Woman smiling at camera in Queenstown, NZ

 

Our People, Our Home

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is home to stunning landscapes and spirited people. Delve deeper into a place where inclusivity thrives, cultures and stories are shared, and lives are enriched through a love of the natural surroundings.

Watch the mini-series to meet the passionate locals who make up the fabric of Queenstown’s vibrant community.


"Queenstown is home...

it's almost like it wraps itself around you."

Queenstown is home to a vibrant community, as diverse as its landscapes.

This is a place where people come together, connections run deep and a strong sense of belonging wraps itself around both locals and travellers. Meet the locals who’ve found their happy place here.

"People that come here have a sense of wonder

–and it almost always has to do with really appreciating nature."

Connected by their love for the environment, discover how Queenstown’s breathtaking natural surroundings enrich the lives of a local winemaker, mountain bike guide and dedicated conservationist.

"We're proud of where we are and we love showing it...

–you're part of our whānau, part of our family."

Connection, caring and welcoming others are at the heart of Manaakitanga.

Meet the Queenstown locals who find joy in extending warm welcomes, sharing their unique stories, cultures and passion for this special place.

He aha te mea nui o te ao?

He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata.

What is the most important thing in the world?

It is the people, it is the people, it is the people.

Māori proverb

 

Meet Our People

Black and white portrait of Frances Piacun

Meet Frances Piacun

Founder, Waka Ama and Director, Artbay Gallery

“Queenstown is home... it’s almost like it wraps itself around you. I’m so fortunate to get to meet incredible people here every day. Families and couples in holiday mode at the galleries, and our crews of wonderful locals at our Waka Ama Club.”

Queenstown called to Frances when she was in her sixties after she’d lived all over the world. It was here she discovered her passion for sharing her love of paddling and art with others. 

Read Frances' Queenstown story.

Portrait black and white photograph of Karen Hattaway

Meet Karen Hattaway

Founder, Blue Kanu

“There's this amazingly addictive side to hospitality where you see that look on people's faces when they’ve had a lovely dinner that’s created a wonderful memory, and you just want to do more of that. That began my love of hospitality. I’ve been hooked ever since...”

Karen's love of hospitality and passion for Polynasia soul food helped bring one of Queenstown's most unique dining destinations to life. 

Read Karen's Queenstown story.

   

Meet More of Our Locals

Discover what drew people like mountaineer, Hamish Fleming or ski patrol couple, Charlotte and Sam to Queenstown.

Learn where they find inspiration and get plenty of insider tips to help plan your trip.