While you're exploring and discovering all that Queenstown has to offer, make sure to visit these iconic spots for the chance to capture that perfect shot!
Anywhere from the air
Capture Queenstown's stunning alpine and lake scenery from the air with a scenic helicopter, fixed-wing flight, hot air balloon or flight charter. Queenstown is unbelievably beautiful, and sometimes the only way to capture that in one image is from above.
Police Camp, Arrowtown
Located only 20 minutes’ drive from Queenstown, the spectacular scenery, distinct four seasons and charming character make Arrowtown a must do for visitors from all over the world. This delightful town has maintained its rich heritage and historic buildings including the restored Police Camp.
Stunning to photograph at any time of year, the camp remains the one constant among the ever-changing foliage that surrounds it.
Bennet’s Bluff Lookout
A drive along the Queenstown – Glenorchy road isn’t complete without a stop at Bennet’s Bluff lookout to admire the expansive views of Lake Whakatipu past Pig and Pigeon Islands towards Glenorchy. Bennet's Bluff is a popular spot for photographers from around the world and can get busy on a beautiful day, so be sure to pay close attention to traffic when pulling in and out of this hot spot.
The Remarkables
The iconic Remarkables mountain range offers mind-blowing views from the south looking north, east, and west.
There is one particular lookout spot on The Remarkables ski field which makes you feel like you're standing on the top of the world with the most spectacular views of the Wakatipu Basin.
If you’re a keen skier, simply hop on the Shadow Basin chairlift and hike up to the lookout. If you’re not so keen on hitting the slopes you can purchase a sightseeing pass at the Snow Centre or Guest Services on the mountain.
Bob’s Peak
Situated high above Lake Whakatipu (450 metres to be exact), accessed by the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere, or a rather taxing 1.5hr hike, sits Skyline Queenstown. Here you can enjoy a 200 degree panorama with breath-taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak and, of course, Lake Whakatipu.
Queenstown Hill
Also known by its Maori name of Te Tapu-nui, Queenstown Hill Time Walk is one of the most popular and accessible walks in the region. The demanding 1.5km walk up Te Tapunui is built to show the past, present and future of Queenstown. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views of the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, parts of Lake Whakatipu and the Kawarau River.
Moke Lake
A popular spot for photography year-round, Moke Lake is an easy 15-minute drive out of central Queenstown. Moke Lake is situated at the end of a dirt road which winds through lush farmland surrounded by spectacular mountains, a rather photogenic drive in itself.
Moke Lake offers fantastic reflections and has become a well-known spot for astrophotography due to limited light pollution in the area.
Glenorchy Red Shed
The iconic red boat shed on Glenorchy wharf is an absolute must visit. Beautiful to shoot at any time of year, the shed is particularly photogenic during winter with the snowy Humboldt Mountain Range in the background.