About Queenstown
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| Uncrowded, north-facing slopes make the Remarkables ski area remarkably pleasant on a sunny day. |
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Idyllically situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu at the foot of the Remarkables Range, Queenstown was named because "...it was fit for Queen Victoria". The town was founded during the gold rush, when the Shotover River yielded a fortune in gold dust and nuggets, but today it attracts people prospecting for outdoor adventure and indoor indulgence. Winter is one long party - all day snow fun in the mountains is complemented by an après ski culture that stays up all night.
Main snow sport venues
Coronet Peak
Queenstown's original resort ski area, Coronet Peak, is just 25 minutes from town. The mountain has all kinds of terrain to suit every level of snow sport enthusiast. With night skiing and the First Tracks pass (be first on the mountain in the morning), Coronet Peak offers longer on-snow hours than any other ski area in the country. Regarded as the birthplace of South Island skiing, Coronet Peak plays host to New Zealand's ultimate winter celebration, the Lindauer Queenstown Winter Festival.
The Remarkables
High above Queenstown is the Remarkables ski area, located in the mountain range of the same name. Snowboarders, freeskiers and families flock to the mountain's varied trails, terrain parks and backcountry areas. The Ozone Tubing Park is a blast if you’re looking for something a little different. Live music on the deck at lunchtime is a Remarkables speciality - you can watch the antics of kea (mountain parrots) and soak up the huge views.
On days when your legs need a break from the slopes, Queenstown tempts you with all kinds of 'green valley' adventures. Enjoy a round of golf - there are four courses in the area, including world famous Millbrook; book yourself a day of luxury and pampering at a day spa; go jet boating or canyon swinging; or visit the vineyards in Gibbston Valley. Scenic drives around the area will reveal gold rush history and spectacular alpine views. You could also take the opportunity to visit Milford Sound in Fiordland - if the drive looks too formidable, catch a coach tour.
Places to stay
With more than a century of hospitality experience, Queenstown has an accommodation network that looks after everybody. From a cosy bunk in a budget lodge to the most luxurious lakeside lodges, anything's possible. Eating places in the town cover the full spectrum too - cheap and cheerful cafés, ethnic restaurants, sushi bars, hotel dining rooms and much more.
Getting there
Queenstown airport receives international flights from Australia and domestic flights from Auckland, Rotorua and Christchurch. Shuttle services from the airport into town are available.
Key tips
- There are daily shuttles to Coronet Peak and the Remarkables from Queenstown; there are also shuttles from the bottom of the Remarkables access road.
- Children aged six and under receive free day lift passes at Coronet Peak; children aged 10 and under receive free day lift passes at the Remarkables.
- Coronet Peak’s access road is sealed.
- Heli-skiing experiences are available.
- Both snow areas are generally open from June until October.
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QUEENSTOWN
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 | Featured Activities | |
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| QUEENSTOWN ACTIVITIES |
Learn more about the activities and attractions that the Queenstown region has to offer. From adrenaline pumping action to scenic wonders.
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