2-Day Local's Guide to Queenstown: Food, Wine, Sightseeing & Shopping
Queenstown, New Zealand
2 days
About Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown, New Zealand, is a captivating destination renowned for its stunning landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, it offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. It's a paradise for adventure seekers, with activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and winter sports. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a scenic cruise on the lake, explore local vineyards, or indulge in the vibrant dining scene. The nearby Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park provide unforgettable natural beauty. Queenstown also serves as a gateway to explore the diverse landscapes of the South Island. Whether you're an adventure junkie or a nature lover, Queenstown promises an unforgettable journey.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Farmers Market, Winery Lunch and Historic Attractions
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the local Farmers Market. Sample some of the region's best produce, from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and breads.
Lunch
For lunch, head to one of the local wineries. Enjoy a leisurely meal paired with some of the region's best wines.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon visiting some of the area's top attractions, such as the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown, or the stunning landscapes of Glenorchy.
Dinner
For your final dinner, choose a restaurant with a view. There are many options in Queenstown that offer stunning views of the lake and mountains.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing evening at a local pub or bar. Enjoy a craft beer or local wine while reflecting on your Queenstown adventure.
Attractions in Itinerary (5)
1Queenstown Gardens
A beautiful park located in the heart of Queenstown, featuring a variety of native and exotic trees and plants, as well as a frisbee golf course.
2Lake Wakatipu
A stunning lake in the South Island, known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and as the backdrop for many Lord of the Rings scenes.
3Farmers Market
A bustling market where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique crafts. A great place to sample local flavors and shop for souvenirs.
4Arrowtown
A historic gold mining town located near Queenstown, known for its preserved buildings and charming atmosphere.
5Glenorchy
A small settlement nestled in spectacular scenery at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu. Known for its outdoor activities, it's a gateway to the hiking trails of the Routeburn Track and the Mt. Aspiring National Park.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Fergburger
A must-try in Queenstown, Fergburger is a local burger joint that has gained international fame for its juicy and delicious burgers.
Whitebait Fritters
A classic New Zealand dish, Whitebait Fritters are small, tender fish cooked into a light, fluffy omelette. It's a delicacy in Queenstown.
Lamb Roast
New Zealand is famous for its lamb, and a traditional Lamb Roast is a must-try when in Queenstown.
Fish and Chips
A classic Kiwi dish, Fish and Chips is a popular takeaway meal in Queenstown, typically enjoyed by the lake.
Pavlova
Pavlova is a meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, and it's a popular sweet treat in Queenstown.
Green-lipped Mussels
Native to New Zealand, Green-lipped Mussels are a must-try seafood dish in Queenstown.
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A classic New Zealand dessert, Hokey Pokey Ice Cream is vanilla ice cream with small, solid lumps of honeycomb toffee.
Manuka Honey
Manuka Honey is a unique type of honey that's native to New Zealand. It's known for its rich flavor and potential health benefits.
Flat White
A Flat White is a coffee drink that originated in New Zealand. It's similar to a latte, but with less milk and more espresso.
Sauvignon Blanc
New Zealand is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc, and Queenstown is home to some of the country's best vineyards.
Speight's Beer
Speight's is a popular beer brand in New Zealand. It's a must-try for beer lovers visiting Queenstown.
Feijoa Cider
Feijoa Cider is a refreshing alcoholic beverage made from the feijoa fruit, which is native to New Zealand.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Queenstown, New Zealand, largely depends on the activities you're interested in. If you're a fan of winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, the winter months of June to August are ideal as this is when the region receives the most snowfall. However, if you're more interested in hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying warmer weather, the summer months of December to February are the best time to visit. During this period, the weather is typically warm and sunny, and the days are longer, giving you more time to explore the outdoors. The spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) seasons also offer beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming flowers and longer days, while autumn is known for its stunning fall foliage. Remember, Queenstown is a popular destination, so it can get quite busy during the peak seasons. It's always a good idea to book your accommodation and activities in advance.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 2 | Tue | Day after New Year's Day |
January 22 | Mon | Wellington Anniversary Day (regional holiday) |
January 29 | Mon | Northland Anniversary Day (Northland) |
January 29 | Mon | Auckland Anniversary Day (regional holiday) |
January 29 | Mon | Nelson Anniversary Day (regional holiday) |
February 6 | Tue | Waitangi Day |
March 11 | Mon | Taranaki Anniversary Day (Taranaki) |
March 25 | Mon | Otago Anniversary Day (Otago) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
April 2 | Tue | Southland Anniversary Day (Southland) |
April 25 | Thu | ANZAC Day |
June 3 | Mon | King's Birthday |
June 28 | Fri | Matariki |
September 23 | Mon | South Canterbury Anniversary Day (Canterbury) |
October 25 | Fri | Hawke's Bay Anniversary Day (Hawke's Bay) |
October 28 | Mon | Labour Day |
November 4 | Mon | Marlborough Anniversary Day (Marlborough) |
November 15 | Fri | Canterbury Anniversary Day (Canterbury) |
December 2 | Mon | Chatham Islands Anniversary Day (Chatham Islands) |
December 2 | Mon | Westland Anniversary Day (West Coast) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Queenstown. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and in the city centre. This gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore the surrounding areas of Queenstown.
Public Bus
The Orbus service operates in Queenstown, providing a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around. The service runs from early morning until late evening, covering major attractions, accommodations, and shopping areas.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Queenstown and can be hailed from the street, booked online, or picked up from a taxi rank. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're travelling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Ridesharing
Uber operates in Queenstown, providing a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using the Uber app on your smartphone, and the price is calculated based on the distance and time of your journey.
Bicycle Rental
Queenstown is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycle paths and trails. Renting a bicycle is a fun and healthy way to explore the city and its beautiful surroundings. There are several bike rental shops in the city offering a range of bikes to suit all levels of fitness and experience.
On Foot
Queenstown is a compact and pedestrian-friendly city. Many of the main attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Water Taxi
Water taxis operate on Lake Wakatipu, providing a unique and scenic way to get around. They can take you to various points around the lake, including some of the more remote and beautiful areas that are not easily accessible by road.
Gondola
The Skyline Gondola is a popular tourist attraction in Queenstown. While it's not a practical method of transportation for getting around the city, it does provide a spectacular view of Queenstown and the surrounding area.
Ski Shuttle
During the winter months, ski shuttles operate between Queenstown and the nearby ski fields. They provide a convenient and hassle-free way to get to and from the slopes.
Important information
Currency$ NZD
Time zoneUTC+12
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phone111
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Queenstown, New Zealand as a first time visitor
1
Queenstown has a temperate maritime climate. The summer (December to February) temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F) and winter (June to August) temperatures between -2 to 8°C (28-46°F).
2
New Zealand's currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always handy to have some cash.
3
The official languages are English and Maori, but English is predominantly spoken in Queenstown.
4
Queenstown is very safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended.
5
Tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand, but it is appreciated for good service.
6
The power plugs and sockets are of type I. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
7
Public transport in Queenstown is limited. Consider renting a car or using taxis for convenience.
8
Queenstown is a popular destination year-round. It's a good idea to book accommodation and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons.
9
New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws to protect its agriculture and biodiversity. Be sure to declare any food, plants, and animal products upon arrival.
10
The emergency number in New Zealand is 111. This number can be dialed for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
11
Queenstown is located in the Otago region, which is in the South Island of New Zealand.
12
New Zealand operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is 12 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+12).
13
New Zealand has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 15%, which is usually included in the price of goods and services.
14
Tap water is safe to drink in Queenstown and throughout New Zealand.
15
Queenstown has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and holiday parks.
16
Queenstown is known for its adventure tourism. Be sure to check the safety standards and reviews of any adventure activity providers.
17
New Zealand has a reciprocal health agreement with some countries, which means you might be eligible for some subsidized healthcare services.
18
Queenstown has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and restaurants. The legal drinking age is 18.
19
New Zealanders are generally friendly and informal. A common greeting is a simple 'Hello' or 'Kia ora' (in Maori).
20
Remember to apply plenty of sunblock when outdoors. New Zealand's sun can be harsh due to the country's close proximity to the ozone hole over Antarctica.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Sweater or Jacket
Pajamas
Swimwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat/Cap
Sunglasses
Gloves and Scarf (if winter)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Shampoo and Conditioner
Body Wash/Soap
Deodorant
Razor and Shaving Cream
Makeup and Makeup Remover
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Hand Sanitizer
First Aid Kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's License
Credit and Debit Cards
Cash and Coins
Travel Insurance Documents
Hotel and Car Rental Reservations
Emergency Contacts and Important Addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and Charger
Headphones
Camera and Charger
Power Bank
Adapters and Converters
Laptop and Charger (if necessary)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks and Water Bottle
Books or E-books
Travel Pillow and Blanket
Ear Plugs and Eye Mask
Travel Guide and Map
Umbrella
Reusable Shopping Bag
Weather Conditions
Queenstown, New Zealand, is known for its diverse weather conditions, which can change rapidly. Therefore, it's essential to be prepared for all types of weather when visiting this beautiful city. During the summer months (December to February), temperatures typically range from 20-30°C (68-86°F). It's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the UV levels can be high. Autumn (March to May) in Queenstown is a sight to behold with stunning fall colors. Temperatures range from 10-25°C (50-77°F), so layered clothing is recommended. This is also a great time to explore the vineyards in the region. Winter (June to August) transforms Queenstown into a winter wonderland, with temperatures ranging from -2 to 8°C (28-46°F). If you're planning to hit the ski slopes, ensure you have warm clothing, including a good quality winter jacket, gloves, and a hat. Snow boots are also a good idea as the streets can get slippery. Spring (September to November) sees temperatures between 8-22°C (46-72°F). This season is known for its unpredictability, so pack a mix of light and warm clothing. Waterproof jackets are also a good idea due to occasional showers. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to carry a rain jacket or umbrella, as Queenstown is known for its sudden showers. Also, the sun in New Zealand is particularly strong due to the thin ozone layer, so always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Remember, the weather can change quickly in Queenstown, so it's always best to check the forecast regularly during your stay. Enjoy your trip!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 22° / 9° | January is the warmest month in Queenstown, with long sunny days perfect for outdoor activities. |
February | 22° / 9° | February is also a warm month with less rainfall, ideal for exploring the beautiful landscapes. |
March | 20° / 7° | March sees the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. |
April | 17° / 4° | April is a cooler month, with crisp mornings and evenings, but still pleasant for sightseeing. |
May | 15° / 1° | May brings the start of winter, with colder temperatures and the first snowfall on the mountains. |
June | 11° / -1° | June is a winter month, with cold temperatures and snow, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. |
July | 10° / -2° | July is the coldest month in Queenstown, with snowfall common, making it a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. |
August | 12° / -1° | August is still a winter month, with cold temperatures and snow, but days start to get longer. |
September | 15° / 1° | September marks the start of spring, with temperatures slowly rising and snow melting. |
October | 18° / 3° | October is a pleasant month, with spring in full bloom and temperatures comfortable for outdoor activities. |
November | 20° / 6° | November is a warm month, with longer days and less rainfall, perfect for hiking and exploring. |
December | 21° / 8° | December is a summer month, with warm temperatures and long days, ideal for enjoying the stunning landscapes. |
Did you know?
Places near by Queenstown, New Zealand
Arrowtown
Historic gold mining town with quaint streets and a museum.
Wanaka
Beautiful lakeside town with outdoor activities and stunning views.
Te Anau
Gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.
Milford Sound
Stunning fjord in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island.
Dunedin
City known for its Scottish and Maori heritage, Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
Invercargill
Southernmost city of New Zealand known for its Victorian, Edwardian architecture.
Mount Cook Village
Located in the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Christchurch
Largest city in the South Island, known for its English heritage and Botanic Gardens.
Wellington
Capital city of New Zealand, known for its vibrant arts scene.
Auckland
Largest city in New Zealand, known for its stunning harbour and vibrant city life.
