Ultimate Guide to Winter in Queenstown: What to Do and Where to Stay

Set on the shore of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the dramatic Southern Alps, Queenstown is known as New Zealand’s adventure capital.  

Every winter as the snow begins to fall, the snow-capped mountain peaks become scenic ski slopes attracting visitors from around the world as Queenstown is transformed into the ultimate winter playground. 

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is a picturesque lakeside town at the foothills of the nearby mountain ranges.  

With a bustling town centre, waterfront dining scene, fun nightlife, and outdoor activities to make the most of the scenic locale, Queenstown is an essential New Zealand destination year-round, but is especially magical during winter. 

Whether you visit Queenstown every winter or you’re planning your first trip, there’s always something fun to experience during winter in Queenstown. 

To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about how to make the most of your winter holiday in Queenstown, from where to stay, to what to pack, what to do when you arrive, and so much more.  

These are the best things to do in Queenstown in winter.

While Queenstown is incredible scenic at any time of year, it becomes a winter wonderland from June through August. This is when the mountains are blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque setting for winter sports and activities. 

If you're an avid skier or snowboarder, July and August offer the best conditions with fresh powder covering the slopes of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Treble Cone, and Cardrona.  

For those who prefer exploring the snow-capped landscapes without hitting the slopes, June often brings clear skies and cool temperatures, perfect for scenic drives and leisurely walks around Lake Wakatipu.  

Wherever your winter preferences lie, Accor offers accommodation to make your stay in Queenstown as cosy, luxurious, and comfortable as possible. 

Winter in Queenstown is from June through to August. The temperature in Queenstown during winter is usually under 10°C during the day and at night it can drop down to around -2°C.  

If your New Zealand travel is in the coming days or weeks, you can check what the weather will be like during your Queenstown holiday over on the MetService website. 

Despite the crisp, cool temperatures, you can see beautiful blue skies which are ideal for all of your favourite outdoor adventures and for relaxing walks around central Queenstown and the gardens. 

If you’re planning a winter holiday in Queenstown you'll want to be prepared for cold temperatures and all of the adventure activities on your itinerary. That means plenty of warm clothes and sensible shoes! Think: 

• Boots and socks
• Thermal base layers
• Warm jackets and jumpers
• Beanie, scarf, and gloves  

If you’re planning on hitting the ski slopes, you’ll want to be prepared for the conditions up on the mountains where it can be very cold and sometimes windy too.  

The good news is, central Queenstown has plenty of outdoor adventure stores as well as fashion retailers so you can pick up anything you might’ve forgotten to bring with you. 

You’re spoiled for choice with accommodation in Queenstown.  

Hotel St Moritz Queenstown – MGallery is a luxurious boutique hotel overlooking Lake Wakatipu to The Remarkables. You’ll be able to stay warm and cosy while enjoying a premium dining experience at the award-winning onsite bar and restaurant. 

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside is centrally-located on the shore of Lake Wakatipu and close by Queenstown Gardens. You’re close to all the action when you stay Novotel Queenstown with all the best dining, retail, and nightlife just steps away. 

Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa is a premium hotel offering French luxury and local cuisine as well as an onsite spa. Sofitel Queenstown is your go-to for a sophisticated stay with the iconic views of Queenstown you’re dreaming of. 

When it comes to winter in Queenstown, you have some of the country’s most scenic ski fields right on your doorstep, so it’s hard to go past skiing and snowboarding. 

Experience some of New Zealand’s finest skiing and snowboarding at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona, or Treble Cone. 

Elsewhere you can try your hand at cross-country skiing at Snow Farm, recognised as one of the best cross-country skiing fields in the Southern Hemisphere. Situated along the Cardrona Valley Road, it boasts more than 50km of groomed trails and caters to skiers of all ages and abilities. 

If you’re looking for the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities near Queenstown, you’ve got a number of options to choose from.  

Don’t forget, the weather is changeable and with outdoor weather-dependent activities like skiing and snowboarding, it’s important to always check the conditions so you know if the roads and mountains are open or closed. 

If you’re visiting from out of town and are not familiar with driving with chains, it’s worth checking out bookable shared transport options like shuttle buses from central Queenstown. 

Coronet Peak: Coronet Peak is close to Queenstown and a local favourite since 1947. In addition to terrain for established skiers and snowboarded, if you’ve never been skiing before, Coronet Peak has facilities that cater for beginners too... so you can have fun in the snow even if it’s completely new to you. 

The Remarkables: there’s something for all skill levels at The Remarkables ski field. If you’re in Queenstown with your family, you can book a ski lesson for your kids or even have a go at tobogganing. If you’re not skiing, you can opt for a sightseeing pass which will allow you to take the chairlift up the mountain to experience epic views over Queenstown. 

Cardrona Alpine Resort: There’s so much to see and do on the mountain at Cardrona Alpine Resort. There are lessons available for kids and adults, and experienced skiers and snowboarders are well looked after here too. If you’re not skiing or snowboarding, you can book a pass to ride the gondola up the mountain to enjoy the view and visit Vista Bar. 

Treble Cone: A little further afield, Treble Cone is near Wanaka and home to the South Island’s largest ski area and longest vertical drop. Big adventures await you at Treble Cone. When you’re done on the slopes, hit Altitude Bar for the unreal views paired with a hot chocolate or mulled wine. 

There’s so much to do in Queenstown that even if you choose not to hit the slopes, you’ll still have plenty of fun activities to enjoy.  

Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or experience some of the adventure that Queenstown is famous for, we’ve got you sorted. 

Mountain Sightseeing: Even if you’re not skiing or snowboarding you can still get up close to all the action and experience the epic mountain views when you book sightseeing experiences at The Remarkables and Cardrona.  

Queenstown Gardens: Located in central Queenstown, the Queenstown Gardens are on the shore of Lake Wakatipu. There are walking paths throughout the gardens and plenty of benches to take a break and enjoy the waterfront view. There’s a playground too so the kids can enjoy a play in the pretty lakeside park.  

Gondola Ride to the Luge: A ride on the Gondola is your ticket to some of the very best views in Queenstown. Rising 480m above Lake Wakatipu, you’ll score views over town and across the lake to The Remarkables. When you reach the top of the Gondola ride, you can enjoy the views, have a drink at the bar or lunch at the restaurant, or if you’re after something a bit more adventurous, you can book a ride on the luge.  

Jet Boat Ride: Get on the water with an exhilarating Queenstown jet boat ride. Take your pick from the various jet boat operators for an exciting ride around Lake Wakatipu and up the Shotover River – rug up, hold on tight, and enjoy the views! 

Helicopter Ride: See the incredible landscape of Queenstown from above with a ride in a helicopter. During winter, Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters offer a number of helicopter experiences including The Remarkables Sunset where you fly over Queenstown during golden hour, land on the mountain range, and enjoy a drink while taking in one of the best views you’ll ever see in your life. 

Onsen Hot Pools: Sink into the warm waters of the Onsen Hot Pools in Queenstown. Let your worries fade away as you soak in the cedar-lined hot tub while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding Queenstown landscape.  

TSS Earnslaw Lake Cruise: Take to the lake on the historic TSS Earnslaw. The century-old coal-fired ship operates cruises across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak. You might also like to add on experiences at Walter Peak where you can disembark to enjoy a gourmet barbeque long lunch at the lakeside restaurant or a book a guided tour of the Walter Peak High Country Farm.

So Spa at Sofitel Queenstown: If you’ve been taking part in any of Queenstown’s adventure activities, after all that fun and excitement you’ll be in serious need of some deep relaxation. Lucky for you, Queenstown has some of the best spas in the country. 

Unwind and indulge in some much-deserved pampering at Sofitel’s So Spa. Offering a unique haven where the mind, body and spirit unite, Sofitel’s So Spa include signature treatments like the Māori Greenstone Massage as well as massage and beauty treatments using French and New Zealand products for an unprecedented sensory and soothing experience. 

New Zealand’s South Island sure does make for a great winter holiday destination. There’s so much to see and do. When you base yourself in Queenstown, you’ve got plenty of day trip options. 

Whether you’re driving yourself or booking a guided tour, these are some great destinations near Queenstown that are ideal for a day trip. 

Queenstown Wine Tour: Fancy yourself a bit of a wine connoisseur, or simply keen to sample some of the region’s finest drops? Central Otago is renowned for its exceptional pinot tour. Experience it for yourself on a guided winery day tour out of Queenstown. 

There are a number of fantastic wine tour operators in the area, including New Zealand Wine Tours Queenstown who offer an array of small group and private tours, such as their Pinot Country Tour and the Winemakers Reserve Tour. 

Arrowtown: Arrowtown is a charming historic village just 20 minutes out of Queenstown. With fantastic dining options, why not time your trip over lunch to enjoy some of the local and seasonal options on offer? 

Glenorchy: Journey to Middle Earth on a Lord of the Rings day or half tour. Glenorchy is about 45 minutes out of central Queenstown and is home to some of the filming locations for films including Lord of the Rings. Another must-see destination in Glenorchy is the infamous and historic red shed, a picturesque spot on the water’s edge. 

Milford Sound: Milford Sound is an unforgettable destination and an absolute must-do for all who visit New Zealand. Located about four hour’s drive out of Queenstown, you can get there on a guided coach trip, self-drive, or perhaps best of all, on a scenic flight.

When you arrive at Milford Sound you’ll cruise the fiord, taking in the grandeur of Mitre Peak and the waterfalls. 

As you head out towards the ocean, keep an eye out for the fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins. This is a full day scenic adventure and a wonderful addition to a winter holiday in Queenstown.