Beauty and bento boxes
Fashion designer Kathryn Wilson tells us why she loves Queenstown.
How long have you lived in your town?
I was born in Auckland and have lived here most of my life, I’ve been lucky enough to spend time in Queenstown throughout my childhood for work, travel, family holidays, and friends’ weddings over the last 13 years.
How often are you based in there?
I try to holiday in Queenstown two to three times a year, it’s my favourite destination for a winter escape.
What attracted you to the area?
The wonderful people, the breathtaking landscape, and the great restaurants and bars.
How would you describe your town in three words?
Stunning, memorable and mischievous.
What is something that you think would surprise people about your town?
The depth of the lake is deeper than you are above sea level.
Where is the first place you would take visiting family and friends?
On board the majestic TSS Earnslaw to visit Walter Peak or to Eichardt’s bar for the goat’s cheese and honey tapas.
Where is the best place to shop? Best place to eat? Best watering hole?
We have wonderful stockists of our footwear in Queenstown including Angel Divine and Goddess, we also love the new Huffer store on Shotover St. My favourite places to eat are Botswana Butchery, Madame Woo and Rata, and I love the martinis at Bardeaux or The Blue Door in Arrowtown.
What was your best day trip in the area?
Arrowtown is a favourite magical town, just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, you feel like you are on a movie set in the goldmines. Or if you’re looking for something special, a scenic helicopter flight to Earnslaw Burn or the Milford Sounds.
What are your favourite outdoor activities?
The jet boat is always a fun day and the Onsen Hot Pools overlooking the Shotover River.
What’s an event people shouldn’t miss in your town?
My annual catwalk event of course! As part of Veuve Clicquot’s ’’Clicquot in the Snow’’.
What could we find you doing on your days off?
The spa at Hush Spa, I could stay there all day. Or a walk around the lake with my daughter, she loves to feed the ducks.
Finally, do you have any secret spots or hidden gems in your town that people should know about?
A lunch bento box at Kappa Sushi in Queenstown mall (with an extra prawn!).