Queenstown on a Budget: Make the Most of Your Time Without Breaking the Bank

Queenstown is known a playground for adrenaline junkies and luxury travellers, but with these budget-friendly activities, it’s just as welcoming for those looking to explore on a shoestring. From free walks and hikes to charming historic sites and stunning natural scenery, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the beauty and excitement of Queenstown without spending a fortune.

1. Take a Stroll Around New Zealand’s Longest Lake

Start your Queenstown adventure with a walk around Lake Wakatipu. Grab a coffee or ice cream from the Patagonia Chocolates Rees Street store then you can walk in both directions to take in the dramatic views of the mountains surrounding the longest lake in New Zealand.

2. Hike Up Queenstown Hill for Stunning Views

For those looking to get a little more active, Queenstown Hill offers one of the best value hikes in the area. The one to two hour walk to the summit will reward you with panoramic views over Queenstown town, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains. The track is a bit more challenging than the lake walk, but the effort is totally worth it.

3. Patagonia Chocolates – A Sweet Stop

If you’re visiting the Queenstown Lakes, a stop at Patagonia Chocolates is a must do. With stores in Queenstown, Wanaka, Arrowtown and Queenstown Airport, you are sure to come across one on your travels. If you are in the Queenstown store, you can also head upstairs to watch the chocolates being made by hand. It’ll give you a new found appreciation for the love and care that goes into making your treats. And then for the hard part… to decide which flavour to eat! 

4. Walk Up to the Gondola 

While riding the Queenstown Gondola isn’t free, walking up to the top of Bob’s Peak is. The track to the gondola is about an hour and a half of uphill walking, but once you reach the top, the views of the town and lake, nestled into the mountains are postcard perfect. 

5. Explore the Historic Arrowtown

A short drive or bus ride from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a charming village filled with history and character. Stroll through the picturesque streets, visit the quaint shops, walk along the river or hill trails, and check out the Chinese Village and Museum. For just $5, you can rent a gold pan and try your hand at panning for gold, just as the early settlers did in the gold rush days. It’s a fun and affordable way to experience a piece of New Zealand’s past. And for cheap eats – you can’t beat a pie from the Arrowtown Bakery.

6. Rent a Bike and Explore 

Queenstown is surrounded by hundreds of kilometres of bike tracks, and renting a bike is a budget-friendly way to explore the area. You can cycle around the Queenstown Trail or head out to Gibbston Valley, famous for its vineyards and scenic beauty. The bike rental cost is minimal, and the adventure is priceless. Whether you're an avid cyclist or a casual rider, the trails offer something for everyone. 

7. Watch the Sunset at Lake Wakatipu

Sunsets in Queenstown are nothing short of magical. Head to the edge of Lake Wakatipu in the late afternoon to catch a stunning display of colours as the sun dips behind the mountains. Whether you’re watching from the lakeside or from Queenstown Hill, this natural spectacle is the perfect way to end a day of exploring.

8. Stargazing in Glenorchy

A short drive from Queenstown, Glenorchy is known for its clear skies and is now a holder of the prestigious Dark Sky Certificate. This means it’s one of the best spots in New Zealand for stargazing. Pack a blanket, bring some warm clothes, and look up at the stars. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Routeburn Track for some of the best natural scenery in the region.