With seven golf courses within 20 minutes of Queenstown, including four of New Zealand’s internationally-renowned championship Marquee courses – The Hills, Millbrook Resort (Coronet 18 and Remarkables 18) and Jack’s Point – there is no shortage of top-quality golfing experience on offer in the Whakatipu basin.
When you pair that with the best New Zealand has to offer in terms of wine, food, scenery and luxurious accommodation, you have something truly unique.
Make yourself at home at Millbrook
Rated by US Golf Digest as the world’s best golf resort, the five-star Millbrook Resort offers two championship golf courses named after neighbouring mountain ranges – Coronet 18 and Remarkables 18.
After a round of golf you can relax at one of several top-class restaurants, including The Millhouse overlooking the picturesque par 3 island green which has been the stage for some dramatic Sunday afternoon finishes in the New Zealand Open.
Luxury amenities are all at your fingertips at Millbrook Resort, with world-class spa facilities ready to revive you at the end of each day.
Millbrook Resort
Beyond the fairway in Jack’s Point
So, you’ve just sunk a 20-footer on the 18th at Jack’s Point, ranked one of the top 50 golf courses in the world by US Golf Digest, to break 80 for the first time.
What better way to celebrate than with one of Central Otago’s storied pinot noirs as you relax in the Jack’s Point Clubhouse and gaze in wonder at the 2700m of vertical magnificence which is the Remarkables mountain range.
It’s no surprise that the New York Times has just included Jack’s Point amongst its list of dream homes that combine golf, nature and fine wine. Lucky for you, many of the stunning alpine homes built around the course are available to hire, meaning you can get a taste of your own slice of paradise.
Jack's Point Golf Course
Amble into Arrowtown
How about heading into picturesque Arrowtown to celebrate the highlights and commiserate over the missed birdie putts?
The Fork And Tap in the heart of the township has plenty of charm within its stone walls and you’ll love the selection of top-quality local and New Zealand craft beers on offer from the old-school bar.
It’s a short wander along Arrowtown’s historic main street to the Bendix Stables if you are in the mood for a great pub-style meal and don't forget to drop into The Blue Door for a pre-dinner cocktail.
Nearby you’ll find Aosta, with offerings inspired by the cooking techniques of Northern Italy, paired with ingredients carefully selected from growers, breeders, suppliers and wine grown on the land of Central Otago.
For a trip around the world head to The Winery, which has outlets in both Arrowtown and Queenstown and over 80 wines, champagnes, ports and sherries on offer.
Aosta Arrowtown. Credit Isabella Rubie Photography
Queenstown for foodies
If you are in Queenstown’s downtown you’ll be spoilt for choice, with everything from fine dining to delicious Asian fusion, burgers, Japanese, and any number of restaurants will be able to serve you up with a perfect steak.
Whether you are heading out or looking for a nightcap, it’s hard to go past a drink overlooking Lake Whakatipu at one of the many cocktail bars.
Tempt your taste buds on a local food and wine tour
For the committed foodie, there’s even Progressive Dinner Tours taking in Eichardt’s, Amisfield and Aosta - three of Queenstown’s dining destinations.
Why not treat yourself at the boutique Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa, set close to The Hills, Millbrook Resort and Arrowtown Golf Club, where you can find the ultimate in wine indulgence, with a winery, vineyard and cave tour. Or embark on a private wine tasting with the winemaker in their exclusive Lodge Cellar, as well as enjoy a lunch crafted by Head Chef, Anthony Gradiska.
The Grille by Eichardt's
Luxury accommodation
Queenstown is home to some of the most luxurious accommodation in New Zealand, with five-star lodges, exclusive penthouses, boutique private hotels and villas in some of the most incredible settings.
Peruse some of Queenstown's luxury accommodation options to match your ultimate golf holiday here.
Blanket Bay