Best Time to Visit

Renowned as New Zealand's all-season destination, Queenstown is a gem with its distinctive four seasons, each offering a unique slice of Kiwi life. Thanks to the continental climate, you get the warmth of long, sizzling summers and embrace the refreshing chill of our crisp winters. Nestled on the 45° southern latitude, Queenstown is cosied up against the awe-inspiring canvas of the Southern Alps. Summers promise long, sun-drenched days perfect for outdoor adventures. The autumn paints the hills and countryside in a dazzling display of reds and golds. In the winter, the mountains don a pristine cloak of snow, transforming Queenstown into a snowy wonderland for ski and snowboard aficionados. Come spring, the verdant valleys are teeming with new life, and a vibe that's downright playful. It's entirely feasible to hit the ski slopes in the morning, then be golfing or mountain biking by the afternoon!

Passport/Visa

Citizens of Australia and the UK, as well as visa waiver countries, do not need to apply for a visa for short visitor stays, but may need to produce documented proof of onward travel. Visa waiver countries include the USA and multiple countries across Europe and Asia, Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, and Vatican City. Since 2019, travellers that are visa waiver must request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) prior to travel. It is mandatory for all sea and air arrivals, including transit. The issued authorisation is valid for two years. Citizens of other countries will need to apply for a visa in advance, which can be done online for solo travellers and in paper format for those travelling with a partner or as a group. The applicant’s passport validity in this case will need to last 3 months after the planned departure date.

• Web:

  en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_New_Zealand

Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is located 9 km (6 miles) northeast of the city centre in the lakeside settlement of Frankton, and it is easily accessible by bus and taxi. Taxis, airport shuttles and buses are located outside the terminal building. Orbus Public Bus Service runs public busses in Quenstown. Purchase a Bee Card online, or at the Otago Regional Council in Frankton (during business hours), or with pay cash on the bus. Using the Bee card is considerably cheaper. Super Shuttle, Ritchies Wanaka and Tracknet companies offer shuttle bus services. The journey to the city centre takes approximately 20 minutes.

• Web:

  www.queenstownairport.co.nz

• Address:

  Sir Henry Wigley Drive, Frankton, Queenstown

• Phone:

  +64 3 450 9031

Public Transport

Queenstown’s CBD is small, compact and can be walked easily. You can hop on the Queenstown ferry network from Frankton Arm to Queenstown. The local bus service, Connectabus, provides transport to Fernhill, Frankton and Arrowtown with day passes available. Services run from 7 am to around 11 pm. You can pay for your ride with the Bee public transit card.

• Web:

  www.orc.govt.nz/public-transport/queenstown-buses-and-ferries

Taxi

Numerous taxi companies operate throughout Queenstown. Zoomy, Ola NZ and Uber rideshare apps are a convenient way to find a ride, too.

• Web:

  www.queenstownnz.co.nz/plan/services/transport-services/taxis-and-shuttles

• Address:

  Queenstown Taxis

• Phone:

  +64 3 450 3000

Electricity

New Zealand operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in Australia, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.