Queenstown, nestled in New Zealand's South Island, is a captivating destination renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich Maori heritage, and thrilling adventure activities. Its dramatic landscapes, encompassing mountains, lakes, and fjords, attract travellers worldwide. Queenstown offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and outdoor pursuits, from exploring historical sites to engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities like bungy jumping and white-water rafting. The journey from Glasgow to Queenstown is quite extensive, typically requiring a long-haul flight.

Direct flights from Glasgow to Queenstown are infrequent, usually requiring a stopover. Air New Zealand and Qantas are two major airlines that might offer such routes, although the frequency varies seasonally. Expect a flight duration of roughly 24-28 hours for a route with one stopover, depending on the layover location and duration. Cities like Dubai, Singapore, or Sydney are common stopover hubs on such routes, increasing the overall travel time. For budget-friendly travel, consider booking your flights during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), when airfares are generally lower. Booking flights several weeks or even months in advance may also give you access to the best deals. The peak season in Queenstown runs from December to February when prices and occupancy are at their highest. During this time, the weather is warm, creating a vibrant atmosphere, and a surge in tourism. In contrast, the quieter months are May, June, and July, when the weather is slightly colder.

Queenstown enjoys a unique climate influenced by its location within a mountainous region. Summer (December-February) brings warm temperatures, typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C, with long, sunny days ideal for outdoor activities. Winter (June-August) is cold, frequently dropping below 0°C, with significant snowfall making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) provide milder temperatures and vibrant scenery but can experience variable weather conditions with rain and sunshine. Autumn colours make this season particularly beautiful.

Glasgow offers two main airports that serve commercial flights: Glasgow Airport (GLA) and Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK).

Glasgow Airport (GLA)

Glasgow Airport is the largest airport in Glasgow, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights. It is a modern facility with various amenities, and has been renovated several times to meet the needs of its many passengers and growing number of airlines. It handles a high volume of passengers and flights daily. It offers a wide selection of international and domestic airlines.

Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK)

Glasgow Prestwick Airport is smaller than Glasgow Airport and serves mainly budget airlines and some international flights. It is older than Glasgow Airport and its facilities are smaller, but it still manages a considerable number of domestic flights.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• Emirates

Queenstown has one major airport serving the region: Queenstown Airport (ZQN).

Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Queenstown Airport is the primary gateway to the Queenstown region. It's a relatively small but modern airport that has undergone recent renovations to improve its facilities and passenger experience. It mainly serves domestic flights within New Zealand and a number of international routes. The airport offers various transportation options to reach the city centre. Public buses operate regularly between the airport and the city centre, providing an affordable and convenient way to travel. Taxis are readily available at the airport's taxi rank, offering door-to-door service for a more comfortable journey. For greater flexibility, car rentals are also available at the airport, enabling independent exploration of the region.

Queenstown is an adventure capital, offering a diverse range of activities for all interests and fitness levels. The stunning scenery provides a breathtaking backdrop for any exploration.

• Explore the Remarkables mountain range: Take a scenic drive or hike through this stunning mountain range offering breathtaking views of the area. You can also go skiing or snowboarding during the winter months.
• Experience a thrilling jet boat ride: Queenstown is famous for its jet boat rides on the Shotover River, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience.
• Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Lake Wakatipu on a relaxing cruise, passing by charming towns and picturesque landscapes. A cruise on the TSS Earnslaw is particularly memorable.