Queenstown
About Queenstown
Surrounded by majestic mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown can be the start or finishing point of your journey on the Southern Scenic Route. The area has captured hearts and imaginations since the first Maori came in search of pounamu (greenstone) and the giant Moa bird. More recently, gold miners, adventurers, filmmakers, wine enthusiasts and Hollywood stars have been drawn to this magical region and its intense alpine energy. With a reputation as the Southern Hemisphere’s premier four season visitor destination, the cosmopolitan lake and alpine resort has the perfect mix of action and relaxation. Queenstown offers so much choice that no two days need ever be the same… and you’ll leave feeling inspired and revitalised.
Feel the Inspiration
This vibrant, compact town offers a huge range of things to do. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush like bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, zip trekking, or dirt biking, there are endless opportunities to get your blood pumping! For more relaxed pursuits you can enjoy world-class golf courses, explore backcountry on foot or bike or sample award-winning Central Otago wines.
History
Visit the nearby picturesque Arrowtown to discover the rich history of goldmining. Its quaint tree-lined streets are a seamless blend of past and present, featuring old miners’ cottages, and restored Chinese village alongside intimate cafés, boutiques and galleries. A true slice of paradise sits a spectacular 45-minute drive west of Queenstown at the end of Lake Wakatipu. Glenorchy is the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most epic scenery and once there you can enjoy the tranquillity of the wilderness, lakeside walks, jet boating, horse riding, kayaking and hiking. In Queenstown accommodation options range from budget to five-star, with holiday parks, backpacker properties and motels alongside B&Bs, international hotel chains, and luxury lodges.
Queenstown Website Links
Start planning your trip now, these website links will help:
Queenstown official website
Things to do in Queenstown 
Accommodation in Queenstown Queenstown Townships
Glenorchy
A spectacular 45-minute drive west of Queenstown, set amongst snowcapped mountains, pristine lakes and national parks is the frontier town of Glenorchy. There you can enjoy the tranquillity of the wilderness, lakeside walks, jetboating, horse riding, kayaking and hiking. Glenorchy Information
Frankton
The gateway to and from Queenstown is a great starting point to explore the region. Activities in Frankton include walking or biking on the local lakeside tracks, golf and swimming, then stock up at the Remarkables Park shopping centre adjacent to the airport and head South on SH6.
Kingston
Kingston is the compact town at the southernmost end of Lake Wakatipu. Take the scenic 47km drive south of Queenstown along a winding road that travels between Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. This historic township is a holiday destination for many Otago and Southland families and also offers walking tracks, excellent fishing, a golf course and bowling green. Kingston Information
Arrowtown
The historic gold mining town is just 20 minutes from Queenstown. Sophisticated in its appeal, the cobbled main street, fine clothing stores, art studios and galleries, outstanding café and restaurant culture, unique accommodation, traditional pubs and boutique bars create an ambience that is sought out by visitors and residents alike. Arrowtown is also renowned for its extensive range of historic and recreational walking trails for all fitness levels… Arrowtown Information
