Queenstown is a city with something to please every traveller. It’s famous for bungee jumping, home to four ski fields and a popular destination for skydiving, hiking and jet boating. Despite buzzing with adrenaline from adventure sport seeking daredevils,Queenstown is also home to crystal clear lakes, breathtaking mountain ranges and world-class wineries.
Regardless of your interests or the time of year you’re visiting, this delightful South Island destination has more than enough to make for an unforgettable holiday. Hiring a rental car will allow you to explore this region and take in the stunning beauty of its surrounds.
Get to grips with your surroundings
Queenstown is located on the edge of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Combined, it makes for a beautiful backdrop that can be seen from most locations in Queenstown. For one of the best views of Queenstown head to Bob’s Peak – there you’ll enjoy a view of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range, Lake Wakatipu and Cecil Peak. Bob’s Peak can be easily reached by the Skyline Gondola, which allows you to sit back and relax as you take in the sights.
The mountain setting provides numerous options for snow seekers, with four commercial snowfields. Grab your gear and head to The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona Alpine Resort or the Treble Cone Ski Area to sled, ski and snowboard your way to adventure.
Explore a lively little town
Due to its popularity with tourists and backpackers, Queenstown has a buzzing CBD with plentiful bars and restaurants. In peak seasons, it’s not uncommon for the party atmosphere to take hold, with revellers taking to the bars and the streets, enjoying themselves into the early hours of the morning.
If you’re after a laid-back vibe when evening arrives, hop in your rental car and take the short 20 minute drive out to historic Arrowtown. Here you’ll find a pretty little town, with plenty of perfectly preserved buildings from gold rush times. There’s also plenty of cafes, restaurants and intimate country pubs that offer an alternative from an energetic Queenstown evening.
Get out to Gibbston
While Queenstown attracts adrenaline junkies hell-bent on hurtling down mountains and bungee jumping off bridges, there’s also world-class wine to be enjoyed in the region for those who like more relaxed, but nonetheless thrilling experiences.
Queenstown is located near the heart of Gibbston, one of Central Otago's main wine regions, which is home to a beautiful and interesting array of wineries. We recommend nominating a designed driver and taking a tour of some of the wineries in your rental car.
Undoubtedly one the most beautiful wineries in the region is Chard Farm, surrounded by mountains and an immaculate, crystal-clear river. At just a 20 minute drive from Queenstown, making a stop here is a must-do. Just under a 10 minute drive from Chard Farm is Gibbston Valley, which is the area’s oldest commercial winery. The winery is home to a restaurant, a cheesery, and also does tours of New Zealand’s largest wine cave.
Wander a weekend market
If you're visiting Queenstown on a weekend, make sure to jump in your rental car and head for the Remarkables Market. Located just a 10 minute drive from Queenstown in Frankton, the market offers visitors the opportunity to sample some of the region’s best local produce. You’ll find everything from locally roasted coffee, to famous Gibbston cheese.
The Queenstown region is simply stunning, with lots to see, do, and experience. For the best way to see it all, jump in a rental car and hit the road.
Wherever you want to go, you’ll get there in a rental car from Hertz.
