Visiting Queenstown in winter should be on everyone’s bucket list. The snowy mountain tops, stunning views around the town, cosy and inviting cafes and restaurants. If you’re planning your next snow trip, this guide breaks down the perfect Queenstown winter itinerary, packed with local insight and useful tips.
From Queenstown skiing destinations to exploring nearby historic towns, winter hikes and cosy dining spots, we’ve mapped out what to do, where to eat and how to travel around. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with friends and family, this itinerary is built to help you get the most out of your holiday in Queenstown.
Planning Your Queenstown Winter Itinerary
Winter in Queenstown runs from June through August, but you can often still find fresh snowfall into September and even October. Before you land, decide what you want to do most, whether that be skiing, sightseeing, relaxing or a mix of it all as there are so many things to do in Queenstown winter.
Accommodation books out fast in winter. Lock in your base well in advance, especially if you plan to stay near the ski fields or town centre. Many travellers choose self-contained units with parking, kitchens and room to dry wet gear. If you plan on hitting more than one ski resort, you can organise multi-day lift passes early to save. Lastly, book your rental car so you can travel around at your own pace and avoid and easily get to all the hot spots on your list.
Getting Around Queenstown in Winter
The easiest way to experience Queenstown in winter is with your own car or van. From ski field car parks to sunrise drives along Lake Wakatipu, getting a rental means you don’t have to rely on public transport schedules or limitations. At Mode Rentals, you’ll find a good range of winter-ready vehicles available right from Queenstown Airport. You can choose from compact options to get around easily or something bigger to carry your ski gear. Snow chains and ski racks can also be added to your vehicle booking to make sure you’re ready to hit the slopes and get around on your Queenstown holiday.
Day 1: Arrival & Begin Your Alpine Adventure
Pick Up Your Mode Rental & Get Settled
- Touch down, collect your bags and pick up your rental near Queenstown airport. From there, cruise into town, check into your accommodation and drop your bags.
First Afternoon on Coronet Peak
- If you’re looking to get straight into it, kick off your Queenstown skiing at Coronet Peak in the afternoon. Located just over 20 minutes from town, you can easily spend an afternoon skiing without feeling too rushed. With long groomed runs and one of the only night skiing experiences in the country, it’s an ideal way to ease into the trip.
- There is ski and snowboarding gear available to hire on-site at Coronet Peak or you can pick up your equipment in town from providers like Browns Ski Shop or One Stop.
Evening Eats: Queenstown’s Cosy Dining Spots
- After a day on the slopes, settle into town for a hearty feed. Head to Fergburger for a famous local classic or book a table at Blue Kanu for a twist on Polynesian-Asian fusion. If you’re after low-key, head to Yonder for live music and local beers.
Day 2: Skiing, Snowboarding & Après-Ski
Hit the Slopes Early on The Remarkables
- Fuel up with breakfast, then hit the road early. The Remarkables are about a 45-minute drive from Queenstown's centre and they offer a mix of wide beginner trails, terrain parks and challenging runs, making it a favourite for all skill levels. The Remarkables are the perfect spot to spend the morning skiing or snowboarding.
Afternoon Craft Beer or Wine Tasting
- After you’ve hung up your boots, take a short detour to Gibbston Valley. This wine region is tucked just outside Queenstown and is perfect for a late lunch with a glass of local pinot noir. If beer is more your speed, Smiths Craft Beer House in town has you sorted.
Night Ski Session or Soak at Onsen Hot Pools
- If you’re not quite done for the day, return to Coronet Peak for night skiing under the stars. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing for your evening, unwind at Onsen Hot Pools.
Day 3: Snow Adventure & Local Experiences
Morning: Snowmobile Safari or Skyline Gondola
- Start your day with a guided snowmobile tour through the backcountry or hop on the Skyline Gondola for a relaxed morning. The gondola climbs above Queenstown to a lookout point with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding ranges.
Afternoon: Queenstown Gardens & Lakefront Walk
- Return to town for a peaceful walk through Queenstown Gardens. Even in winter, this path is a lovely and quiet loop beside the lake, with photo spots, sculptures and mountain views.
Evening: Local Favourites for Dinner & Live Music
- Cap off the day with dinner at Margo’s for modern Mexican or The Cow for pizza by candlelight. Live music venues like The World Bar or Zephyr are also a cosy way to end another packed day.
Day 4: Day Trip to Arrowtown
Morning Drive to Arrowtown with Scenic Stop-Offs
- Take the slow road to Arrowtown, less than 30 minutes from Queenstown centre. Arrowtown is a charming historic village, known for its gold mining heritage, boutique shops and old-town feel. It’s an ideal half-day trip for strolling and grabbing some food.
- Stop at Lake Hayes on your way into Arrowtown for stunning views of the lake.
Explore Arrowtown’s Cafés & Cinema
- Wander Arrowtown’s heritage streets, warm up with coffee from The Chop Shop and explore boutique stores and galleries. Catch a film at Dorothy Browns, a small theatre with leather armchairs and wine service.
Evening Spa Relaxation or Final Run Down the Slopes
- Return to Queenstown for a relaxing afternoon at Kamana Lakehouse’s spa for sunset views from the infinity tub. Book ahead as these spots fill quickly in winter.
- If you’re wanting to make the most of your time in the snow, head back over to Coronet Peak or The Remarkables for one final afternoon of skiing or snowboarding.
Day 5: Explore Glenorchy
Morning Drive to Glenorchy
- Wake early for the drive to Glenorchy, one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes. The road runs along Lake Wakatipu and passes endless mountain views.
Walk the Invincible Gold Mine or Dart River Trails
- Once in Glenorchy, choose your adventure. The Invincible Gold Mine track is a short but steep hike with historic mining relics, while the Dart River is home to many day adventures, from speed boating to guided kayak tours down the river.
Return for a Final Feast in Queenstown
- Finish your day back in Queenstown with a memorable dinner. Try Rata by Josh Emett or grab a table at Public Kitchen on the waterfront for a delicious final dining experience.
Day 6: Brunch, Lake Views & Departure
Slow Morning with Brunch at a Local Favourite
- Start your last day slowly. Head to Bespoke Kitchen or Vudu Café for a coffee and something warm for breakfast or snacks. Grab a table near the window and soak up the final view of the lake.
Stroll the Lakefront or Visit a Market (If Weekend)
- Take one last wander through the streets of Queenstown and take in the lakefront views before packing up.
Return Your Rental & Depart Queenstown
- Drop your car off near Queenstown Airport, hop on the airport shuttle and get ready to catch your flight out.
Winter Driving Tips for Queenstown Roads
Driving in winter requires a little extra prep. Mornings often mean black ice, especially on shady corners or ski field access roads. Keep speeds low, brake early and carry snow chains. Fit your chains before heading up the mountain, even if roads look clear and make sure you check weather conditions before heading out.
All Mode Rentals vehicles can be equipped with snow chains, ski racks and winter-ready tyres. Ask our team to show you how to fit chains safely, and always check local road reports before driving to the slopes.
Make Your Queenstown Holiday Easy With Mode
At Mode Rentals we’ll get you through your Queenstown winter itinerary with ease. We’ve got a large range of comfortable and reliable vehicles available just outside of Queenstown Airport for you to choose from. Our Reward Mode programme even gives you discounts at local spots and activities around Queenstown. Head over and browse our vehicle options online or speak to one of our team and start planning the perfect Queenstown holiday.
Queenstown in Winter FAQs
Is Queenstown worth visiting in winter?
Queenstown in winter is the perfect base for ski holidays, with access to Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona. The town really comes alive in the winter months with seasonal events, delicious dining options and stunning winter lakefront views.
How many days do you need in Queenstown?
A 5-7 day timeframe is generally considered a good period to visit Queenstown. This will let you enjoy skiing, explore surrounding towns like Arrowtown and Glenorchy, and still leave room for rest.
What is the best month to go to Queenstown?
For skiing and winter experiences, visit between July and September is often the best time to visit Queenstown. These months often bring the best snow conditions, making it the perfect time to visit if you’re looking to head up the slopes.
