Queenstown, nestled amidst the stunning Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, is a destination renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Remarkables mountain range and the serene lake, draw travellers from around the globe. The town’s history as a gold mining settlement adds a unique charm, while its burgeoning arts and culinary scene offers a delightful array of local experiences. The best way to reach this spectacular destination is by air.

Direct flights from Ballina to Queenstown typically take around 3 hours. However, flight duration can vary based on weather conditions and aircraft type. Two major airlines that offer direct flights are Air New Zealand and Jetstar, with daily departures. There are also frequent flights with one stopover, a common layover hub being Sydney.

For those seeking budget-friendly options, the ideal months to fly are typically April, May and September, offering cost-effective deals. Booking your flight 2-3 months in advance usually yields the best deals. Seasonal airfare trends show that prices tend to increase during peak seasons - December to February and June to August - because of the higher demand for travel to Queenstown.

Queenstown experiences peak tourist season during summer (December-February), when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities. The town also gets busy during winter (June-August), when snow sports enthusiasts flock to enjoy the slopes. Off-peak seasons, such as autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) offer the quieter times to visit, ideal for budget travellers. These times offer a great combination of beautiful scenery and fewer crowds. The best time to travel to Queenstown depends on your preferences and budget.

Queenstown enjoys a continental climate, meaning warm summers and cool winters. Summers (December-February) bring long, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Autumn (March-May) offers milder temperatures, averaging between 5°C and 25°C. Spring (September-November) brings gradually warming temperatures, from 8°C to 22°C. Winters (June-August) are cold, with temperatures often around 0°C but able to fall significantly below zero. Snow is common in the mountains during winter.

There is only one currently operating airport in Ballina that serves commercial flights: Ballina Byron Gateway Airport.

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, opened in October 1986, is a regional airport serving Ballina and the nearby tourist hotspot Byron Bay. It's a relatively modern airport, recently undergoing renovations to its access road, car parking and pedestrian areas. The airport is undergoing further upgrades to handle increasing passenger numbers. It offers domestic flights with several airlines. It's located 5 km from Ballina's CBD.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Jetstar
• Qantas

Queenstown has one main airport serving the area: Queenstown Airport.

Queenstown Airport

Queenstown Airport is the primary airport for the region. It's a modern airport that handles a significant number of domestic and international flights. Getting to the city centre is easy and there are various transportation options available. You can take a bus from the airport directly to the town center. Taxis are readily available at the airport and will take you directly to your destination in the city. For those who prefer more independence, car rentals are available at the airport for picking up on your arrival.

Queenstown, with its stunning scenery and plethora of activities, offers something for everyone. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more relaxed pace, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied during your stay.

• Explore Lake Wakatipu: Take a scenic cruise on the lake, admiring the surrounding mountains and stunning views. Consider taking a trip on the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw.
• Ride the Skyline Gondola: Ascend Bob's Peak for panoramic views of the city and the Remarkables mountain range. Enjoy the thrill of the Luge ride down the mountain.
• Hike Queenstown Hill: Embark on a moderately challenging hike offering breathtaking views of the city, lake, and surrounding mountains. This trail is a great option for various fitness levels.