In 2017 our family visited Queenstown, New Zealand for the first time. We instantly fell in love with the place and decided the destination had to become an annual trip. We returned in 2018 and have plans for 2019!
So what's all the fuss about?
If you are looking for a fuss-free ski trip for the whole family then Queenstown is for you. The scenery is spectacular, the food will blow your mind and list of fun family activities is endless.
Accommodation:
Queenstown offers a huge variety of accommodation choices for families from hotels to apartments and a huge number of Airbnb listings. The town wraps around a huge lake and is surrounded by mountains. The town centre is quaint and buzzing with energy.
Getting around:
There are buses to and from everywhere and anywhere you would want to venture. The airport is also very close to the town centre and buses, transfers, taxi’s and Uber’s are readily available. If you choose to hire a car the roads are easy to navigate, however parking in town during the high season can be difficult. Most parking is paid parking. The roads up to the ski fields can also be treacherous depending on the conditions so check in with the locals and ensure you have a car that can handle the conditions and use snow chains where needed. On our latest trip we decided to try the snow bus that runs every 20 min up to our favourite ski spot, Remarkables. This was a great option as it drops you at the door and no one has to worry about the windy, snowy roads!
Ski fields:
There are several ski fields to choose from that are close to town. Coronet Peak and Remarkables being the closest. Our favourite is Remarkables. Why? It’s a little higher up so the snow is usually a little better there. It is a little further out of town, so it can be less crowded. It also has more green runs than the other ski fields. With small kids who are learning to ski the green runs are what we are all about! The ski schools at both peaks are fantastic and offer half and full-day programs. Both mountains have great indoor areas and yummy food for the whole family. They also offer ski, snowboard and clothing, so there is no need to lug everything up! You can pre pay for ski passes, ski school and hire online to save time and money.
Although the skiing is awesome Queenstown has so much more to offer!
Family FUN:
Our favourite Queenstown activity has to be the LUGE! Marvel at the views while riding the gondola up to the SKYLINE LUGE. Then race your kids down the hill on in the specialised go-carts. It’s an all ages thrill that’s a family favourite. Warning: one ride is never enough! At the same location you can experience the incredible night sky with a star gazing tour.
For a list of awesome family fun in Queenstown click here to visit www.Queenstownnz.nz
Eating Out:
Here is a list of our favourite restaurants in Queenstown:
Family:
Ferg Burger (Beware of the LONG lines and very limited seating - grab takeaway and sit by the river).
Adults only: (must book well in advance)
Amisfield Winery (degustation $$ but incredible)
Baby Sitting:
I recommend babysitting Queenstown. They have highly experienced nannies available for day or evening work. After a day on the ski fields, the children were exhausted and uninterested in going out for dinner. Having a sitter most nights meant the adults could relax.
While the kids are with the babysitters I highly recommend checking out Queenstown Onsen. Be warned you MUST book far in advance!
