Queenstown, nestled in New Zealand's South Island, is a captivating destination renowned for its stunning natural beauty, adventure activities, and vibrant culture. Its dramatic landscapes, encompassing the glistening Lake Wakatipu and the majestic Southern Alps, attract travellers from around the globe. The town’s rich history, dating back to the gold rush era, is evident in its architecture and local stories. Whether you're drawn to adrenaline-pumping activities or serene exploration, Queenstown offers an unforgettable experience.

A direct flight from New Delhi to Queenstown typically takes around 22 hours. However, flight duration can vary depending on weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific aircraft used. Several airlines offer flights, frequently requiring a stopover in one or more cities like Sydney, Melbourne or Auckland.

While Air New Zealand and Qantas are two major airlines providing these routes, the flight frequency changes throughout the year. Expect multiple flights per week, with potential for daily services during peak season. Because of the long distance, connecting flights are typical, increasing the overall journey time.

If you prefer a budget-friendly approach, exploring alternative routes might be beneficial. Layover cities such as Singapore, Dubai, or Hong Kong offer various flight combinations that can sometimes lead to cost-effective deals. These layover options add time to your journey, of course, but can significantly reduce the total cost.

To secure the best deals on flights, it's generally recommended to book between three to six months in advance. The cheapest months to fly to Queenstown typically fall during the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November), when tourist numbers are lower. The summer months (December-February) are peak season and will likely have more expensive flight options.

Queenstown experiences peak tourist seasons during summer and winter, driven by ideal weather for outdoor and snow sports respectively. Shoulder seasons offer a sweet spot: pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more budget-friendly travel.

Queenstown boasts a continental-style climate with distinct seasons. Summers (December-February) are warm and sunny, with average daily temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Winters (June-August) are crisp and cold, averaging between 0°C and 10°C, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C and 10°C to 18°C respectively. While generally dry, Queenstown can experience rain showers throughout the year.

New Delhi has two main airports currently in operation that serve commercial flights: Indira Gandhi International Airport and Delhi Airport.

Indira Gandhi International Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), the primary airport serving New Delhi, is a major international hub with multiple terminals and numerous airlines operating there. Opened in 1962, it has undergone several renovations over the years, making it a modern and efficient facility capable of handling millions of passengers annually. The airport boasts world-class facilities and is well-connected to the city.

Delhi Airport

While the name is similar, Delhi Airport (DEL) refers to the same airport as Indira Gandhi International Airport. This was the older name used before the official renaming.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• Singapore Airlines

Queenstown has one main airport that is currently operating and serves commercial flights: Queenstown Airport.

Queenstown Airport

Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is a relatively small but well-equipped airport serving both domestic and international flights. It's conveniently situated near the city centre.

Getting to the city centre from the airport is easy. A frequent and reliable bus service connects the airport to the central area. Taxis are readily available at the airport for a convenient door-to-door service. If you prefer more independence, you can easily rent a car at the airport for your onward journey.

Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world, offers a plethora of activities beyond the typical tourist trail.

• Explore the Queenstown Gardens: Wander through these stunning gardens, offering picturesque walks along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, ideal for a relaxing break.
• Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and maybe even spot some wildlife.
• Ride the Skyline Gondola: Ascend Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and the surrounding area. Enjoy thrilling luge rides at the top.