Queenstown Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
🗺️ Planning & Logistics
1. How many days should I spend in Queenstown?
Answer: A minimum of 3 nights/4 days is often recommended, but 5-7 days allows you to see more and venture to nearby areas like Milford Sound, Glenorchy, and Wanaka without rushing.
2. Is Queenstown a good base for exploring the South Island?
Answer: Yes, it’s an excellent base, especially for the Southern Lakes and Fiordland, but long drives are required for other key spots like Mount Cook or the West Coast glaciers.
3. Is it better to rent a car or rely on public transport/tours?
Answer: Rent a car for maximum flexibility, especially if you plan to visit Glenorchy, Wanaka, or Moke Lake. The public bus network in Queenstown is affordable ($2 with a Bee Card) and covers central areas and Frankton, but a car is better for independent exploration.
4. How do I get from Queenstown Airport (ZQN) to the CBD?
Answer: Options include the Number 1 public bus (most affordable, $2 with Bee Card or $10 cash), shuttle services (like Super Shuttle, around $20 pp), or taxis/rideshares (most expensive, around $30-$40 NZD).
5. What is the best time of year to visit Queenstown?
Answer:
Summer (Dec-Feb): Long, warm days (up to 30°C), best for hiking, water activities. Peak season, so it’s crowded and expensive.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Ski season (Coronet Peak, The Remarkables), cold (-4°C to 8°C), great for snow sports. Peak season.
Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp weather, beautiful fall colours (especially in Arrowtown). Great for photography, less crowded.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Snow-capped mountains meet fresh blooms; possible to ski in the morning and hike/golf in the afternoon.
6. Do I need to book accommodation and activities in advance?
Answer: Absolutely, yes. Queenstown is extremely popular. Accommodation and high-demand activities (like bungy, jet boat, Milford Sound tours) can book out months in advance, especially during peak summer and winter seasons.
7. Where is the cheapest place to buy food and groceries?
Answer: Head to the supermarkets (like Countdown or Pak’nSave) out in Frankton (near the airport) rather than the smaller, central Queenstown stores, as they are generally cheaper.
8. What are the best towns near Queenstown to visit?
Answer: Arrowtown (historic gold mining, beautiful in autumn) and Glenorchy (scenic drive, gateway to famous hikes and LOTR filming locations). Wanaka is also highly recommended but is a longer drive (1 hour+).
9. Do I need to exchange cash, or are cards accepted everywhere?
Answer: Cards (Visa/Mastercard Debit/Credit) are widely accepted with ‘Paywave’ (contactless) being common. You don’t need a lot of cash, but having some NZD is useful for very small vendors or remote locations.
10. Is the Crown Range road to Wanaka difficult to drive?
Answer: It is scenic but windy, steep, and has tight corners. In winter, it often requires snow chains, which must be carried. The alternative route via Cromwell is longer but easier.
11. Is tap water safe to drink in Queenstown?
Answer: Yes, tap water is safe to drink. The supply is usually chlorinated.
12. What are some good Queenstown-specific travel blogs or forums to follow?
Answer: Local booking sites and the official Destination Queenstown website often provide the most current, reliable advice.
🏞️ Must-Do Activities & Sightseeing
13. Is the Skyline Gondola worth the price?
Answer: Generally, yes. It provides the best panoramic view of the town and Lake Wakatipu, and includes access to the luge rides, which are a highly-rated, fun activity for all ages.
14. Where can I find the famous Fergburger? Is it worth the wait?
Answer: It’s in the Queenstown CBD. Yes, it’s considered an iconic Queenstown experience; many travelers find it worth the wait. You can phone ahead for a pick-up order to skip the long line.
15. What are the best free activities in Queenstown?
Answer: Hiking Queenstown Hill or Bob’s Cove, playing disc golf in the Queenstown Gardens, walking the waterfront, and visiting Moke Lake for a picnic or short walk.
16. Should I do a bungy jump, or is it too touristy/overpriced?
Answer: Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungy (Kawarau Bridge). It’s expensive, but for many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline experience that justifies the cost and “touristy” label.
17. What is the best jet boat ride (Shotover vs. Kawarau vs. KJet)?
Answer:
Shotover Jet is famous for its narrow canyon and high-thrill factor.
Kawarau River is another popular option.
KJet operates directly from the main Queenstown wharf on Lake Wakatipu.
Choice often depends on budget and desired level of adrenaline.
18. What is the best winery tour in the Gibbston Valley?
Answer: Many recommend renting a bike and cycling the Gibbston River Trail yourself, stopping at cellar doors like Gibbston Valley Winery or Kinross. This offers flexibility and saves on tour costs.
19. What’s the best hike for a first-time visitor?
Answer: Queenstown Hill (moderate) for great views, or the Bob’s Cove Track (easy) for a picturesque lakeside walk. For a full-day challenge, Ben Lomond is highly rated.
20. Is the TSS Earnslaw steamship cruise worthwhile?
Answer: Yes, it’s a relaxing, historical experience on Lake Wakatipu. It’s often paired with a visit and meal at Walter Peak High Country Farm. Great for all ages and a good non-adventure option.
🏔️ The Milford Sound Debate
21. Is Milford Sound a must-do from Queenstown?
Answer: Yes, it’s highly recommended as a natural wonder (the 8th Wonder of the World). However, it requires a minimum of a full, long day (12-14 hours) or an overnight stay in Te Anau.
22. Is it better to drive to Milford Sound or take a coach tour?
Answer:
Coach Tour: Allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without driving stress. The driver acts as a guide, making scenic stops.
Self-Drive: Offers maximum flexibility to stop at all the scenic spots (Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley, The Chasm). The drive is long but highly scenic.
23. Is the road to Milford Sound difficult to drive?
Answer: The road from Te Anau to Milford Sound is generally well-maintained but is winding and requires concentration. In winter, snow chains are mandatory to carry, and ice is common.
24. Should I take a tour from Queenstown or Te Anau?
Answer: Taking a tour from Te Anau cuts about 4 hours of round-trip bus time compared to Queenstown. Staying a night in Te Anau makes the Milford Sound trip much more relaxed.
25. Is Milford Sound better in the rain?
Answer: Many locals and frequent travelers say yes. Rain activates hundreds of temporary waterfalls cascading down the sheer cliffs, making the fiord look even more dramatic.
26. Is Doubtful Sound a good alternative to Milford Sound?
Answer: Yes, Doubtful Sound is longer, deeper, and more remote. It requires more travel time (via Manapouri) and is generally more expensive, but it offers a quieter, wilderness experience.
💰 Budgeting & Cost
27. Is Queenstown expensive for tourists?
Answer: Yes, Queenstown is widely considered one of the most expensive destinations in New Zealand, with high costs for accommodation and adventure activities.
28. What are some budget-friendly dining options besides Fergburger?
Answer: Look for food trucks, bakeries like Fergbaker, or Devil Burger (a popular alternative). Cooking your own meals at a hostel/Airbnb helps save significantly.
29. Can I save money by booking activities directly or through an agent?
Answer: Prices are generally the same. Booking through a good local agent (online or in-person) can sometimes get you package deals or useful local advice at no extra cost.
30. How much should I budget per day for a mid-range trip?
Answer: A mid-range budget, including decent accommodation, a mix of self-catering and restaurant meals, and one or two paid activities, is often suggested to be around $200-$350 NZD per person per day.
❄️ Winter/Ski Specific
31. What are the main ski fields near Queenstown?
Answer: Coronet Peak (closest to town, great for beginners/intermediates, known for Night Skiing) and The Remarkables (higher altitude, better for powder days and intermediates/advanced).
32. Should I stay in Queenstown or Wanaka for a ski trip?
Answer: Queenstown for access to Coronet Peak/Remarkables and a more active nightlife. Wanaka for access to Cardrona/Treble Cone and a more relaxed “small mountain town” feel.
33. Do I need a 4WD vehicle for winter driving?
Answer: It’s helpful but not essential. Snow chains are mandatory to carry and must be fitted (even on 4WD) if conditions require it on the access roads to the ski fields.
📱 Other Practical Advice
34. Are there any local apps I should download?
Answer: NZ MetService for accurate local weather (crucial for activities), the local Bus App for transport, and potentially a local booking agent app.
35. How intense is the New Zealand sun/UV?
Answer: Extremely intense due to a thinner ozone layer. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential, even on cloudy days or in winter.
36. Are sandflies a big problem?
Answer: They are particularly a problem near the West Coast and Fiordland (like Milford Sound). Bring a high-DEET insect repellent, as their bites can be very itchy.
37. Where is the best place to catch the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis)?
Answer: You need a good forecast, clear skies, and a view facing south with minimal light pollution. Popular spots include the tops of Coronet Peak or The Remarkables Road (if open). You usually need a camera to capture them clearly.
38. What’s the parking situation like in Queenstown CBD?
Answer: Difficult and expensive. Parking is limited and monitored. Using the local bus service is highly recommended for getting to the town centre.
39. Can I visit The Remarkables outside of ski season?
Answer: Yes. The road up is accessible, and the hike to Lake Alta is a popular summer/autumn activity.
40. Are there any good day trips that don’t involve a lot of driving?
Answer: Arrowtown (20 mins drive), Glenorchy (45 mins drive), or activities like a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw or a ride on the Skyline Gondola.