Queenstown and Fiordland are home to some of New Zealand's purest landscapes and exhilarating activities.

Spend the long weekend in Queenstown and Fiordland, just over a 2-hour drive from each other with lots to see and do.

Long weekend in the Queenstown

queenstown

Queenstown

Highlights

  • Adventure activities
  • Amazing landscapes & scenic flights
  • Food & Wine

Proximity

  • by plane:

    2 hours from Auckland

  • by plane:

    1 hour 10 minutes from Christchurch

  • by car:

    3 hours 40 minutes from Dunedin

Things to do in Queenstown

Positioned on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by towering mountains and full of adventure, Queenstown is the perfect getaway destination.

If you love walking and hiking, Queenstown is paradise. There is a trail for everyone, ranging from easy scenic short walks to multi-day walks. Explore the Queenstown Gardens as you wander along the walking trails. Or, for longer trails, try out the Queenstown Hill Walking Track or the Ben Lomond Walkway.

Home to many adventure thrilling activities, Queenstown is the extreme adrenalin hub. Discover the world's first and most famous bungy jump, the Kawarau Bridge Bungy. Or jet boat through the rugged beauty of the white-water rapids with Shotover River Jet(opens in new window). Or, admire the lush grasslands, tussocks, vast lakes, and snow-capped mountains on a scenic helicopter flight with Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters.(opens in new window) 

After a day of adventure, wind down and indulge at Onsen Hot Pools(opens in new window). A boutique retreat and day spa will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated.

Where to stay in Queenstown

From luxurious lodges to hotels and campgrounds, Queenstown offers a range of accommodation showcasing the spectacular South Island views.

Spend the night with picturesque views of Lake Wakatipu at the Kamana Lakehouse(opens in new window). With its high altitude, elegant comfort, and iconic views, the gorgeously designed boutique hotel captures the true essence of Queenstown. 

Or set up camp on the edge of Lake Wakatipu at the Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park(opens in new window). Surrounded by epic mountain ranges, the holiday park makes the perfect base for a family getaway or those on a budget.

What to eat in Queenstown

Queenstown is world-famous for delicious food, amazing wine, and an epic nightlife. 

Treat yourself to an impressive dining experience at Rātā(opens in new window) eatery. Try popular dishes such as the goat's cheese profiteroles with Rātā blossom honey and grass-fed beef tartare and Te Mana lamb rump.

Or, eat like a local at one of Queenstown's many unique eateries. Arguably Queenstown's busiest burger joint, Fergburger, is world-renowned for their creative gourmet burgers. The Ferg Deluxe is a must-try on your next visit. Located in the historic Archer’s Cottage, Botswana Butchery is one of Queenstown's most stylish restaurants. With stunning lake views and roaring fires, the ambience is warm and welcoming all year round. Indulge in freshly baked cookies, hot chocolate, deluxe milkshakes and various sweet treats at the Cookie Time bar.

Long weekend in Fiordland

fiordland

Fiordland

Highlights

  • Hankinson Hut
  • Lake Te Anau
  • Milford Sound

Proximity

  • by car:

    2 hours from Queenstown

  • by car:

    2 hours from Invercargill

Things to do in Fiordland 

Where huge mountain cliffs tower over still, dark waters, it's easy to see why Fiordland is one of the most dramatic and beautiful places in New Zealand. 

Home to Milford, Dusky and Doubtful sounds, Fiordland National Park is a world heritage site that can be explored by kayak, boat or scenic flight. You can also explore the national park on foot via the Milford, Kepler, or Routeburn tracks, three of New Zealand's great walks.

Get up close with native birds, such as the Takahē, Kea, Kākā, Whio and many more while exploring the Milford Road at leisure. Or take the Takahe feeding tour at the Punanga Manu o Te Anau Bird Sanctuary.(opens in new window)

Explore Te Anau Glowworm Caves(opens in new window), a fascinating cave system on the western shore of Lake Te Anau. Or enjoy a mulled wine by the fire before entering Fiordland Cinema(opens in new window), a chic cinema with comfortable seating, large screens, and state of the art sound.

Where to stay in Fiordland

Spend your next long weekend resting among magnificent landscapes, in one of the worlds largest national parks. 

Fiordland and the surrounding area of Te Anau, have an incredible range of accommodation. From gorgeous luxury lodges to holiday parks and cosy Bed and Breakfasts, find the perfect place to recoup after a day full of adventure. 

Where to eat in Fiordland

Dine with lake views in Fiordland and Te Anau with a great selection of restaurants, bars, cafés, bakeries, and dairies to choose from.

Try one of sixteen gourmet pies at Miles Better Pies(opens in new window). Head down to the big bright food truck and try the delicious Kiwi/Asian fusion food at Bao Now(opens in new window). Or try the Wild Venison while sitting by the fire with a cocktail at Redcliff Café.(opens in new window)

Traveling around New Zealand

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