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
What’s New in Arrowtown
- 5 min read
Arrowtown’s vibrant hub of things to do, see, and taste has become even more unmissable with a line-up of new dining and drinking experiences and boutiques.
Arrowtown Art Galleries & Artists' Studios
- 5 min read
Arrowtown is a hidden treasure trove of talented artists. Explore the collection of galleries and artists’ studios and take home a special souvenir.
Postmasters Kitchen + Bar: Keeping It Real
- 4 min read
Tuesdays at Postmasters Kitchen + Bar in Arrowtown are known as “maintenance days.” It’s when owner Sam Laycock loads up the week’s kitchen compost and takes it…
Exploring Gibbston's Wineries and Cellar Doors
- 5 min read
A topline guide for what to expect at Gibbston's wineries and cellar doors.
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…
A Winemakers Guide to Queenstown: Chris Keys Shares his Favourite Local Pinot Noirs
- 8 min read
Chris Keys from Gibbston Valley Winery shares his favourite local wines and explains why autumn is the best time to visit the world’s southernmost wine region.
Southern Scenic Route
- 6 min read
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…