Queenstown, New Zealand, sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the South Island, set against the dramatic Southern Alps. Famous for its adventure sports, it's also a base for exploring the region's vineyards and historic mining towns. There's bungee jumping from the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge and jet boating on the Shotover and Dart Rivers. In winter, there is skiing on the slopes of The Remarkables and Coronet Peak.
What is Queenstown best known for?
World-renowned for its adventures, Queenstown has an array of adrenaline-pumping activities, including jet boating. When the cooler months arrive, Queenstown transforms into a world-class winter resort with four ski areas and a range of activities, bars, restaurants and ways to relax and unwind.
What is the best month to visit Queenstown?
The best time to visit Queenstown is in the summer (December to February), when the long, sunny days make outdoor activities enjoyable. Due to the large number of outdoor activities offered in summer, you can expect moderate crowds and busy hotels.
Why is Queenstown New Zealand famous?
Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is home to a wide range of adventures, from the world's first and most famous bungee jump - the Kawarau Bridge (opens in new window) - to jet boat thrills through rugged beauty and untouched grandeur. From the white rapids of the Shotover River.
How many days in Queenstown is enough?
A 7 day stay in Queenstown is a great time to explore and really get to know this vibrant city and the surrounding area. However, planning a trip to Queenstown can be a challenge.
What month does it snow in Queenstown?
July to October is the best season for snow in and around Queenstown. In general, it snows more in the mountains and less in the city itself, but you will also see snowfall in and around Queenstown during this time.
Is Queenstown worth visiting?
Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, you'd struggle to find a better place in the world to try bungee jumping, ziplining, and jet boating than Queenstown. Not only are there plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities here, but there are also scenic hikes, great restaurants, and great places to stay.
How cold does Queenstown get?
Temperatures during the winter in Queenstown typically range between 5 and 8 degrees Celsius during the day. Nights are often cold and frosty, and the air temperature drops to -2 degrees Celsius in cold nights. The days are short and crisp, but provide incredible blue skies and crisp mornings.
When can you see the Southern Lights in Queenstown?
Between the months of March and September is the main viewing season. This is the best time to stargaze in Aotearoa, when you can see the Milky Way overhead. As for the time of day, you will only see the southern lights at night when the sky is really dark.
How much spending money do I need for Queenstown?
On average, around NZ$150 per day is a comfortable amount of spending money in Queenstown. But with our activity recommendations and money-saving tips in the Queenstown Budget Guide, you can cut those costs down to around NZ$30-$50 per day.
Great things to do in Queenstown in winter
1. Cruise the lake on an authentic steamship, the TSS Earnslaw
2. Go skiing or snowboarding
3. Explore Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound
4. Experience the Queenstown Winter Festival
5. Hike for amazing views
6. Shoot down the river in a jet boat or whitewater rafting
7. Play frisbee golf in the gardens
8. Cross an adrenaline sport off your bucket list
9. Relax and treat yourself
