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.
Explore Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO Heritage Area near Glenorchy
- 7 min read
If you love hiking and exploring outdoors, Te Wāhipounamu Southwest UNESCO World Heritage Area is only an hour from Queenstown on Glenorchy’s doorstep.
Bike the Wineries in Gibbston
- 6 min read
Explore the Gibbston region, its wineries, eateries and historic sites by bike. Find out how to get there and plan your Gibbston biking adventure with a…
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.
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…
Caretakers Of The Past: Lakes District Museum
- 2 min read
A world of wonders awaits, whether it’s a letter from the King, ancient moa bones or a precious silver tea set once belonging to William Rees. Lakes District…
Your Arrowtown Shopping Guide
- 8 min read
Wander the picturesque historic streets of Arrowtown exploring the region’s heritage, rich creative culture, and artisanal producers. From artists inspired by…