Our Recommendations for the Top Queenstown Experiences
Mountainwatch | Travel
Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown takes things to another level in winter. From world-class skiing and adrenaline-fuelled activities to incredible food, wellness experiences and scenic day trips, it’s the kind of destination you’ll want to return to again and again. We asked the crew in the Mountainwatch Queenstown office for their top recommendations.
Ski & snowboard
With three world-class ski resorts on its doorstep, hitting the slopes is a must. The NZSki pass gives you access to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, making it easy to mix up your week. Coronet Peak also offers night skiing every Wednesday and Friday (4–9pm), plus Saturday sessions during the July school holidays. If you’ve got a car, make the trip over the Crown Range for a day at Cardrona or Treble Cone.
Relax & recharge
Balance out the adventure with one of Queenstown’s growing wellness experiences. New additions include The Watershed Sauna, Alume and The Bathhouse, while the iconic Onsen Hot Pools remains a local favourite.
Get your adrenaline fix
Queenstown earned its reputation as the adventure capital for good reason. Bungy jumping, skydiving and jet boating are just the beginning. Check out AJ Hackett’s new Kawarau Swing, or head to Oxbow for an unforgettable off-road adventure.
Snow Machine Festival (8–13 September)
Queenstown’s biggest winter festival combines skiing, snowboarding, après and live music. With 30+ artists, mountain stages at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, plus evening performances in town, it’s one of the highlights of the winter calendar. Spend the morning shredding the slopes before enjoying the on-piste mountain stages and continuing the party at the main arena by night. Check out the lineup and get your tickets here!
Eat & drink
Queenstown’s food scene has something for every budget and occasion. For relaxed dining with lake views, try the newly renovated Surreal. Craving Mexican? Margo’s is a standout, while Botswana Butchery is hard to beat for steak. Other local favourites include Queenstown Wharf Bar, Local and Little Mez.
Visit Ayrburn Winter Wonderland (27 June–27 July)
Ayrburn transforms into a festive winter village complete with Christmas lights, an ice rink and seasonal dining. Entry is free, although it’s worth booking ahead for skating and restaurants.
Browse the Remarkables Market Winter Series (4, 11 & 18 July)
The winter edition of this popular local market features artisan food, drinks, crafts and produce in Remarkables Park.
Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
Step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw for a scenic cruise across Lake Whakatipu, paired with a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Take a Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
It’s a longer day from Queenstown, but well worth it. The overnight cruise through Doubtful Sound comes highly recommended by the Mountainwatch team and includes transfers from Queenstown.
Ride the Shotover Gorge Trail
Swap your skis or snowboard for a bike and explore Queenstown’s newest trail, featuring the historic Hugo Tunnel and spectacular views along the Shotover River. Finish the ride at Arthur’s Point with pizza and a drink at Canyon Brewing.
Walk around Lake Hayes or Moke Lake
Need a rest day? Both lakes offer easy 2–3 hour loop walks with stunning alpine scenery and are perfect for exploring in winter.
Go heli-skiing
Take your ski trip to the next level with a heli-ski adventure in the Southern Alps. Harris Mountains Heli-Ski is one of the region’s leading operators, offering guided trips for everyone from confident intermediates to expert riders.
You need to experience Queenstown for yourself. Head to Mountainwatch Travel for more information and to check out our Queenstown packages.
