The Best Places to See Autumn Colours

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is beautiful in any season, but autumn is the best time to visit if you want to experience a sense of calmness with the surrounding landscape blanketed in orange foliage. 

The hills surrounding the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown turn bright with the red and gold hues of turning cottonwoods, and all around town the deciduous trees spectacularly succumb to the cold in parks and along the banks of the Arrow River. Down by the Arrow River, there are numerous positions to take in the contrasts of the trees and the turquoise glacial river, and there’s even the Arrowtown Autumn Festival from 24 - 27 April 2025 with a parade and several community events celebrating the season.

The best time to see the leaves change to golden hues in Arrowtown is between late April and early May. Don't forget to take a camera to soak up the scenery and quaint architecture.

Millbrook

New Zealand's Best Golf Hotel in 2024, Millbrook Resort has some of the best autumn landscapes you'll come across in the region. 

The Queenstown Trail meanders through its manicured grounds, so hire a bike or walk through the Countryside Trail to truly appreciate the colours. Once you've seen the stunning tree-lined avenue, pop into the Hole in One cafe to have a hot chocolate and warm up your insides. 

The best time of year to see the colours come alive in Millbrook is between late April and early May. 

Gibbston 

The Valley of the Vines puts on a show in Autumn, with vineyards in Gibbston prepping for a busy harvest season. 

Take the time to explore the various cellar doors, have a wine tasting and indulge in a long lunch while appreciating the beauty of the area.

The best month to visit Gibbston is mid to late-April when the colours are popping and the spirit of the harvest season is in full swing.

Lake Hayes

The rich colours of maples are reflected in the waters of Lake Hayes on a still day, and the bright colours are vibrant even on a grey day. Take the turnoff to Lake Hayes Reserve and go for a walk along the meandering 8km loop track, encountering other walkers, photographers, cyclists and families enjoying the scenes along the lake — and the spectacular background views of the Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Cecil Peak.

If you're feeling peckish from all that walking and sightseeing, why not stop in to Mora or Amisfield to relax and refuel with delectable food and drink options.

The best time of year to see Lake Hayes at its autumnal peak is between late April and early May.

Shotover River - Arthur’s Point

On the drive between Queenstown and Arrowtown, the Shotover Canyon is covered with deciduous trees that turn vibrant shades of colour in autumn. Below the Edith Cavell Bridge is a place to stop for jet boating with Shotover Jet, a tipple of local craft beer at Cayon Brewing, or a scenic detour to capture the bridge surrounded by colour. Then head down Littles Road to take in the turning poplar trees.

The best time of year to experience the colours light up the surrounding Shotover River landscape with autumnal colours is between mid April to May.

Queenstown Gardens

A stroll around the Queenstown Gardens during autumn will surround you with trees turning, complemented by the evergreens and amongst the perennial rhododendron trees.

You can also play lawn bowls, a game of tennis, or a round of frisbee golf while you're in the gardens. Enjoy a refreshing drink at the Garden bar afterwards located in the Queenstown Ice Arena.

The best time of year to experience the gardens blooming with autumnal colours is between mid April to May.

Queenstown Lakefront

Queenstown Bay is a calming spot to have a picnic and enjoy the golden glow of autumn.

Everywhere you look there are bright yellow, orange and red colours gracing the town. 

The best time of year to see the autumn colours and quieter streets in central Queenstown is between mid April to May.