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
Greenstone 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
international 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
)
»
Bistro Gentil (
Click here
)
