Five reasons to head to Queenstown for a winter break
There are two ways you could approach winter in New Zealand. Either curl up in a ball and hibernate from the moment the autumn leaves turn red until spring daffodils rear their heads (not recommended) or use it as a chance to recharge by doing something exciting in a place where winter equals fun.
Luckily we have one of the world’s most exciting winter playgrounds on our doorstep. Whether you’re all about skiing, mountains and adventure; or red wine, roaring fires and good food, Queenstown should be on your mind for a winter getaway.
Here are five reasons to visit Queenstown this winter.
THOSE VIEWS
Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, Queenstown is the perfect place to fully embrace winter. The alpine environment offers crisp, blue-sky days, snow-capped mountains and a shimmering lake. As you wander around, you will pinch yourself to figure out if you’re on holiday or walking through a movie set.
WINTER SPORT PARADISE
If you’re a mad keen skier or snowboarder it doesn’t get much better than this. The region has four ski fields easily reached from the centre of town - ranging from 20-90 minutes by car or mountain transport. The ski fields offer a variety of terrain for different skill levels - those who are simply trying to ace standing up to those who are keen to go offpiste, heli skiing or night skiing.
SMALL, BUT PERFECTLY FORMED
Queenstown packs a punch. It is small enough to be super convenient and easy-tonavigate but large enough to boast a cosmopolitan vibrant energy that makes it a lively South Island hotspot. The wide range of accommodation, activities, ski fields, events, eateries and bars all create an incredible buzz which is hard to find elsewhere in New Zealand.
PERFECT FOR MIXED GROUPS
Queenstown is perfect for family and friends with a range of interests and items on their bucket lists to tick off. Visitors looking to relax can indulge in luxury day spas, soak in hot pools, take pilates and yoga classes, enjoy the local pinot noir and check out the incredible eateries. In addition to the ski fields, the active adventurers can also go for winter strolls, bike rides along the Queenstown Trail, or try activities like bungy jumping, canyon swings, jet boats,
boat rides, hot air ballooning, four wheel driving into abandoned mining villages, and scenic flights.
FOODIES PARADISE
It’s fair to say you won’t go hungry in this part of the country. If you count the eateries in nearby Arrowtown (and you should, as there are some great ones) there are more than 150 places to eat in the Queenstown region ranging from fun and casual to sophisticated fine dining. Stylish bars and clubs, classic Kiwi pubs, and late night hot spots complete the food and beverage picture - you’ll be spoiled for choice for après ski action.
And, of course, Queenstown is conveniently located with easy flights from all the main centres so there’s no excuse not to be able to get there. Head to queenstownNZ.nz to start planning your winter adventure now.