Flying into Queenstown Airport, you immediately know you’re somewhere special. With the majestic Southern Alps as its backdrop, Queenstown never fails to wow. And while it’s a great destination for those who love the cold, this is more than just a snow town! It has so much to offer during off-season, too. Anytime is the perfect time to visit, with activities for adrenaline seekers and people who just want to relax.
The food and nightlife
Queenstown has a plethora of amazing eateries and fine-dining options.
A must for any visitor is Rodd & Gunn The Lodge Bar, complete with tartan and furs. Settle into a leather armchair with a bespoke cocktail in hand, and soak in your surroundings. Noteworthy mentions of the locally sourced, seasonal menu include world-famous oysters from the southern town of Bluff and venison from nearby Cardrona.
For food on the move, Queenstown institution FergBurger is reasonably priced and has a wide range of burgers prepared fresh. The hard part is choosing which one. Codfather? The Bullseye? Sweet Bambi? Take your pick!
For a truly unique night out, head to Queenstown Ice Bar which, as the name suggests, is made completely of ice. Luxe winter jackets and ugg boots are provided to help tolerate the minus- five degree temperatures, and you can even enjoy a premium cocktail in a glass made from the stuff.
Water sports
Fun for all ages, get your adrenaline up and see Lake Wakatipu on the KJet boat. Shooting across 45km of waterway at up to 95 km per hour, this is one breathtaking way to see the sights! Underwater theatre and state-of-the-art animation more your thing? The Time Tripper experience, located on the main town pier, will see you learning about the legend of the lake.
Flying high
If you’re not on the water in Queenstown, head up to the sky. Take a tour with The Helicopter Line to experience the truly breathtaking scenery and land on top of a mountain to see some snow!
Onsen magic
The Onsen Hot Pools could be reason enough to visit Queenstown. Outdoor hot tubs provide partial seclusion from your fellow bathers so you can enjoy a glass of bubbly or hot chocolate in peace. Rich in magnesium to naturally detoxify the body, this is a real bucket-list place.
Wine time
Specialising in pinot noir and aromatic whites, Amisfield winery is a 100 per cent organic winery. Executive chef Vaughan Mabee’s food needs to be eaten (and seen) to be believed. Vaughan is passionate about sourcing quality NZ produce, which complement the variety of Amisfield wines.
Where to stay:
Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort is a stunning place to stay, and every part has been designed to make the most of the serene surroundings.
Each of the apartments has toasty under-floor heating for winter visitors, while most offer gas fireplaces and balconies with views over Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. It’s cosy, comfy and cool – the perfect base to explore.
To book, head to booking.com
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