Queenstown is known as New Zealand’s adventure capital, but you don’t have to go far to find even more incredible sights. Just beyond the town centre lie some of the most scenic and rewarding day trips in the country. Whether you’re chasing mountain views, lakeside moments, or a taste of local life, these nearby escapes have it all. The best part? They’re all within easy reach of Haka House Queenstown and Haka House Queenstown Lakefront.
The drive to Glenorchy is one of the most beautiful in New Zealand. The road winds along the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with towering alpine peaks reflected in the water. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Middle-earth, surrounded by film locations from The Lord of the Rings. Go for a lakeside stroll or start the legendary Routeburn Track, one of the country’s Great Walks.
Continue a little further to Kinloch, a quiet lakeside retreat where time slows down. Stop at Kinloch Lodge for coffee or a glass of wine while soaking in the views. It’s the perfect spot to pause, breathe, and take in the magic before heading back to Queenstown.
Head the other way over the Crown Range, the highest main road in New Zealand, for an unforgettable drive. The route offers spectacular views over the Whakatipu Basin and the Cardrona Valley, with plenty of pull-offs for photos.
Along the way, stop at the famous Cardrona Bra Fence, a quirky roadside icon. Then visit the Cardrona Distillery or the historic Cardrona Hotel, a must-stop for hearty pub food in winter or a refreshing pint in the summer sunshine.
If you have time, continue on to Wānaka for lakeside relaxation, boutique shopping, and a stroll along the waterfront. In winter, Cardrona Alpine Resort is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, swap snow gear for a mountain bike or a gravity-powered ride on the mountain trikes.
After a full day on the road, return to your cosy bunk or private room at Haka House Queenstown or Haka House Queenstown Lakefront. Both hostels are perfect for travellers who want comfort, convenience, and a friendly social atmosphere. Rest easy, swap stories with fellow adventurers, and get ready to do it all again tomorrow. Book your stay and start exploring the best day trips from Queenstown today.
Discover some of the most scenic and rewarding day trips to take from Queenstown. Whether you’re here for epic landscapes, local culture, or a low-key nature fix, these nearby escapes deliver the goods. Even better? They’re all easily reached from Haka House Queenstown or Queenstown Lakefront.
Explore the best summer walks in Queenstown, from lakeside trails to mountain lookouts. Discover hikes like Moke Lake, Lake Hayes, and Ben Lomond near Haka House.
As the southern hemisphere welcomes the cooler embrace of autumn, New Zealand transforms into a canvas of warm hues and crisp, inviting weather. Autumn in New Zealand, stretching from March to May, is a spectacle of nature not to be missed. Experience the stunning autumnal colours, diverse activities, and breathtaking landscapes each region has to offer.
As the southern hemisphere welcomes the cooler embrace of autumn, New Zealand transforms into a canvas of warm hues and crisp, inviting weather. Autumn in New Zealand, stretching from March to May, is a spectacle of nature not to be missed. Experience the stunning autumnal colours, diverse activities, and breathtaking landscapes each region has to offer.