Queenstown
Queenstown
About Queenstown
Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking destinations, always buzzing with activities such as jet boating, sky diving and bungee jumping as well as the world class winter activities such as skiing and heli-skiing. Queenstown is a perfect destination for singles, couples, families, groups of friends and work getaways, with a range of options to suit all types of traveller from budget accommodation through to 5 star luxury hotels. There is plenty to do for both the avid skier or snowboarder, as well as the non-skier. Queenstown itself is a year-round town offering an abundance of shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and adventure activities.
Queenstown Ski Holidays
Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking destinations, a vibrant alpine town with world-class skiing, dramatic scenery, and year-round adventure. Sitting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, the views are unforgettable, whether it’s sunrise over the water or the golden glow of the evening light on the mountains.
Often called the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown offers everything from jet boating, skydiving and bungee jumping to heli-skiing and luxury wine tours. It is a destination that caters to all: solo travellers, couples, families, and groups of friends seeking a mix of skiing, fine dining, and unforgettable experiences.
Where is Queenstown?
Queenstown is located in New Zealand’s South Island, just under a 3-hour flight from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Flying directly into Queenstown Airport is the most convenient, with most hotels only 10 minutes away, plus the view is spectacular on a sunny day.
For a more economical option, you can also consider arriving via Christchurch or Dunedin, with onward transfers by car or coach (3.5 hours from Dunedin, 6 hours from Christchurch). Hiring a car gives you flexibility, but be sure to request snow chains, we recommend an all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, a ute is a great option as you can throw boards/gear in the book on ski days, and still have all 5 seats.
Where to Stay in Queenstown
Queenstown has accommodation for every style, from cosy lodges and lakefront apartments to luxury resorts with sweeping alpine views.
Best Value Hotel's in Queenstown?
Mid-range hotels and self-contained apartments near the town centre are ideal for couples or small groups. Options like Copthorne Hotel Lakefront and Garden Court offer comfortable stays with easy access to the slopes, and both are only a short stroll into town.
Best luxury Hotel's in Queenstown?
Queenstown excels in high-end alpine luxury. Properties such as Eichardt’s Private Hotel, which provide lakefront view, private hot tubs, award-winning dining, and seamless service. Perfect for travellers seeking indulgence both on and off the slopes. For luxury on a budget, The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments is in an excellent property, with a gorgeous lakefront dining area and lots of exclusive luxury experiences on offer for guests.
Best Hotel's in Queenstown for Families?
Spacious apartments and holiday homes are ideal for families needing more room, Scenic Suites Queenstown offer self-catering options and family-friendly facilities close to town.
Top tip: Queenstown accommodation fills quickly during peak ski season (July and August). Book early or consider shoulder season (late June or early September) for better value.
Our teams fave hotels in Queenstown:
Loz: Copthorne Lakefront is in a great spot, Junior Suite Room was huge, living area, separated bedroom and spa bath, beds are really comfy. Great location quiet but walkable. Good for a family, only a short walk to the playground and town, so you don’t need to drive to dinner.
Jimbob: At The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments I stayed in a 1 Bedroom Lakeview Apartment - loved it, the room is huge with full kitchen including laundry. I tried the True South Dining as well and it was amazing. At Crowne Plaza I stayed in a Lakeview Hotel Room, amazing location, walked to everything in town. Parking the only option is Valet, book our earlybird for free parking, otherwise it’s NZD$38 a day!
Where to Ski in Queenstown
Skiers and snowboarders are spoilt for choice with four ski resorts within a short drive of Queentown.
Coronet Peak (20 minutes from town): The most accessible resort, perfect for all levels, with wide beginner trails, rolling intermediate runs, and thrilling night skiing.
The Remarkables (45 minutes from town): True to its name, offering spectacular alpine terrain. Beginners and intermediates love the gentle slopes, while advanced riders seek out the steeps and natural terrain parks.
Cardrona (1 hour drive): A favourite for families and freestylers, with wide open slopes, excellent terrain parks, and reliable snow. With the new Soho Basin terrain, the resort is amazing for intermediate to advanced riders, with an extra 150ha to explore. Lots of excellent on-mountain dining options available at Cardies too.
Treble Cone (1.5 hours drive): Best suited for strong intermediate and advanced skiers with its steep terrain, long runs, and stunning views over Lake Wanaka.
One lift pass covers both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, giving flexibility to choose based on conditions.
Our Teams Recommendations for skiing from Queenstown:
Loz: Cardrona was my fave mountain, the terrain is awesome for all levels, the on-mountain dining was excellent, Vista Bar was a perfect spot for a drink or hot chocolate.
Jimbob: The Remarkables was great, but I really liked the new Soho Basin terrain at Cardrona – perfect for intermediate to advanced riders.
Ella: I think remarks was my favorite for conditions and the hike and views.
Is Queenstown good for non-skiers?
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, and has so many winter activities for non-skiers or anyone looking for a rest day:
• Wine tours through Central Otago vineyards such as Amisfield Winery & Bistro or Gibbstown Valley Winery.
• Relaxation at the Onsen Hot Pools or luxury hotel spas.
• Adventure thrills like bungee jumping, skydiving, or jet boating.
• Scenic cruises on Lake Wakatipu or day trips to Milford Sound.
• Dining at world-class restaurants, and lively bars.
• Walter Peak Farm Tour, amazing farm to table dining experience.
• Skyline Gondola, great views, and the luge is fun.
A perfect place for groups with skiers/snowboarders and people that don't ride, there is more than enough to keep you entertained for a week even if you don't head up the mountain.
Our team’s fave winter activities in Queenstown:
Loz: The Onsen Hot pools are an awesome way to unwind after a day on the slopes. Make a trip to Ayrburn for lunch, the menu at the Woolshed is excellent, everything we tried was awesome, the ravioli and the ceviche were favorites.
Grace: Heliskiing was incredible in Queenstown, there is a great selection of locations in the region, the views are insane and even just the helicopter ride through the mountains is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Jimbob: Queenstown has incredible food and wine. There are so many amazing restaurants and wineries to explore. Stop for après at Cardrona Distillery – make sure to get the baked camembert.
Queenstown FAQs
When is the best time to ski in Queenstown?
Late June to early October, with July and August being peak months. For fewer crowds, aim for early July or September – but remember that snow conditions can vary early or late in the season. Generally, July-August is the most consistent.
How far are the ski fields from town?
Coronet Peak is 20 minutes, The Remarkables 45 minutes, Cardrona 1 hour, and Treble Cone 1.5 hours.
Do I need a car in Queenstown?
A car isn’t essential. Shuttles run regularly from town and most hotels to the ski fields. Within Queenstown, most attractions, restaurants, and shops are walkable. If you want flexibility and to be able to operate on your own schedule (and are comfortable driving) a car is an awesome option. You can be on the mountain early, and leave when it suits, especially with kids, a car is very handy.
What’s the après ski scene like?
Queenstown is famous for its lively nightlife. Try 1876 for happy hour, Perky’s floating bar on Lake Wakatipu, World Bar for cocktails, SODA has excellent views and great drinks, or The Blackwood does an insanely good Amaretto Sour. Most restaurants have a good drinks menu, Yonder does a great marg.
What should I book in advance?
Booking in advance is essential for the best deals on accommodation, and ski passes. Activities like the Onsen Hot Pools, and Walter Peak Farm do book out over peak dates, so worth booking, as well as booking tables at top restaurants such as Botswana Butchery, Blue Kanu and Bunker. If you want to hire a car, always important to lock that in too, the SUV and Utes always book out fast.
Do I need to pre-book lift passes?
Earlybird lift pass offers are always significantly cheaper than window rates. If you know roughly what you want to do, its up to 50% cheaper to book in advance. Multi-day passes generally work out the best value.
Is dining at the ski resort expensive?
Generally, food at ski resorts is more than town, you are paying for convenience! The food at the Remarkables was more "cafeteria" style and expensive for what it was. The food at Cardrona offered a lot more variety, and there was restaurant-quality options at Noodle Bar or Mezz as well as cafeteria-style choices. The restaurant food was consistent with what you get in town.
Is my lift pass consecutive?
Lift passes are generally non-consecutive to allow for rest days.
