7 Must-See Queenstown Neighborhoods and How to Visit
Queenstown is a regal destination perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. It sits at the foot of the Remarkables Mountain range, an adventure destination and jumping-off point for exploring some of the South Island’s greatest natural wonders.
Central Queenstown has an atmosphere buoyed by the excitement of travelers realizing their adventurous bucket list dreams in New Zealand. But visitors shouldn’t miss the amass of Queenstown neighborhoods sprawled across the surrounding hillsides, each with their own charm. Whether you’re looking to be in the thick of the city’s energy or find the best views of the area, here are the best neighborhoods to explore in Queenstown.
1. Central Queenstown
The compact and busy heart of Queenstown.
Located on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, Central Queenstown is a lively hub packed with shops, restaurants, and bars. Both visitors and locals stroll the Queenstown gardens and lakefront during the day and fill up the bars at night. Even better? The whole center is walkable. Some of Queenstown’s highlights, like the Skyline Gondola, can be reached on foot, while tours like the iconic TSS Earnslaw cruise leave from central Queenstown.
2. Frankton
Stay within walking distance of the airport.
Frankton sits at the end of the Frankton Arm along Lake Wakatipu. The Queenstown Airport is in Frankton, so it’s the first stop for many travelers. Frankton is a residential area with shopping centers, supermarkets, and big box retailers. This makes Frankton more industrial than Central Queenstown, but it’s a great alternative to the center if you prefer a residential environment. You can walk or cycle into the center via the popular Frankton Walking Track.
3. Kelvin Heights
Golf or stroll in this lavish neighborhood.
Located on a small peninsula facing Central Queenstown across a stretch of water, Kelvin Heights is one of New Zealand’s most luxurious neighborhoods. This affluent residential area is home to the scenic Queenstown Golf Club. If golf isn’t your thing, you can explore Kelvin Heights on foot or via bicycle on the Kelvin Heights Peninsula Trail, which loops around the golf course along the edge of the lake.
4. Fernhill
For spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and its surrounding mountains.
Fernhill spills across the slopes of the Ben Lomond National Park and mountain, offering some of the best views of Queenstown. Although it’s mostly residential, hotels line the lower slopes. Fernhill is the perfect base for active travelers looking for adventure. Some of Queenstown’s most popular hiking trails are accessible from Fernhill, including the Ben Lomond Track and Sunshine Bay Track.
5. Arrowtown
A historic gold rush village.
Arrowtown is a former gold mining town a 20-minute drive from Central Queenstown. The main drag is photogenic, with a string of historic buildings set against a mountainous backdrop. Try your hand at gold panning in the river, or just enjoy wandering the town and dining at the local restaurants and cafes. Arrowtown is an excellent destination for a half-day tour from Queenstown, but it’s also a nice spot to stay if you want to embrace the pace of a small town.
6. Arthur’s Point
Ideal for hiking and snow sports.
Arthur’s Point is between Queenstown and Arrowtown, only a 10-minute drive from Central Queenstown. With easy access to hiking tracks, Arthur’s Point is the perfect base for outdoorsy travelers, as its proximity to Coronet’s Peak Ski Field makes Arthur’s Pass a desirable winter destination. Don’t miss the popular Onsen Hot Pools and the Shotover Jet boat ride on the Shotover River (known as an aquatic playground for thrill-seekers)—two of Queenstown’s must-do activities.
7. Lake Hayes Estate
An idyllic alternative to Lake Wakatipu.
Lake Hayes Estate is a peaceful residential neighborhood just a 15-minute drive from Central Queenstown. It borders the small, serene Lake Hayes. The Lake Hayes Walkway loops around the entire lake and takes around two hours to complete. After the walk, you can reward yourself with a stop at Amisfield Restaurant and Cellar Door, a chic winery with stellar dining.
Keep reading
