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Best Places to Stay in Queenstown

6 March 2022

Gondola

Queenstown

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation with mountain views or the best hostels in the centre of town, Queenstown has something to suit all styles, preferences, and budgets. Welcome to this spectacular Otago region on the South Island of New Zealand!

Choosing Where to Stay in Queenstown

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Central Queenstown

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If you’re looking for a family-friendly location with a buzzing nightlife, Central Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is for you. Just a 15 to 20-minute drive from the airport, you have everything on your doorstep, including the famous Queenstown Gardens and Queenstown Hill walking track. You’ll find plenty of places to stay, but Queenstown hotels can be expensive, the city centre can get noisy, and parking is limited.

Fernhill

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Fernhill is perched on top of a hill, offering wonderful views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range. The neighbourhood is quiet yet within walking distance of the town centre, or you can jump on a local bus. However, the variety of restaurants and activities is limited, and Fernhill doesn’t see much sun in winter, so it’s best to go in summer.

Frankton

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Frankton is home to the Queenstown Airport and where you’ll find most locals hanging out. The area features ample shopping opportunities, fantastic restaurants to explore, and lakeside walking trails nearby. Frankton is a short drive to downtown Queenstown, and the Remarkables are your closest peak for skiing action.

Arthurs Point

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Arthurs Point is close to Arrowtown, Coronet Peak ski field, Onsen Hot Pools, and the Shotover Jet. You’ll also find several popular hiking tracks in the area. Rooms are affordable; however, you’ll need to stock up on groceries in Queenstown if you plan to cook your own meals. In addition, if you’re relying on public transport, bus services end pretty early at night.

Arrowtown

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Head to this historic gold rush town for spectacular views and loads of dining and shopping options. Arrowtown is just a 20-minute drive from central Queenstown and is close to the picturesque Lake Hayes. You’ll find many scenic walking and biking tracks, boutique lodges, and B&Bs.

Best Hotels in Queenstown

Blue Peaks Lodge

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This friendly 4-star motel with a handy central location features comfortable, refurbished rooms and free off-road parking. Guests can choose from a studio room (with or without a kitchen), a one-bedroom, or a two-bedroom family unit. Laundry facilities are also available.

Blue Peaks Apartments

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Blue Peaks Apartments is located just a 3-minute walk from the city centre. Choose from two and three-bedroom self-contained, fully equipped apartments featuring spacious rooms and private balconies. The luxurious accommodation on offer here is ideal for larger families or groups of friends who want to feel at home whilst staying in the heart of Queenstown. Free undercover parking is also available.

Nugget Point Hotel

Image credit: Nugget Point Hotel

Nugget Point is the best accommodation Queenstown-wide for those planning to hit the slopes of Coronet Peak. Enjoy complimentary access to their Roman-style spa treatment rooms, including the steam room, sauna, indoor pool and outdoor hot tubs. Overlooking the picturesque Shotover River from Arthurs Point with fantastic views of snow-capped mountains, Nugget Point is a great location for a tranquil and romantic getaway.

Rees Hotel

Image credit: The Rees Hotel

Centrally located by the shores of Lake Wakatipu, choose from various spacious and luxurious accommodation options with terraces to take in the beautiful Queenstown vistas. Features at The Rees include a courtesy shuttle to and from town, a private beach and wharf, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a fully-equipped gym, and secure undercover parking.

Kamana Lakehouse

Image credit: Kamana Lakehouse

Located at high altitude in Fernhill, Kamana Lakehouse is one of the most elegant luxury hotels in the region. Enjoy the perfect setting to indulge in incredible views of the great outdoors from your own private hot tub, then experience the best in creative cuisine at the art deco-style restaurant.

Best Queenstown Accommodation for Great Value

Jucy Snooze Queenstown

Image credit: Jucy Snooze Queenstown

Jucy Snooze Queenstown is just a two-minute walk from the Skyline Gondola and features Miss Lucy’s rooftop bar, where you can socialise and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. There’s something to suit all needs, from family ensuite rooms to private pods in a shared space. Enjoy comfy beds, free WiFi, and a travel desk where you can book all your local activities.

Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park

Image credit: Top 10 Holiday Park Queenstown

Bring the family for a comfortable stay in TOP 10 holiday park’s self-contained units, cabins, and motel rooms. You’ll find several tourism operators just a stone’s throw away offering adrenaline-charged experiences like jetboating and Canyon Swings as well as an array of bars and eateries to choose from. This is a beautiful destination to enjoy nature and the magnificent mountain views.

Tahuna Pod Hostel Queenstown

Image credit: Tahuna Pod Hostel Queenstown

Sir Cedrics Tahuna Pod Hostel offers a unique alternative to Queenstown hotel accommodation. Enjoy on-site parking and choose from single, double, and superior pods or private rooms, all with shared bathroom facilities. The large balcony and BBQ area offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

New Orleans Hotel Arrowtown

Image credit: New Orleans Hotel Queenstown

Situated in Arrowtown, the New Orleans Hotel has a 3-star rating and features a restaurant, bar, and a north-facing terrace to breathe in the stunning views. The hotel’s location makes it one of the best hotels in Queenstown, New Zealand for golfers. You’ll find three of NZ’s best golf courses (Arrowtown, Millbrook, and The Hills) within a 5-minute drive.

Discover More Incredible Things to See and Do in Queenstown

Are you ready to spend some unforgettable days and nights in our small town with a big personality? We hope we’ve given you some fantastic ideas on where to stay in Queenstown. Check out the Skyline blog for more awesome New Zealand holiday ideas, including a guide to Queenstown’s ski fields and the best Queenstown activities on a budget. We hope to see you soon!

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