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TripTravel Guides
Oceania
New Zealand
Otago
Queenstown
Local GuidesQueenstown
Queenstown Brief Guide
Queenstown Must-try Local Experiences
Queenstown Travel Tips
Queenstown Must-see Attractions
Queenstown Where to Stay
Queenstown Food Guide
Queenstown Useful guide
Discover More About Queenstown


2024 QUEENSTOWN LOCAL GUIDES | TRIP.COM

Local Guides

Last updated on Trip.com: 15/11/2024
01


QUEENSTOWN BRIEF GUIDE

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Surrounded by majestic mountains from all sides, Queenstown is located on the
shores of Lake Wakatipu on New Zealand’s South Island. There is a clear division
between each of the four seasons. Summer has blue skies and sunshine. Autumn
hosts a riot of brilliant colors. Winter is cold and refreshing with the
mountains covered in snow. Spring sees the return of blossoming flowers.
Queenstown is often called New Zealand's "Adventure Capital". Queenstown's
Kawarau Bridge is famous for being the birthplace of bungee jumping. Other than
the extraordinary opportunity to go skiing and snowboarding in the winter, you
can try bungee jumping, skydiving, canyon swinging, jet skiing, horseback riding
and long-distance hiking in this natural paradise. Every one of these activities
is sure to give you an adrenaline rush!

02


QUEENSTOWN MUST-TRY LOCAL EXPERIENCES

1. Experience the Thrill of Adventure Sports

Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world. Try bungee jumping at Kawarau
Bridge, skydiving over Lake Wakatipu, or jet boating on the Shotover River for
an adrenaline rush. 


2. Explore Milford Sound

Take a day trip to Milford Sound for dramatic scenery, waterfalls, and wildlife.
A cruise offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities. 


3. Ride the Skyline Gondola

Ascend Bob's Peak on the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake
Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy activities like the luge ride or
dine at the Stratosfare Restaurant. 


4. Visit Arrowtown

Explore the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown. Stroll through its charming
streets and visit the Lakes District Museum to learn about its gold rush
history. 


5. Cruise on Lake Wakatipu

Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage
steamship. Enjoy the stunning alpine scenery and visit the Walter Peak High
Country Farm. 


6. Capture the Beauty of Glenorchy

Drive to Glenorchy, a picturesque village at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu.
The stunning landscapes are perfect for photography, especially at sunrise or
sunset. 

7. Relax at Onsen Hot Pools

Unwind at the Onsen Hot Pools, soaking in private hot tubs overlooking the
Shotover River. It's a perfect way to relax and enjoy Queenstown's natural
beauty. 


8. Take a Wine Tour

Explore the Central Otago wine region, known for its world-class Pinot Noir.
Join a wine tour to visit local vineyards, taste premium wines, and learn about
winemaking. 


9. Hike the Ben Lomond Track

Embark on a challenging hike up the Ben Lomond Track for panoramic views of
Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. The summit offers a rewarding
experience for avid hikers. 

03


QUEENSTOWN TRAVEL TIPS

* When traveling to and from Queenstown Airport, pre-booking a car hire or
shuttle to ensure smooth travel without the hassle of finding transportation
upon arrival or departure.

* Use the Orbus public bus service for a cost-effective way to explore
Queenstown and Arrowtown nearby, remember to obtain a Bee Card for convenient
and cheaper fares.

* Be mindful when taking taxis or shuttles in Queenstown as prices may vary
based on time of day and vehicle size, it's beneficial to pre-book your
transport to get competitive rates.

* If you plan to rent a car, book your vehicle in advance to secure availability
and potentially better rates.

* For a seamless experience at Queenstown Airport, know about the terminal
layout, parking options, and other available services through the airport's
guide before traveling.

* For important events or a sudden transfer from Queenstown, you can take taxis
or shuttles available directly outside the airport.

04


QUEENSTOWN MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Queenstown is renowned for its diverse attractions ranging from the historic
Skyline Gondola, TSS Earnslaw steamship cruises, adrenaline-pumping activities
like NZONE Skydiving and Shotover Jet, to tranquil experiences at Onsen Hot
Pools. All of these interesting experiences are set against the backdrop of
stunning natural scenery.


SKYLINE QUEENSTOWN

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Skyline Queenstown is well-known for its historic Gondola ride to Bob’s Peak,
recently improved with new 10-seat cabins and upgraded facilities. At the
summit, visitors enjoy numerous activities, including the Skyline Queenstown
Luge, mountain biking, and paragliding. The attraction highlights include
breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and engaging adventures, making it a
celebrated destination in Queenstown for excitement and scenic beauty .


TSS EARNSLAW - REALNZ

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

Aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, passengers experience a cruise enriched with
historical insights as they witness its coal-fired steam engine and explore
historical exhibits on the vessel. As New Zealand’s iconic steamship, it
traverses Lake Whakatipu, showcasing the alpine landscapes surrounding
Queenstown and offering disembarkation at Walter Peak High Country Farm for
engaging activities like horse treks and farm tours.


NZONE SKYDIVE

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

NZONE Skydive provides an ultimate skydiving adventure characterized by an
exhilarating freefall at speeds of 200 kph, followed by a scenic parachute ride
overlooking Queenstown's stunning landscapes. As the first company to pioneer
tandem skydiving in New Zealand, it offers a state-of-the-art drop zone equipped
with facilities like a customer café, enriching the overall experience. Visitors
can cherish these moments forever through available professional photo and video
packages.


ONSEN HOT POOLS

Onsen Hot Pools in Queenstown combines the natural beauty of New Zealand with
the tranquility of Japanese bathing tradition, located above the scenic Shotover
River. With options ranging from cedar-lined and outdoor mineral-enriched hot
tubs to personalized private oval tubs, each experience offers exclusive
relaxation with breathtaking views. Complimentary beverages and snacks, paired
with professional spa treatments using top-tier skin care products, ensure a
profound rejuvenation and serene escape.


SHOTOVER JET

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

Experience the adrenaline rush with Shotover Jet Queenstown, the only operator
allowed in the Shotover River Canyons. Known for thrilling maneuvers like
360-degree spins close to the canyon walls, these rides combine adventure with
stunning natural scenery. The journey is not only thrilling but also culturally
enriching, run by the Ngāi Tahu tribe, linking it profoundly to New Zealand’s
Māori heritage.

05


QUEENSTOWN WHERE TO STAY

Queenstown is a bustling tourist hotspot in New Zealand, popular for its
stunning landscapes and adventure sports. The city's accommodation options are
widely distributed, mainly centered around the airport, the city center, and the
Southern Lakes English College area. Each area provides unique advantages
pertaining to their location and proximity to local attractions, making
Queenstown a versatile destination for different types of travelers.


SOUTHERN LAKES ENGLISH COLLEGE (EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT, VICINITY TO STUDENT
SERVICES)

Situated in the Remarkables Park complex, the area around Southern Lakes English
College is ideal for educational trips and long-term stays, particularly for
students. The environment is supportive of educational pursuits, with the
college itself offering extensive services including transport advice, sim card
assistance, and legal guidance for students. Nearby, frequent public
transportation options are available, ensuring accessible transit to and from
the college. The area also provides a quiet, learning-conducive atmosphere away
from the bustling tourist spots, suitable for visitors prioritizing education or
seeking a community-oriented experience in Queenstown.


QUEENSTOWN AIRPORT (ACCESSIBLE WITH TRANSPORT OPTIONS, NEARBY NATURAL
ATTRACTIONS)

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

Queenstown Airport area offers convenient accommodations especially favored by
transient travelers and those that appreciate proximity to transport services.
There are various transport options including taxis, shuttles, and public buses,
ensuring easy connectivity to the city center and other parts of Queenstown. The
area is not only close to major highways but also surrounded by natural
attractions such as The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu, offering activities like
flightseeing and exploring the Southern Alps. Shopping and dining are available
within and around the airport, including places like The Remarkables Park Town
Centre and Five Mile Shopping Centre. The area suits those looking for
practical, well-connected lodging near natural views.

06


QUEENSTOWN FOOD GUIDE

Queenstown's culinary scene shines with its pristine seafood like Greenshell
Mussel and Bluff oysters, as well as organic and flavorsome New Zealand beef and
tender, vibrant salmon, all nurtured by its exceptional local environment.


GREENSHELL MUSSEL

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

Queenstown, known for its pristine local waters, is a treasure trove of seafood,
prominently featuring the Greenshell Mussel, also known as the green-lipped
mussel. These mussels can be cooked in numerous ways and are renowned for their
delicate, silky texture and exquisite flavor.


NEW ZEALAND BEEF

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

Thanks to Queenstown's exceptional geographical setting, local farms employ
natural grazing practices to rear cattle, resulting in organic and healthy New
Zealand beef. Once cooked, this beef is succulent and tender, offering a rich
and flavorful experience that leaves a lasting impression and is simply
irresistible.


SALMON

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

With its breathtaking landscapes and pristine waters, Queenstown is the perfect
breeding ground for succulent Salmon. The meat displays a vibrant orange hue, is
tender, and delicious. Salmon can be enjoyed in various culinary styles tailored
to personal preferences.

07


QUEENSTOWN USEFUL GUIDE


LOCAL APPS

CamperMate: Provides information on campsites, petrol stations, and other
essential amenities in New Zealand, along with user reviews and updates.

NZ Weather: Offers real-time weather forecasts and alerts, helping you stay
informed about weather conditions throughout New Zealand.

DetourNZ: Connects travelers to local attractions, cultural landmarks, and
hidden gems across New Zealand.

Plan My Walk - NZ Mountain Safety Council: Helps plan hikes and offers warnings
for potential risks in New Zealand's wilderness areas.

St John NZ CPR & AED: Offers first aid information, including CPR techniques and
AED usage, essential for emergencies in New Zealand.

Trip.com: is a popular online travel platform that provides a comprehensive
range of services including booking flights.


INTERNET AND COMMUNICATION

In New Zealand, various mobile data packages are available for visitors, such as
Holafly's eSIM offering unlimited data and Nomad's plans through Spark NZ
network. Additionally, Airalo's Nzcom plan starts at $4.50 USD for 1GB 7 days,
and ByteSim offers daily data packages beginning at $4.90 USD, while Maya
provides data passes beginning at $6 USD for 3GB.

Public WiFi in New Zealand can be found in larger cities, but it may be slow and
unreliable, even in hotels. A portable Wi-Fi device from iVideo was suggested as
a more reliable and convenient option, although it may not work in remote areas
with poor or no signal.


CLIMATE

Queenstown, New Zealand, enjoys a continental-style climate characterized by
long hot summers and cool winters. Summers can reach temperatures of up to 86°F,
with January being the hottest month. Winters are notably cold, with lows that
can drop to -21°F in the snow-capped alpine regions, and the average winter
temperature hovers around 32°F. The area experiences moderate rainfall, with the
highest precipitation in October.

For visiting Queenstown, it's advisable to pack functional layers, including a
coat for the cooler months and breathable fabrics for the summer. Given the
range of temperatures and unexpected weather changes, layering with items like
merino wool can help manage the variations. Additionally, sturdy footwear is
essential due to the rugged terrain, and wet weather gear is recommended for
outdoor activities.

As for extreme weather caused by the area's high altitude and proximity to
mountain ranges, protective measures like wearing sunscreen and sunglasses are
vital due to intense ultraviolet radiation. Prepare for sudden temperature drops
and possible snow even in unexpected seasons, especially in high-altitude areas.


CUSTOMS AND TABOOS

* Dress modestly and observe quiet behavior near religious or sacred sites in
Queenstown. Respect the local customs and the spiritual significance of these
places. Avoid loud conversations and disruptive behavior to maintain the
sanctity of such sites.

* Take part in environmental conservation, especially when participating in
outdoor activities in Queenstown's natural areas. Littering is highly
discouraged, and visitors are expected to adhere to guidelines that preserve the
natural beauty and sustainability of the environment.

* Offer a polite greeting or nod when encountering locals or fellow hikers on
trails as a gesture of friendliness and respect. This simple act fosters a
welcoming atmosphere and reflects well on tourists’ manners.

* Avoid excessive alcohol consumption in public venues as it is frowned upon,
drink responsibly to respect local norms and ensure a safe environment for all
visitors and residents.


SPENDING AND PAYMENT

In Queenstown, common payment methods include credit and debit cards (Visa,
MasterCard), mobile payments, and online transfers.

Visa and MasterCard are broadly accepted in most establishments. Mobile payments
and POLi, a local online transfer system, provide a convenient option for
transactions without using cash or cards.

Be aware that some businesses might set a minimum amount for credit card
transactions, and it's advisable to carry some cash as smaller outlets may not
accept cards. Ensure you bring the appropriate type of credit or debit card and
always inform your bank before traveling to avoid transaction barriers.


MAJOR TRANSPORTATION

Queenstown's major transportation infrastructure prominently features Queenstown
Airport and an extensive network of bus stations for long-distance travel.

Queenstown Airport, located about 8 km from central Queenstown, serves as the
primary gateway for both domestic and international flights. As one of the
busiest airports in New Zealand, it connects the city to major destinations
across New Zealand and Australia. Travelers can reach downtown Queenstown from
the airport by taxi, shuttle services, or hire vehicles, making the journey from
the airport to the city center, which takes approximately 15 minutes.

For intercity bus travel, Queenstown's bus stations operate routes to various
parts of New Zealand. One of the principal bus terminals in Queenstown is
Frankton Bus Hub. It is a hub for travelers seeking to explore regions beyond
Queenstown, providing connections to major cities, including Christchurch and
Dunedin. 


LOCAL TRANSPORTATION

Queenstown offers a comprehensive $2 public bus network operated by the Otago
Regional Council with support from Queenstown Lakes District Council and the New
Zealand Transport Agency. The Orbus network provides accessible and economical
transportation on various routes, simplifying movement across both Queenstown
and Arrowtown. Passengers utilize a Bee Card for discounted fares and can enjoy
seamless connectivity with frequent departures from prime locations such as Camp
Street.

For tourists and locals who prefer personal mobility, car rental services are
extensively available. Queenstown hosts numerous well-known rental brands, with
options ranging from budget cars to luxury vehicles. Operating directly from
Queenstown Airport, these services offer a flexible way for travelers to explore
distant attractions and the scenic drives around the region. Car rentals also
promote sustainable travel through the availability of EV rentals, catering to
environmentally conscious visitors.


BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Queenstown is during summer (from December to February)
and winter (from June to August). Summer offers long, warm days perfect for
outdoor adventures such as hiking and watersports, with temperatures ranging
between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Winter, on the other hand, transforms
Queenstown into a snowy paradise ideal for skiing and snowboarding, with
bustling events like the Queenstown Winter Festival in June.


LANGUAGE

In Queenstown, English is the predominant language, spoken broadly throughout
the locality. Besides English, the native Māori language and New Zealand Sign
Language are official languages of New Zealand, though Māori is spoken less
commonly. Tourists in Queenstown can find translation apps and language services
particularly beneficial. Understanding local slang and expressions could enhance
their communication experience, with locals typically open to assisting with
translations.


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