Iconic Locations in Queenstown & South Island

Queenstown & South Island

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Queenstown & South Island

From valleys lined with vineyards to majestic mountains to shimmering lakes, experience a variety of landscapes and attractions here more than anywhere else. The Milford Sounds in Fiordland are a must see with the scenery breath-taking! Cycling the Valley of Vines and appreciating fine wine straight from the cellars is another must do experience. Sample the Scallops and Oysters for a true taste of the ocean flavours.

Local Places
Glenorchy

Glenorchy

Not all those who wander are lost. One ring to rule them all. Yes, Glenorchy was put on the world map after The Lord of the Rings trilogy was shot here. The spectacular landscapes have been a location for many international movies, with parts of the Narnia series also shot here. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise! Forty-five minutes from Queenstown, Glenorchy is located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

“An outdoor enthusiast's paradise, Glenorchy was put on the map after 'The Lord of the Rings' was shot here.”

Skyline Gondola

Skyline Gondola

The Skyline offers a bird’s eye view of Queenstown and all its surrounding attractions. A five-minute walk from the city centre, the lift carries visitors all the way up to a complex located on Bob’s Peak. Enjoy panoramic views of the region, probably the best in Queenstown, with great photo opportunities.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown

A historic town formed in the 1860s during the gold rush, Arrowtown still carries forward the same splendour of yester yore. About 20 minutes from Queenstown, visiting the city would be like going back in time. Despite being a period town, there are many modern amenities like an international golf course and 4WD scenic tours.

Fiordland

Fiordland

Described by Kipling as the eighth wonder of the world, the landscape here is everything you imagine in your dreams. Shimmering lakes, towering waterfalls, granite peaks and deep black fiords – the natural features are spectacular, to say the least. A scenic flight over the Milford Sounds will stay with you forever.

Valley of Vines

Valley of Vines

Gibbston Valley, otherwise known as the ‘Valley of Vines’, is a major wine-making hub with various vineyards and restaurants centred here. About half an hour from Queenstown, take your time in exploring this beautiful region, walking through vineyards and talking to the winemakers. It’s best to hire a cycle and go knocking on the vineyard doors.

Local Places in South Island

Christchurch

Christchurch

One of the unique destinations in New Zealand, there are shades of innovation and urban creativity seen in many places with street art and fashionable dining locations but the city maintains an overall traditional feel. Set on the banks of the serene Avon River, the Alps and the ocean form a fitting backdrop. Gardens, hills and beaches are plenty and available with a short drive from the city. There is also an alpine ski resort close by.

“A traditional city with all the modern luxuries, set on the banks of the Avon River with the Alps in the backdrop.”

Nelson

Nelson

From long golden beaches to rugged mountains & forests, Nelson’s diverse geography has it all. The sun is out most of the year making it a cheery place to explore. Head inland to see the clear waters of the country’s largest springs at Tanaka or spend the day at the sun-drenched sands of Golden Bay. If luck is on your side, you might be able to spot the little blue penguin too.

Marlborough

Marlborough

Formed millions of years ago when ancient river valleys were filled with the waters of the Pacific Ocean, Marlborough Sounds are a majestic sight to behold with tall forests bordering the waters along the coastline, with a sandy bay or two along the way. Most of the activities here are concentrated on the water with kayaking and cruising, but there are hiker trails filled with views to explore too.

West Coast

West Coast

Getting transportation of your own for this stretch would be a great idea, giving you the freedom to pace yourself as there are lots of sights to see and experience. Sometimes you might want to just stop and admire the landscape as the Great Coast Road was voted one of the best coastal drives in the world by Lonely Planet. Don’t miss the pancake rocks and Pukakaiki on the way!

Dunedin

Dunedin

When you step foot into Dunedin, you might mistake it for Edinburgh as the city wears its Scottish heritage on its sleeve with pride. The city has one of the best preserved Victorian & Edwardian style buildings and structures. The nearby Otago Peninsula is a visual treat with endless views of the rugged landscape. Some of the rarest Penguin colonies are also nearby.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

A three-hour drive south-west of Christchurch, spend the afternoon and the night here at Lake Tekapo. You might wonder what there is to see here after sun fall, as the remarkable turquoise waters of the lake won’t be visible anymore. But as the sun goes down, a thousand twinkling stars light up the night sky making it a stargazer’s paradise.

Lake Wanaka

Lake Wanaka

Formed by the melting of enormous glaciers over 10,000 years ago, Lake Wanaka and Hawea lie side by side, separated by a landmass called the neck that’s just a kilometre wide. Both these lakes are a haven during the summer providing refuge during the hot summer months. Standing on the pebbly beaches, the view of the waters with majestic peaks in the backdrop is simply awe-inspiring!

Cuisines in Queenstown

Cuisine

Wine and dine with internationally-acclaimed spirits and dishes created from fresh local produce. Bask in the sun and sample the best scallops and oysters straight from the ocean. Have a culinary journey through each region that has something special in store for your taste buds. From craft beers to local varieties of cheeses, the surprises are endless!

Accomocation facilities in Queenstown

Accommodation

Options are plenty for places to stay. From basic backpacker lodges to luxury retreats, you have plenty of options that fall between both ends of the spectrum to choose from. A point to note will be to look out for the Qualmark symbol, which is a mark of quality received only if rigid accommodation criteria are met. Pick a place with a great view and have a great time!

Events in Queenstown

Events

Most of the events are outdoor themed as the Kiwis like the rush of adrenaline. The Macpac Motatapu is a one day off-road sporting event along the trails of Motatapu. The Queenstown Marathon is another outdoor event with many distance limits to choose from 3km to 42km. Queenstown Winter Festival is four days of fireworks, parties, music and fun!

Things to Do

  • Swim with dolphins and meet whales at Kaikoura
  • Kayak or hike at Abel Tasman National Park
  • Visit the lakes of Tekapo and stargaze at night
  • Meet green lake of Tekapo and see beautiful milky way
  • Enjoy extreme sports in Queenstown
  • Climb the glacier in Franz Josef
  • Be awed by the Milford Sounds
  • Enjoy the most scenic Tranzalpine train ride
  • Ski or snow board in Queenstown during winter
Things to do in Queenstown
Things to do in Queenstown
Enjoy extreme sports in Queenstown
Things to do in Queenstown
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