We all want to plan a holiday we can feel good about – one where we connect deeply with people, places, and culture and one that helps ensure a place is left better than we found it.

It's no wonder people are drawn to Queenstown. Our spectacular alpine landscapes provide an expansive backdrop to a huge range of sights to see and things to do for adventurers of all kinds.

It’s possible to both enjoy and take care of this place. We've compiled six top tips for an even better trip to Queenstown, you’ll be surprised how easy it is.

 

1. Stay a while, get to know us

Make the most of your visit here and consider extending your stay in Queenstown to fully immerse yourself. Staying longer enriches your experience by giving you the time to delve deeper and meet our people, taste our food, and uncover hidden gems.

Learn how: find inspiration for your extended stay with these multi-day itineraries.

Friends enjoying food and drinks at Fork and Tap - ArrowtownFork and Tap - Arrowtown

2. Explore under your own steam

There’s no better way to connect with the essence of a place than exploring it on foot or by bike. You'll save on petrol costs, reduce your environmental footprint, and enjoy a more immersive travel experience.

Learn how: discover how easy it is to get around Queenstown via the Queenstown Trail or on the $2 public bus network.

Family biking along Queenstown waterfrontQueenstown waterfront

3. Book direct, support local

Booking your travel accommodation and activities directly with operators helps support local businesses. Booking direct helps to ensure your visit leaves a greater positive impact on the Queenstown community and may mean added benefits for you – like more competitive pricing and extra flexibility.

Learn how: make bookings via QueenstownNZ.nz which doesn’t charge any commission or fees to operators.


People hiring an E-bikeBetter By Bike, Bike Hire

4. Learn from our locals

Joining a guided tour or hiring a local guide is a great way to enhance your visit to Queenstown. You’ll likely visit hidden gems that only locals know, meet people you’d never meet otherwise, and leave with a wealth of tips for what to do and see after your tour.

Learn how: discover guided tours on offer in Queenstown.

Two people surrounded by native bush at the kiwi parkKiwi Park


5. Sit, Borrow or BYO

Queenstown is renowned for its great coffee and many of our cafés are doing great things for the environment by ditching single-use takeaway cups. You can do the same during your visit – just Sit, Borrow or BYO.

Learn how: get the guide to good places serving up great coffee, waste-free in Queenstown.

People holding keep cups outside The Boat Shed Cafe and BistroThe Boat Shed Café 

6. Show your love for Queenstown

It’s easy to show your love for Queenstown by simply respecting people, wildlife and places. But we also need extra help to preserve the beauty of this region for future visitors.

Love Queenstown is a local community fund that supports climate, conservation and biodiversity projects in our region that make an impact.

Learn how: join the mission and support Love Queenstown or check out these handy Tiaki tips for treading lightly during your Queenstown trip.

Couple hiking underneath glacier at Earnslaw BurnEarnslaw Burn