Your Guide to the Ultimate Spring Day in Queenstown

Spring might possibly be our favourite time of the year to visit Queenstown - the cherry blossoms are blooming, the days are longer and warmer and there are plenty of activities to enjoy (and less crowds, too!).

If you’re heading to the Home of Adventure in September, October or November, here’s our guide for the Ultimate Spring Day in Queenstown. 

Start with brunch

Brunch at Bespoke Kitchen. Image: @bespokekitchen

During spring, the mornings are still brisk - overnight temperatures can drop to 2 degrees or lower (so make sure to pack extra layers!).

Warm up and fuel your day with a hearty breakfast and barista-made coffee at one of Queenstown’s many brunch spots. 

If you’re staying in Central Queenstown, Bespoke Kitchen is our top pick. Yonder, The Boatshed, The Exchange and The Dishery are all fantastic options, too. 

Take in the views

Once full and caffeinated, it’s time to soak up Queenstown’s beautiful landscapes. This time of year, the fresh spring blooms, green valleys and glistening waters of Lake Whakatipu are surrounded by spectacular snow-capped peaks.

Take the Skyline Gondola up to Bob’s Peak, from $46 per adult (or hike the Tiki Trail, free) to reach the best vantage point 450m above Queenstown. 

You’ll be greeted with spectacular panoramic views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peak.

Get a taste of adventure

Ziplining above Queenstown with Ziptrek Ecotours

Whether you’ve ridden the gondola or hiked the Tiki Trail, the best way to get back to Queenstown from Bob’s Peak is to zipline all the way down.

Joining a Kea 6-Line tour with Ziptrek Ecotours will have you flying through the trees on a series of six ziplines (including the world’s steepest!) and finishing at the Skyline base building after three hours.

You’ll be treated to fantastic views and plenty of zipping fun on this fully-guided eco-adventure. Bookings are required. 

Make the most of the longer days

View from Queenstown Hill. Image: Destination Queenstown

The best thing about spring? After finishing your ziplining adventure, you will still have plenty of daylight hours left to enjoy what Queenstown has to offer!

Take a walk around the Queenstown Gardens or up Queenstown Hill, cycle the Frankton Track or simply relax with a picnic by the lake. 

One of our favourite things to do in Queenstown in spring is to admire the colourful flowering cherry blossoms along the Lake Esplanade or in the downtown Village Green.

Finish with a feed

Sunset lakeside dining at Nest Kitchen & Bar. Image: @nestqt

After a day of adventure, finish with a delicious meal at one of Queenstown’s best restaurants. 

Dine at Boardwalk, Nest Kitchen & Bar or Public Kitchen & Bar for sensational sunset views and flavours to match (ensure to reserve in advance!). 

There’s no doubt that Spring is a wonderful time of year to visit Queenstown - just don’t forget those extra layers and a rain jacket to be prepared for the ultimate spring adventure.