When you think of Queenstown, think of the entire region at your fingertips. Not only do you have the buzzing town to enjoy, but the Queenstown region is home to areas like Glenorchy, Arrowtown, Gibbston and Kingston, all offering spectacular ways to really get to know the landscapes and people that call this place home. From the undisturbed wilderness of Glenorchy to the historic, charming streets of Arrowtown, the diversity is unmatched, and it’s all within close proximity. Enjoy your very own winery getaway in Gibbston, with unique accommodation amongst the vines, and discover underrated spots on the other side of Lake Whakatipu like Kingston.
Venture further and take the time to explore these top areas in and around Queenstown. You’ll reap the rewards when you slow down, stay a while and soak it in, making for a more memorable experience.
1. Queenstown
Queenstown’s bustling town centre is the beating heart of the region. With a vast array of experiences on offer from paragliding to perfume workshops, and lake cruises to luging, there is something for everyone. You’ll have some of the best adventures of your life here beside the breathtaking mountainous backdrop.
The diverse food scene in Queenstown is a big drawcard. Indulge in fine dining evenings at restaurants Rātā, Botswana Butchery and the intimate setting at The Bunker. Quick bites in Queenstown are in their own league, with lakeside nibbles from Eriks Fish and Chips or hearty goodness at Ramen Ramen. Make time to combine socialising with sightseeing at rooftop bars like Soda and The Sundeck, or get into a classic pub feast at Pog Mahones or Ballarat. All these gems and more are within walking distance in the vibrant and buzzing township.
Enrich your days with visits to Queenstown’s art galleries; Lightworx, ArtBay Gallery and the iconic Ivan Clarke Gallery. Find gems at boutique stores like Angel Divine as you stroll the streets. For nature lovers, the Queenstown Gardens will revitalise the soul. An easy walk or picnic is the ideal way to enjoy these picturesque grounds.
In summer, Queenstown Bay beach is the spot to be to cool off with a swim or lap up that warm sun. During the winter months, a mulled wine from local favourites Little Black Wood or Public Kitchen and Bar is a must-do. With seemingly endless experiences in the heart of town, Queenstown is a great base for adventures to suit all tastes and preferences.
Frankton
Frankton delivers a little something for everyone, in a convenient area surrounding the Queenstown Airport. Enjoy a walk along the Frankton Arm Walkway, or explore the Queenstown Trail by bike. Journey further along the track stopping in at the much-loved Boat Shed Cafe for coffee and brunch, then carry on to the new Wet Jacket at the Frankton Marina for some well-deserved wine tasting. Tastings are by appointment only so remember to book in advance. Amateur or avid golfers will love the Frankton Golf Centre and driving range for a fun day out.
Remarkables Park
Don’t miss local favourites while in Frankton. Remarkables Park is home to foodie gems like Saigon Kingdom and Giovi’s Italian. Start the day at Odelay Cafe before checking out the Remarkables Market (Saturdays between October – April) and Te Atamira Arts Centre, the arts and culture space for the community. Kids and big kids alike will gravitate to trampolining at SITE, Basecamp indoor rock-climbing or karting and lazer tag at Game Over.
Five Mile
Another hotspot is Five Mile, with a wide range of boutique shops like The Colab and Social Clothing & Co. Refuel at one of the many top food spots like Tanoshi, The Meat Preachers, Hustl. Cafe and The Crown Pub.
Arthurs Point
On the other end of town is Arthurs Point, a growing haven of food and beverage gems. Canyon Brewing is the ultimate spot to park up by the river and sample great local beers. The team at Canyon Brewing grow their own quality grain in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint. This homegrown barley is used to brew some of their beer, make some of their menu items and even feed their livestock. Across the road you’ll find Gantley’s Tavern and the Gin Garden, both ideal spots for long, lazy sessions of socialising. Arthurs Point is also home to the iconic Onsen Hot Pools that overlook Shotover River. To spike your adrenaline levels book a Shotover Jet thrill ride while you’re in the area.
For keen mountain bikers, Arthurs Point is a popular spot thanks to its close proximity to great trails like Rude Rock and Coronet Peak bike park, and being nestled at the base of Coronet Peak means Arthurs Point is also the perfect base for a ski holiday.
2. Glenorchy
Just 45 minutes drive out of Queenstown, the small town of Glenorchy feels like a completely different place. Glenorchy sits on the edge of the Te Wāhipounamu South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Site, an area that feels incredibly special to be able to spend time in.
Start the day at Mrs Woolly’s, embracing small-town life with a coffee and breakfast bun from this character-filled general store, and end the day in the backcountry with nothing between you and the incredible wilderness. Glenorchy is the ideal place to go to reconnect with nature, and one of the best ways to explore this 26,000 km2 of wild mountainous terrain is by day or multi-day walk. Ultimate Hikes offer guided walks on multi-day experiences like the Routeburn Track, or opt for short, self-guided walks like Glenorchy Lagoon.
Combine incredible scenery with a unique experience by giving Funyaking with Dart River Adventures a go, or get a different perspective with Paradise Ziplines before seeing the sights by horseback.
With so much to see and do in Glenorchy and the surrounding settlements Paradise and Kinloch, set aside a few nights to stay and play. Mrs Woolly’s Campground is the ideal quirky accommodation. Or, form a connection with the people and place at Headwaters Eco Lodge, where slow travel is the ethos. Learn about their regenerative tourism initiatives including how they generate more energy than they use, operate a local composting hub, and how all profits go back to the Glenorchy community. Stay in Paradise at Paradise Trust for an immersive, off-grid experience. Discover the true meaning of wilderness holidays with adventures and accommodation at The Great Glenorchy Alpine Base Camp. For more accommodation with an amazing backdrop, stay at the Kinloch Wilderness Retreat at the head of Lake Whakatipu.
3. Arrowtown
Arrowtown is a quaint, small town with big historic significance. This former gold mining town is bursting with Tohu Whenua (landmarks) that have shaped the area and made it the township it is today. Drive 20 minutes out of Queenstown to Arrowtown to visit the Chinese Settlement and the Lakes District Museum for a reminder of the gold mining days.
Leisurely strolls along the Arrow River are a great way to soak up the peaceful atmosphere, before visiting some of the fine foodie spots that are as good as anything you’d find in a large town or city. The Dishery and Provisions of Arrowtown are perfect places for a slow brunch or lunch. Bring your keep cup and fuel up at Wolf Coffee who roast their own coffee beans, before embarking on your adventures. Whether it’s shopping for pre-loved designer fashion at boutique stores like Bunnies, or a round of 18-holes at Arrowtown Golf Club or Millbrook, you’ll find there’s no shortage of things to do in Arrowtown.
This idyllic town is also a gateway to top-notch bike trails like the Arrow Bridges cycle trail. Rent e-bikes from Better By Bike for a convenient way to experience the trails. In the winter months, Arrowtown is a popular base during ski season, with four ski areas between 20 – 60 minutes drive away.
Make great days better by wrapping up at The Winery to sample some of the finest wine in the region, or Fork and Tap for a satisfying pub dinner. Accommodation options in Arrowtown will have you swooning, with options from historic hotels to family-friendly motels and holiday parks.
4. Gibbston
With world-class wine, adventure and scenery on its doorstep, a trip to Queenstown isn’t complete without time spent in Gibbston. This area is roughly 30-minutes drive from Queenstown and boasts some of the best Central Otago wineries and cellar doors. Opt for the Hop On Hop Off shuttle bus to go from Gibbston Valley Winery to Mt Rosa Wines and all the gems in between. Biking around the vines or booking a locally guided tour are great ways to get to know the region and visit unique spots like Gibbston Tavern and Chard Farm. Take the plunge and bungy off the 42-metre historic Kawarau Bridge, built in 1880.
Luxury lodge rooms at the Gibbston Valley Lodge and Spa will level up your stay in Gibbston, with stunning private villas nestled among the vines. Book a spa treatment, dine at the lodge restaurant, and enjoy a movie in the onsite cinema. The Kinross boutique vineyard cottages make for the ultimate escape, with outdoor hot tubs and cosy cottages just a mere stroll from the Kinross cellar door. Keep an eye out for live music events at Kinross to enjoy during your stay.
Extend your tour of the Central Otago wine region by renting an EV and journey from Gibbston, further along the Central Otago Touring Route. Bannockburn and Cromwell are at your fingertips, and small towns Clyde, Alexandra and Ranfurly offer a true Central experience.
5. Kingston
The journey is as good as the destination. Drive along the scenic Devil’s Staircase Road from Queenstown to peaceful and endearing Kingston. Time spent in this area bordering the southernmost end of Lake Whakatipu is slow-paced and relaxing. This often overlooked spot is ideal for a lakeside swim and picnic, a round of golf at the Kingston Golf Club and incredibly scenic walks like the lower Wye Creek track.
Kingston is also the start of the Southern Scenic Touring Route, New Zealand’s oldest touring route. After a stay in this charming township, 620 kms of road ahead of you pass through fantastic spots like Te Anau, Piopiotahi Milford Sound, Catlins and Dunedin. Keep the adventure going and explore the diversity of the lower South Island.
This article was created in paid partnership with Queenstown NZ.
