If you thought Queenstown was only a winter destination, think again! This vibrant New Zealand gem offers incredible experiences all year round. My recent spring visit was nothing short of magical—lush green landscapes, blooming flowers, and the cutest baby lambs dotting the countryside.
From world-class wineries and long, leisurely lunches to adrenaline-fueled adventures and warm Kiwi hospitality, Queenstown truly lives up to its reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Day 1: Arrival & Culinary Delights
After a seamless flight with Air New Zealand, our group was greeted by a friendly driver who took the scenic route, giving us our first breathtaking glimpse of Lake Wakatipu. We arrived at Sherwood Queenstown and upon checking into our rustic style rooms we were pleasantly surprised to find stunning views of the lake from our bay style windows.
Dinner at Sherwood’s onsite restaurant was worth writing home about. We indulged in tender, braised lamb, fresh squid, crispy potatoes, and the crunchiest salads, all paired with expertly matched wines and cocktails. The food coma we took to bed was real!
Day 2: Sky-High Views & Wine Tasting
Day 2 began with breakfast and a site visit to Millbrook Resort, renowned for its world-class golf course and luxurious accommodation. With a range of activities both on and off the green, it’s the perfect all-in-one destination for visitors to this stunning corner of Otago.
Next, we took to the skies with a scenic flight from True South Flights, their highly skilled pilots flying us over the Remarkables toward Milford Sound. I was lucky enough to have the front seat, which meant the best views of the terrain across Southern New Zealand.—whether from the air or on the ground, Milford Sound is a bucket list destination for your New Zealand adventure.
Lunch, hosted by Kinross was a foodie’s dream, with shared grazing plates, handmade pizzas, paired with an extensive in-house wine list. We then enjoyed a 7-option wine tasting in their brand-new cellar door, which opened just 2 years ago. Guided by an in-house sommelier, we explored the rich history and unique characteristics of each pour.
Our evening was an industry networking event at AJ Hacket Bungy over the original Kawarau Bridge Bungy. While some dared to take the plunge, others opted for the tamer Flying Fox zipline. We also had the chance to create our own signature perfumes with Miller Road, enjoy drinks and canapes and a photobooth to capture the memories.
Day 3: Off-Roading & Historic Adventures
Tuesday saw us take off on a four-wheel drive adventure straight after breakfast with Nomad Safaris. Traversing Skippers Road’s dramatic cliffs and the Arrow River in Arrowtown, we even tried our hand at gold panning – a nod to the region’s rich mining history.
Next, we boarded the TSS Earnslaw, the oldest working commercial boat in the Southern Hemisphere, for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Farm. Here, we indulged in one of the best lunch buffets I think I’ve ever had, including their legendary 100-year-old sticky date pudding recipe. A post-lunch farm tour featured a sheep-shearing demonstration and Mia the cattle dog rounding up her woolly friends.
For one final adventure, we took the Skyline Gondola up to the Ziptrek Ecotours treehouse nestled in the greenery. We were harnessed, safety briefed and then zipped down through the treetops on four thrilling ziplines, all while soaking up stunning views of Queenstown and the lake.
Final Night: A Toast to Queenstown
Our last evening was spent at The Woolshed at Ayrburn, a stunning multi-venue estate on the outskirts of Arrowtown. We enjoyed a feast of slow-cooked meats, vegetarian risotto, fresh tuna, salmon, and the most divine potatoes. Paired with Ayrburn’s own wines, it was the perfect farewell to an unforgettable trip.
As we headed back to our accommodation for our journey home the next morning, I couldn’t help but reflect on the magic of Queenstown. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this incredible destination offers something for everyone – at any time of year.
