For sheer opulence and indulgence be sure to stay at the Spire Hotel, Queenstown’s most highly awarded boutique hotel, although certainly not a budget option this hotel is outstanding in its class. The rooms are all tastefully decorated in neutral colours with occasional splashes of vibrancy, natural products dominate in this eco friendly hotel all perfectly complimenting the fabulous views from the huge plate windows and balconies.

For views though the Azur lodge cannot be bettered, the hilltop location giving the nine villas amazing views over the town and lake whilst ensuring that the guests enjoy privacy, seclusion and peace. Architect designed, these villas are a cut above; the private space is both cleverly and sympathetically designed to make the most of New Zealand’s bountiful natural resources.

Not everyone however has the budget to blow on high end accommodation and Queenstown has its fair share of quality yet lower budget accommodation, prices can vary depending on the season and the location of the hotel so it is always worth looking around for the best deals at the time that you wish to travel.

The cuisine of New Zealand relies heavily on seasonal produce, the right food eaten at the right time is allowed to speak for itself, modern classics are often favoured with Asian influences bringing a vibrancy and freshness. The young crowd who frequent the town set the tone of the restaurants with fun often being the order of the day; ranging from cheerful budget cafés to high end restaurants, Queenstown ultimately has something to suit everyone.

Gantley’s at Arthurs Point offers the closest thing to an historic meal in Queenstown with the restaurant property dating back to the mid 1800’s, the surroundings may be historic but the food is firmly grounded in the contemporary with an extensive wine list to be proud of. Although not a cheap option the food is an excellent interpretation of modern classical cuisine – booking however is essential.

Rustic and charming is the best description of Cow, this oddly named restaurant serving the same menu as when it first opened in 1976. Hearty pasta and pizza will satisfy the largest of appetites whilst the roaring fire warms up the most dedicated of winter sportsmen.

Activities although not the sole reason to visit Queenstown must be fairly high on the to do list – scuba diving, snorkelling, mountain biking and canyon swinging are just a few of the activities to be enjoyed during the summer months whereas the winter months offer some of the best winter sports in New Zealand. If your inclination is to watch rather than participate then there are always plenty of spectator sports to keep you occupied, not least those New Zealand staples, cricket and rugby.

Daytime activities may leave you exhausted but that is no reason not to sample the great nightlife that this lively town has to offer, the young population and the tourists that opt to visit ensure that this small town has an entirely bright lights big city feel about it.

The views above Queenstown are staggering, don’t miss out, take a Gondola up the mountainside to the café and viewing area at the summit, the lake and town appearing unbelievably pretty from this spectacular vista. Walking trails are clearly marked and range from gentle strolls to extreme mountain paths. This is one attraction not to miss.

Queenstown is a year round destination, although the summer and winter seasons may be slightly busier the difference is unremarkable. A popular tourist destination throughout the year ensures that the town never really closes, the attractions that people visit for remain accessible throughout the year although many of the sporting activities are reliant on the different seasons.

The coldest months of the year are the winter months of June and July but the high altitude ensures that the town becomes a major resort for the countries winter sports with excellent skiing and other activities readily available.