Queenstown – so much to see and do
A camera is a must-have travel accessory, and it’s an essential for any trip to Queenstown. The Wakatipu Basin’s stunning natural beauty, the diverse seasons - not to mention the sheer number of perspectives to experience it all from make Queenstown a photography playground.
That said, we’ve rounded up some of the top spots to really get that Queenstown feel in all of your shots. These locations capture all angles of Queenstown, from above, below, on the water and in nature.
The TSS Earnslaw
The Lady of the Lake has been gracing the shores of Lake Whakatipu for over a century. Beautifully restored, the ‘Earnie’ will delight from all angles—whether you’re onboard, or watching her come around Queenstown Bay to dock.
The view from Queenstown Hill
The easily-accessed Queenstown Hill Time Walk, is a two hour climb (at a leisurely pace) to the ‘basket of dreams’ and in our opinion, the best spot to capture a spectacular angle of The Remarkables mountain range, one of only two mountain ranges in the world to run directly north to south. Walking slightly further along the hill brings you to a small ‘lake’ for a different view point and photo opportunities.
Views from Coronet Peak
Even in summer, the view from Coronet Peak offers snappers a panorama of the Whakatipu basin, including the Crown Terrace, a hint of Lake Hayes, and The Remarkables, as well as the paragliders and hang-gliders launching themselves off the mountain during Summer.
The Arrow River
Once a gold miner’s dream, the Arrow
River is now a photographic paradise year round, with its distinct seasonal changes. Visit during April and May to capture the stunning autumn colours reflected in the river, or in spring to snap the new growth bright in the trees. Summer sees lupins flowering along the banks, and in winter there’s a chance of snow amidst the wooden tones.
Ben Lomond
This one requires some effort, the summit is a six to eight hour round trip, but you
will be rewarded with a 360 degree view of the Whakatipu Basin. Please take the time to read this information on hiking and walking safely in the region.
Glenorchy Wharf
Glenorchy is a gateway to many activities in the region, but no visit is complete without checking out the Glenorchy Wharf, for its access to lake and mountain views. The famous Red Wharf shed, is a great shot, as are the sunken trees just to the right of the wharf—they create an eerie subject, especially if there happens to be fog rolling over the lake.
Bob’s Peak
Bob’s Peak isn’t considered an iconic Queenstown experience for nothing. The unrivalled views of the Queenstown region are the perfect brag spot for photographers to capture and let the world know where they are. While you’re there look out for lugers, zipliners, mountain bikers, and paragliders as this spot is a hive of adventure activities.
The Devil’s Staircase
This road winds between Lake Whakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, with spectacular views up and down the Kingston arm of the lake. The best photo stop is from the lookout at the top of Devil’s Staircase. Take care when pulling over into the stop.
Lake Hayes
This spot is a photographers dream, with glass like reflections on a still day and views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cecil Peak and off towards Arrowtown in the distance. The two-and-a-half hour walking track loops around the lake, undulating to give difference perspectives at each peak or right down to the water’s edge. The reserve at the north eastern end is a popular swimming hole in the summer, with kayakers and paddle boarders taking to the water.
Cecil and Walter Peaks from Queenstown Bay
Cecil and Walter Peaks were named after William Rees’ sons. Rees was one of the region’s first European settlers and is regarded as the father of Queenstown. You can get great shots of both of these peaks from a sweet possie on Queenstown Beach, taking in the bustling action on the water in the foreground.