24 Hours in Queenstown

Panorama of Queenstown, the 'adventure capital' of New Zealand | Peter Walton
Panorama of Queenstown, the 'adventure capital' of New Zealand | Peter Walton

Our Guide to Spending 24 Hours in Queenstown NZ

Surrounded by mighty mountain ranges, glistening lakes and swooping trails, Queenstown is an active holiday goers dream. Aptly named the adventure capital of the world, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding things to fill your day in this vibrant and unique town.

We always recommend adding an extra day or two to either end of your trip to help you recover from travel or rest up after a week on your bike or on your feet.

Adventure South NZ has over 10 NZ Cycle Trail, Road Cycling and Hiking itineraries that depart and finish in Queenstown, so we've come up with a guide of 'must do's' for you to do in that extra 24 hours before or after your trip.
 

Morning

For a refreshing start to your 24 hours in Queenstown, head down to the main beach for a stroll and if you feel like that extra bit of activity, an easy walk through the Queenstown Gardens is well worth 15mins out of your morning. 

Fuel up for the day ahead with a coffee and a bite to eat at the local Joe's Garage - trust us, their cheese rolls and 'the local' breakfast will not disappoint. Or for an early breakfast, Halo is open from 6am.
 

Mid Morning

To see some of the best views over Queenstown, take the Skyline Gondola up to the top of Bob's Peak or if you're looking for a slightly challenging adventure, take a self-guided hike to the summit. Get your first taste of adrenaline on the way back down via the luge or zipline (it pays to go early to avoid the rush).
 

Insider's tip: Purchase your gondola tickets from the food court in the mall in town and you can skip the queues!

Views of the Shotover River from the cable bridge |  <i>Colin Monteath</i>


Lunch Time

Now that your heart rate has settled, check out the famous Ferg Burger for lunch. A word of warning, there can be long lines so if you're too hungry to wait for this majestic burger, head on down to Taco Medic or Madam Woo in the town centre.
 

Afternoon

A relaxed pace...

Head to Gibbston Valley for a local wine tour and a cheeky Pinot Noir at a nearby vineyard, or for something a little closer to town, hire a kayak for a quiet paddle on Lake Wakatipu.

Adrenaline Junkies... 

For all you thrill seekers out there, a jet boat ride with the Shotover Jet, or an iconic bungy jump off the Kawarau Bridge will do the trick. You're in the adventure capital of the world after all! Head back to town for a tantalising chocolate waffle at Patagonia Chocolates.

Evening

Unwind at the Onsen Hotpools before dinner to relax your muscles before your Adventure South NZ trip the following morning. The views from the hot tubs are fantastic at this time of night.  

Incredible food and a great night out are always on the menu in Queenstown. Settle in a at friendly restaurant in town and if you're really up to it, stick around to discover Queenstown's vibrant night life any night of the week.

Transport Links

Queenstown is pretty small and packed full of adventure so it's easy to explore by foot. Many operators have shuttles that will take you to activities outside of the city.

Queenstown airport is located 15 minutes from the city centre. Buses and airport shuttles depart every 15 minutes from outside the terminal. Some hotels offer airport shuttles for a small fee, so make sure you ask when booking your accommodation.

Adventure South NZ will pick you up from right outside your hotel on the morning of your trip.

Epic views over Queenstown Township and and Lake Wakatipu from Ben Lomond Summit |  <i>Colin Monteath</i>
 

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