Visiting Queenstown and Central Otago
About the region
Dubbed the ‘Aspen of the Pacific,’ Queenstown is New Zealand’s premier tourism destination. The region’s alpine climate makes it the perfect playground for young and young at heart all year round. Active adventurers, thrill seekers and purveyors of fine food and wine will all find something exceptional in and around Queenstown.
With major ski fields within easy reach of the township and more in the outlying region of Wanaka, skiers worldwide are drawn to the slopes of the aptly named ‘Remarkables,’ along with Coronet Peak. On or off the slopes, there is plenty to do, and Lake Wakatipu, which not only makes for a scenic spectacle from all aspects of the township, is also the playground for adrenalin junkies.
A variety of jetboat operators take tourists out on a trip of a lifetime with spins and sprints through gorges and canyons. The Dart River provides a spectacular destination for a long jet boat adventure and is in the heart of some of the region’s most incredible scenery. Jump, climb, walk, hike, bike, boat or luge…there is something for everyone from the sedate to the downright scary!
Amidst all the action and excitement of Queenstown, visitors will also find award-winning wineries that are destinations in themselves. World-class labels abound, and several operators will take individuals or small groups on tours via various transport options, including a vintage bus.
The township of Queenstown is just a short walk from our Queenstown accommodation; Scenic Suites Queenstown and Heartland Hotel Queenstown, and is packed with great shopping that includes gift shops, ski and activewear retailers and much more.
Getting to and around the region
Queenstown is serviced by regular flights from New Zealand’s main cities with additional seasonal flights from Australia. The airport is located 7.5 km from the township, there are plenty of taxi or airport shuttle services as well as hire car options. Intercity buses also have several touring routes to Queenstown.
There is no shortage of tourism and transport operators throughout the region to cater for touring needs. This includes ski shuttles, pickup and drop-off inclusions for jetboating and many other activities. Bringing your own car or hiring one will allow you to explore further into the region. Day excursions to Cromwell, Wanaka and Cardrona are easy and make for a scenic drive.
Dining in Region
You’ll find more restaurants and bars in Queenstown that you could ever possibly get through. From casual dining options like the can’t miss world-famous ‘Fergburger’ right through to gourmet fine dining experiences with world-class chefs. With a number of food and wine producers – particularly the regions famous Pinot Noir – in the Central Otago region, gourmands will be spoilt for choice.
The popular Peaks Restaurant & Bar is located between Heartland Hotel and Scenic Suites Queenstown serving breakfast and dinner. For casual all-day dining options the neighbouring Lobby Bar, provides a warm cosy retreat complete with a fireplace.
Conferences, Meetings and Business Events
Scenic Suites Queenstown is a popular off-site option for conference and meeting guests utilising the town’s numerous specialist venues, most of which are within walking distance of the hotel. The spacious, light-filled suites are sought after by executives, conference organisers wishing to operate a secretariat and needing that additional room or those requiring longer stay accommodation.