A local favorite along Lake Wanaka with stunning views of the Southern Alps. Fresh-baked goods, great coffee, and an extensive selection of hearty and delicious entrees make it an easy spot to grab a meal any time of day.
An intimate dinner spot right by the dormant Mount Eden. Modern local cuisine is the highlight of the tasting menu by chef/owner Michael Meredith — seasonal produce, fresh seafood, and the best cuts of meat come together beautifully in inventive dishes. And paired with local indie wines.
Right next to Lake Wakatipu, the ice-cream parlor / chocolatier / coffee roaster is a great spot to pick up a post-dinner treat. Once everyone in your group has selected their scoop (our vote's for Patagonia dark chocolate and macadamia), head to the Queenstown gardens for an easy stroll along the lake.
Opened by Michelin-starred Kiwi chef Josh Emett, expect the best of local produce and meats paired with wonderful local wines. On sunny days (of which there are many), ask for a table in the homey outdoor courtyard.
More than 20 varieties of massive, gourmet burgers make the long line worth the wait. You will need two hands to pick up your burger, and plenty of napkins.
A colorful, nautical dreamboat of a hotel, with five-star service and snug bar for cocktails and canoodling. Suites have panoramic views of the ocean, and daytime excursions are catered with beautiful meals made from the garden.
An elegant urban retreat at the south end of the city center where you'll find dignitaries checking-in under the grand chandelier and sophisticated ladies enjoying classic tea service. Rooms are spacious and traditional (marble, hardwood, silk) with an award-winning spa and treatments inspired by Chinese medicine.
There are just three bedrooms in the cozy B&B conveniently located between Lake Wanaka and Queenstown. (Families will love the Harakeke room.) Join the hosts for a delicious home-cooked dinner, then head to the outdoor fire pit for a night of stunning stargazing.
A stylish, relatively affordable option right by the gondola with cozy interiors designed by locals Comber & Smith. A five-minute walk will get you to Lake Wakatipo. Ask for the Tower Suite for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
A charming three-room inn decorated with antique accents, chandeliers, and modern art. Come for exceptional views of Lake Tekapo, surrounding mountain ranges, and easy access to Mount John Observatory and air safaris.
One of the country's most historic homes, a restored Victorian mansion with a heartwarming origin story. Built in 1985 by Sir Heaton Rhodes, as a wedding present for his wife Jessie, the homestead is considered one of the best examples of Queen Anne architecture in Austral-asia. Make sure to stop by the restaurant for the excellent five-course tasting menu.
Despite its name, the now globally recognized outdoor brand was born in New Zealand. Drop by the flagship store for a large (and affordable!) selection of outdoor gear, apparel, and accessories.
A stylish indie boutique with high-end apparel, jewelry, and accessories from cool local labels.
In the rural Glenorchy township (population: 400), the general store doubles as a rest stop for visitors and regular haunt for locals. The barn-like space is filled with thoughtfully curated goods, like manuka honey products and softer-than-you-can-imagine wool blankets.
When the design-minded potters aren't busy spinning, glazing, and molding ceramics for local restaurants and hotels, they're running workshops out of their studio. The storefront is filled with milk bottles, platters, tumblers, and bowls in natural blues and greens.
A tiny neighborhood spot showcasing local artists — jewelry, ceramics, prints, and glassware. Because it's right by the Queenstown airport, it's an extremely convenient locale to pick up souvenirs before heading home.