When your flight to Queenstown, New Zealand arrives, you’ll be immediately welcomed by the city’s simultaneous sense of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re in search of exotic exploits or a serene getaway, the small-town feel of Queenstown happily provides both.
For daring spirits booking Queensland flights, strap on a bungee cord, jump in a raft, or ski down a mountain to feel the thrill and joy of a journey unknown. Leave land behind and become airborne while you skydive or hang-glide. With two feet on the ground and penchant for some city soul, stroll through the restaurants, cafes, and bars to buzz with the locals. For a quieter evening, find solitude by the lake at sunset, and soak in the natural beauty of the land.
More than one million visitors a year book flights to Queensland, and although the area is laden with tourist offices, it shouldn’t deter you. These tourist facilities are prepared to take on your every desire and will assure that you’re getting exactly what you want out of your Queensland travel, whether you’re in search of adrenaline of the slopes, the splendor of a simple nature walk, or the experiences of fishing, golfing, wine tasting, or boating.
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Queenstown’s alpine climate makes for a delectable year-round location. During the winter, snow-capped mountains give way to exhilarating slopes, and summer opens up for hot days by the water and perfect conditions for outdoor excursions. Fewer travelers book flights to Queenstown during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, but not for lack of fun. With little air pollution and 2,000 hours of sunshine a year, the UV rays pack quite a punch, so be sure to pack strong sunscreen when packing for your Queenstown flight.
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With so much to do and appreciate, there’s no bad time to book flights to Queenstown. Ski bums should aim for the winter months (June – August) and lake-lovers will find respite in the summer months (December – February).
Peak Season:
Most voyagers book flights to Queenstown during the two most popular seasons: summer and winter. The summer months (December and February) call for high temperatures and sunshine, when days are long and sunny, and nights are mild. Winter brings skiers and snowboarders to the peaks of the mountains and leaves them thrilled with breathtaking experience.
Off-peak Season:
Spring and autumn experience comfortable weather, but little extremes. Because of the area’s draw for intense outdoor activities, less travelers book Queenstown flights during these mild shoulder seasons. Despite that, you’ll surely be able to find cheap flights to Queenstown during this time, and catch either changing autumn leaves, or new spring growth.
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The best way to get around Queenstown is by bus. Different companies operate on different routes, so you’ll have your choice of service. Connectabus has color-coded routes with the blue route taking you to Fernhill, green to Lake Hayes and Arrowtown and red to Frankton. If you’re going to be riding the bus more than once, it might be worthwhile to get a day pass, which covers all three routes. InterCity buses run every day from Queenstown to Christchurch and the West Coast, which is worth a visit for its beautiful glaciers. Bottom Bus rides around the South Island, or you can take any of the other company’s buses throughout the area and the rest of the country.
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Skyline Gondola: If your flight to Queenstown has you craving a little more altitude, you’ll love every minute of Skyline Gondola. First, take a cable car ride all the way to the top of the steep hill, where stunning panoramic views of Caronet Peak, Lake Wakatipu, and Walter Peaks await. At the top, walk one of the paths (for both beginners and veterans) to experience all that nature has to offer. For bolder types, try the Skyline Luge – a winding, fast-paced, downhill track that descends through the trees and will scintillate the senses.
Wineries: If your sommelier tendencies have you booking flights to Queenstown for a wine-tasting experience, look no further than the area’s astounding and expansive wineries. Amisfield, just 10 minutes from Queenstown and situated near beautiful Lake Hayes, is a tiny producer that specializes in pinot noir. On site are an underground barrel hall, a cellar-door facility, and a small bistro. Chard Farm Vineyard between the rugged mountains and the Kawarau River Gorge sits 330 feet above the river, and offers an enticing selection. Chardonnay, Riesling, and sauvignon Blanc are reportedly the best in show here. Lastly, the GVW Winery is the most visited in the country, and for good reason: There’s more to see here than just a winery. Stop by for lunch and enjoy decadent fare and a gorgeous setting. After, head to a tour of the climate-controlled wine cave, and experience its award-winning pinot noir. Once you’re done there, be sure to indulge at the Gibbston Valley Cheesery for wine’s perfect companion.
Casinos: Feeling risky? Try your luck at one of the two casinos in Queenstown. Get ready for the 70 gaming machines at Skycity Queenstown Casino, where a little good fortune could turn your Queenstown travel into a huge victory. Table games like roulette, baccarat, and blackjack are set against a lively backdrop of drinks, dining, and debauchery. On the scene is Wild Thyme Bar & Restaurant, where live entertainment croons until the wee hours of the morning. Wharf Casino offer similar games, and is open until 3:00 AM. Make sure you and your mates are above 20 years old, and you should definitely dress to impress.
Shopping: For consumers of all kinds, shopping is one of Queenstown’s hidden gems. The wonderful thing about shopping here is that most of the goods are New Zealand-made, so you’re getting authentic items that you wouldn’t stumble upon at home. Sheepskin products, jewelry, wool knits, leather, outdoor wear, and crafts are all made by artisans and are showcased everywhere from small marketplaces to big shopping complexes. For instance, the O’Connel’s Shopping Centre is known for its knits, crafts, and jewelry, while smaller venues like Gallery Oceanic and the Bonz Gallery display more contemporary art pieces and inspired keepsakes. The Opal Centre is the perfect place to browse a wide selection of opal jewelry. Be sure to keep your receipts for your return Queenstown flight.
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Your cheap flight to Queenstown arrives at Queenstown Airport (ZQN), where everything from shopping, parking, and WiFi is at your fingertips.
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