Queenstown, nestled amidst the stunning Southern Alps and the shores of Lake Wakatipu, is a destination of unparalleled natural beauty and adventure. Its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture attract travellers from around the globe. From the iconic Shotover Jet boat rides to the serene beauty of the lake, Queenstown offers a diverse range of experiences. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or relaxing moments of tranquility, Queenstown caters to all tastes. The town's unique character blends seamlessly with its stunning natural surroundings, creating an unforgettable travel experience.

The average direct flight duration from Taupo to Queenstown is approximately 1 hour, although this can vary depending on weather conditions and air traffic. You can typically find several airlines offering these routes with multiple daily flights. At least two major airlines provide direct routes, ensuring a convenient journey to Queenstown. While many flights are direct, some itineraries may involve a stopover, so always confirm your flight details carefully when booking your trip. If there are no direct flights, alternative flight paths might involve layover hubs, potentially increasing your overall travel time.

To secure the best deals on flights, it is recommended to book in the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when airfares are typically lower. Booking your flight well in advance is also advisable to get the cheapest fares. Peak seasons, such as the summer holiday period, tend to see higher demand, resulting in more expensive ticket prices. Queenstown experiences its busiest period during the summer months (December to February) due to the warm weather and high tourist influx. These months are also ideal for outdoor activities. The quieter months fall during the winter (June to August), although this period offers fantastic opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Consider these seasonal trends when planning your trip to find the most cost-effective time to travel.

Queenstown boasts a continental-style climate, meaning hot summers and cool winters. Summers (December-February) are warm and sunny, with average daily temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Winters (June-August) are cold and crisp, averaging between 0°C and 9°C, with snow often falling on the surrounding mountains. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer milder temperatures and stunning scenery, with autumn providing a vibrant display of fall colours. Expect temperatures in spring to range from 8°C to 22°C, and in autumn, 5°C to 25°C. While the weather can be unpredictable, Queenstown offers something to enjoy year round.

There is one main airport currently operating in Taupo that serves commercial flights. Taupo Airport (TUO) is a small but well-equipped airport located south of the town.

Taupo Airport (TUO)

Taupo Airport, opened in 1960s, offers scenic views of the surrounding area and is the busiest drop zone in New Zealand for skydiving. The airport is well-maintained and regularly undergoes upgrades to improve the passenger experience. It's primarily a domestic airport, handling a good number of flights each week with several airlines.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Sounds Air
• Originair

Queenstown has one main airport serving commercial flights. Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is an important hub for tourism in the region.

Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is a modern airport with various amenities for passengers. It has good connections to major cities both domestically and internationally. To reach the city centre from the airport, you can use public transport such as buses, take a taxi, or hire a car. The airport is well-connected to the city with frequent bus services, readily available taxis and car rentals. The journey takes around 20 minutes depending on the traffic.

Queenstown, New Zealand offers an exciting array of activities for all interests. From thrilling adventures to peaceful explorations of nature, there's something to appeal to everyone.

• Explore Lake Wakatipu: Take a scenic cruise on the lake, go kayaking, or try jet boating for a thrilling experience.
• Ride the Skyline Gondola: Ascend Bob's Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Hike Queenstown Hill: Embark on a moderate hike to the summit for stunning vistas of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.