Summary
Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s prominent tourist hubs, attracting both domestic visitors from across the country as well as international travelers from around the world.
Every year, more than 2 million guests arrive at this South Island destination to indulge in a variety of experiences.
Queenstown boasts a remarkably diverse atmosphere thanks to its close proximity to historic sites, museums, national parks, and various other attractions.
Most of these cultural hotspots are easily accessible from the mountainous New Zealand town.
In this article, we present a curated list of 15 exceptional places to explore, assisting you in maximizing your day trips from Queenstown, New Zealand.
1. Wanaka
Wanaka is a picturesque lakeside town situated 64 kilometers from Queenstown.
During the 1 hour and 30 minutes drive, you will experience breathtaking landscapes featuring crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped mountains.
This town is nestled in the Southern Alps adjacent to Lake Wanaka, which shares its name.
Occasionally, Wanaka becomes tranquil, particularly during the off-peak tourist seasons, rendering it an ideal retreat from the excitement of Queenstown.
There are numerous activities available for individuals and families seeking to connect with nature in this relaxed lakeside environment.
The exceptional hospitality extended by the local residents is perhaps Wanaka’s most appealing trait.
2. Historic Arrowtown
For any passionate explorer, a visit to Historic Arrowtown is essential to gain insight into the intriguing history of the gold mining era.
Arrowtown is situated just 21 kilometers away, a mere 15-minute drive from Queenstown.
This town houses the excellent Lake District Museum.
This charming settlement lies conveniently between Queenstown and Wanaka, surrounded by trees and lush vegetation that transform into vibrant colors during autumn.
Strolling along the banks of the Arrow River grants you the opportunity to rediscover the life that once filled this area during the gold rush.
Although the miners are long gone, their legacy endures within the town.
This quaint community features historic buildings lining the streets.
Main Street showcases a distinctive dining and shopping precinct.
The preserved gold rush township of Arrowtown is rich in heritage, which is why it remains an iconic tourist destination in the South Island.
3. Lakes District Museum
This museum is frequently regarded as one of the finest small museums in New Zealand.
It is located north of Queenstown within the picturesque setting of Historic Arrowtown.
The Lakes District Museum features an exceptional collection of intriguing artifacts, photographs, and films that narrate the history of this beautiful Lakes District.
Additionally, it serves as Arrowtown’s Information Center and post office.
Among the artifacts on display are essential mining tools and clothing from the 18th century.
These items provide an authentic glimpse into early life in the district.
Upon completing your tour of this remarkable museum, consider visiting the neighboring art gallery, which showcases both local and international exhibitions.
4. The Catlins
The Catlins is a region on the southern coast of the South Island.
This rural area features a rugged coastline abundant in marine life, sandy beaches, and native forests.
If you seek an authentic experience of New Zealand at a slower pace, The Catlins offers a rich coastal experience.
Traveling from Queenstown to The Catlins takes approximately 3.5 hours.
This region makes for an easy day trip from Queenstown, allowing you to witness the thriving marine life sustained by nutrient-rich waters.
If fortunate, you may spot New Zealand sea lions, the rare yellow-eyed penguins, Hector’s dolphins, albatrosses, petrels, and gannets.
5. Skippers Canyon
Skippers Canyon is located approximately 30 minutes north of Queenstown.
This historic canyon stretches 22 kilometers in length.
Once a bustling site for gold mining, Skippers Canyon was also the first location in New Zealand to generate hydroelectricity to support mining operations.
This scenic gorge was sculpted by one of New Zealand’s richest gold-bearing rivers, the Shotover River.
The canyon is accessible via the Skippers Road, predominantly a one-way route.
The steep and narrow Skippers Road ranks among the most breathtaking and precarious roads in New Zealand.
During your day trip to Skippers Canyon, you will appreciate the stunning scenery along with the excitement of navigating cliff-side gravel roads.
6. Routeburn Track
Are you prepared for an alpine expedition? This track is recognized as one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and is situated a 45-minute drive from Queenstown.
The complete Routeburn track measures 32 kilometers in length.
Along its path, the trail traverses both Fiordland National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park.
For those wishing to extend their visit, hiking the track is an option.
It typically takes about 2 to 3 days to complete the entire route.
The Routeburn Track showcases some of the most impressive scenery, including vast valleys, towering mountain peaks, cliffs, lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
Four huts are maintained along the trail for hikers’ convenience.
7. Alexandra
Alexandra is a charming town located along the banks of the Clutha River.
This engaging town sits at the confluence of the Manuherikia River.
Alexandra is situated over an hour’s drive from Queenstown.
This underrated gem of the South Island thrives with orchards, vineyards, and a rich history associated with mining.
If visiting Alexandra in winter, make sure to check out the Lower Manorburn Dam, a popular spot for ice skating.
In summer and autumn, the town flourishes with locally grown apples, cherries, peaches, and apricots.
8. Central Otago
Central Otago is located within an hour’s drive from Queenstown.
This area is renowned for its warm hospitality.
Central Otago embraces the motto, “A World of Difference.”
There is much to discover in Central Otago within a single day; it also offers numerous leisurely activities suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers.
The area serves as a sanctuary for leisure activities.
It is rich in history, diverse wildlife, esteemed wineries (over 80), and picturesque cycling trails.
An array of mountain ranges and broad plateaus invites exploration on the 58-kilometer day trip from Queenstown.
9. Milford Sound
Milford Sound, also known as Piopiotahi, is located approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from Queenstown.
Piopiotahi is acclaimed as one of the country’s most celebrated tourist destinations, once referred to as “the 8th wonder of the world.”
This fjord is renowned for its magnificent waterfalls, surpassing the height of Niagara Falls.
This makes the 295-kilometer journey exceptionally worthwhile.
Piopiotahi lies within Fiordland National Park, recognized as a region largely untouched by human hands.
The breathtaking landscape features blue-green fjords, verdant rainforests, and imposing mountain ranges.
10. Kawarau Gorge
This significant river gorge situated in Central Otago holds considerable historical importance.
Kawarau Gorge lies between Queenstown and Cromwell.
The Kawarau River flows through the gorge.
Kawarau Gorge extends approximately 30 kilometers from Queenstown to Gibbston and continues for another 25 kilometers, where the river flows into the upper valley of the Clutha River.
The drive from Queenstown to this naturally stunning gorge, once a hub for gold miners a century ago, takes about 50 minutes.
During the Otago Gold Rush of the 1860s, the gorge was filled with activity.
History enthusiasts should visit the Kawarau Gorge to explore the preserved remnants of the miners’ cottages.
Visitors can also try their hand at panning for gold at the Goldfields Mining Centre.
11. Glenorchy
Glenorchy is positioned 45 kilometers from Queenstown.
This settlement is a true paradise in New Zealand.
Glenorchy is encircled by breathtaking snow-capped mountains, ancient beech forests, crystal-clear lakes, and pristine rivers.
This frontier town has gained recognition as a filming location for numerous movies, including “The Lord of The Rings” and “The Hobbit.”
Close to this vibrant rustic town are the Kinloch and Paradise settlements, noted for their incredible scenery.
Glenorchy continues to draw naturalists, who frequently stop for photographs during their 45-minute drive from Queenstown.
12. Mt Aspiring National Park
The Mt. Aspiring National Park is located 2 hours from Queenstown in the Southern Alps of the South Island.
This national park was established in 1964 and is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site.
Covering an area of 3,562 square kilometers, it ranks as the third-largest park in New Zealand.
Mount Aspiring, which lends its name to the park, rises to an elevation of 3,033 meters above sea level.
Visitors travel from Queenstown to this popular hiking and mountaineering destination for an extraordinary hiking experience up the mountain.
13. Fiordland
Fiordland is located 2.5 hours from Queenstown.
A visit to this stunning natural area provides a glimpse into a time when the world remained untouched by civilization.
Recognized as one of the most remarkable wilderness regions in the Southern Hemisphere, Fiordland has been designated as a World Heritage Site.
If you aspire to witness one of the most isolated places on the planet, now is the time to prepare for a day trip to this pristine region, home to the magnificent fjords of Milford Sound.
Fiordland National Park is composed of elegantly carved valleys, wetlands, rainforests, and striking mountain environments.
14. Remarkables Market
Unlike other well-known markets globally, the Remarkables Market is dedicated to showcasing the finest local and regional products.
Within this market, you will discover handmade crafts such as candles and fresh farm produce, including meats, cheese, and bread, that take center stage.
The market is situated east of Queenstown, in Remarkables Park.
It operates every Saturday morning from 9 am to 2 pm, from October 21st to April 14th.
15. Romer Gallery
The Romer Gallery is located in the heart of Queenstown and features landscapes of New Zealand that are seldom showcased.
This gallery draws travelers who seek an enriching artistic experience.
Visitors can appreciate the stunning works of Stephan Romer, a globally recognized photographer known for his unique ability to capture the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, revealing the beauty of the wilderness.
