Queenstown City Guide

Food options include local lamb, seafood, pavlova, plus diverse international cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan choices are easy to find. Late-night food is available near town center.

Nightlife centers in town with many bars, pubs, and clubs. It’s lively, especially during peak seasons.

Strong coffee scene with many specialty cafes and diverse brewing styles.

Tipping is not expected or required, but small tips for great service are appreciated.

Buy SIM cards at the airport or city stores from Spark, Vodafone, and 2degrees. Registration with ID is needed. eSIM options available with some providers.

City is clean with regular waste and recycling services. Sanitation issues are rare.

Limited 24/7 services. Some petrol stations and convenience stores open overnight. Most pharmacies and clinics have business hours.

Supermarkets like FreshChoice, New World, and Countdown stock a wide range of international products. They open from early morning to late evening, including Sundays but with shorter hours.

Most places accept card payments, including contactless, so cash isn’t needed much.

ATMs from ANZ, BNZ, Westpac, and ASB are common. Local withdrawals usually have low or no fees. International cards may have fees.

Local schools such as Wakatipu High School and Remarkables Primary accept international students. No international schools, but lessons are in English. Contact schools directly for admissions info.

Community is growing. Some networking events and good cafes for work. Not as big as in larger cities.

Excellent green spaces like Queenstown Gardens and the Queenstown Trail offer great outdoor options.

Scenic routes include Queenstown Trail and gardens. Running groups exist; events like the marathon are held yearly.

Multiple gyms available including facilities with pools and courts.

Courts available at Queenstown Gardens and Events Centre. Some offer equipment rental.

Few padel courts exist, mostly at private clubs or new sports centres.

Yoga studios like Nadi Wellness offer classes with English-speaking instructors.

Facilities offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and boxing. Check for drop-in options.

Major ski destination with Coronet Peak and The Remarkables nearby. Good snow and terrain for all levels. Rentals available.

Popular activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, jet boating, sailing, and windsurfing on the lake.

No ocean surfing available.

Freshwater diving and snorkeling in Lake Wakatipu. Visibility varies; mainly freshwater fish. Diving courses are offered.

Good public and private care is available. Queenstown Medical Centre and Lakes District Hospital offer general and emergency services with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Unichem and Life Pharmacy have common medicines. Emergency number is 111.

Tap water is generally safe to drink.

Plenty of playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and baby supplies at stores. Attractions like Skyline Gondola and Kiwi Park are good for families.

Very accepting city with low discrimination risks. Inclusive venues common though few dedicated LGBTQ+ spots.

Pet-friendly with many accommodations and pet parks. Veterinary care and supplies are available.