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 an entrepreneurial spirit that has helped shape many of its experiences that are on offer today. The world famous landscapes provide the backdrop for many attractions, activities, nature tours and a huge range of activities 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.
Explore Regions and Towns Near Queenstown
Surrounding regions Stories
Things to do in Arrowtown in Autumn
- 4 min read
Fill your days and your cup in the historic goldmining town this autumn. Here's your guide on the many fun things to do in Arrowtown during the autumn season.
Why Autumn is a Great Time to Visit Queenstown
- 2 min read
Autumn is a great time to visit Queenstown, when the colours are bolder, the wine is juicier, and the food tastes even better. Here's some inspiration on how to…
Things to do in Arrowtown Over Summer
- 6 min read
Arrowtown is a summer paradise. Explore waterholes and secluded picnic spots along the Arrow River, hike the walking trails, play golf, or pan for gold with…
Arrowtown: A Treasured Tohu Whenua
- 3 min read
Arrowtown's interesting history, beautiful landscape and the picturesque preservation of the buildings that hold such historic significance in the development…
Explore Arrowtown in Winter
- 7 min read
If you’re heading to Queenstown this winter, take time to explore the historic goldmining village of Arrowtown. Plan your visit with this guide to things to do…
Must-Do Heritage Activities in Arrowtown
- 8 min read
Arrowtown is one of New Zealand’s most photographed towns. This picturesque village was established during the Central Otago gold rush. Well-preserved buildings…
Where to Stay in Gibbston
- 2 min read
Surrounded by stunning schist mountains and hundreds of hectares of grape vines, Gibbston is a wine lover’s dream come true. Here are some of the top places to…