Things to do in Queenstown
A Travel Guide by RaD Car Hire
At RaD Car Hire, we’re all about the journey and making sure our customers get the best possible experience during their time here in New Zealand. Whether you’re a local exploring a new area or you’re visiting from overseas, who wouldn’t benefit from a little insider information, right?
With branches in 22 locations around New Zealand, our team of staff are all passionate about their own “home” towns. Whether they’re born and bred or new to the area, our team are your local guides when it comes to exploring new destinations throughout the country. We also like to lean on our wonderful customers to find out what they have loved about New Zealand so we can add their top tips to all our travel guides.
If you are planning a trip to New Zealand, the chances are that Queenstown will be high on your list of places to visit. Known as not only the adventure capital of New Zealand but the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most-visited destinations and for good reason. This guide could be twice or three times as long as it is – there is simply that much to see and do in Queenstown, so narrowing this down to some specific recommendations when it comes to activities, where to stay and where to eat out has been pretty challenging, but in all the right ways.
This series of travel guides has tried to focus on some of the lesser-known activities in each of the destinations we have covered, however, with Queenstown, it feels like just about every activity has been well documented. There are, of course, some big ones that everyone knows about. From bungy jumping and canyon swinging to jet boating and luging, Queenstown is packed full of adrenaline-fuelled activities, however, there are lots of other amazing things to do that don’t always grab the headlines and we want to give you some top tips in this guide to help you get more out of your visit to Queenstown.
As one of New Zealand’s best-known car rental companies, we’ve got some great deals available on car hire in Queenstown, so make sure you check out our latest deals and great prices. Our Queenstown branch is conveniently right next to Queenstown Airport, just a short drive from the terminal building. We have a shuttle service available for pick ups and drop offs and once you’re on the road, Queenstown is a short 20-minute drive from the airport.
Queenstown Activities
Picking a list of the five best things to do in Queenstown is like asking someone to pick their favourite child! With so many options, we could go on for hours about all the amazing things there are to do in Queenstown, so instead, we reached out to the team down there and got them to do all the hard work instead! As locals to Queenstown, these guys know a thing or two about the best things to do in town, and we asked them for some of their best hidden gems. Sure, they could have all come back with bungy jumping and luging, but what are the less well-publicised activities that people really should get stuck into in Queenstown?
Well, we asked and they delivered. Here are five of our team’s top tips for things to do in Queenstown:
Serious Fun Riverboarding
· Location: Kawarau River, Queenstown
· Features: This adrenaline-packed activity involves riding grade 2 to 3 rapids on modified bodyboards or sledges. It offers a thrilling experience of surfing standing waves, riding whirlpools, and navigating through stunning scenery. Riverboarding is perfect for adventure seekers who enjoy water sports and nature. One of the team first discovered this a few years back and it has definitely become a favourite and one that we recommend to a lot of visitors who come to see us in Queenstown.
Little Paradise (Wild Dream Garden)
· Location: On the way to Glenorchy
· Features: This hidden gem is a unique garden featuring sculptures, a variety of flowers and plants, and even a large eel. It's a great stop for those interested in art and nature, offering a peaceful retreat from Queenstown's bustling atmosphere. The drive out to Glenorchy is widely regarded as one of the most stunning drives in New Zealand and this little gem is a bonus addition to that trip.
Queenstown Kiwi Park and Night House
· Location: Queenstown
· Features: For many visitors to New Zealand, spotting a kiwi bird is high on their list. Whilst there are some places in the country where you can attempt to spot them in the wild, if you really want to see one, then this place is as good as it gets. This conservation sanctuary is home to over 20 species of native New Zealand birds, including the elusive kiwi. Visitors can get up close to these birds and learn about conservation efforts through live tours, making it an educational and entertaining experience.
Disc Golf at Queenstown Gardens
· Location: Queenstown Gardens
· Features: While Queenstown Gardens are well-known, the disc golf course within them is often overlooked. This free activity allows visitors to enjoy the beautiful gardens while engaging in a fun and challenging game. Frisbees can be rented for a small fee. If you take a walk through the park, you will likely spot the odd rogue frisbee heading your way as the course makes it way through the stunning gardens.
Secret Moke Lake Viewpoint Hike
· Location: Moke Lake Campsite, just outside Queenstown
· Features: If you are looking for something off-the-beaten track, then this one is a real locals' tip. This unofficial trail leads to a breathtaking viewpoint over Moke Lake. It's a steep hike suitable for those seeking a more secluded and adventurous experience. The hike offers stunning views and is less crowded than other trails in the area.
Queenstown Places to Eat
When you think about places to eat in Queenstown, most people have already heard of the world-famous Fergburger – a national treasure made even more famous by the likes of Ed Sheeran and more recently, The Hardest Geezer. Whilst there is no doubt that you should give it a try if that is your inclination, there is so much more to the Queenstown food scene than Fergburger. We asked our team for their top five tips on places to eat out in Queenstown and this was almost as hard as picking their top five activities but they have come back with some options to suit all budgets and all tastes.
Here are five of the best places to eat out in Queenstown:
Devil Burger
· Location: Queenstown
Cuisine: Gourmet Burgers
Budget: Affordable ($)
· Features: Devil Burger is a fantastic alternative to the iconic Fergburger, offering a wide range of delicious burgers made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Known for its generous portions and fast service, it’s a great spot for casual dining or takeaway.
Jervois Steak House
· Location: Queenstown
Cuisine: Steakhouse
Budget: Luxury ($$$$)
Features: Renowned for its premium cuts of meat and elegant atmosphere, Jervois Steak House is perfect for steak lovers seeking a high-end dining experience. The menu includes signature dishes like prime rib and Wagyu steak, paired with an excellent selection of wines. This place is a definite splurge, but is well worth it if you love steak and red wine. A great way to round off a trip to Queenstown.
Blue Kanu
· Location: Queenstown
· Cuisine: Polynesian-Asian Fusion
· Budget: Mid-range to High-end ($$-$$$)
· Features: Blue Kanu combines Polynesian and Asian flavours in creative dishes like duck nachos and golden shrimp. Its vibrant atmosphere and shareable plates make it ideal for groups or adventurous foodies looking to try something unique. This has become a fast favourite with the team as it offers something a bit different to the usual food scene and is great for bigger groups.
Public Kitchen and Bar
· Location: Steamer Wharf, Queenstown
· Cuisine: New Zealand Contemporary
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: This place is all about location, location, location. Oh, and the food is really good too! Public Kitchen and Bar offers a relaxed waterfront dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes hearty New Zealand classics like lamb shoulder and fresh seafood, perfect for enjoying with stunning lake views.
Tatsumi Modern Japanese Dining
· Location: Beach Street, Queenstown
· Cuisine: Japanese
· Budget: High-end ($$$)
· Features: Tatsumi is known for its refined Japanese cuisine, offering beautifully presented dishes like sashimi platters and tempura. The intimate setting and exceptional service make it an excellent choice for special occasions or fans of authentic Japanese flavours. This is another of those splurge-type restaurants, but if you love Japanese food, there are few finer places in New Zealand to experience this delicious cuisine.
Queenstown Accommodation
As one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations, it’s perhaps no surprise that you will find a huge range of accommodation options in and around the city. The one thing to note, however, is that demand often outstrips supply, so the cost of accommodation can be pretty high in Queenstown, and the fact that they have both a summer and winter tourism season means that those prices don’t drop all that much! As well as hotels and motels, more and more Airbnbs are popping up, especially in outer suburbs like Hayes Estate and Shotover. That being said, if you are booking in advance, then you can still get some great deals on accommodation in Queenstown and we have pulled together five options to suit all budgets.
Here are our top five tips for places to stay in Queenstown and around:
Crowne Plaza Queenstown
· Location: Queenstown
· Budget: Luxury ($$$$)
· Features: Starting off at the top! Centrally located with stunning lake views, this hotel offers modern rooms, an excellent on-site restaurant, and easy access to Queenstown’s attractions. It’s perfect for travellers seeking a premium experience in the heart of town.
Bella Vista Motel Queenstown
· Location: Queenstown
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: Bella Vista Motels can be found throughout New Zealand and have featured in a number of our guides thanks to their consistency and reliability. In Queenstown, the Bella Vista is a Qualmark-rated 4-star motel just a short walk from the lakefront and Skyline Gondola. It offers studio and family units with kitchenettes, free WiFi, and parking, making it ideal for families or budget-conscious travellers.
Nomads Queenstown
· Location: Queenstown
· Budget: Budget ($)
· Features: Queenstown is a haven for backpackers from around the world, but backpacker hostels have come a long way over the past 20 years. This affordable backpacker hostel is located close to the nightlife and adventure hubs of Queenstown. It features dorms and private rooms, a communal kitchen, and social spaces, making it great for solo travellers or those on a tight budget.
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
· Location: Kawarau Village, Queenstown
· Budget: Luxury ($$$$)
· Features: Set across the lake from central Queenstown, this resort offers a tranquil escape with luxurious rooms, a spa, and lakeside dining. It’s ideal for those seeking relaxation and scenic surroundings. The Hilton is conveniently located close to the airport, and they also offer a very cool water taxi service that will take you into central Queenstown without the hassle of driving. This is not only a cool way to take in the amazing sights, but also ensures you miss out on the inevitable traffic jam on the road into Queenstown.
Kinloch Lodge
· Location: Glenorchy (near Queenstown)
· Budget: Mid-range ($$)
· Features: If you are looking for something away from the hustle and bustle of central Queenstown, then this is a beautiful location for a relaxing break. Located a short drive from Queenstown in Glenorchy, this historic lodge offers cosy rooms and cabins with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. It’s perfect for nature lovers looking to explore hiking trails in a tranquil setting.
Best Day Trips from Queenstown
In some of our other guides, we’ve highlighted some of the best beaches to explore in the area of the best sights to see. For visitors to Queenstown, we wanted to give you some ideas for some day trips that you can make within a short 1-2 hour drive of central Queenstown that will give you more of an opportunity to explore the region, whilst getting to know your RaD rental car a little better. The roads in and around Queenstown offer some truly spectacular views and discovering some of the wonderful destinations within such a short drive of Queenstown is just part of the adventure.
Here are five ideas for day trips from Queenstown:
Wanaka
· Location: Approximately 1 hour from Queenstown via the Crown Range or 1.5 hours via State Highway 6.
· Features: Wanaka is a stunning lakeside town known for its natural beauty, adventure activities like paragliding and skydiving, and iconic attractions like That Wanaka Tree. Visitors can enjoy scenic flights over Mt. Aspiring National Park or explore the Wanaka Lavender Farm.
Cromwell
· Location: About 45 minutes from Queenstown via State Highway 6.
· Features: Cromwell is famous for its stone fruit and the historic Old Cromwell Town, which offers a glimpse into the region's past. It's a great stop for those interested in history and local produce. If you love cycling, Cromwell is also the gateway to the fantastic Lake Dunstan cycle trail, which will take you to Clyde via an amazing cycle trail around the lake.
Arrowtown
· Location: Only 20 minutes from Queenstown via State Highway 6 and the Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road.
· Features: Perhaps one of the most popular day trips from Queenstown, this charming gold rush village is rich in history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Lakes District Museum, try gold panning in the Arrow River, and stroll through the well-preserved Arrowtown Chinese Village. The town also offers excellent cycling trails and golf courses.
Glenorchy
· Location: Approximately 45 minutes from Queenstown along the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
· Features: Glenorchy is a picturesque village surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and native beech forests. It's a must-visit for fans of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, as it features several filming locations. The scenic drive to Glenorchy is one of New Zealand's most beautiful routes.
Te Anau
· Location: About 2 hours from Queenstown via State Highway 6.
· Features: Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. While it's slightly further than the other options, it offers breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for hiking, boating, or simply enjoying the serene natural beauty of Fiordland. Visitors can explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves or take a scenic flight over Milford Sound. RaD also has a branch in Te Anau and you can read more about the area in our Te Anau Travel Guide.
Renting a Car in Queenstown
If you’re looking to rent a car in Queenstown, look no further than RaD Car Hire. With super competitive prices, a great selection of cars from compact to 4x4, and a promise of great customer service, then RaD is a great choice for all travellers.
For those already located in Queenstown looking for a rental car to take them on an exciting adventure somewhere on the South Island, make sure you check out our cheap car rental deals from our Queenstown branch.