Slow down the pace and see a new side of Queenstown in the warm summer months. With long days and summer activities to suit all, this is the place to enjoy both the simple and the special things. Ways to explore Queenstown’s natural wonders are plentiful, with everything from walks, bike trails, river adventures, soaking up the view while dining alfresco and much more. Allow plenty of time in the area to venture further and experience these top things to do in the summer season.
1. Get outdoors and into nature
From the moment you arrive in Queenstown, you’ll find yourself immersed in breathtaking scenery. Many places that feel worlds away are located close to central Queenstown and summer is an ideal time to venture into the great outdoors to experience the diverse landscapes of the region.
A mere 15 minutes out of town is Moke Lake, sheltered by gigantic mountains and boarded by a scenic 2-hour loop walking track. Carry on alongside Lake Whakaitpu on the iconic Glenorchy-Queenstown Road until you reach Glenorchy, a settlement on the edge of remarkable wilderness, like the 2.6 million-hectare UNESCO South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
There are plenty of short walks that deliver big rewards in Queenstown. Queenstown Hill and the Bob’s Cove track both have incredible backdrops that allow you to slow down and take the time to soak up the surreal setting you’re in. If you’re looking for more immersive adventure, day walks and multi-day hikes in this part of New Zealand are unbeatable, with Great Walks like The Routeburn Track on the doorstep. Guided walks are a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for these special places by tapping into the knowledge of local experts. For those who want to learn more about the people and history in style and comfort, join a luxury EV guided tour and explore natural havens like Skippers Canyon and Paradise.
When the sun is shining and the skies are clear, kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Whakatipu is irresistible. With a mountainous backdrop and crystal-clear lake water, getting out on the water is one of the best things to do in Queenstown in summer.
2. Fuel your adventures
Coffee fuels adventures, and there’s no shortage of unique cafes to fire you up for the day. Park yourself up at The Boat Shed for breakfast with a view, check out one of the newest additions to the Queenstown breakfast scene odd saint or for a laid-back local spot, a visit to Buzzstop within the Country Lane Retail Village will gear you up for your summer exploring. For some of the best cafes you’ll ever visit, journey to quaint Arrowtown. The quirks and charms of Arrowtown cafes will give insight into this historic town and what makes this community special.
More and more awesome cafes like Hustl. Cafe and Trading Post are adopting the trend of avoiding single-use takeaway cups altogether. If it’s takeaway that you’re after as you head on an adventure, you can bring along a keep cup or borrow one from the many cafes that offer mug libraries.
Whether you’re turning coffee into a long lunch with friends or simply fueling up, enjoy the sense of community and togetherness at these top Queenstown cafes.
3. Do what the locals do
See another side of Queenstown, through the eyes of the locals. The weekly Remarkables Market working towards becoming New Zealand’s first waste-free market, is the perfect way to spend your weekend. Sip your drink from a borrowed mug from the mug library and take in the view as you stroll around the stalls with a stunning backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range.
Treat yourself to some goodies from the local favourite supermarket Raewood Fresh, before heading to the Queenstown lakefront for a picnic with a view. Crack the code to living like a local by getting involved in some of the more under-the-radar happenings. Book in for a pub quiz night, and grab tickets to an intimate music gig or comedy.
Skip the crowds but not the ambience with a stroll through the Queenstown Gardens. For those looking for some family-friendly things to do in Queenstown, check out the best local parks. The vibrant community makes this small but mighty town what it is, with new and enticing things to see and experience each summer you return.
4. Cycle the vines and taste the wine
The cycle trails in and around Queenstown are enticing in the warmer weather, and the promise of world-class Central Otago wines along the way adds to the allure. Hire a bike and hit the Gibbston cycle trail for the perfect way to visit wineries in summer. For a more informative experience with the added bonus of local knowledge, jump on a guided e-bike tour and leisurely wind your way through wineries like Mora Wines and Artisan Kitchen, Amisfield and Mt Rosa Wines. Continue the theme back in Queenstown with your new favourite wines at one of Queenstown’s amazing restaurants.
5. Explore the canyons and rivers
Summer is the only season that guided canyoning tours run, so this is the time to get off the beaten track and explore the wild outdoors around Queenstown. Experienced guides gear you up and take you through a series of canyons with rockslides, jumps and abseiling down waterfalls. ‘Tis the season for adventures on the rivers like river surfing and rafting. Queenstown is the home of the first commercial white water rafting operation that started in the 1970s, so there’s nothing more fitting to try on your summer holiday. Tackle the rapids on the Kawarau River and Shotover River, for an adrenaline-filled adventure with the most awe-inspiring scenery.
6. Reward yourself
A summer holiday in Queenstown is all about balance. After a big day of adventuring, check out the local breweries like Altitude Brewing, Canyon Brewing or Searchlight Brewery to reward yourself with a cold beer. Queenstown’s wide range of cuisines means you’re spoilt for choice. Why not book a dinner spot with a view to elevate your experience and indulge your tastebuds? Many top places to dine source delicious local produce from local farms like Royalburn for a farm-to-plate experience. Expect to enjoy fresh food, grown or farmed just down the road.
Consider booking a massage, spa day or hot tub session after spending hours on the feet hiking and exploring. Driftaway Queenstown has impeccable private hot tubs with views out to Frankton Beach and Lake Whakatipu. Though you’re indulging in some luxury, Driftaway Queenstown is committed to minimising its environmental impact, with the entire complex utilising recycled materials, solar panels and a clever heat recovery system for their water. Wellness retreats are a great way to treat yourself in Queenstown, with yoga and more at Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, nestled among the Southern Alps. Gone are the days of rushing while on holiday. A soak or spa treatment is the ultimate time-off experience.
7. Give back
What better way to level up your holiday memories than by leaving a positive impact on the place you’re visiting? Alongside relaxing and adventuring, delve into the many ways you can give back to the local community in Queenstown. Keep your eyes peeled for local planting days to combine time spent outdoors with doing your bit for the environment. Get your hands dirty and plant some natives with a little help from the organisers, and always have something to revisit in Queenstown as these natives grow. Join an activity or event where funds are going towards a cause you care about, and have fun and do something for the greater good all in one go!
Giving back is as easy as making the conscious choice to support local businesses. Be it sipping on locally brewed beers or visiting boutique Queenstown shops, it feels good to support local. If you’re keen to know more about what’s going on in the area, visit the local ‘giving platform’ Love Queenstown for stories of businesses taking environmental action.
If the best way for you to give back comes in the form of a donation, get involved here. Not only will you have the best summer in Queenstown, but you’ll use your trip to make a difference!
This article was created in paid partnership with Queenstown NZ.
