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

  • Skyline Queenstown
  • Queenstown Mall
  • Queenstown Gardens
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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

  • Wānaka Lavender Farm
  • Rippon Vineyard
  • Mount Iron Lookout
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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 Waterfront Reserve
  • Glenorchy Wharf
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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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A coastal town with mountains in the background and a body of water in the foreground.
Arthur's Point
Known for Friendly people, Spas and Rivers
Romantic Arthur's Point is calling! Discover its spas, riverfront, bars and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Onsen Hot Pools
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Stay near popular Queenstown Lakes District attractions

A town nestled between mountains and a large lake with several islands.

Skyline Queenstown

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Take one of the world’s steepest cable-car rides to the top of picturesque Bob’s Peak for views across Lake Wakatipu and beyond.
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