1. Ferg’s Bar

44 Shotover Street, Queenstown

Escape the snow and warm up with some Ferg Fried Chicken and a great line-up of delicious hot tipples to choose from. Mulled wine is only the beginning, Ferg’s Bar has winter warmers for miles with their Ginger Monkey, Pineapple Grog, and Irish Coffee.

Street view of a bar illuminated at nightFerg's Bar

2. Bardeaux

Eureka Arcade off the Mall, Queenstown

Settle in by the huge open fire, explore the wine list heavy on local Pinots, and an impressive line-up of whisky at this elegant Queenstown institution. Bardeaux is an après ski haven for those who fancy a quiet drink in luxurious surrounds after a day on the slopes.

3. Perky’s

Lake Whakatipu, Queenstown

Perky’s Floating Bar gives you uninterrupted panoramic views of Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges. Cosy up with a blanket and a glass of mulled wine on the boat's heated outdoor deck, or tuck up below deck in a snug, wooden booth.

Winter evening at Perkys Floating Bar with friendsPerky's

4. The Bathhouse

308 Marine Parade, Queenstown

A historic gem from 1911 with a spectacular lakefront location, the Bathhouse is ideal for an early evening drink (it closes at 7:00pm). Head there for sunset, find a seat by the fire, and order a glass of Mt Rosa mulled wine or a local negroni made with Rifters Gin.

Al Fresco Dining on Queenstown Beach. The Bathhouse Cafe Bar and Restaurant.The Bathhosue

5. Little Blackwood

Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street

Warm up on a chill winter day with a hot toddy on Litte Blackwood’s heated deck overlooking the lake. If the mountain air gets too bracing, head indoors by the fire, and order a platter and a cocktail, with the classics given a twist for day and night.

Outdoor dining at Little BlackwoodLittle Blackwood

6. The Lodge Bar

2 Rees Street, Queenstown

The Lodge by Rodd & Gunn is country club luxe. Recently refurbished, the oak floors, leather armchairs, fur throws, and blazing fire create an indulgent winter vibe. Their hearty winter menu features oysters, beef cheeks, and Fiordland Wapiti.

Couple sitting outside The Lodge Bar enjoying a drink on a winter event at sunsetThe Lodge Bar

7. Eichardts Bar

Marine Parade, Queenstown

Established in 1867, Eichardts Bar has been a local lakeside landmark ever since. Sink into a sofa by the fire and order from the impeccable cocktail menu, accompanied by seasonal oysters and small plates featuring local ingredients. 

8. Habana Boutique Rum Bar

Eureka Arcade off the Mall, Queenstown

A little slice of tropical Cuba to warm you in the depths of winter, Habana stocks over 70 rums from around the world. Try a shot of sunshine with a rum flight, or a rum tasting masterclass at this colourful little bar with an upbeat vibe and the best mojitos in town.

9. The Bunker

14 Cow Lane, Queenstown

Open log fires and leather sofas welcome you in from the cold at the Bunker. Settle in for an aperitif or dine by the fire with their degustation menus featuring local game and Central Otago produce. Their espresso martini is the perfect winter pick-you-up.

The Bunker Restaurant and Bar exteriorThe Bunker

10. Le Salon Rouge

8 Duke Street, Queenstown

Styled in homage to a prohibition era speakeasy, Le Salon Rouge lives up to its name with warm red velvets and flickering candlelight. Sample Central Otago gins with their gin and tonic menu accompanied by a grazing plate of local cheese and charcuterie.