Queenstown is a destination that knows how to show visitors a good time. With heart-pumping adrenalin activities, fabulous skiing, stunning scenery, and some of New Zealand’s best food and wine, choosing when to visit can be harder than spotting a kiwi in the wild. While most travellers flock to this destination in winter, there is much to be said for visiting Queenstown in summer. Accommodation is cheaper, the weather is warmer and adventure activities are more fun when you’re not feeling like a popsicle.

It’s also easier to get around with no roads in and around Queenstown closed due to snow. Not that you will need a car once you arrive. Compact Queenstown is the ideal destination to explore on foot. Whether you are in Queenstown seeking adventure, romance or relaxation, summer is the perfect time to kick back with a glass of wine and a long lunch at one of the region’s wineries, head for the hills on a hiking trip or even jump into Lake Wakatipu for a swim if you’re game.

Summer days are also longer, with the sun shining until around 10pm in the height of the season, which means you will be able to pack even more into your holiday. If you don’t have much time, Queenstown is ideal for a long weekend getaway. Adventure activities abound in Queenstown and summer is the perfect time to enjoy them.

Best things to do in Queenstown in summer

Immerse yourself in Queenstown’s history with a visit to the quaint mining towns of Arrowtown or Clyde, or celebrate the region’s farming roots with a laconic tour of Walter Peak High Country Farm. A cruise on TSS Earnslaw, a 112-year-old coal-fired vintage steamship, is an enjoyable way to experience the beauty of Lake Wakatipu and the farm in a single tour. Take in the view while you soak up the sun on the boat’s top deck, and enjoy a barbeque lunch or dinner when you arrive. 

If you’re after adrenaline activities in Queenstown, you can ride the luge, go tandem paragliding or jump onboard the Shotever Jet for a thrilling jetboat ride through Shotover Canyon. Hang on tight as your boat zooms between high canyon walls, cha chas across the water and spins 360 degrees in the middle of the Shotover River. You don’t need to be fit or nimble, just brave enough to get in the boat. Or you could take a ride on the Nevis Swing which travels in a 300 metre arc over a canyon.

Or you could tour nearby Central Otago and enjoy the region’s spectacular scenery and equally spectacular wines, all in the one trip. Hiring a car for the day is easy or you can opt for a wine tasting day trip and let someone else do the driving. Bring your camera, as many of the wineries are as pretty as a picture in summer. It’s also a great summer destination if you’re visiting Queenstown with kids.

Where to stay in Queenstown in summer

If you visit Queenstown in summer, you can stay in the heart of town or stroll there from your accommodation along the scenic walking trail beside Lake Wakatipu with no icy wind blowing off the lake. Wherever you choose to stay, room rates are generally lower during the warmer months which makes it easier to find accommodation that suits you and your budget.

Last year, we stayed in a two-bedroom apartment at Peppers Beacon Queenstown, which has a dress circle location in the heart of town and a choice of accommodation ranging from hotel rooms to four-bedroom penthouses. Outdoor barbeques are available if you would like to self-cater.

The Rees Hotel, a luxury hotel located just out of town on the shores of the lake, offers a similar choice of accommodation and is home to a wine lounge and one of Queenstown’s best restaurants. It’s a picturesque 30 minute walk into town or you can take the complimentary shuttle bus.

For a budget stay, it’s hard to go past Hake House Queenstown, a flashpackers in a peaceful residential street that welcomes travellers of all ages. While couples may prefer to skip the dorms, the cheap and cheerful private rooms offer great value if you don’t mind sharing a bathroom.

Where to eat in Queenstown

Summer is the perfect time to dine at one of the restaurants along the Steamer Wharf beside Lake Wakatipu. Public Kitchen and Bar has a focus on pasta and steak and, as the name suggests, it’s also a great spot to drop into for a drink.

Boardwalk, a restaurant on the first floor of the Steamer Wharf, has some of the best views in town and a choice of indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood is the focus here, but there are also options for vegans and those who prefer meat.

If you’re prepared to queue for Fergburger, you can eat your burger at Earnslaw Park, which has views of the lake. For a special occasion, head to True South Dining Room at The Rees Hotel, where the only things rivalling the food are the sublime mountain views and a dangerously good wine list.

Disclosure: The writers have visited Queenstown in summer numerous times at their own expense and highly recommend it.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in Queenstown, we enjoyed The Rees Hotel and Peppers Beacon.