with three-quarter day, and full day options with an informative winery map included as a guide. Stacked with 7 wineries, a gin tasting room and a tavern, the valley is perfect to explore by bike or E-bike. To find out more, see Around The Basin Bike Queenstown’s information on page 61.

EXPLORE the best cellar doors in the region!

Amisfield Restaurant & Cellars

10 Lake Hayes Road, RD1, Arrowtown

Wine tasting is $25 for up to five wines or $95 for a Bespoke Private Tasting of rare and older vintages

Kinross Winery

2300 Gibbston Highway, Gibbston

Wine tasting from $25 per person

Kinross sits in the heart of Gibbston, home to some of the most highly awarded Pinot Noir growers in the world. Cellar Door to five local wineries – Hawkshead, High Garden, Valli, Wild Irishman and their own Kinross label, you’ll experience an authentic slice of Central Otago’s world of wine. Their beautiful Wine Garden serves a stunning locally sourced menu, perfect for a long lunch with friends. Kinross is perfect for a cosy winter afternoon, find yourself nestled by the roaring fire and enjoy a homemade mulled wine with warm notes of orange and cinnamon. Open daily from 10am-4.30pm.

Amisfield Restaurant and Cellars sits on the shores of Lake Hayes, with their schist building intricately woven into the landscape it inhabits. Harnessing the ebb and flow of the seasons to craft unique flavour profiles, Amisfield’s wines are crafted at their single-estate organic vineyard and exclusively showcased at their Cellar Door. Join Amisfield’s passionate team and sample from a selection of Pinot Noir vintages, Reserves and a range of aromatic white wines. Advanced bookings are essential for groups of seven or more, and Bespoke Tastings. Open daily from 10am-6pm.

Mt Rosa Cellar Door & Kitchen

47 Gibbston Back Road, Gibbston

Wine tasting $25 per person

Gibbston Valley Winery

1820 State Highway 6, Gibbston Wine tasting from $18 per person Wine tours from $28 per person

Delve into an immersive wine & food experience, just 25 minutes from Queenstown in the stunning valley of the vines. Home to NZ’s largest wine cave and the region’s oldest vineyards, Gibbston Valley’s tours & tastings let you learn, see, smell & taste your way through their range of handcrafted wines. Explore their winemaking story while tasting their organic, single vineyard expressions. The winery restaurant heroes’ local and sustainably sourced dishes, creating a harmonious blend of wine, food, people & place. Open daily from 10am-5pm.

Proudly family-owned and operated, Mt Rosa produces exceptional handcrafted wines, all grown in the vineyard surrounding the Cellar Door. Their team of wine lovers will guide you through a tasting of their stunning single-vineyard expressions, including Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Rosé, and Blanc de Noir. Enjoy views across the valley and surrounding mountains from a beanbag, a verandah table, or fireside inside. Complement your tasting with a platter, or small plate, while swirling and sipping the afternoon away. Visit their Gibbston Cellar Door and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere they’re known for. Open daily from 11am-5pm.

Peregrine Wines

2127 Gibbston Highway, Gibbston

Wine tasting $30 per person (free with a two bottle purchase)

Experiences from $75 per person

Designed to evoke the rotation of a falcon’s wing in flight, the elegant Peregrine Winery building has captured the imagination of visitors since its completion in 2003. Step beyond the ordinary with a private, behind-the-scenes journey into the world of organic winemaking with Peregrine. Explore the striking winery, uncover the craftsmanship behind every bottle, and taste wines that embody the purest expression of Central Otago. Visit Peregrine for a tasting in the comfort of their Cellar Door, or enhance your experience with an exclusive tour. Every experience is designed with you in mind, and advance bookings are required. Open Mon-Sat from 11am-4pm.

The Barrel Room, Ayrburn

1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown

Wine tasting $30 per person

Take a journey through Central Otago’s sub-regions with an Ayrburn wine tasting, hosted in The Barrel Room on the hour daily. Just five minutes from Arrowtown, this subterranean sanctuary offers a sumptuous retreat, surrounded by 56 wine barrels that create an unmatched ambiance for an intimate tasting experience. Learn the story behind Ayrburn wines while sampling a selection that reflects the region’s diverse landscape and flavours. With its unique setting and carefully curated tastings, The Barrel Room provides a memorable way to explore local wines. Open daily from 11am–6pm.

Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen

265 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road, Arrowtown

Wine tasting $25 per person

Mora (Latin) means to linger, to take pause. A secondgeneration New Zealand family-owned company, Mora produces world-class Pinot Noir and pure and intense white wines such as Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Gris from its 90ha of vineyards in Bannockburn and Pisa, Central Otago. These wines are available exclusively through Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen at Lake Hayes, the Mora wine club and online. Booking in advance is strongly recommended. Open daily from 10am-5pm.

Brennan Wines

86 Gibbston Back Road, Gibbston Wine tasting from $20 per person

If you are looking for something a bit different, go and visit Brennan Wines on the Gibbston Back Road. The Brennan Family have been producing spectacular award-winning wine from this stunning, elevated site in Gibbston since 2006. A tasting of their aged Pinot Noirs, takes you on a journey of each season, showcasing what Sean Brennan, winemaker, values most out of any given vintage. Always keen to push the boundaries, in addition to their flagship Brennan Pinot Noirs the vineyard is also home to some other experimental varietals such as Muscat, Tempranillo and Zinfandel. Open daily from 11am-5pm.

Opening times

10 am - 5 pm 7 days a week

CREATING A COMMUNITY AROUND WINE THAT ENRICHES LIFE

Gibbston Valley Wines, previously awarded Organic Winery of the Year, continues to showcase one of the widest ranges of exceptional, handcrafted expressions in Central Otago. They’re pioneers of the region’s wine scene and home to an iconic wine cave (NZ’s largest) where rows of French oak barrels cradle aging vintages.

Sample tastings in the Cellar Door’s rustic interior or garden setting, or delve deeper with winery tours, cave tours, the cave library, or wine & cheese tastings – engaging all your senses across their world of wine.

POPULAR DISHES

1820 State Highway 6, Gibbston 25km from Queenstown CBD

Hire their e-bikes and start your adventure along the Queenstown cycle trail, weaving through the stunning valley of the vines.

Scan the QR Code for experiences and prices.

Lunch in the winery restaurant’s idyllic garden courtyard features seasonal, sustainable, locally sourced dishes, perfectly paired with a glass of organic, single-vineyard wine. Their opulent, schist-clad Lodge Restaurant welcomes you to settle in for dinner, where you’ll be treated to a bespoke seasonal menu and a glass of vino at the Bubbles Bar.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Arancini | $16

Whitestone cheese cream, poached pear, and candied walnuts

• Octopus | $32

Arrabiata sauce, chorizo, cashew nuts, olives, and crispy sage

• Wairiri Buffalo Mozzarella | $32

Heirloom tomatoes, and avocado & jalapeño emulsion

• Royalburn Lamb | $45

Spiced puy lentils, mint cream, and rosemary jus

• Beef Short Ribs | $44

Pumpkin & maple purée, and red wine sauce

• Roasted Eggplant | $38

Hazelnut muhammara, almond cheese, courgette, and pomegranate

• Chocolate Cake | $18

Red fruit compôte, fresh berries, vanilla mascarpone, and pistachio

WORLD CLASS WINES AND EXPERT WINE GUIDES

Departure location

Pick-up & drop-off at most central hotels

We will let you know your closest pick-up point at the time of booking

Appellation Wine Tours offers awardwinning experiences that provide a full immersion into Central Otago’s superb wine culture and early pioneering history.

Taste Central Otago’s cool climate, world-class varietals and travel off the beaten track to experience the ultimate in scenery starting from Queenstown and venturing through the magnificent wine regions of Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell.

All of our tours include

• Hotel pick up/drop off in a luxury vehicle

• Guided wine tastings at top wineries

• Fresh local cuisine showcasing a selection of Central Otago’s finest flavours

• An expert wine guide sharing insights on the region’s sights, history, and wines

What to bring with you

Bring a camera, water bottle, light jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a healthy appetite for good food and great wines!

Gourmet Food & Wine Tour

• Wine tastings at 4 vineyards/venues across 3 wine regions

• Tour inside NZ’s largest wine cave

• Exquisite wine-paired, barrel cooked lunch

• Delicious local cheese board

• Visit historic Arrowtown

Boutique Wine Tour

• Wine tastings at 4 vineyards in 3 wine regions

• Platter style lunch at a vineyard restaurant

• Visit Old Cromwell Town (time permitting)

Classic Wine Tour

• Wine tastings at 3 vineyards in Gibbston region

• Tour inside NZ’s largest wine cave

• Delicious local cheese board

Private Whiskey & Wine Tour

• 75-min tour and tasting at Cardrona Distillery

• Wine tasting at vineyard in Gibbston region

• Shared lunch platter with beverage of choice

Private Heli & Wine Tour

• 30 minute heli flight with alpine landing

• Wine tastings at 3 premium vineyards across 3 wine regions

• À la carte lunch with wine at Mt Difficulty Winery (or similar)

Pricing information

• Child age is 6–17 years old

• Children under 6 years old are possible on private tours only

• Children under 16 years old can not attend the Gibbston Valley cave tours and will need to wait with the guide

• Gourmet, Boutique and Classic Wine Tours are also available on a private basis

Biking

No matter your age or ability, pedal power is one of the most fun –and scenic - ways to explore the Whakatipu Basin.

GIBBSTON RIVER TRAIL

The popularity of mountain biking has grown exponentially in Queenstown over the last decade. Like many mountain towns around the globe, Queenstown is making the most of its perfectly ideal terrain and welcoming bikers of all abilities to hit the trails.

Many of Queenstown’s biking tracks are part of the Queenstown Trails network, which offers more than 140 kilometres of walking and biking trails throughout the district. The network connects some of Queenstown’s most scenic spots for half, full or multi-day rides. However, if downhill and speed are more your thing, you’re in luck. Queenstown has multiple world-class mountain biking trails and bike parks, plus super-fun pump tracks for young riders.

Easy rides around Queenstown

Queenstown - Frankton Beach

This gentle lakeside ride begins in the Queenstown Gardens and follows a mostly flat trail along the Frankton Track beside Lake Whakatipu. At Frankton Beach, you can stop for a rest and even a dip in the lake. The ride from Queenstown Gardens to Frankton is around 12 kilometres return.

Frankton Beach - Kelvin Heights

If you’re still feeling energetic after reaching Frankton, continue along the track to Kelvin Heights. This section of track takes you over the old Kawarau Bridge to Kawarau Falls, where you can stop at the Hilton Hotel for refreshments. Further on, the Kelvin Heights lakeside trail offers a beautiful ride past stunning waterfront homes and picturesque gardens. The ride from Queenstown Gardens to Kelvin Heights Peninsula is 16 kilometres one way.

Arrowtown - Gibbston vineyards

Queenstown Trails Network,

which offers more than 140km of walking and biking trails throughout the district

This 23-kilometre-return ride begins in the historic township of Arrowtown and takes you from one stunning scenic spot to the next, including the picturesque Arrow River and the AJ Hackett Bungy Bridge. Carry on a little further to Gibbston for some of the best vineyards in the district.

Queenstown - Jack’s Point

The first part of this full-day ride follows the gentle Frankton Track to Kelvin Heights. From Jardine’s Point onwards, the track becomes more technical and requires some trail-riding experience. Between Kelvin Heights and Jack’s Point, the track is a Grade 4 with steep sections and tight bends. However, the spectacular views of Lake Whakatipu and The Remarkables make it worth the effort. The ride from Queenstown to Jack’s Point is 26 kilometres with options to stop at Frankton Marina, The Hilton at Kawarau Falls and Jack’s Point Club House for food and drinks.

Queenstown - Arrowtown

This stunning full-day ride is an adventure through some of Queenstown’s most impressive scenery. Follow the Twin Rivers Trail on the way to Arrowtown, which takes you along the Kawarau River, past the Shotover River and onto the Arrow River Bridges Trail. You will have earned lunch at one of Arrowtown’s many restaurants. Return to Queenstown via Malaghan’s Road and Arthurs Point. Stop in for a drink at the Gin Garden or Canyon Brewing on Arthurs Point Road.

Others

Seven Mile, Moke Lake Circuit, and a variety of others. With 140km of trails you can literally go anywhere you want with options to suit all skillsets and fitness levels.

MOKE LAKE

Downhill Biking

Ben Lomond Trails

One of Queenstown’s best downhill parks is located right in Central Queenstown. This gondola-accessed mountain bike park offers 30 downhill tracks with the bonus of being able to jump on the gondola to get back to the top of the trails. At 450 metres above Queenstown, you’ll enjoy unbeatable views and world-class downhill trails through the trees.

Coronet Peak

When the snow melts at Coronet Peak, the bike trails are on. Coronet Peak offers a range of fast- flowing, purpose-built single tracks. You’ll find plenty of technical riding on offer the option to jump on the bike shuttle to get back to the top.

Mountain Bike Trail

Macetown

The Macetown trail is a thirty-two-kilometre ride along the Arrow River into the old gold mining town of Macetown. While the gold miners are long gone, the trail offers

a glimpse into what life would have been like for those hardy gold miners living in the river gorge during the 1862 gold rush. There are no cafés or amenities along this

part of the river, so be prepared and wellequipped. The trail crosses the river over 40 times, so you should also be prepared to get wet.

MCNEARLY GNARLY

BEN LOMOND TRAILS

QUEENSTOWN’S BEST SCENERY BY BIKE

Around The Basin Bike Queenstown are your experienced local experts specialising in biking adventures on the stunning Queenstown Trail. With over 160km of scenic, purpose-built off-road cycle trails connecting Queenstown, Arrowtown, the Gibbston wine region, and Jacks Point, we offer the ultimate way to explore the region.

We have a large fleet of the latest model electric and hardtail mountain bikes available for hire and also offer shuttles to and from the best rides in the area.

At Around The Basin our aim is to give every level of rider the opportunity to experience the stunning Queenstown Trail network with ease.

What we provide

We provide the bike and helmet, trail map with full ride briefing, transport, and phone support for bike or navigation issues.

What to bring

Bring a camera, water, sunscreen, activewear, gloves & beanie if cold, and a sense of adventure!

Important information

• Infant equipment available

• Departure times vary between summer and winter, so please confirm the time when booking

Bike The Wineries

• Full Day (includes seeing Arrowtown)

• 3/4 Day (does not include Arrowtown)

Exploring the stunning Gibbston wine region at your leisure from our informative winery map with 6+ wineries, gin tasting, and a tavern to choose from. The full day option starts in the morning with approx 21km of riding. The 3/4 day option starts an hour later with approx 15km of riding.

Arrowtown to Gibbston Half Day

Shuttle with us to Arrowtown and ride this popular 15km scenic Arrow Bridges Trail through to Gibbston Valley winery. We will collect you and return you back to Queenstown.

Arrowtown to Queenstown

Shuttle to Arrowtown and allow the day to enjoy this adventurous 35km ride back to Queenstown, enjoying café stops along the way. For strong riders, you can extend your ride from Arrowtown to the Kawarau bungy / Gibbston Valley before riding back to our shop in Queenstown.

NEW Shotover Gorge Trail

A 26km ride from Queenstown to Arthurs Point, with advanced sections for confident riders only. Finish in Arthurs Point Village and shuttle back to town with us.

Electric bike upgrades available on all experiences

Golfing

Very few places on the planet offer breathtaking views like those you’ll find on Queenstown’s golf courses.

JACK’S POINT

Queenstown offers four 18-hole golf courses, one nine-hole course and a private course, The Hills. Millbrook Resort held the 2025 New Zealand Open, one of the biggest events on the golfing calendar that brings professional and amateur golfers together to play on these championship courses. And Arrowtown and Jacks Point are both regularly ranked amongst New Zealand’s top ten courses. You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy a round of golf in Queenstown. The stunning scenery more than makes up for any missed shots or lost balls.

Jack’s Point

With a backdrop of 2,300 vertical metres of the Remarkables mountain range and an outstanding lake panorama, Jack’s Point Championship Golf Course is one of the most visually spectacular in the world. Beautifully designed in harmony with the natural environment, the course weaves through native tussock grasslands and dramatic rock outcrops to the edge of Lake Whakatipu. Designed by John Darby, the course is continuously ranked number one in the South Island.

Golf Federation

On windy or rainy days, Golf Federation in the Queenstown CBD is the perfect indoor option. A fully licensed venue, it offers a relaxed environment to play golf simulators, enjoy food and drinks, and keep your game sharp no matter the weather. Find out more on page 49.

Arrowtown Golf Course

The Arrowtown Golf Club has been around for over a century and, in that time, has established itself as a first-class 18-hole course. A round of golf here is an authentic New Zealand golfing experience. Amongst the picturesque setting of the course, you’ll find historic stone cottage ruins nestled amongst the towering trees, a legacy of Arrowtown’s pioneers. Arrowtown is rated as one of the top 10 courses in New Zealand.

Queenstown Golf Club

Experience distracting golf like never before at Queenstown Golf Club. Nestled at the end of the Kelvin Peninsula, their course offers breathtaking views of Lake Whakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range with every swing. After a round, unwind in their cafe, where warm hospitality and scenic vistas complement the perfect day on the course.

Over The Top Golf

For something a little different, why not golf by helicopter? Take a short flight across Lake Whakatipu with Over The Top to a private par-3 golf hole situated at 1,300m (4,500ft) above the lake. Choose two of the four tee boxes to suit your swing. To date, there have been a few birdies, but no hole-in-one. To find out more, please see page 32.

Other golf courses

Millbrook Resort

Millbrook is a stunning resort on the outskirts of Arrowtown. The resort’s golf course is a championship course and home of the New Zealand Open. Millbrook’s two 18-hole golf courses, designed by golf masters Sir Bob Charles and Greg Turner, exploit the dramatic terrain whilst delivering world-class golf.

Frankton Golf Centre is a 9-hole short course and the perfect option if you’re looking for a family-friendly club, that’s ideal for casual golfers or beginners. Golf courses are also found in Glenorchy, Cromwell, Te Anau, and Wānaka.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a charming, historic gold town located twenty minutes from Queenstown. Once a quiet pastoral region, Arrowtown found itself in the midst of gold fever when gold was discovered on the Arrow River in 1862. Today, Arrowtown’s gold mining past is lovingly preserved through its historic buildings, museum, and thoughtful design of new buildings. The main street boasts some of the region’s finest restaurants, boutique stores, and galleries.

Things to do

Despite a population of just 3,000, Arrowtown offers two 18-hole golf courses—Millbrook and Arrowtown Golf Course—plus the private golf course, The Hills. Both The Hills and Millbrook are championship courses, with The Hills hosting the NZ Open for many years and Millbrook hosting the open in more recent years. The Arrowtown Golf Club often appears in the list of New Zealand’s top ten courses, making Arrowtown an absolute paradise for golf fans.

The Lakes District Museum & Gallery is the region’s main museum and has been described as one of New Zealand’s best small museums. It provides a fascinating insight into the area’s history from early Māori to the gold rush era. The museum sits on Buckingham Street, Arrowtown’s main street.

Arrowtown’s Chinese Settlement is a restored mining settlement near the Arrow River. A walk through the settlement gives

an insight into the modest living conditions of the Chinese miners who came to the region in their thousands towards the end of the gold rush.

Macetown is a gold-mining ghost town situated 15 kilometres up the Arrow River. It is possible to walk or bike to Macetown, but with over 22 river crossings and steep climbs to negotiate, driving is a better option for most. The track is only accessible by 4WD, and even then, it is a challenging route.

A few of the more popular walks around Arrowtown are Sawpit Gully Trail, Tobins Track, and the Arrow River Trail. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try the hike or bike to Macetown. For bike rentals, we suggest using Around The Basin Bike (page 61).

For a relaxing and sophisticated evening out in Arrowtown, look no further than Dorothy Browns—a cosy cinema with large comfortable seats and cheeseboards and local wines served at intermission.

Arrowtown Autumn Festival (April 24th–27th 2025)

In autumn, the hills around Arrowtown put on a most spectacular show. As the leaves change colour, a kaleidoscope of oranges, browns, reds, and yellows transform the landscape. This incredible show from Mother Nature is celebrated with the fourday Arrowtown Autumn Festival, attracting locals and visitors for live entertainment, events, and markets.

Food & Drink

The Fork and Tap at the end of town is one of Arrowtown’s most popular beer gardens. As the day draws to an end, you can move things to the locals’ favourite, The Blue Door. Hidden down a side street, this eclectic bar is full of character and often hosts live music. Arrowtown is also home to a few wineries and cellar doors, and the famed Gibbston wine region is only a bike ride away. For more information, please see the Wineries & Wine Tours section (pages 52–57).

Arrowtown offers an incredible standard and selection of dining options. Arrowtown’s restaurants attract some of the country’s best chefs, with the crown jewel being Amisfield (page 98), whose chef has been ranked as the 44th best chef in the world. For a more casual bite, Arrowtown Bakery may just have some of the best pies in the region. And no visit to Arrowtown is complete without a visit to Patagonia Chocolates and their to-die-for chocolates and ice cream.

One of the up-and-coming hotspots for the region is Ayrburn where they have built a wine and food neighbourhood. With various dining and drinking options set amongst an idyllic setting only 5 minutes from Arrowtown, is a place that is well worth vising for a relaxing meal or drink.

Arrowtown Shopping

If you fancy a relaxing day of shopping, then look no further than Arrowtown. The main street, although small, hosts an abundant selection of shops from top-end fashion boutiques to souvenir shops selling hand-crafted pounamu and jewellery.

Browsing Arrowtown’s main street is a delight. Many of the town’s original buildings have been preserved and transformed into shops, restaurants, and galleries. Buckingham Street gives a taste of what life back in the early 1900s would have been like. New buildings are thoughtfully designed to sit in harmony with the heritage buildings giving the whole town a quaint, architectural feel.

While many of Arrowtown’s buildings are old, don’t let this fool you. Arrowtown is home to some of the best designer boutiques, and galleries in the district— and there is not a chain store in sight. In Arrowtown, you will also find plenty of New Zealand-made merino clothing, including the famous merino-mink (wool and possum fur blend).

Souvenir Shops

Arrowtown is a great place to browse for something special to take home as a gift. The Gold Nugget is the place to find original arts, crafts, and Māori carved items. The Jade & Opal Factory is where you can find original pounamu (greenstone) jewellery or discuss a personalised piece with the carver.

A visit to The Gold Shop is a must-do and is a chance to see a range of unique gold jewellery and the largest collection of locally sourced gold nuggets.

Clothing Shops

Arrowtown offers an impressive collection of high-end designer boutique clothing stores all stocking local and international brands. Te Huia stands out, featuring premium eco-friendly New Zealand-made garments and serving as an authorised stockist of the renowned Canada Goose brand, perfect for those seeking high-

performance outerwear. For the past 30 years the Wool Press has been a must-visit for lovers of merino and wool, offering beautifully crafted knitwear, scarves, and accessories. Goals is a luxury leisure and active wear store that embodies stylish, casual living. Whether you’re searching for something unique or everyday essentials, Arrowtown’s charming streets offer a memorable shopping experience, combining New Zealand craftsmanship with international brands.

Food & Drink Shops

After a full day of shopping, you’ll need to refuel. Arrowtown’s main street has you covered. Visit Gibbston Valley Cheese to try their selection of award-winning cheeses, the famous Remarkable Sweet Shop which stocks every sweet under the sun and offers free tastings of their remarkable fudge and nougat, or you can drop into The Winery to try their impressive selection of wines before selecting your favourite to take home with you.

Arrowtown Galleries

For original New Zealand artworks, visit the Jenny Mehrtens Gallery on Buckingham Street or The Arrowtown Gallery on Wiltshire Street.

Glenorchy

Breathtaking hardly begins to describe the treasure that is Glenorchy. Just 45 minutes from Queenstown, this little town may be small in size but delivers wilderness and scenery on an epic scale.

DART RIVER ADVENTURES

The journey to Glenorchy is renowned as one of the world’s most spectacular drives, and it is this experience that has put Glenorchy firmly on the must-do list. However, there is much more on offer in this stunning location at the head of Lake Whakatipu.

With braided, glacial-fed rivers and enchanting forests surrounded by the striking snow-capped mountains of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mt Aspiring National Park, Glenorchy is the ultimate haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Queenstown to Glenorchy road winds along the shores of Lake Whakatipu, offering postcard-perfect views at every turn. The drive takes around 45 minutes, but it’s advisable to allow extra time to enjoy the bays and photo stops along the way. The road to Glenorchy can be icy in winter, so ensure you drive to the conditions.

When you arrive in Glenorchy, stop at one of the cafés, get a photo at the iconic red shed, or enjoy a scenic walk or hike.

Lord of the Rings film locations

When you see Glenorchy, you’ll understand why it has featured in so many major motion pictures. Scenes from X-Men, Mission: Impossible, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Hobbit, and The Lord of the Rings were filmed here. Some of the most memorable scenes from Lord of the Rings were shot just outside Glenorchy, and fans continue to flock to the area over twenty years

later. Pure Glenorchy (page 41) offers halfday Glenorchy and LOTR tours departing from Queenstown, with exclusive access to Arcadia Station, one of the key filming locations.

The Dart River

The Dart River, fed by glacial meltwater from the Dart Glacier, is surrounded by beech forests, rugged mountains, and a few famous film locations. Operated by Ngāi Tahu, the Māori iwi (tribe) of the South Island, Dart River Adventures (page 26) holds exclusive rights to operate on the river, offering jet boat and funyak trips through its pristine waters.

The Rees River

The Rees River is a major tributary of Lake Whakatipu, flowing from a remote alpine catchment in Mt Aspiring National Park to the beautiful Rees Valley. Horse-trekking operator High Country Horses, located near the Rees River, offers a range of trekking options from one-hour rides to five-day backcountry excursions. A High Country Horses tour is among the most scenic horseback rides you’ll ever undertake.

Paradise

No trip to Glenorchy is complete without a visit to the aptly named Paradise. Located down a 13km gravel road on the eastern side of the Dart River, this breathtaking region is home to native beech forests, towering mountains, and multiple Lord of the Rings filming locations. Tours with Dart River Adventures, High Country Horses, and Pure Glenorchy offer incredible ways to explore this magical setting.

To fully experience Paradise, Paradise Ziplines takes you on an unforgettable journey through the treetops, soaring over glacial-fed rivers and deep into untouched wilderness. This thrilling ziplining adventure offers a unique perspective of one of New Zealand’s most beautiful hidden gems.

Walking & Hiking

Glenorchy is a paradise for keen walkers and hikers. The area is the gateway to the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s ten Great Walks, as well as the Greenstone and Caples tracks. The multi-day Rees-Dart loop track along the Rees and Dart valleys takes you high into Mt Aspiring National Park. There is also plenty to enjoy closer to Glenorchy, such as the lagoon walk, Diamond Creek, and Lake Sylvan.

If you love the outdoors and natural beauty, Glenorchy will not disappoint. With only one road in and out, you will truly feel as though you’ve arrived at the edge of the earth!

HIGH COUNTRY HORSES

PURE GLENORCHY

PARADISE ZIPLINES

Meeting point

13 Mull Street, Glenorchy

46km from Queenstown CBD

Allow at least 1 hour to drive Free parking nearby

Paradise Ziplines in Glenorchy offers an exhilarating adventure that combines the thrill of ziplining with the stunning natural wonders of New Zealand’s untouched wilderness.

Located on private land bordering two national parks, the course features eight unique ziplines that weave through pristine native forests and soar over a striking alpine stream. Highlights include the “Orc Chasm”, a thrilling 200-metre line through a tree-tunnelled slot canyon, the final zip over the Blue Lagoon, and the adrenalin-pumping first line, which offers panoramic views of Paradise and the surrounding mountains.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s spectacular landscapes, this experience is not to be missed.

Why choose Paradise Ziplines?

• Stunning scenery, awesome guides, and an impeccable safety record

• Outstanding reviews – “The scenery was utterly breathtaking, offering a perfect blend of excitement and exhilaration while maintaining a strong sense of safety.”

• Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award winner for the past four consecutive years

How to get there

Take the famous scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy, allowing at least one hour, especially in winter. Meet outside Akin Café at 13 Mull Street, Glenorchy, where we will pick you up for a 10-minute drive to the start of your adventure. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before departure. Free parking is available nearby.

What to bring

• A sense of adventure

• In winter, dress with warm layers, just as you would for a day on the slopes

• A beanie, long sleeves, long pants, and a jacket

• Enclosed shoes suitable for uneven terrain

• Water bottle, phone/camera, and small backpack

• On wet days, bring a dry change of clothes

• Rain gear is provided if needed

Important information

• Operates in all weather conditions

• Secure storage facilities and toilet onsite

• No experience required (full training provided)

• Minimum weight of 30kg and maximum weight of 125kg to participate

• Minimum age is 10 years old (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult)

• Includes uphill forest walking with a 100-metre elevation gain (moderate fitness required)

• Prices valid until the 1st of October 2025

Zipline over waterfalls, through canyons, and deep into the wild!

GUIDED HORSE TREKKING FROM ONE HOUR TO FIVE

DAYS

High Country Horses is New Zealand’s largest horse trekking company! We pride ourselves on being one of the oldest horse trekking businesses in the Whakatipu region. Exclusively owned and operated by New Zealanders, we have over 30 years of experience in tourism, including horse trekking, dolphin swimming, and jet boating.

With exclusive commercial riding access to over 100,000 hectares of stunning world famous Glenorchy back country, showcased famously in ‘Lord of the Rings’ Trilogy, ‘Chronicles of Narnia’, ‘X-Men Origins – Wolverine’, Taylor Swift’s ‘Out of the woods’ music video and many more.

Clients are lucky enough to experience riding through crystal clear glacial fed rivers, amongst the wildflowers and native beech forests, be awe inspired by the snowcapped mountain ranges that hug our town and truly immerse themselves into middle earth on horseback.

Our rides cover the Dart Valley, Paradise Valley and Rees Valley Station depending on the trek you choose and last from one hour through to five days. With over 70 horses to choose from, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or experienced rider, there is something for everyone here to enjoy.

Beginner friendly ride options

Tranquil, scenic trail rides suitable for beginner, intermediate, and experienced riders looking for a slower, relaxed pace. Ride at a walk/trot pace, perfect for building confidence.

• 1 hour - Mid Rivers Ride

• 2.5 hours – Rees River Trail

Experienced ride options

Rides suitable for experienced riders ONLY, with opportunities to ride at a faster pace, cover more ground, and ride for longer durations.

• Full day – Mountain High, River Deep Trail

• Multiday treks (summer season only)

What’s included

• Helmets (mandatory)

• Gumboots and Driza-Bone jackets when wet

What to bring

• Please dress to the weather / conditions

• Long pants and closed toes shoes (hiking boots, sneakers or trainers) are mandatory

• Small camera/phone to capture the memories!

Important information

• Maximum weight is 95kgs

• Minimum age is 7 years old

• Children are 7–14 years old and must be accompanied by an adult

Over 70 horses to choose from

Cardrona, Wanaka & Cromwell

Wānaka, Queenstown’s charming smaller sibling, provides the perfect day trip. Don’t forget to take a photo of the iconic tree!

THE WĀNAKA TREE

It takes around an hour to travel from Queenstown to Wānaka, but with so much to see and do along the way, the journey could easily take longer. Explore the treasures waiting ‘over the hill’ with a day trip to Cardrona, Wānaka, and Cromwell.

The Crown Range

Between Queenstown and Wānaka lies one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking drives. The 69-kilometre route over the Crown Range pass (1,120m elevation) and into the Cardrona Valley winds through a quintessential Central Otago landscape.

The Cardrona Valley

A highlight of the Crown Range journey is a visit to the Cardrona Valley and its charming settlement. During the 1862 gold rush, Cardrona thrived, reaching a peak population of 1,000. While the gold miners have long since departed, the Cardrona Hotel offers a treasure trove of memorabilia.

Cardrona is also home to the Cardrona Alpine Resort and Snow Farm, known for world-class cross-country skiing. Snow Farm features extensive groomed trails and backcountry huts, while Cardrona Alpine Resort offers excellent skiing, snowboarding, and terrain parks.

Wānaka

Just twenty minutes further, you’ll arrive in the picturesque township of Wānaka, nestled on the shores of Lake Wānaka. Many of Wānaka’s restaurants and bars line Ardmore Street, offering stunning lake views.

In Wānaka, Puzzling World is a must-visit attraction. With its mind-bending illusion rooms and a massive outdoor maze, this local gem is not to be missed. For adrenaline seekers, Skydive Wānaka offers one of the most scenic skydives in the world.

Wānaka is also home to the Treble Cone Ski Area, renowned for its steep slopes and offpiste terrain. As the largest ski area on the South Island, it’s a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

Cromwell

For a change of scenery, return to Queenstown via Cromwell and the Kawarau Gorge. Cromwell, a celebrated fruit-growing region, is known for its stone fruit, with pick-your-own orchards being a popular attraction. A highlight in Cromwell is Highlands Motorsport Park. This worldclass facility features a 4.1 kilometre racetrack, a motorsports museum, and thrilling hot laps in high-performance vehicles. It also offers Go Karts, a mini golf course, and a café – ensuring enjoyment for everyone, not just motorsport fans.

Kawarau Gorge & Gibbston

After Cromwell, the road winds through the Kawarau Gorge, following the powerful Kawarau River. The river’s force has sculpted the steep, jagged walls of the gorge. A century ago, the Kawarau Gorge was bustling with gold miners. Remnants of gold miners’ houses can still be seen along the rocky canyon walls near the Goldfields Mining Centre.

For those seeking thrills on the return to Queenstown, stop by Oxbow Adventure Co. (page 39). Here, you’ll find an impressive array of activities, including jet sprint boats on a custom-built racecourse, off-roading with near-vertical hill climbs, and clay bird shooting.

Finally, explore the world-renowned Gibbston wine region, known as the ‘valley of the vines,’ home to some of the best Pinot Noir producers globally. Take time to visit its many cellar doors, wine tours, and restaurants. Stop for a long lunch at a vineyard restaurant, sample award-winning wines, or hire a bike and cycle between cellar doors along the scenic Gibbston River Trail. For more details, see our Wineries & Wine Tours section (pages 52–57).

CROMWELL

WĀNAKA SKYDIVE

Skydive Wānaka offers an unforgettable tandem skydive from 15,000ft, soaring above Wānaka’s breathtaking lakes and mountains. From your bird’s-eye view, witness up to six stunning lakes, the rugged Southern Alps, and Mount Cook in the distance. This is undeniably one of the best places to skydive in the world!

With over 30 years of experience and 150,000 tandem skydives, we ensure your jump is one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

Why Jump Out of a Perfectly Good Airplane?

It takes a special kind of person to jump from an aircraft at 15,000ft. It takes courage. Harnessed to an experienced, highly qualified skydive instructor, you’ll step out of the aircraft door and experience up to 60 seconds of freefall, reaching speeds of 200km/hour – terminal velocity!

There Is No Such Word as “Try.”

There Is Only “Do” or “Did Not Do.”

Expect sensory overload as your mind, soul, and body fight against every natural instinct for selfpreservation. The impact of this moment on your life cannot be overstated. The personal challenge is immense, and achievement has never felt sweeter.

The only thing preventing you from experiencing one of life’s most primal and transformative moments is your own mind. You must choose –will you go through life saying, “Yes, I did it,” or knowing you had the opportunity but walked away from becoming the best version of yourself?

Capture Every Second!

Such a life-defining moment should be recorded. Make your skydive last a lifetime with a video and photo package captured by our expert team. Take home New Zealand’s most advanced skydive photo and video pack, stored on your own personal website, so you can relive and share your experience – YOU DID IT!

All Skydives Include:

• Transport from our shop to the drop zone

• A scenic 15–20 minute flight to altitude

• Up to 60 seconds of adrenaline-pumping freefall

• 3–4 minutes under canopy

• Memories that will last a lifetime!

Important Information:

• Minimum weight: 40kg

• Minimum age: 6 years old (Passengers under 18 require written consent from a parent or guardian)

WHERE SEEING IS NOT BELIEVING!

Puzzling World is an iconic, world-unique attraction that for over 50 years has been fascinating people of all ages keen to engage in a fun, challenging and sensory experience. With so many incredible things to see and do here, we suggest you allow plenty of time to enjoy your unforgettable visit to Puzzling World. You can choose either the Great Maze or the Illusion Rooms or, the best deal is to see both as a Combo.

On Arrival

Immediately, visitors are met with the famous Tumbling Towers while opposite, The Leaning Tower of Wānaka offers great photo opportunities as friends or family appear to hold, push, or rip out the tower, foundations and all!

Puzzles, Café & Themed Toilets

Walking into the Puzzle Centre where dozens of puzzles await the curious while a massive kaleidoscope ceiling looks on from above is a visual treat in itself. Grab a bite to eat or a drink from the Think Tank Café then engage the brain with many individual puzzles and two-person

brain teasers on offer. Trained staff are on hand to help out, and with a wide selection for sale in the shop you can take home some puzzling fun for later, or as a gift for someone you love/love to see confused! Even the bathrooms here are photogenic with both the Roman Loos and Puzzle Abyss toilets featuring incredible floor or wall art that seem to absorb the user within its imagery!

Illusion Rooms

If your mind is still not boggled, visiting Puzzling World’s Illusion Rooms is sure to. From two brand new ‘glowing’ spaces that use geometric and textual trickery, a room where 168 famous faces seem to follow you, one where you appear to shrink or grow, another where objects look to glide uphill and a sun-filled gallery of incredible illusionary sculptures, these amazing rooms will certainly challenge your perceptions of reality.

Great Maze

Outside, The Great Maze encourages problem solving, exercise and fun. Puzzling World invented this format, designed to suit all ages with overbridges and underpasses to create the world’s first 3-Dimensional Maze. Don’t worry, emergency exits for those with limited time, patience or energy are also included for those who need it!

Puzzling World – Wānaka’s Wonderful World of Weirdness!

Fiordland

MILFORD SOUND

A UNESCO World Heritage area, Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular wilderness areas.

Fiordland covers 1.2 million hectares, and within this vast national park lie some of New Zealand’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Here you will find glaciers, steep mountain ranges, lush forests, lakes, rivers, and of course the fiords, which so many visitors come to the area to see.

How to get there

The fastest way to get to Fiordland is by fixed-wing plane or helicopter. There are many options leaving from Queenstown Airport. Alternatively, you can take a scenic coach tour or drive there yourself. The drive to Milford Sound takes around four hours, but the scenery along the way makes it more than worth it.

Te Anau

Te Anau is a small town nestled on the edge of Lake Te Anau and is the gateway to Fiordland. RealNZ offers one of Te Anau’s most popular activities; a cruise across Lake Te Anau and a guided tour of the sparkling

glowworm caves. Te Anau also has a small golf course and several cafés and restaurants in the centre of town, with the pick of the bunch being the Redcliff Café.

Milford Sound & Doubtful Sound

Both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are stunning in their own way. If you speak to people who have visited both, there will be no clear winner for which is better. Each fiord offers an indescribable experience that may become the highlight of your holiday in New Zealand.

Famously described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, Milford Sound is the jewel in Fiordland’s crown. It’s the region’s most popular attraction thanks to the spectacular Milford road, which makes it possible to drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound in an hour and a half. Rain or shine, this place and its dramatic towering peaks will leave you speechless.

Unlike Milford Sound, there is no direct access by road to Doubtful Sound. As a result, Doubtful is an untouched paradise off the beaten track. To visit Doubtful Sound, you will need to join one of the scenic tours that depart Manapouri. The trip involves a cruise across Lake Manapouri, a bus ride over the majestic Wilmot Pass Road and into the fiord for a boat cruise. Getting there is part of the magic.

The most popular way to see the fiords is with a scenic boat cruise. There are also kayaking options in both fiords and the option to experience Milford Sound from the air and fully appreciate the scale of this vast natural wilderness area. To find out more, see the Air Activities section on pages 28–35.

Lakes and Rivers

While Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound often take the limelight, there are a number of other gems around Fiordland. The Waiau River is teeming with brown trout and runs between Lake Te Anau and the beautiful and peaceful Lake Manapouri. The Mavora Lakes are found on the road between Queenstown and Te Anau, and are a favourite camping spot for locals. Lake Hauroko in southern Fiordland is a true hidden gem. Dusky Sound is even more untouched and remote than Doubtful Sound.

Hiking

For most, hiking is what Fiordland is all about. Three of the ten Great Walks of New Zealand are found in Fiordland. The Milford Track, Kepler Track, and Routeburn Track are all world-class, multi-day hikes that trek through the diverse Fiordland environment. To find out more about hikes, see the Walking & Hiking section on pages 12–13.

REALNZ - DOUBTFUL SOUND

REALNZ - MILFORD SOUND

REALNZ - TE ANAU GLOWWORM CAVES

DOUBTFUL SOUND OVERNIGHT CRUISE

Fiordland Expeditions offers an unforgettable overnight cruise on Patea/Doubtful Sound aboard the Tutoko II, a small ship delivering a big experience! Patea/Doubtful Sound is much larger than its northern cousin, Piopiotahi/Milford Sound and offers much more to explore.

With astounding mountain vistas rising directly from the sea-floor in near vertical cliff forms that reach to the summits high above. This wonder of nature carved out over millennia by glacial erosion, has left this land mass unchanged since the last ice age. Such amazing scenery will keep you in awe throughout.

Terehu/Bottlenose dolphins are resident and we may come across these entertaining creatures during the cruise. Kekeno/NZ Fur Seals are abundant at the entrance and weather permitting we will get to see these lazing on the rocks or playing in the waters close by.

At some point we will stop to let you catch some kai for your evening meal. Pākirikiri/Blue Cod and Koura/Rock Lobster are the preferred species for the dinner plate in these parts. And if you ask nicely our own Chef will prepare the bounty to include in the evening feast whilst you explore in a kayak for that up-close personal experience.

After a great night’s sleep in a calm bay we wake to the smell of fresh coffee and a cooked breakfast being prepared in our galley. Food is aplenty during our cruises and the offerings are oh so delectable.

Our overnight cruises include

• Return transfers between the Ferry Terminal in Manapouri and our vessel in Doubtful Sound

• All meals, snacks, and light refreshments

• Equipment for kayaking and fishing

• A friendly and knowledgeable crew dedicated to enhancing your experience

You’re welcome to bring

• Appropriate clothing for the expected weather and season (include a raincoat just in case)

• Spare clothing – in case you get wet kayaking

• Your camera with charged batteries

• Some insect repellent

• Any beverages for socialising with dinner

Important information

• Infants between 0–4 years old are free

• Final check-in at the Ferry Terminal is at 9.30am

• The prices below are per person, however there is a minimum charge of two people in both the Premium and Economy Cabins

EXPERIENCE

MILFORD SOUND UP CLOSE

AND PERSONAL

Departure location

We pick-up from most central hotels

For cruise only option our meeting point is in Milford Sound

Mitre Peak Cruises offer one of the most intimate and immersive ways to explore Milford Sound / Piopiotahi with our 2-hour cruises. We’ve designed our boats for better manoeuvring to get you closer to your incredible surroundings. Each cruise has no more than 60 or 75 spaces available, so you have enough room to appreciate the grandeur.

What to expect on this beautiful Milford Sound Cruise

Sit back and relax as your cruise makes its way out into Milford Sound past the iconic Mitre Peak. We’ll sail the length of the 16km fiord, out past St Annes Point Lighthouse, with informative commentary from our skipper who will highlight points of interest along the way including the mighty Lady Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls. You’ll see towering peaks, sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls and lush rainforest. Feel the spray of Fairy Falls and listen to the sound of nature thriving in its habitat.

We also take you out into the Tasman Sea so you can enjoy the unique opportunity of approaching the fiord just as the first sealers did way back in the 18th century. Be sure to keep an eye out for seals basking in the sun, pods of dolphins, or rare Fiordland Crested Penguins that can be found seasonally within the region.

Keep warm with complimentary tea and coffee in the lounge and take in the scenery through expansive windows. Or venture onto the spacious outdoor viewing decks to breathe in

the pristine alpine air. Either way, you will be inspired by the majesty of the region.

What to bring

We suggest bringing insect repellent, camera, water bottle, warm clothing, sensible footwear, and any snacks you may want.

Coach Cruise Coach (from Queenstown)

• Stunning scenic drive to Milford Sound

• Enjoy photo opportunities and informative commentary on your scenic drive

• Explore Milford Sound on a 2 hour Cruise

Coach Cruise Walk (from Te Anau)

• Stunning scenic drive to Milford Sound

• Explore Milford Sound on a 2 hour Cruise

• Scenic walks of up to 45 mins around spectacular Fiordland scenery during return to Te Anau

• Up-close perspectives of flora and fauna, waterfalls and wildlife and more

Coach Cruise Fly (from Queenstown)

• Stunning scenic drive to Milford Sound

• Explore Milford Sound on a 2 hour Cruise

• Uninterrupted aerial views over untouched wilderness on your return flight

• Fantastic photos from land, sea, and air

Important information

• Child rate is from 4–14 years old

• Cruise times vary between summer and winter

• On scenic flights, children under 2 years old and less than 11kg will sit on an adult’s lap

NEW ZEALAND’S

Departure location

We pick-up from most central hotels

For cruise only option our meeting point is in Manapouri

RealNZ invites you to uncover Aotearoa New Zealand’s best-kept secret, Pātea Doubtful Sound. Hidden in remote Fiordland National Park lies the untouched wilderness of Pātea Doubtful Sound. Home to rare native animals, dense, wild rainforest, and 40 km of waterways, you’ll feel more present than ever as you go off-grid in this magical place.

Where is Doubtful Sound?

With a captivating journey there, you’ll feel closer to nature well before boarding your cruise. Relax as one of our expert coach drivers transports you from Queenstown to Manapouri, sharing interesting stories about the local area along the way. Cruise across the stunning Lake Manapouri to the start of Wilmot Pass, where you’ll be driven through lush native forest and towering mountain scenes before arriving in Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound.

Exploring the fiord

Experience the feeling of stillness as you explore the fiord along its many nooks and arms before reaching the Tasman Sea. The remoteness of the fiord attracts incredible New Zealand native taonga species, making Doubtful Sound a must-visit destination for all nature lovers and explorers. Embrace the elements outside or settle inside with a refreshing beverage, as you listen to your onboard nature guide provide insightful commentary.

Why not stay the night?

Wake up to spectacular natural beauty onboard a Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise and explore the fiord after hours. See the sights by kayak or tender craft, delight your taste buds with delicious Fiordland-inspired chef-cooked meals, and wind down for the evening in your cosy cabin or stargaze under the night sky.

What to expect

• Unforgettable 3-hour cruise or overnight cruise within the secluded Doubtful Sound

• Journey across the spectacular Lake Manapouri and Wilmot Pass

• Return coach transfers between Queenstown and Manapouri available

• Onboard nature guide with possible wildlife sightings of seals, dolphins, penguins, and more

• Snacks and drinks available for purchase

• Onboard chef (Overnight Cruise only)

• Water activities (Overnight Cruise only)

• Prices valid until the 30th of September 2025

What to bring

• Come prepared with non-slip shoes, a waterproof jacket, a warm sweater, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and allergy/ medication

• Pre-book a local picnic lunch for your day cruise or enjoy the snacks and drinks available for purchase onboard the Doubtful Sound vessel

• Don’t forget your camera!

Seals, dolphins, penguins and more

Doubtful Wilderness Cruise only

Doubtful Wilderness Cruise + Coach Departing Queenstown

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

EXPERIENCE MILFORD SOUND THE LOCAL WAY

Departure location

We pick-up from some central hotels

For cruise only option our meeting point is in Milford Sound

Cruise Milford invites you to join our Boutique Small Boat Cruise and experience Milford Sound the “local” way, up-close and personal. Being the only family owned and operated day cruise provider at Milford Sound, we offer a unique experience with local guides who are passionate about sharing their stories with you.

Why book with Cruise Milford?

Quality over quantity is one of the core values of what we do. The boats are surveyed for 150 passengers but we limit numbers on-board to 50% for an enhanced viewing experience. This guarantees your cruise will be uncrowded and gives our nature guides the opportunity to share their knowledge with you on a very personal level. As locals we know all the secret spots. During the cruise we stop at several points of interest like the Hanging Gardens, the Fairy and Stirling Falls and local seal colonies.

Relax with complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits and enjoy the skipper’s commentary while marvelling at the breath-taking scenery. The smaller size of the vessel enables us to get you up close and personal with the local wildlife like New Zealand Fur Seals, dolphins and the very rare Fiordland Crested Penguin (spring/early summer). A “Glacial Facial” under the Stirling Falls is an experience not to be missed. The best thing

about a day at Milford Sound is that the weather doesn’t matter! On a sunny day, it is beautiful, and on a wet day, it is spectacular!

There are only 2 permanent waterfalls at Milford Sound, on a rainy day hundreds of temporary waterfalls can be seen cascading down the steep cliff faces.

Small Group Day Tours

Don’t feel like driving yourself, join one of our Small Group Day Tours from Queenstown or Te Anau and relax while fully immersing yourself in this unique area. A packed lunch and our Boutique Small Boat Cruise at Milford Sound are included in this guided tour. With more than 12 stops for refreshments, photos and short walks through the heart of Fiordland, we make sure you’ll get to see it all. Our guides will share their local stories and interesting facts so that you can gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable area and its people.

Keeping the group size to 18 passengers makes this tour very personal and enables our guides to really show you everything the Fiordland National Park has to offer.

What to bring

• Camera & insect repellant

• Water bottle & snacks

• Sensible footwear & clothing

We limit numbers on-board to 50% capacity

Shopping

When it’s time to take a break from outdoor adventures, head to central Queenstown for a day of shopping. Queenstown’s retail precinct is an exciting affair, offering everything from ultra-luxury to handmade and traditional.

Set against a stunning alpine setting, Queenstown is an impressive place to spend a day shopping. The town’s range of high-quality local and international brands are as impressive as the surrounding views. Everything is easily walkable, and when it’s time for a break, there is a welcoming selection of cafés and restaurants along the lakefront to choose from.

Where to go

The main streets for shopping in central Queenstown are Shotover Street – where many of the activity booking offices are found, Camp Street, Ballarat Street, and Beach Street by the lake. There are also retail areas in Frankton by the airport and in Arrowtown, a twenty-minute drive away.

Retail options in Queenstown cover everything from international luxury brands to souvenirs. If you need to shop for hiking, biking, or mountaineering gear, you’re in luck. There is an outdoor equipment store on every street in Queenstown, and you will find the staff highly knowledgeable and experienced in all things outdoors.

Clothing Stores

Queenstown will satisfy the most discerning of shoppers, offering a blend of local charm and renowned global brands. In central Queenstown, you can find luxury and highfashion stores like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein. These international brands complement the town’s vibrant retail scene, providing a diverse selection of jewellery, fashion, and accessories from both iconic global labels and talented domestic designers.

Queenstown offers a diverse shopping experience with a mix of charming local boutiques and well-known New Zealand brands. Explore unique finds at Angel Divine, Decode, Flo & Frankie, Outpost, and Ilabb, where you can discover an eclectic range of fashion, accessories, and homewares. Additionally, nationwide Kiwi brands such as Rodd & Gunn, Swanndri, and Kathmandu, offer high-quality clothing and outdoor gear that reflect New Zealand’s distinct style and adventurous spirit.

Te Huia, located in the Eichardt’s Building in the Queenstown Mall, is a luxury lifestyle store and the destination for quality ecofriendly fashion. Stocking an extensive range of leading fashion brands, including being an authorised stockist of Canada Goose vests and accessories.

Souvenir Stores

Don’t leave Queenstown without a memento of your holiday. With so many souvenir shops around central Queenstown, you’re sure to find something to suit your budget, whether it’s a quirky fridge magnet or a custom-made piece of pounamu (greenstone). Souvenirs come in the form of Lord of the Rings merchandise, New Zealand’s famous manuka honey, Māori carvings and jewellery, or a wonderful range of local arts and crafts.

Outdoor Stores

With one of the main drawcards for Queenstown being outdoor adventures, it’s no surprise Queenstown offers an abundance of outdoor clothing and equipment stores. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, climbing, camping, biking, or hiking, you will find the clothing and equipment needed. Many of the specialised outdoor stores also offer workshops where you can get skis, snowboards, and mountain bikes tuned or repaired.

Don’t leave Queenstown without a memento of your holiday.

For more shopping options, the Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market is held in Earnslaw Park every Saturday and occasionally on Fridays, featuring a variety of handmade jewellery, homewares, and artwork from local artisans. During spring and summer, the Remarkables Market in Frankton is another great spot to browse locally crafted gifts, art, fresh produce, and artisan foods, offering a mix of shopping and a relaxed market atmosphere.

For ski or snowboard equipment, the pioneers of Queenstown are Browns Ski Shop. Operating for over 40 years, they offer equipment drop-off and pick-up to most hotels. Their wide range includes both premium and mid-range gear, with various deals, including free equipment for children. Find out more on page 19.

THE GIFT CENTRE

THE GIFT CENTRE

Art Galleries

The high number of art galleries around Queenstown must have something to do with the town’s inspirational setting. Throughout the CBD, you will find art galleries offering everything from fine art and collectibles to avant-garde and abstract works. Not surprisingly, photography features heavily in many of the art galleries. For large-scale landscape photography, take a look at the work of award-winning photographer Stephan Romer at the Romer Gallery on Earl Street.

On Beach Street, Central Art Gallery focuses on a collection of traditional fine art. Not far from the lakefront, Milford Galleries on Earl Street features a collection of works from contemporary New Zealand artists. Ivan Clarke is one of Queenstown’s most celebrated home-grown artists thanks to his Lonely Dog series. You can visit the Ivan Clarke Gallery for yourself on Camp Street. All of Queenstown’s galleries provide options for shipping artwork internationally.

Artbay and Lightworx Galleries on the waterfront in Queenstown are the perfect destination for any art enthusiast. The galleries represent a stunning collection of leading contemporary New Zealand and International artists, with a focus on diverse and innovative fine art and sculpture. Their knowledgeable team is dedicated

to providing an exceptional experience, offering tax-free sales, national and global delivery, and a seamless acquisition process for collectors.

Adding to the vibrant art scene, Artbay Gallery has opened the Virut Gallery in Queenstown, showcasing the innovative works of international artist Virut. Known for his unique collage technique using magazine cuttings, Virut captures deep emotional resonance in his portraits. This new gallery highlights Queenstown’s growing cultural prominence and offers art enthusiasts a chance to experience Virut’s distinctive approach in a stunning setting.

IVAN CLARKE GALLERY

artbay.co.nz

Max Patté

Sam Foley

Kate Bergin

Tim Christie

lightworxgallery.co.nz

Peter Hackett

Ilya Volykhine

Robert Jahnke

Nemo Jantzen

Gareth Barlow

Geoff Williams

Charlotte Graham

Fiona Kerr Gedson

Simon Max Bannister

Jimmy James Kouratoras

Supermarkets, Food and Drinks

Need to stock up on supplies for the apartment or holiday house? There are a number of options in central Queenstown to keep you topped up. The Alpine Supermarket (Four Square) on the corner of Shotover and Stanley streets is the easiest supermarket option in central Queenstown. The slightly larger Fresh Choice on Gorge Road is a two-minute drive from town. McKibbons of Royalburn is a market-style supermarket where you will find premium produce and a delicious deli counter. For a fast fix or late-night snack, there are several convenience stores dotted around town.

While you can buy wine and beer at supermarkets in Queenstown, you may want to explore the specialty wine stores where the full range of premium and local options, including spirits, are available. The Winery and The Merchants Liquor Store provide plenty of local options and are where you can find that special bottle of Central Otago Pinot Noir, micro-brewery craft beer or one of the growing number of small-batch gin makers like Rifters Gin or The Source from the Cardrona Valley.

For sweet treats and a fun shopping experience, head into The Remarkables Sweet Shop on Beach Street for wallto-wall sweets, candies and chocolate. You can take a trip down memory lane browsing their old-style options as well as the modern variations for the kids. Fudge is the specialty here, and there is always a free taste test available.

Large supermarkets and department stores are located out of central Queenstown; at Five Mile in Frankton, and Remarkables Park near the airport. There are three supermarkets here as well as chain stores such as The Warehouse, KMart, Mountain Warehouse, and other big-brand sports and homewares stores.

Frankton also offers a wide range of fastfood and takeaway outlets for an easy dinner or lunch option. The line-up covers national chains as well as local operators. With many of the district’s schools and childcare centres located here, locals often choose Frankton as the place to do their shopping and dining. And with plenty of space, finding a free place to park the car while shopping is easy.

Arrowtown Shopping

Just twenty minutes from central Queenstown, Arrowtown is a charming and lovingly preserved heritage town alongside the Arrow River. Despite its quaint appearance, Arrowtown offers an impressive array of modern, designer boutiques and high-end galleries. Some of the region’s best shopping is to be found here. To find out more, see the Arrowtown Shopping section on pages 64–67.

The heart of Arrowtown is Buckingham Street, where you will find a number of souvenir stores selling high-quality items such as merino wool, merino mink and pounamu (greenstone). Buckingham Street is a beautiful display of heritage buildings before it turns into a stunning tree-lined avenue of tiny miners’ cottages. Highlights along Buckingham Street include the old general store, which is now a pharmacy and the old Post Office, which still operates as the Arrowtown Post Office and now features a locally flavoured gift store.

As time shifts and the unpredictability of weather takes hold, embrace the new season with high performance luxury clothing by Canada Goose. Choose from the latest collection of jackets, parkas, vests, and puffers at Te Huia.

Bars & Nightlife

Don’t exhaust all your energy on Queenstown’s many daytime activities and adventures. Save yourself for the evening when the bars and clubs come alive.

Queenstown is renowned for its exhilarating array of activities and its reputation as New Zealand’s adventure capital. However, the town’s vibrant nightlife often proves to be a major draw for many visitors. From budget backpackers to luxury travellers arriving by private jet, Queenstown offers a unique nightlife experience for everyone.

While the town is famed for its lively party scene, it also provides more relaxed and family-friendly options. Central Queenstown, set on the stunning shores of Lake Whakatipu, features numerous bars and restaurants with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas of colours, creating the perfect backdrop for enjoying a drink at a relaxed rooftop bar or casual beer garden with friends.

A standout location is Steamer Wharf, with its prime lakeside position and diverse dining and drinking options. Little Blackwood is a popular choice, offering a great setting to unwind with a cocktail and cheeseboard.

For something truly unique, visit the Queenstown Ice Bar (page 51) in the Upper Village near the gondola. As the name suggests, everything here is sculpted from ice, including the glasses, and they serve some of the coolest cocktails you’ll ever taste. You’ll be provided with warm gear upon entry to ensure comfort.

As the night unfolds, Shotover Street, Searle Lane, Cow Lane, Church Street, and The Mall come alive, with the lively atmosphere making every evening feel like a Friday

night. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed drink or a lively après-ski experience, Queenstown offers an impressive selection of bars to suit every mood.

For those who enjoy a cosy setting, Bardeaux provides a welcoming retreat with its extensive drinks list and inviting fireplace. Barmuda, nestled in Searle Lane, is a vibrant spot perfect for kicking off the night. Crew Room offers a laid-back setting with pool tables, a free jukebox, or live music, making it a fun and social hangout. Meanwhile, Pog Mahone’s delivers a classic Irish pub experience, complete with hearty meals, live music, and perfectly poured Guinness. The Locker Room Sports Bar is the go-to for sports fans, with big screens, a lively atmosphere, and plenty of space to catch the latest game over a drink.

Just outside of town, Canyon Brewing in Arthurs Point is a favourite for craft beer lovers, with a relaxed setting by the Shotover River. Located on the way back from Coronet Peak, it’s the perfect place to stop for après-ski and enjoy a locally brewed pint.

The historic town of Arrowtown, twenty minutes from Queenstown, offers a small yet impressive selection of bars and restaurants. The Blue Door is a local institution, though you may need to ask a local for directions to its entrance. Just five minutes drive from Arrowtown and twenty minutes from Queenstown is where you’ll find Ayrburn with its multiple venues and shuttle buses from town.

And if you’re in search of Central Otago’s world-famous Pinot Noir, you’ll find it widely available. For the full experience, check out our Wineries section on pages 52–57.

BARDEAUX

BARMUDA

CANYON BREWING

POG MAHONES

Opening times

11 am – 1 am 7 days a week

AUTHENTIC IRISH PUB IN THE HEART OF QUEENSTOWN

Póg Mahone’s opened its doors in 1998 and quickly became a Queenstown icon. The Kiwi and Irish owners wanted to create an authentic Irish atmosphere and so designed and built the pub in Ireland itself then shipped it lock, stock, and barrel to New Zealand.

At Pógs you can enjoy a lively mix of modern and Celtic music (including regular trad sessions), friendly service and be warmed by their homely rustic fireplace.

On the inside it’s guaranteed Irish but don’t forget to try the sunny lakeside beer garden

POPULAR DISHES

and balcony from which you can soak up some of New Zealand’s most stunning alpine scenery!

Pógs boasts an array of delicious homemade pub meals, Queenstown’s only Stonegrill experience, and arguably the best pint of Guinness in New Zealand. Pair that with their famous Beef and Guinness Pie and you’re in for a treat!

If you’re looking for some great craic, friendly service and fantastic Irish hospitality then head down to Póg Mahone’s and you certainly won’t be disappointed.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• BBQ Pork Ribs | $29

Homemade BBQ sauce, golden fries, and coleslaw

• Beef & Guinness Pie | $29

Colcannon mash, gravy, and homemade soda bread

• Irish Stew | $29

Lamb & Guinness stew, steamed vegetables, and homemade soda bread

• Homemade Seafood Chowder | $20

Comes with toasted sourdough

• Bangers & Mash | $29

Pork sausages, colcannon mash, peas, and onion gravy

• Sunday Roast (only available on Sunday) | $27

Slow cooked pork shoulder, mash & roast potatoes, roasted vegetables, yorkshire pudding, creamy leeks, apple sauce, and red wine jus

• Stonegrill Mixed Grill | $39

Five different raw meats served on a hot stone for you to cook – comes with sides and sauces

Opening times 5 pm - late 7 days a week

WHERE THE NIGHTS START SLOW AND END UNFORGETTABLE!

Bardeaux prides themselves on exceptional service, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and an impressive selection of drinks. Whether you’re drawn in by the crackling open fire, the smooth sounds of carefully curated music, or the expertise of their knowledgeable staff, every visit promises a touch of elegance.

The extensive wine and cocktail menu complement the refined ambience, featuring an eclectic selection of local Pinots, a cellar stocked with vintage wines and champagnes, and one of Queenstown’s largest whisky collections.

POPULAR DISHES

Bardeaux offers more than just great drinks –their artisanal cheeseboards provide the perfect pairing, enhancing every sip with a carefully curated selection of fine cheeses, gourmet crackers, and rich accompaniments. Crafted with quality and flavour in mind, these indulgent offerings perfectly complement both wine and whisky, making each sip even more enjoyable.

It’s the ideal venue to unwind after a day in the mountains, enjoy a stylish night out with friends, or cosy up by the fire with a cheeseboard for a romantic date.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Antipasto Platter | $80

Succulent cured meats, chutneys, pickled vegetables, fresh fruits and full selection of Whitestone New Zealand cheeses make this a tasty treat. Try this with one of our delectable white wines

• Cheeseboard | $70

Indulge in our selection of the finest New Zealand cheese by Whitestone, Totara Cheddar, Livingstone Gold, Windsor Blue and Aged Airedale. Accompanied by crackers, fresh fruits, and chutneys. The perfect marriage with a local Pinot Noir in front of the blazing fire

• Taste of the Two | $45

Kapiti Brie & Whitestone Windsor Blue accompanied by crackers, grapes and quince paste, perfect if you are only stopping for a glass or two of our selected Chardonnays

Opening times

4 pm – 4 am 7 days a week

Find us

Above Captains Restaurant 15 Ballarat St Queenstown CBD

LIVE MUSIC, POOL TABLES, AND A GREAT ATMOSPHERE

Crew Room opened in 2020 in the famous Chico’s bar space, making the most of the historic stone building’s vibe and offering something for everyone. Two pool tables get people mixing, while the covered balcony provides a more private space with views up to Bob’s Peak. Guests can sit at the bar on comfy leather stools to chat with staff and locals or gather around a leaner with friends.

Wednesdays feature an open mic night, Thursdays bring quiz night followed by live music, and most nights have either a DJ or live

POPULAR DISHES & DRINKS

music. There’s always the free Video Jukebox to play all the favourites, and major sports events are shown on three big TVs.

With nine beer taps, a wide selection of modern and classic cocktails, and an all-night food menu featuring popular options like chicken wings, poutine, and poppers, there’s plenty to enjoy. The Guinness is particularly well-regarded.

Located upstairs from the popular Captains Restaurant, Crew Room sits in the heart of Queenstown’s Ballarat St mall.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Chicken Wings | $12–24

Six or twelve full size chicken wings with your choice of 5 sauces

• Poutine | $17

Fries, melted cheese, and gravy

• Jalapeno Poppers | $17

Deep fried spicy yumminess

• Crumbed Camembert | $17

Old school but good – Deep fried and gooey

• Salt & Pepper Calamari | $17

Another tasty favourite

• Full Cocktail Menu | $17–21

On happy hour all day until further notice

• Beers on Tap | $9–13

International favourites like Guinness and Stella Artois, and a selection of NZ beers

Opening times

5 pm - late 7 days a week

STEP INTO BARMUDATHE LOCALS’ BESTKEPT SECRET!

Barmuda is the ultimate destination for both early evening drinks and late-night celebrations. This opulent bar has long been a favourite among those who love a lively atmosphere, with top local DJs and live music keeping the party going. Whether you’re starting your night or dancing until the early hours, there’s always something happening.

Enjoy Happy Hour every night from 7 – 9 pm, where you can take advantage of unbeatable drink deals. At the heart of the venue, the vibrant central bar is the perfect place to kick

POPULAR DRINKS

things off, while the dance floor keeps the energy high well into the night.

Step outside into the stunning courtyard, a hidden oasis just off Searle Lane. With a roaring open fire and comfortable seating, it’s the perfect spot to relax with friends no matter the season. Whether you’re in the mood for cocktails, craft beer, or top-shelf spirits, Barmuda delivers an unforgettable experience.

Tucked away in the heart of Queenstown, this hidden gem is well worth discovering.

Drinks and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Charlie Chaplin | $22.50

A classic, fruity blend of apricot brandy, sloe gin, and lime juice

• Classic Margarita | $22.50

A refreshing cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served in a salt-rimmed glass

• Chilli Jam Margarita | $22.50

A bold twist on a classic, the Chilli Jam Margarita blends sweet heat with zesty lime and smooth tequila, delivering a perfectly balanced kick in every sip

• Espresso Martini | $22.50

A rich and velvety cocktail that blends vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso

• Heineken | $14

Wherever you go in the world, it’s always refreshing to see something you recognise

• Whiskey Sour | $22.50

A classic cocktail made with whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, shaken with ice and garnished with an orange slice

Opening times

12 pm - late 7 days a week

VOTED NEW ZEALAND’S

BEST SPORTS BAR

(2023)

The Locker Room Sports Bar is where sports, great food, and an electric atmosphere come together. Big games play live and loud, so you won’t miss a moment. Whether you’re cheering on the All Blacks, catching the latest AFL clash, or watching every punch of a UFC showdown, grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the ultimate sports experience with fellow fans.

With passionate fans, ice-cold drinks, weekdays happy hour from 4–6pm, and nonstop action on the screens, this is the place to be for any sports lover. No matter your team, there’s always a spot at The Locker Room.

POPULAR DISHES

The menu is packed with North American-style comfort food, with the wings and burgers being some of the locals favourites. Upstairs, the game room keeps the competition going with a pool table, shuffleboard, and foosball.

• Monday: Trivia night from 6:30pm

• Tuesday: Half-price tacos until 9pm

• Wednesday: Half-price wings until 9pm (dry rubbed or smothered in sauce)

• Thursday: Half-price hotdogs until 9pm

• Friday: Burgers are $2 off from 12–5pm

• Saturday: Beer jugs are $2 off from 12–5pm

• Sunday: Caesars are $2 off all day

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Mozzarella Sticks | $14

Served with marinara sauce

• Pork Burger | $18

Brioche bun, BBQ pulled pork ribs, coleslaw, and onion rings

• Beef Burger | $18

Brioche bun, cheese, lettuce, relish, and kewpie mayo

Optional burger patty, cheese, and bacon add-ons

• Loaded Tater Tots | $15

Queso, bacon, and chilli (add jalapeños for $3)

• Buffalo Chicken Wrap | $19

Buffalo chicken, lettuce, tomato, blue cheese, and ranch dressing

• Chicken Wings | $11 (1/2 lb) or $19 (1 lb)

Choose from various sauces and dry rubs

Served with ranch or blue cheese

11 am - 8 pm 7 days a week

and Saturday

DELICIOUS FOOD, TASTY BREWS, EPIC VIEWS

Canyon Restaurant is nestled in the heart of Shotover Canyon, just a 5-minute drive from Queenstown, offering stunning views over the Shotover River alongside brews and food that almost rival the scenery!

Conveniently located between Coronet Peak and Queenstown, it’s the perfect spot to stop off after a day on the slopes. Whether you’re a local or passing through, you’ll find a warm welcome here. The vibrant atmosphere, with year-round events like live music and beer launches, adds to the charm, perfectly matching the quality of the food and the stunning views.

POPULAR DISHES

The food is made to be shared and savoured. The menu features creative, share-style dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, from woodfired pizzas to seasonal creations. Many locals swear by their pizzas as the best in town. Whether you’re after a hearty meal or seeking lighter bites, they’ve got something to satisfy every craving.

Pair your meal with one of their locally brewed craft beers, like the fan-favourite Vacation Hazy Pale Ale, or enjoy a handcrafted cocktail. Canyon’s beer garden, dubbed the most scenic in Queenstown, provides the perfect spot to unwind, take in the views, and enjoy good company.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Margherita Sourdough Pizza | $32

Buffalo mozzarella, herbs, and parmesan (v)

• Pepperoni Sourdough Pizza | $32

Pepperoni, mozzarella, and oregano

• Calamari | $23

Fried calamari, lime mayonnaise, and caper powder

• Wagyu Beef Sliders | $22

Beef sliders, cheddar cheese, ‘nudja mayo, and pickled red onion

• Woodfired Skewers | $24

Merino lamb, served with smoked yoghurt

• Fried Chicken or Tofu | $24

Fried chicken/tofu, pickled red onion, and beetroot glaze

• Charred Cauliflower | $19

Black tahini, toum, and chilli crisp (v)

Restaurants & Cafes

Queenstown’s impressive dining scene is a worthy match for the breathtaking scenery in which it’s located.

THE BUNKER RESTAURANT

Queenstown’s restaurant scene is truly cosmopolitan, reflecting its global visitor base. As you wander through the town’s main streets, you’ll discover a diverse range of cuisines. Despite this variety, local produce and ingredients are consistently featured. From wild venison and fresh seafood from the fiords to stone fruit from nearby orchards, local flavours always shine through. Local artisans also make their mark on drinks menus, offering the perfect opportunity to sample a Pinot Noir from Gibbston, a craft beer brewed nearby, or something from the growing number of small-batch boutique whisky and gin makers.

Most of Queenstown’s restaurants and cafés are concentrated in the CBD, where you can savour both exceptional meals and milliondollar views. You don’t have to splurge to enjoy the scenery, though. There are plenty of casual and al fresco dining options along the lakefront, with Momentos By The Lake being a favourite for its Spanish tapas and share plates paired with stunning views. For a more laid-back experience, grab a burger from Fergburger, find a spot on the lakefront beach, and take in one of the southern hemisphere’s most breathtaking sunsets.

Margo’s delivers a Mexican experience with a lively atmosphere and a menu rich in flavours, complemented by a selection of standout margaritas. Another gem is Toast & Oak, known for its extensive wine collection paired with gourmet food. With its inviting ambiance and exceptional dishes, it’s the perfect spot for a refined dining experience. The awardwinning Jervois Steak House, renowned for

its premium steakhouse experience, offers an impressive menu featuring the finest cuts of beef, including grass-fed Wagyu and prime Angus. The Bunker Restaurant, an iconic hidden gem, provides a unique, intimate fine-dining experience with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Frankton has emerged as a local hotspot, with a growing selection of excellent restaurants and cafés. The Boat Shed, located between Frankton and Queenstown at the marina, is known for its laid-back vibe and stunning lakeside views. With a menu inspired by fresh, local produce, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the serene ambiance and picturesque surroundings, and it’s a local favourite for brunch.

Just 20 minutes from Queenstown, Arrowtown offers an impressive array of restaurants. Many of its preserved heritage

buildings have been converted into charming dining venues, adding character to your meal. Amisfield, internationally renowned and regularly voted NZ’s best restaurant, is a standout. Its ever-evolving tasting menu showcases the finest seasonal produce, while the wine programme celebrates Amisfield’s own organic vineyard. Under the expertise of Chef Vaughan Mabee, who was ranked number 44 in the world, the restaurant offers a world-class dining experience.

Amisfield isn’t the only vineyard restaurant reaching great heights – vineyards across the region maintain excellent standards. Kinross is a highlight, celebrated for its cosy atmosphere and a menu featuring pizzas and locally sourced dishes. Gibbston Valley (page 56), the region’s first vineyard, is equally renowned, offering a range of tasting experiences, exquisite wines, and stunning vineyard views.

TOAST & OAK AMISFIELD

MOMENTOS BY THE LAKE

Opening times

Lunch & Dinner

Wednesday - Sunday

Bookings strongly recommended

AN EXPLORATION OF OTAGO’S SEASONS

Amisfield invites you to indulge in a culinary tale where each dish honours the region’s fishermen, hunters, gatherers, and farmers. Their passion redefines NZ’s gastronomic potential, guiding you through wild Otago ingredients, elevated by single-estate organic wines from their vineyard in Pisa.

Their team pushes culinary boundaries, celebrating the connection between raw ingredients and the food on your plate. A testament to this, Amisfield Executive Chef Vaughan Mabee was awarded the highest accolade of THREE KNIVES at the 2024 International Best Chef Awards.

DINING

Chef Mabee’s creativity is deeply tied to the land and changing seasons. Each dish evokes nostalgic NZ flavours, recalling childhood dreams and shaping the nation’s culinary heritage. Letting the land dictate the palate is at Amisfield’s core. Their commitment to sustainability is reflected in partners sharing their values of quality, ethical farming, and environmental responsibility.

Amisfield offers more than just a meal – it’s an experience. Winning ‘World’s Best Chef Dining Experience’ at the 2024 Best Chef Awards, it is also the only South Island restaurant to be awarded Three Hats.

To explore a sample menu, please visit Amisfield’s website or scan the QR code

Lunch

Vaughan Mabee’s lunch menu features dishes packed with intense flavours that capture the essence of Central Otago. In our lunch tasting menu, each plate showcases his creativity and flair, transforming a meal into an unforgettable dining experience with a touch of culinary theatre.

10 Lake Hayes Road 21km from Queenstown CBD 5km from Arrowtown

• Tasting Menu I $240

Dinner

Dinner at Amisfield is a full culinary journey offering an immersive experience for your senses. From the moment the first ingredient is artfully placed, Vaughan Mabee’s creations reveal a refined exuberance, with each course capturing the essence of Central Otago and presenting flavours that tell the story of this remarkable land.

• Amisfield 2025 I $440

• Chefs Menu 2025 I $695

Opening times

5 pm - late 7 days a week

Bookings strongly recommended

Find us

Sofitel Complex

8 Duke Street Queenstown CBD

THE AUTHENTIC STEAK HOUSE EXPERTS SINCE 2006

Jervois Steak House in Queenstown is a culinary landmark that has been captivating its guests for over a decade. Located in the vibrant heart of Queenstown, the restaurant blends modern sophistication with the rustic charm of local traditions.

Celebrated for its expertly prepared steaks, Jervois Steak House offers premium cuts sourced from regional and international farms. The menu features a range of prime cuts, iconic side dishes, fresh seafood, and indulgent desserts that showcase New Zealand’s produce.

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Recently, the restaurant won a prestigious 2024 Cuisine Hat Award, a testament to its dedication to culinary innovation and excellence.

Its thoughtfully curated wine list, and inventive cocktails, further enhance the experience by providing ideal pairings for every meal.

With a strong commitment to quality, personalised service, and a welcoming atmosphere, Jervois Steak House continues to set the benchmark for fine dining in Queenstown. Every visit promises an engaging blend of tradition and modern flair.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Greenstone Creek King Cut | $82 Grass fed, NZ, MBS 4+, 450g

• Lake Ohau Scotch | $96

200 days grain fed, MBS 6, Central Otago, 300g

• Lumina Lamb Rack | $49 South Island, NZ, 250g

• Zen-Noh A5 Scotch | $75 per 100g

Grain fed only, Miyazaki, JP, MBS 12

• Canterbury Angus Petit Eye Fillet | $48 Grass fed only, 180g

• Market Fish | $36

Seasonal garnishes to complement

• Vegetarian and Vegan Options | POA Seasonal garnishes to complement

Opening times

Open from 12 pm 5 days a week

DRINK WINE. NOT LABELS

Toast & Oak is nestled in the heart of Queenstown, offering a wine bar and restaurant that delivers an unparalleled dining experience, perfectly blending local charm with international sophistication. With views of the majestic Remarkables mountain range, it’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventure or to kickstart an unforgettable evening.

Indulge in a carefully curated selection of fine wines from all over the globe’s renowned vineyards, paired with a menu inspired by the rich flavours of the region. Their chefs use the

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freshest local ingredients to craft dishes that celebrate the essence of Central Otago but are also heavily influenced by their roots, all designed to complement their extensive wine list.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a relaxed meal in a beautiful setting, Toast & Oak promises an experience that will linger long after your visit. Warm, inviting, and dedicated to excellence, they offer a unique taste of Queenstown’s vibrant culinary scene. Join them for lunch or dinner for exceptional food, exquisite wines, and breathtaking views.

The dishes displayed here serve as a sample only and may not reflect their current offerings. Their menu frequently changes to incorporate the freshest ingredients, seasonal flavours and their chef’s latest culinary creations. Scan the QR Code to see their current menu.

• Date & Pancetta | $14

• Tartare & Yolk | $28

• Beef & Carrot | $42

• Pappardella & Fungi | $38

• Fish & Courgette | $42

• Strawberry & Kawakawa | $20

• Fries & Truffle | $16

• Oyster & Dashi | $48

Opening times

5 pm - late 7 days a week

Bookings recommended

DISCOVER QUEENSTOWN’S BEST KEPT SECRET SINCE 1997

The Bunker, established in 1997 and tucked down a hidden laneway in the centre of Queenstown, is your complete nightlife venue, offering a restaurant, cocktail/late-night bar, and private group dining spaces.

Our restaurant provides an intimate dining experience, ensuring a high level of quality and service; dim lighting and old school music creates an almost private club atmosphere.

The menu focuses on locally sourced produce with European and Kiwi flavours, expertly crafted by the Executive Chef and

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Co-Owner Ben Norfolk. We feel the term ‘rustic fine dining’ describes our cuisine and the overall experience can be described as uncomplicated, but perfectly matched flavours, passionately prepared using the best of local and domestic produce.

For a true taste of The Bunker try our Taste of The South Menu which showcases our most popular dishes. Wine? We’ve got you covered – either select your favourite wine from our cellar or add our wine pairing carefully created by our in-house sommelier.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Paua (starter) | $30

West Coast paua wontons, chowder cream, and grana padano

• Crudo (starter) | $29

Ruakaka kingfish, bluefin tuna, satsuma, heirloom tomatoes, and yuzu dressing

• Hare (starter) | $28

Seared Bannockburn hare loin, braised leg hare, kumara gratin, sour cherry, and kawakawa jus

• Duck (main) | $75

Canter Valley half duck, red cabbage and cognac, silverbeet, and seven spice jus

• Lamb (main) | $54

Royalburn lamb rump, shank ragu, aubergine, white balsamic, and Pinot Noir jus

• Chocolate (dessert) | $20

Dark chocolate fondant, decaf anglaise, and paradiso

Opening times

8.30 am - late

AUTHENTIC TASTE OF SPAIN AND THE MEDITERRANEAN

Momentos by the Lake is where the art of fine dining meets exceptional service in a picturesque alfresco lakeside setting. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast, a bright midday meal, or an evening under the stars, the setting adds to the magic of the moment.

Their culinary journey is inspired by the rich flavours and techniques of the Mediterranean, with a focus on showcasing the finest New Zealand produce. From the sun-kissed hills of Spain to the charming trattorias of Italy, the elegance of France, and the bold spices of Morocco, their menu is a love letter to the diverse cuisines of the region.

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With an emphasis on fresh seafood, tender meats, and farm-to-table vegetables, every dish is crafted to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression. The chefs at Momentos have carefully balanced flavours and techniques to create a truly unique culinary experience that transports diners to the Mediterranean coast.

Offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere with attentive service, every visit is designed to be memorable. This is more than just a meal, it’s a culinary journey to savour, where Mediterranean flavours are beautifully elevated by a Kiwi twist, leaving a lasting impression.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Whole Roast Lamb Shoulder | $119

Multi award-winning dish. Whole roast lamb shoulder, rosemary, garlic, handcut potatoes & minted peas (share between 3 people)

• West Coast Whitebait | $35

A New Zealand delicacy. Whitebait, olive oil, garlic, fresh red chilli, served with toasted rosemary and potato bread

• Grilled Garlic Scallops | $35

Scallops, garlic butter, lemon, chilli powder

• Grilled Venison | $49

200g sous-vide striploin venison, cauliflower puree, rainbow beetroot chips, blackberry and port wine reduction, and blue cheese herb sauce

• Garlic Prawns | $32

King banana prawns, Spanish olive oil, garlic, and chilli

• Seared Yellowfin Tuna Tataki | $35

Yellowfin tuna, romesco sauce with roasted almonds

Opening times

4 pm – late

FEED ME TACOS AND TELL ME I’M PRETTY

Viva Margo’s. Raise your salt-rimmed glass and meet a new kind of Mexican! Margo’s is a never-ending exploration of tastes, sights and smells. As bold, colourful and unique as they are, their guests come to celebrate life’s everyday moments and indulge in a tasting experience like no other.

For groups, Margo’s offers a taste adventure like no other, with a wide variety of group set menus. For a unique experience, don’t miss their seasonal famous brunches, which are regularly a sellout and promise a fun and memorable experience.

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Each dish at Margo’s has drawn inspiration from the many delicious flavours of Mexico, however they’re anything but your typical Mexican restaurant. The team of chefs bring together their collective experience & cuisines from all over the world, creating vibrant soul food that Margo’s are proud to say is distinctly theirs.

Beyond the extensive menu, Margo’s distinguishes itself with unparalleled service. The attentive staff not only ensure a memorable dining experience but also take pride in educating patrons about the culinary journey behind each dish.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Queso Fundido | $21

Lime crema, Mexican togarashi, smoked corn salsa, salsa verde, and mixed tortilla chips (add chorizo – $5)

• Market Fish Ceviche | $29.50

Coconut leche de tigre, pickled carrots, corn salsa, corn crumble, and kumara crisps

• Smashed Avocado Guacamole | $22

Pickled onions, pepitas, and Hands down corn chips

• Coca Cola BBQ Pork Ribs | $28.50

Chipotle mustard, cucumber salsa, takis fuego crumble, and chicharron dust

• Coconut Tempura Prawns | $26

Valentina mayo, mango drizzle, and pickled cabbage

• Hippie Approved Churros | $18

Mexican hot chocolate, and raspberry crumble

• Full Vegan Menu Available

Opening times

11 am - 4.30 pm 7 days a week

A CELEBRATION OF CENTRAL OTAGO’S FINEST PRODUCE

Kinross Bistro is nestled among the rolling vineyards of Central Otago, offering a culinary journey that celebrates the region’s finest local meat and produce. Crafted with care by head chef Pete Franklin, each dish is designed to highlight the natural flavours of the surroundings.

Whether diners are seeking a leisurely long lunch paired with exceptional wines or craving a pizza in the Wine Garden, the offerings promise an unforgettable experience.

The menu focuses on fresh, shareable dishes that encourage guests to relax, savour, and

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enjoy the stunning vineyard views. Whether a light bite or sharing plate, commitment to quality and flavour shines through in every bite. Guests are invited to experience an authentic Central Otago dining experience, where the food is as memorable as the scenery, and the atmosphere invites them to unwind and indulge.

Complementing the menu, wine tasting options are available at the Cellar Door, or if you are short on time, indulge in a “Flight of Fancy” and become your own Sommelier with a short fun quiz to help you discover your perfect Central Otago wine matches!

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Grazing Platter (Serves two) | $80

Selection of New Zealand cheeses, cured meats, smoked salmon paté, chocolate, toasted bread, crackers, fresh fruit, dips, nuts, and marinated olives

• Royalburn Station Lamb Shank | $46

Pearl couscous tabbouleh, sundried tomatoes, mint salsa verde, green beans, feta mousse, and almonds

• Buttermilk Fried Chicken | $24

Herb mayonnaise, bread and butter pickles

• Grilled Chorizo Sausage | $26

Seeded mustard, roquette, cherry tomatoes, and sumac pickled onion

• Funghi Pizza | $34

Roasted mushroom, parmesan, and black truffle mascarpone

• Picante Salami and Nduja Pizza | $34

Neapolitan sauce, mozzarella, and jalapeño sour cream

Opening times

8 am - 3 pm 7 days a week

Find us

At the Queenstown Marina 5km from Queenstown CBD between Frankton & Queenstown

REMARKABLY GOOD COFFEE, FOOD, AND VIEWS

The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro is the Queenstown locals best kept secret, nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, offering its guests a blend of rich history, stunning views, and a menu to match. Set in the restored New Zealand Railways Shipping Office, a historic building dating back to the late 1800s, the café preserves the maritime heritage of Queenstown while providing a modern dining experience. Whether you arrive by boat, bike, or on foot via the scenic Frankton Track, The Boat Shed’s lakeside location promises a serene escape from the bustling town centre.

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Its seasonal menu showcases the best of locally sourced produce, with dishes that cater to a range of tastes – from hearty breakfast faves like the chorizo scramble and iconic blueberry french toast, to flavourful lunch plates. Sip on a selection of regional wines, craft beers, and locally roasted coffee, as you savour the panoramic views of the Remarkables mountains.

With its historic charm and commitment to quality, The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and memorable Queenstown dining experience.

Meals and prices are subject to change. Scan the QR Code for the current menu.

• Blueberry French Toast | $26

Brioche, honey mascarpone, blueberry compote, crème anglaise, and candied nuts

• Chorizo Scramble | $28

Scrambled eggs, pork chorizo, crispy potatoes, tomato salsa, and feta

• Boat Shed Benedict | $22

Poached eggs on toasted english muffin, and herb hollandaise

• Cilbir Eggs | $23

Turkish poached eggs with labneh, aleppo pepper butter, dukkah, and sourdough

• Chicken Burger | $31

Fried buttermilk chicken, kimchi mayo, jalapeños, slaw, American cheese on milk bun, and fries

• Bacon Roll | $14

Free range bacon, chutney, chipotle aioli, and brioche bun

Add a Royalburn fried egg for $4