Queenstown Lakes District Travel Guide

Otago

A boat docked at a pier with mountains in the background.
A calm lake with mountains in the background and a single tree in the center.
A lake surrounded by mountains, a small boat with people, and a clear blue sky.
A lake surrounded by mountains, a small town, and a clear sky.
A coastal town with a lake surrounded by mountains, a small island, and dense forested areas.

Popular cities in Queenstown Lakes District

A mountainous town with a lake, surrounded by forest and clouds.
Queenstown
Known for Lakes, Mountains and Scenery
This alpine resort town in New Zealand’s South Island is an adventure-lover's paradise and the birthplace of bungee jumping and jet boating.

Reasons to visit

  • Queenstown Gardens
  • Skyline Queenstown
  • Queenstown Mall
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A calm lake surrounded by mountains under a clear sky.
Wānaka
Known for Lakes, Dining and Family-friendly
Nestled beneath a mountainous national park on the shores of beautiful Lake Wanaka, this resort town offers skiing in winter, water sports in summer and stunning scenery all year.

Reasons to visit

  • Rippon Vineyard
  • Wānaka Golf Club
  • Puzzling World
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A beach with turquoise water, people walking, and snow-capped mountains in the background.
Glenorchy
Known for Mountains, Cafes and Romantic
Hike amid breathtaking mountain scenery, kayak on a glistening lake, try river fishing and go on an exhilarating jet boat ride at this lakeside town.

Reasons to visit

  • Glenorchy Wharf
  • Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve
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A snow-covered mountain range with rugged peaks and valleys.
Cardrona
Known for Friendly people, Historical and Bars
Nestled in New Zealand’s majestic Southern Alps, this quiet town is famous for its iconic hotel and state-of-the-art ski facilities.

Reasons to visit

  • Cardrona Alpine Resort
  • Snow Farm New Zealand
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A street lined with shops, including a hotel and a cafe, with cars parked on the side.
Arrowtown
Known for Golf, Tours and Rivers
This historic mining town is a great day trip from Queenstown, and gives visitors the chance to strike gold.

Reasons to visit

  • Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
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A lake with a boat, houses on a hillside, and autumn trees.
Kawarau Falls
Known for Mountains, Wildlife and Golf
Love mountain views and golf? Get away to Kawarau Falls!

Reasons to visit

  • The Remarkables Ski Area
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Stay near popular Queenstown Lakes District attractions

A stone bridge over a pond with lily pads, surrounded by trees and red flowers.

Queenstown Gardens

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Play a round of disc golf, or join a touch-rugby match at these historic botanic gardens on the banks of Lake Wakatipu.
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