Queenstown has a magnetism that has drawn many amazing people to live here over the years. Whether it’s the beautiful natural landscapes, spirit of adventure or love of people – there is a shared passion for our place. Meet some of the remarkable people behind our local businesses who call Queenstown home as they share their stories with us.
We are Queenstown.
Our People, Our Home
Zoe & Jeannie, Fork & Tap
Passionate about the community and making people feel at home, Jeannie and her late husband Keith, poured endless love into this making this special spot what it is today.
John & Toni, Kinloch Wilderness Retreat
Surrounded by natural beauty amongst the mountains and lakes, John and Toni love calling Kinloch home. 45 minutes drive from Queenstown, Kinloch Wilderness Retreat is one of the oldest existing lodges in New Zealand.
Shay, Ride to the Sky
Showing people a good time whilst sharing Queenstown’s landscapes and history is just one of the reasons why Shay loves his job.
Matt, iFly
Passionate about uplifting his community, Matt is dedicated to making sure everyone, no matter their ability, can fly beyond their own boundaries.
Erna, Creeksyde Holiday Park
‘The World’s First Environmentally Certified Holiday Park’ - a title that Erna is truly proud of. Not to mention the quirky, recycled, up-purposed artwork around the place.
David, Lakes District Museum
Sharing the history of one of New Zealand's oldest gold mining towns is David's passion and one reason why he’s been in the same job for 32 years.
Trent, Ziptrek Eco Tours
Inspired by the landscapes and passionate about educating people on the environment, Trent’s favourite days are spent hanging out in the treetops high above Queenstown.
Malcolm & Josie, The Cow
If you’ve had a pizza at The Cow, then you’ve probably met Malcolm and Josie as well. Their passion for this place means they’re more often than not cooking and serving their hard-to-beat pizzas.
Guy & Ann, Mt Rosa
100% family owned and operated, Guy and Ann sometimes don’t want to leave at the end of the day. With exquisite wines and office views to match, we can see why.
Meet more of our locals
Discover what drew people like packrafting guide, Huw Miles or outdoor adventure couple, Judy and John to Queenstown.
Learn where they find inspiration and get plenty of insider tips to help plan your trip.
Featured Queenstown Stories Top Itineraries
Full-Time Fun: Asking Jack How to Find Flow in Queenstown
- 10 min read
Jack Howatson is a sit-skier and adaptive adventurer based in Queenstown. Not only is Jack's story inspiring, but his love for adrenaline and determination to enjoy the Queenstown and Wānaka region to the fullest is contagious.
An Insider's Guide to Queenstown's Ski Trails
- 3 min read
Head ski patroller at Coronet Peak Alan Swann, aka Swanny, gives us the low down on skiing in Queenstown. Check out what he has to say.
Mountaineer Hamish Fleming Shares His Favourite Queenstown Winter Adventures
- 8 min read
Once a professional endurance athlete, Hamish now prefers to freestyle his adventures. Whether he’s ice climbing, ski touring, scaling the 24 tallest mountains…
Melanie Roberts: The Guardian Of The Mountain
- 3 min read
Hailing from Bristol in the UK, Mel Roberts has lived in Queenstown since 2013. Her job at Coronet Peak has not only blurred the lines between work and play…
Jay Sherwood: Brewing up Magic in Arrowtown
- 3 min read
According to brewer Jay Sherwood, the key ingredient in Lake & Wood craft beers is the Queenstown region and all it has to offer.
Local Ride Guide Finn O’Connor Shares His Queenstown Insider Tips and Favourite Bike Trails
- 10 min read
Finn takes visitors on guided Queenstown mountain bike tours. He shares his story, tips for travellers, and his favourite Queenstown mountain bike trails.
Meet Anika, a Gibbston Winemaker with a Passion for Regenerating Queenstown’s Environment
- 8 min read
Anika makes wine for Coal Pit Vineyard and Winery in Gibbston. She shares her passion for reforestation, and her favourite Queenstown hikes.