5 Must-See Queenstown Neighborhoods and How to Visit
The natural beauty of New Zealand's Queenstown owes a debt to the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. The central business district area is where most travelers visit, but there are other neighborhoods to explore. Here’s the lowdown on where to go in Queenstown.
Central Business District
It's popular for a reason.
The central business district is where most of Queenstown’s shops, tour businesses, restaurants, and bars are located, as well as many hotels, motels, and hostels, and the bus station. There are easy walking trails along Lake Wakatipu, and the popular Skyline Gondola is also accessible from the area.
Frankton
Residential bliss.
This suburb is located at the east of the central business district, at the end of the Frankton Arm of Lake Wakatipu. It's where Queenstown Airport is located, so many travelers pass through. It’s more of a residential area than a touristy one, but among its draws are the Saturday market in summer.
Fernhill
Easy access to nearby natural attractions.
Just southwest of Queenstown's central business district, Fernhill is the area above the Queenstown-Glenorchy Road, on the slopes of Ben Lomond Mountain. It’s a residential area, but there are hotels nearer to the lakeshore. Some of Queenstown’s hiking trails are easily accessible from Fernhill.
Queenstown Hill / Arthur’s Point
Ideal for camping and adventuring.
Higher in elevation, these neighborhoods offer some of Queenstown’s best hiking trails and viewpoints, while accommodations can be found lower down. For camping or holiday park accommodation, check out the Queenstown Hill and Arthur’s Point neighborhoods, which feel quite rural but are still near town.
Kelvin Heights
Go golfing or walking in this swanky spot.
On the southern side of the Frankton Arm of the lake, separated from the central business district by water, is one of New Zealand’s most expensive neighborhoods—Kelvin Heights. There’s a golf course, and the popular Queenstown Trail for walking and biking passes through Kelvin Heights.
More things to do in Queenstown
Keep reading
Elen is a writer and editor based in the small city of Nelson, on New Zealand's South Island. Her work focuses on travel, arts, culture, and the humanities. When not working, she likes to explore one of the three national parks on her doorstep.