Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Queenstown & Wanaka
Why Go?
With a cinematic background of mountains and lakes, and a 'what can we think of next?'
array of adventure activities, it's little wonder Queenstown tops the itineraries of many
travellers.
Slow down slightly in Wanaka - Queenstown's less flashy cousin - which also has good
restaurants, bars and outdoor adventures on tap. With Mt Aspiring National Park nearby,
you're only a short drive from true New Zealand wilderness.
Slow down even more in Glenorchy, an improbably scenic reminder of what Queen-
stown and Wanaka were like before the adventure groupies moved in. Negotiate the Green-
stone and Routeburn Tracks for extended outdoor thrills, or kayak the upper reaches of
Lake Wakatipu.
Across in historic Arrowtown, consider the town's gold-mining past over a chilled wine
or dinner in a cosy bistro. The following day there'll be plenty more opportunities to dive
back into Queenstown's action-packed whirlwind.
When to Go
»
The fine and settled summer weather from January to March is the perfect backdrop to
Queenstown's active menu of adventure sports and outdoor exploration. March also brings
the Gibbston Wine & Food Festival to Queenstown Gardens.
»
Easter sees an inundation of mountain bikers for the Queenstown Bike Festival.
»
In late June the Queenstown Winter Festival celebrates the coming of the ski season.
From June to August, the slopes surrounding Queenstown and Wanaka are flush with an in-
ternational crew of ski and snowboard fans.
»
Spring thaws herald Wanaka Fest in October.
Best Places to Eat
»
Francesca's Italian Kitchen (
Click here
)
»
La Rumbla (
Click here
)
