Is It Worth Visiting Queenstown? Here’s What You Need To Know:

If you are planning to explore New Zealand, you might be wondering if Queenstown is worth a visit. Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown has a reputation for being a hub for adrenaline junkies. However, there is much more to discover in this picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.In this blog post, we will take a closer look at what Queenstown has to offer and if it is worth adding to your travel itinerary.

The Location and Weather

Queenstown is located on the south island of New Zealand, surrounded by mountains and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu. The town has a mild climate, with temperatures averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius in the summer months of December to February. Winters, on the other hand, can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from -2 to 8 degrees Celsius. However, the winter months are also a popular time to visit Queenstown, especially for skiing and snowboarding.

The Adventure Capital

Queenstown is indeed a hub for adrenaline junkies, offering a range of adventurous activities. Visitors can go bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and whitewater rafting, among other things. However, these activities come at a cost and are not for everyone. If you are looking for something less extreme, there are also plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as wine tours for a more laid-back experience.

The Scenery

One of the main reasons people travel to Queenstown is for the scenery. The town is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, and the lake provides a beautiful backdrop for the town. Additionally, there are several nearby attractions, such as Milford Sound and the Franz Josef Glacier, both of which are easy day trips.

The Nightlife and Food

Queenstown has a bustling nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and nightclubs to choose from. There are also many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from casual to fine dining. However, prices can be quite high, especially during peak season.

The Accessibility

Getting to Queenstown can be quite a journey, as the town is located far from other major cities in New Zealand. The Queenstown International Airport is serviced by flights from major cities in New Zealand, as well as Australia. However, flights can be expensive, and the airport is small, meaning flights can be limited. Alternatively, visitors can drive from other parts of the country, but be prepared for a long journey.

The Verdict

In conclusion, Queenstown is definitely worth a visit, especially if you are looking for stunning scenery and adventurous activities. However, it is important to note that Queenstown can be expensive, especially during peak season. If you are on a tight budget or not interested in adventure activities, you may want to consider other destinations in New Zealand. Ultimately, the decision to visit Queenstown comes down to personal preferences and budget. Whether you are seeking an adventure or a peaceful retreat, Queenstown has plenty to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a picturesque resort town located in the southern part of New Zealand’s South Island. It is widely known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Remarkables mountain range as its backdrop and the beautiful Lake Wakatipu in front. The town is surrounded by mountains and has numerous hiking trails, and is a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts in the winter. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the many attractions and activities that Queenstown has to offer.

Top Attractions in Queenstown

1. Skyline Gondola: Take a trip on the Skyline Gondola for a stunning view of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you can enjoy a meal at the panoramic Stratosfare Restaurant, luge or go on a guided nature walk.

2. Milford Sound: A popular tourist destination, Milford Sound is situated in Fiordland National Park and is known for its breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, towering cliffs, and deep-blue water.

3. Arrowtown: Arrowtown is a small historic town just 20 minutes from Queenstown, with gold mining history, beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, and a quirky array of boutique stores.

4. Queenstown Gardens: A beautiful public park with a diverse range of well-planned gardens, Queenstown Gardens is an ideal spot for picnics and serene walks.

5. Fergburger: A Queenstown classic, Fergburgers are known around the world for their delicious gourmet burgers. Expect long queues, but be assured that it’s worth the wait.

Dining and Drinking in Queenstown

1. Botswana Butchery: Overlooking Lake Wakatipu, Botswana Butchery is a fine-dining restaurant serving contemporary New Zealand cuisine. Their signature dish, the Roaring Forties Blue Cheese Souffle, is a must-try.

2. The Cow: This small, iconic Italian eatery has been serving traditional pizzas and pasta dishes for over twenty years, making it a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike.

3. The World Bar: A popular nightlife spot, The World Bar boasts an extensive cocktail and wine list and is known for its karaoke nights.

Cultural Experiences in Queenstown

1. Kiwi Birdlife Park: A conservation and wildlife park, the Kiwi Birdlife Park is home to many native New Zealand species, including the iconic kiwi bird, tuatara, and the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot.

2. Toi o Tahuna: An art gallery showcasing locally made contemporary art, Toi o Tahuna is a great place to experience Maori and South Island art and culture.

3. TSS Earnslaw Steamship: A visit to Queenstown is incomplete without a ride on the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage coal-fired steamship that offers scenic cruises on Lake Wakatipu, with options for picnic lunches and farm visits.

Local History in Queenstown

1. Arrowtown Chinese Settlement: Located near Arrowtown, the Chinese Settlement is a historic site commemorating the largely overlooked contribution of Chinese immigrants to gold mining in the region. Visit the restored huts, garden areas and general store.

2. Historic Skippers Canyon: A remote and rugged canyon near Queenstown, Skippers Canyon is a popular site for adventure junkies and treasure hunters. It is also a prime spot for eco-tourism ventures.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Queenstown

1. Glenorchy: A scenic 45-minute drive from Queenstown will take you to a small settlement called Glenorchy. It’s where some of the Lord of the Rings films were made and is now a hub for eco-tourism, art, and outdoor adventure activities.

2. Ben Lomond: The Ben Lomond trail is one of the most popular hikes around Queenstown, offering stunning views and a moderately challenging ascent to the summit. It is a must-do for hiking enthusiasts.

3. Altitude Brewing: A small, locally owned craft brewery located in Queenstown, Altitude Brewing is known for its unique range of beers, including an Avocado Hefeweizen, and welcomes visitors for tastings and tours.

Queenstown has something to offer everyone, from scenic beauty, adventure activities to food and wine experiences, art, and rich cultural heritage and history. This insider’s guide is a good starting point to explore and discover all that Queenstown has to offer.