Queenstown is surrounded by spectacular neighbouring regions, making it the perfect base to explore the Southern Lakes and lower South Island of New Zealand.
The Southern Lakes area, in the south west corner of the South Island of New Zealand, is a diverse region made up of spectacular scenery and awesome landscapes, with several beautiful towns populating the region.
Together with Queenstown, Arrowtown, Gibbston, Glenorchy, Kingston, Wanaka, Central Otago and Fiordland all make up the impressive Southern Lakes region. Each of these beautiful towns has a unique identity, friendly people, are set against a backdrop of world class landscapes and are great places to visit.
Must do's include scenic tours in Milford Sound, exploring Arrowtown's gold mining history, immersing yourself in the mountainous landscapes of Glenorchy, tasting award winning wines in Gibbston or biking one of Central Otago's historic trails.
The Queenstown region has a colourful and rich history and a pioneering and entrepreneurial spirit that has helped shape the region's proposition as the home of adventure. The world famous landscapes provide the backdrop for many attractions, activities, nature tours and a huge range of experiences from adrenaline thrills to scenic adventures and world-renowned food and wine.
Queenstown is easily accessible via New Zealand's major highways, bus routes and Queenstown International Airport, and offers a range of quality accommodation and services, from transport to visitor information centres, to ensure you are well equipped to explore our region, and beyond.
Great Rides & Multi-Day Trails Near Queenstown
Queenstown is your perfect starting point for the best bike rides in New Zealand. Here’s six top biking adventures in and around Queenstown.
Read More/ 7 Min Read
The Great Glenorchy Alpine Base Camp: Redefining Wilderness Holidays
The adventure base camp is encouraging people to linger longer and find a better connection in the Southern Alps' UNESCO World Heritage Area.
Read More/ 6 Min Read
Your Arrowtown Shopping Guide
Wander the picturesque historic streets of Arrowtown exploring the region’s heritage, rich creative culture, and artisanal producers. From artists inspired by the region to local producers, Arrowtown is a boutique hub celebrating New Zealand-made fashion, craftspeople, and flavours.
Read More/ 8 Min Read
Central Otago Touring Route: a Low-Impact Guide
Take the 341km journey from Queenstown to Dunedin with Roady, and discover one of New Zealand's most spectacular road trips, the low-impact way.
Read More/ 13 Min Read
Landscapes of Queenstown
Queenstown often takes peoples breath away, and it’s not hard to see why! From Kingston to Glenorchy, the landscape is full of stark beautiful contrasts.
Read More/ 3 Min Read
Things To Do in Kingston
Lovely little Kingston is at the southern end of Lake Whakatipu. Plan your day trip from Queenstown with this guide to things to do in Kingston.
Read More/ 5 Min Read
Southern Scenic Route
The Southern Scenic Route in the lower South Island is one of New Zealand’s top touring routes. The drive is renowned for its journey through spectacular coastal and inland scenery, lush farmland and dramatic alpine landscapes. Start or end your journey in magnificent Queenstown!
Read More/ 6 Min Read