• Scout Loves & Scout Tips
• Queenstown Accommodation
• Resort Activities
• Getting There and Around

Queenstown Accommodation

There are many options for accommodation in Queenstown ranging from backpacker hostels to boutique luxury lodges. Depending on your style and budget, you’ll be able to find something that fits your needs. If you don’t want to rent a car, choose a hotel that’s within walking distance to the town area and close to ski resort bus stops. Some options also exist a little out of town and a few of those hotels provide shuttle buses in. Frankton is close to the airport and has several options, but some may find it to be a little too far out of town.

Here is a list of Scout's top accommodation options in Queenstown:

Rees Luxury Hotel & Apartments - The Rees is one of Queenstown’s favorite hotels, ideal for couples wanting a high quality apartment or stylish and modern hotel room, and who would sacrifice a center-of-town location for incredible views – this hotel is the perfect grandstand for those wanting to sit back and stare in wonder at The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu. Located 20 minutes walk from downtown, or via the complimentary hotel shuttle.

The Spire Hotel - The Spire is an ultra chic, modern hotel right in the center of Queenstown. As cool as the decorations are, the hospitality is warm and the service attentive. Located in the centre of downtown Queenstown, the Spire is perfect for people who like to keep up with the trends.

The Dairy - The Dairy is one of Queenstown’s most popular guesthouses with a distinct laid-back feel to it and unbeatable service. and avoids the snootiness of some of Queenstown’s most exclusive boutique hotels. Yet it retains a quality of service which is arguably even better than some of the more up-market hotels. Ideal for anyone who enjoys a smaller hotel without sacrificing some of the luxuries of the big chains.

The Sofitel - Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa is a French inspired luxurious getaway right in the heart of Queenstown. Conveniently located right beside a transport hub where ski buses can pick you up and take you directly to the slopes, Sofitel Queenstown has some great facilities that go along with any 5 star hotel. 

Eichardt's Private Hotel - One of Scout’s favorite Queenstown hotels – elegant, warm, luxurious and centrally located. Steeped in history and effortlessly sophisticated, Eichardt’s is a cut above.

Azur - Azur is one of Queenstown’s top luxury lodges and it’s somewhere you go to be completely spoilt. Accommodating a maximum of 18 guests, Azur has extremely personal service, ideal for sophisticated couples wanting a romantic, secluded and special escape.

The Commonage - The Commonage Villas have perhaps some of the best views in town – thanks to their prime position on Queenstown Hill. Luxuriously appointed and spacious, these self-contained villas would make the ideal base for families or groups who are looking for a special home away from home. Each villa feels private and secluded, and there are various options for one, two or three bedrooms. 

Element Escapes - If you are looking for a modern and convenient apartment that’s relatively close to Queenstown, Element Escapes is a good choice. The property consists of two apartment complexes that are situated at Kent St and Panorama Terrace, both on the Queenstown Hill behind the main downtown area. Perfect for small groups of friends who want a modern style of apartment close to Queenstown.

Blanket Bay - The perfect place to come and relax after a hectic week on the slopes. This beautiful lodge has spectacular views, stunning architecture, huge rooms and highly-personalised service. A top choice to tag onto the end of a hectic week of skiing in Queenstown or Wanaka to relax and unwind before heading back to the ‘real’ world (or the perfect base for a heli skiing holiday!). Did we mention it is all-inclusive!

The Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, The Hilton, and the Crowne Plaza are also fantastic options for those wanting to stay close to downtown Queenstown, and suited to any budget.

Note: Scout does not sell New Zealand lodging ski packages. This is an information only page.

Resort Activities

Queenstown has more activities (other than skiing) than any other ski resort in the world. From the classic and exhilarating bungy jump to a more sedate but equally spectacular gondola ride up to the Skyline restaurant and visitor complex, there’s something for everyone. These activities tend to be a little quieter in winter so there’s no need to book ahead – all have offices in downtown Queenstown so wander amongst them when you first arrive and take your pick.

There are several heli-ski operators in Queenstown all accessing similar terrain in the backcountry around the area. Read our review of Southern Lakes Heliski to get a taste of what it’s like.

Getting There and Around

Flying

Air New Zealand, Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar fly directly from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Where possible it’s worth getting the direct flight to give yourself more time to enjoy in Queenstown. There are many daily regional flights from the main NZ cities of Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington.

Driving

It’s possible to drive to Queenstown after flying into Christchurch. It’s a spectacular drive, but one that you should take your time on. It takes about six and a half hours in good weather, but longer if it’s snowy.

The drive from Wanaka has two options over the stunning Crown Range road (often featured in car ads) or via Cromwell. Both take about an hour, but take care on the Crown Range road as it’s twisty, and busy with ski traffic in the mornings and afternoon.

Orientation

Queenstown centre is small and easy to get around without a car. However, due to the town’s size and location on a lake, surrounded by mountains, it has spread out so some hotels can be a distance from downtown. Frankton is a small village area near the airport with various shops and services.

Distance to Ski Resorts

Queenstown’s ski resorts are not accessible directly from Queenstown. Coronet Peak is a 20-minute drive and The Remarkables is about 40 minutes up a steep dirt road.  The road starts just past the airport.

Cardrona is on the Crown Range road to Wanaka, about 60 minutes from Queenstown and Treble Cone is about 1 hour 30 minutes (past Wanaka), with the last part being a very steep and hairy dirt road.