What are the best ways to get around Queenstown?
Public transport
Queenstown is quite compact so if you’re staying in the city centre, you only need to think about getting public transport if you plan to travel further afield. Connectabus runs throughout the town and can take you to Queenstown Airport (ZQN), Arrowtown and more. A trip costs about $4 and services run every 20 minutes from the centre. If you book Wellington to Queenstown flights and stay in a hotel, you may find that many of them provide free shuttle services into the city centre.
Walking or cycling
Visitors with summer flights from Wellington to Queenstown may consider hiring a bike for their stay in the alpine resort town. The cycling paths in the centre are generally very good and are popular with locals, particularly during the summer months. Hitting these paths are also a great way to see the beautiful lakes and mountain ranges that the area has to offer. As the town itself is small, walking is another great way to see everything that Queenstown has to offer.
Hire car
Many visitors booking flights from Wellington to Queenstown often plan intend to spend some time outside of the town centre, with trips to popular spots including Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier, and Glenorchy. If you plan to explore more of Central Otago or the wider South Island, then think about hiring a car once you’ve booked your Wellington to Queenstown return flights. Many hire car companies will pick you up in a shuttle bus from Queenstown Airport and take you to the rental car pick-up spot.
What are the best restaurants in Queenstown?
Rātā
When you book flights from Wellington to Queenstown, be sure to reserve your table at Rātā in advance. It’s helmed by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett and is one of the most highly regarded restaurants in the region. Rātā is fine dining at its best, with a menu inspired by the diverse cultures of New Zealand. The menu changes daily, and the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.
The Bunker Restaurant & Bar
You’d be forgiven for walking right past the Bunker Restaurant & Bar, but that’s part of its charm. A favourite among locals, Bunker is still a bit of a hidden gem in Queenstown. If you do find it, you’ll be rewarded with one of the tastiest meals in the city. The menu dishes up everything from venison to scallops, and a jazz-style soundtrack is the perfect accompaniment. The Bunker is a cosy and intimate restaurant ideal for couples wanting a night out while away on flights from Wellington to Queenstown.
Fergburger
Fergburger is a world-famous Queenstown institution and a must-visit for foodies heading south on Wellington to Queenstown flights. This burger joint is incredibly popular and the queue is almost always long, so come prepared to wait a while. Staff will often hand out menus to those waiting in line, so you'll be ready to place your order by the time you make it to the counter. Early-risers can nab one of the breakfast burgers, or those visiting later in the day can bite into burgers made with beef, chicken, pork and even venison patties. There are also vegetarian and kids' options.
No5 Church Lane
Snapped up cheap flights to Queenstown from Wellington for a group trip? If you’re travelling to Queenstown with friends, No5 Church Lane is a great place for large groups. The menu is designed for sharing and the cocktails are among the best in the city. There is also a range of local craft beers on offer and a large wine list.
Madam Woo
Another restaurant in Queenstown opened by Josh Emett, Madam Woo serves up traditional Malaysian food with a twist. Much like the chef’s Rātā restaurant, Madam Woo is also very popular, so don’t forget to call and reserve a table as soon as you can if you grab last-minute Wellington to Queenstown flights.
What should I pack for my stay in Queenstown?
Outdoor clothing
With so many activities and events on year-round, visitors with plane tickets to Queenstown from Wellington may not necessarily spend too much time inside. As Queenstown is an alpine region, packing against the cold is vital. If you’re travelling in the winter, a warm jacket, hat, gloves and scarf are essential to keep you warm even when temperatures fall below zero. Outside of the winter months, there can still be a cold breeze and the occasional downpour, so it’s worth packing suitable wet weather clothing. If you plan to go hiking or skiing, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
Good footwear
If you plan to do any of the hikes and walks throughout the Queenstown area, be sure to pack reliable footwear. The Queenstown Hill Time walk, Moonlight Track and Mt Crichton Loop Track all have sections that can become slippery terrain, so be sure to check conditions before heading out and strap on some sturdy shoes with good grip.
Skiing and snowboarding
If you plan on skiing and snowboarding and don’t already have the correct gear, there are plenty of shops in the city centre, including Kathmandu, Mountain Warehouse and The North Face. As it’s such a popular destination with skiers and snowboarders, you’ll easily be able to find everything that you need in the city. You might also find hire outlets if you don't want to purchase your own kit.
