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Looking for an incredible Airbnb in Queenstown? Well, you came to the right place! Queenstown is full of amazing holiday rentals and Airbnbs that are often more comfortable, unique, and more beautiful than most hotels in Queenstown.
Oh, and did I mention that they are generally cheaper too?!
That’s right, there are a ton of amazing Airbnbs to choose from in Queenstown. From huge holiday homes to quirky downtown apartments to cozy cabins, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
In this blog, I’ve chosen 15 amazing Airbnbs in Queenstown and nearby. Each is special in its own way and suitable for a different type of traveler. So no matter if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a central apartment in the thick of it all, you’ll find an Airbnb for you on this list! Here are the absolute best Airbnbs in Queenstown.
Why Stay in an Airbnb in Queenstown

Airbnbs in Queenstown are a great choice when it comes to choosing somewhere to stay! There is a huge range of Airbnbs to choose from in Queenstown suited for everybody from solo travelers to large groups. Airbnbs are often cheaper than hotels and offer a unique experience.
We know that where you stay while on holiday has a huge impact on your overall trip, so it’s important to be comfortable. Most Airbnbs offer more facilities and amenities than hotels. With kitchens, hot tubs, outdoor spaces with a BBQ, and so much more, you really can find the perfect stay. Queenstown has loads of holiday homes and apartments that are larger and offer more freedom than a standard hotel room. You can cook if you so wish in the full kitchens these apartments offer and there are often laundry facilities too.
If you have a family or are traveling with a large group then the freedom of a large spacious apartment or holiday home will take a lot of stress away. Because let’s face it, who wants to be cramped into a hotel room with friends and family. Plus, all of the Airbnbs listed here feature an outdoor space (balcony or terrace) to sit and enjoy the views Queenstown is famous for.
The Airbnbs I’ve chosen in this blog are each unique and special in their own way. They are places to stay that I think will help make your Queenstown itinerary complete and the best possible!
My Top Choices for Airbnbs in Queenstown
Cheapest: Terrace Retreat Studio
Best for large groups: Serendib on Stoneridge
Most unique: Modbox Toru
Best for a couples’ romantic getaway: Shotover Ridge
Related Read: If you are looking for a budget stay in Queenstown consider booking a hostel. Hostels often have private rooms that are of hotel quality just for a fraction of the price. Read my blog about the best hostels in Queenstown to help you pick one!
15 Best Holiday Home Rentals & Airbnbs in Queenstown
1. Lakeside Maisonette

- Location: 10-minute drive outside of Queenstown just off Glenorchy-Queenstown Road.
- Type of home: Entire home
- Guests: 2
- Bedrooms: 1 bedroom
- Beds: 1 queen bed
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $300 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Couples looking for a peaceful escape. Anybody who values an amazing view, and some serious serenity!
What makes it a top choice: This is a beautiful, unique Airbnb perfect for couples visiting Queenstown on a romantic holiday. The home features huge windows with incredible lake views. There is a fireplace inside as well as air-conditioning, so it’s perfect in the winter or the summer. There is a full kitchen and free parking (you will need a car if you’re staying here.) The location is near one of the most scenic stretches of road in New Zealand, the road from Queenstown to Glenorchy. From here, you’re also only 30 minutes from the cute town of Glenorchy and there are lots of amazing attractions you should check out in Glenorchy too! It’s a great base for exploring the area, but the truth is, if you’re staying here you probably won’t ever want to leave!
Important info to note: This home does not have WiFi.
Guest Review: “This place was amazing! Awesome value based on the space and incredible views. Easy drive into Queenstown, and very close to a few great trails. The views are spectacular from every room! We enjoyed watching the boats on the lake, walking down to the dock, seeing rainbows, and watching the mountain colors change throughout the day. Seriously consider booking an extra day or two just to hang out at the property and soak it in!”
Book this Holiday Home on VRBO!
Why book with VRBO? We often use the booking platform VRBO for holiday home rentals when we travel. The company is reputable with great customer service. Plus, the platform is super easy to use, and unlike Airbnb, ONLY features properties that are entire homes – no need to worry about ending up with a shared space!
Related Read: There are some amazing hiking trails in Queenstown only minutes from this Airbnb! Check out Mount Crichton Loop Track, Sunshine Bay Track, or Bob’s Cove. They are both easy hikes in Queenstown and only around the corner from this gorgeous Airbnb!
2. Sunny Strawbale House Studio
- Location: Arrowtown
- Type of home: Studio apartment. Fully self-contained for privacy with its own entrance, but attached to the owner’s home which is above. On the ground floor.
- Guests: 2
- Bedrooms: Studio (no bedroom separate from the living space)
- Beds: 1 queen bed
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $82 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Couples who are looking to stay in Arrowtown without breaking the bank. There are tons of amazing things to do in Arrowtown and this Airbnb is located only a 15-minute walk from Arrowtown’s main street (Buckingham Street.) It’ll be a quiet stay, but still in a central convenient location. Be sure to check out some of the amazing cafes in Arrowtown while you’re there too!
What makes it a top choice: First of all, the price! You don’t get much cheaper than this for a private Airbnb in the Queenstown area. Besides that, the apartment is newly renovated and the host has amazing reviews including it being super clean and modern. There aren’t a ton of Airbnbs to choose from in Arrowtown, and personally, I love Arrowtown and think it’s a lovely place to base yourself. The apartment also has a nice outdoor seating area, a small fridge, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities.
Important info to note: This studio apartment does not have a kitchen. It has a mini-fridge, dishwasher, and hot water kettle for tea, an electric burner, along with dishes so that you can have a simple breakfast or lunch in your room, but nothing to cook on. With that said, there are lots of great places to eat nearby! There is also a washer for your convience.
Guest Review: “Stayed here for 7 nights and the place was perfect. Anna was super helpful during are move to queenstown. The accommodation is in arrowtown close to shops and pubs. There are lots of walks and treks you can do. The bus stop is 5min walk away which cost $2 to queenstown takes 30min. Would highly recommend.”
3. Shotover Ridge

- Location: Shotover Ridge about 9 km (5.6 mi) from central Queenstown overlooking the Shotover River
- Type of home: Apartment
- Guests: 4
- Bedrooms: Two-bedrooms
- Beds: 1 extra-large double bed, 1 large double bed
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: N/A
- Price: from $215+ NZD per night
Who will love this holiday home: Couples or small families looking for a holiday home/Airbnb with a gorgeous view and who want to stay a little outside Queenstown CBD but still have lots of amenities on their doorstep. There are cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets within walking distance. Not to mention, you’re right near the stunning Shotover River! The suite is best suited for couples who want a romantic getaway just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Queenstown.
Why it’s a top choice: Beautifully furnished, spacious, and also featuring a terrace with BBQ. Some extra bonuses include the dishwasher and air conditioning. Be sure to take lots of photos of the gorgeous river views, the views are some of the best in Queenstown! If you do want an epic adventure activity, simply head to the nearby Shotover Canyon Swing experience not far away. The suite has a living area with a couch as well as tea and coffee facilities.
Important information: Located 9 km (5.6 mi) from downtown CBD it may not be suitable for those who want to stay centrally, although bus routes 2, 3, and 5 stop nearby and take you into Queenstown
Guest Review: “Absolutely lovely. There was tasty soup waiting. The place was furnished beautifully, it was comfortable and roomy. Our hosts were attentive, even leaving chocolates one day. Nothing was too much trouble. The view over the river was amazing. Thank you so much for a fantastic stay.”
Book Shotover ridge on Booking.com
4. Serendib on Stoneridge

- Location: Frankton (about a 5-minute drive from central Queenstown or a 45-minute walk)
- Type of home: Entire home
- Guests: 10
- Bedrooms: 5 bedrooms
- Beds: 2 king beds, 2 queen beds, 2 single beds
- Bathrooms: 2
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $654 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: For large families or groups, this is the absolute best Airbnb in Queenstown. There aren’t many Airbnbs to choose from in Queenstown that sleep this number of people comfortably. Nobody has to sleep on a couch or sofa-bed, and the five bedrooms and two bathrooms are easily enough space for a group of up to 10! Plus, since it’s an entire home, it offers the privacy you and your friends (or family) are likely looking for.
What makes it a top choice: This home is huge and spacious! It has multiple levels, a washing machine and dryer, lots of space in the communal area, and even two full bathrooms! The house decor is modern and it is actually managed by a company that ensures it is spotlessly clean and you have everything you could ever want and more – did I mention the FREE bottle of wine on arrival?! On top of all that, the full kitchen is stocked with all the bells and whistles you’ll need to cook including an outdoor BBQ, there is a large soaker bathtub, and the huge windows offer a view like no other. The location is also close enough to Queenstown center, but also close to Frankton where you’ll find some of the best supermarkets in Queenstown.
Important info to note: This home has a minimum stay of 3 nights (5 during the Christmas period.)
Guest Review: “Great place to stay for a big group. House and facilities were awesome. Views are amazing.”
Book this holiday home on VRBO!
Related Read: Visiting Queenstown with your family? check out my blog about 30 free and cheap things to do in Queenstown with kids!
5. The Whistler Holiday Apartments

- Location: Gorge Road, about a 5-minute walk from central Queenstown
- Type of home: Entire apartment
- Guests: up to 6 people in the 2-bedroom apartments
- Bedrooms: One and two-bedroom apartments are available
- Beds: One-bedroom apartments have a double bed, single bed, and sofa bed. The two-bedroom apartments have a large double bed, stand double bed, single bed, and sofa bed.
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: n/a
- Price: $288 NZD/night+
Who will love this holiday home: Families especially love the large two-bedroom apartment option that features a large kitchen (with oven, microwave, fridge-freezer, etc,.) This is likely the most practical Airbnb on this list regarding amenities, location, and value for money.
Why it’s a top choice: These modern apartments have a full kitchen so you can cook in if you so wish plus every apartment has a balcony with mountain views – from some rooms you’ll even be able to spot the famed Skyline Gondola. It’s only a short 5-minute walk into Queenstown. Because there are many holiday apartments available in this same building, you have a better chance of booking these (as opposed to other Airbnbs where there is only one available.)
Important information: All apartments have a washing machine and a shared drying facility on-site. Ideal if you’re on a long vacation and have a stack of laundry to do. There are also two supermarkets a short walk away – FreshChoice and Raeward Fresh.
Guest Review: “It was a great location (within walking distance to town), had a free parking lot, the apartment was warm and comfortable.”
Browse all holiday apartments available at Whistler Holiday Apartments on Booking.com
6. Tekau
- Location: Right in central Queenstown – super walkable to everywhere!
- Type of home: Entire apartment
- Guests: 2
- Bedrooms: 1 bedroom
- Beds: 1 king bed
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: N/A
- Price: $197 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Couples or singles who want to be close to the hustle and bustle that is Queenstown! With so many amazing things to do in Queenstown, this apartment is the perfect place for those who want to be close to it all. Also, if you want to party in Queenstown, this apartment is within “stumbling distance” after a night out.
What makes it a top choice: Not only does this studio apartment have an excellent location, but it has everything you need to be comfortable without overpaying for extra bells and whistles. The apartment’s kitchenette comes with a microwave, mini fridge, and toaster while the main room with a king bed opens up to a patio space!
Important info to note: This apartment is right in town so it can be loud. Since it is a studio it is smaller and also only sleeps up to two people.
Guest Review: “Clean, tidy, and modern! Good parking in a nice location.”
Book Tekau on Booking.com!
7. Turner Heights Townhouses

- Location: 14 Turner Street, a 10-minute walk from central Queenstown
- Type of home: Townhouses
- Guests: 4
- Bedrooms: 2 bedrooms
- Beds: 1 large double bed, two single beds, one sofa bed
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: No
- Price: $202 NZD/night+
Who will love this holiday home: Couples or families looking for a reasonably priced and centrally located holiday home in Queenstown. The two-bedroom apartment features a balcony with either mountain or lake views. Plus, for practicality, the full kitchen and laundry facilities come in handy.
Why it’s a top choice: Turner Heights Townhouses are just a 10-minute walk from Queenstown CBD. These townhouses have wonderful reviews from past guests (it’s rated a 9.1 on booking.com) and plenty of facilities including a spa pool, BBQ area, and free parking.
Important information: This place sells out quickly so be sure to book in advance.
Guest Review: “Everything was super wonderful! Roomy, warm, gorgeous views, on-site parking, great beds, and pillows. I would highly recommend turner heights townhouses!”
Book Turner Heights Townhouses on Booking.com
Related Read: Are you on a tight budget? I wrote a blog about the best cheap things to do in Queenstown as well as the free activities in Queenstown too!
8. Modbox Toru, Spa & Views

- Location: Queenstown Hill, just a 5-minute drive from town center.
- Type of home: Entire home
- Guests: 6 (option to add on the semi-self contained unit downstairs for an extra bedroom, and 2 people)
- Bedrooms: 3 bedrooms (option to add on the semi-self contained unit downstairs for an extra bedroom, and 2 people)
- Beds: 3 king beds (one kind bed can be split into two singles)
- Bathrooms: 3
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $787 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Large families or groups looking for a central stay in Queenstown. People who want to enjoy beautiful views from a modern, fully-stocked home.
What makes it a top choice: This home is located in a great location and it’s really clean and modern. What I love about it most is that for 3 couples it is comfortable and spacious with 3 bedrooms all fitted with king beds, as well as 3 bathrooms. And if your group has a couple more people, you can add on the suite downstairs too! This home also has a spa tub, amazing views, access to a washer and dryer, Apple TV and Netflix, as well as speedy WiFi. The views are incredible and the large windows really showcase them. The full kitchen has everything you need to cook many meals.
Important info to note: This home has a minimum stay of 3 nights (5 during the Christmas season.)
Guest Review: “What a view, perfectly perched high up on a hill overlooking Kelvin Heights and the Lake. The space is stylish and modern with all the amenities that you will need. Will definitely be booking again for our next QT visit!”
Book the Modbox holiday home on VRBO!
9. Stunning Panoramic Lake and Mountain Views – 3 Bedrooms

- Location: A 5-minute walk from central Queenstown
- Type of home: Entire apartment
- Guests: 6
- Bedrooms: 3 bedrooms
- Beds: 2 singles and 2 king beds
- Bathrooms: 2 full bathrooms and one half bath
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $430 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Families or groups who want to be close to central Queenstown. In terms of a large three-bedroom home, it doesn’t get closer to Queenstown than this!
What makes it a top choice: Location, location, location! This home has everything you could ever need only minutes from downtown Queenstown. It is clean and comfortable, without having to pay extra for luxuries. It is modest and offers lake views. The kitchen is fully equipped and there is a washing machine and dryer in the home too.
Important info to note: The walk back to the property from town is uphill. Some past guests have noted that it is best to take a taxi back to the property from town rather than walking. This property also has a 3-night minimum stay.
Guest Review: “Great house for a family weekend. The house was big, warm, and comfortable. The views from the kitchen, living, and all three bedrooms were spectacular. We particularly enjoyed being able to see all the planes taking off and landing at the airport. Great entertainment for a rainy day!”
Book this 3-bedroom holiday home on VRBO!
10. Cute Cottage with Hot Tub

- Location: A 8-minute drive from central Queenstown on Queenstown-Glenorchy Road.
- Type of home: Entire cottage
- Guests: 4
- Bedrooms: 2 bedroom
- Beds: 1 queen bed and 1 double bed
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $375 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Couples or families who want a luxurious stay and some peace and quiet. Anybody who wants to soak in a hot tub under the stars will absolutely love this Airbnb in Queenstown!
What makes it a top choice: This cute cottage is so charming! It has just been renovated so the inside is fresh and modern. The bathroom has a rain shower and you’ll find stunning views from the large deck. The cottage has a living area separate from the bedrooms complete with a fireplace. It has a full kitchen as well as a washer and dryer. The hot tub has uninterrupted views of Lake Wakatipu! The outdoor deck is huge and has plenty of space for enjoying the views.
Important info to note: This Airbnb is located a short drive outside of Queenstown where there is no bus service available. You’ll need your own car to stay here. With that said, it will be nice and quiet and the views are incredible – a relaxing stay!
Related Read: This Airbnb is located along one of the best bike trails in Queenstown – find out where all the others are!
11. Coronet Apartment – Complete comfort and views
- Location: Arthur’s Point about 7 km (4.3 mi) from central Queenstown
- Type of home: Entire apartment
- Guests: Up to 4
- Bedrooms: Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments are available
- Beds: The studio has 1 large double bed, the one-bedroom apartment has 1 extra-large double bed as well as a single bed, and the two-bedroom apartment has 1 large double bed and 1 extra-large double bed
- Bathrooms: 1, except for in the two-bedroom apartment that has 2 bathrooms
- Superhost: N/A
- Price: $300 NZD/night+
Who will love this holiday home: families and groups of friends particularly love the wide selection of apartment types on offer. This is also a popular option in winter as it’s one of the closest apartments to Coronet ski field (one of the best places to ski in Queenstown!)
Why it’s a top choice: This accommodation feels very homey and is located in the stunning Arthur Point neighborhood which is also home to the famed Onsen Hot Pools – one of the top hot pools in Queenstown! There’s a variety of apartments available from a studio to a spacious two bedroom suite with mountain or garden views.
Important information: Each apartment include access to the year-round hot tub or the pool in the summertime and the BBQ grill.
Guest Review: “Friendly staff, Located in the city, yet nice and peaceful room. You will get everything you need for cooking including a dishwasher. Fast internet. Nice view from the room. One of the best places we found in south island. Highly recommended”
Check out available Coronet Apartments available on VRBO and Booking.com
12. Majestic View Studio

- Location: 116 Hensman Road, Queenstown Hill. About 15-20 minute walk from central Queenstown
- Type of home: Entire studio apartment
- Guests: 4
- Bedrooms: Studio apartment, the bedroom and living space is shared
- Beds: 1 queen bed and one sofa bed
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: N/A
- Price: $302 NZD/night+
Who will love this holiday home: Couples on a romantic getaway. It’s an ideal honeymoon stay in Queenstown in my opinion! You honestly can’t beat the views and the place is pure luxury.
Why it’s a top choice: The views are the selling point with this holiday home/Airbnb – with 180-degree views of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables, and Cecil Peak. The apartment itself is modern with a touch of luxury and also has a large balcony to enjoy the views. It also features a full kitchen and washing machine. Extra bonuses included air conditioning as well as heated floors. It’s a warm place to stay in the winter months. In the summer, you can relax with a glass of wine on the balcony!
Important information: It’s a 15-minute walk to the center of Queenstown – the walk can be quite steep at times.
Guest Review: “Location was great, so close to town and the VIEWS were to die for, waking up each morning we were so happy with our decision to stay here. Heated tiles in kitchen and bathroom were a bonus!”
Book the Majestic View Studio on Booking.com
13. Self-contained newly renovated sleep-out in Arrowtown

- Location: Arrowtown, right across from the supermarket and near the golf course
- Type of home: Entire studio apartment
- Guests: 2
- Bedrooms: 1 common area with bed
- Beds: 1 queen bed and one single
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $130 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Couples or solo travelers who want a clean and comfortable place to stay. Those who golf will particularly like this location.
What makes it a top choice: Let’s face it, Queenstown can be hectic. This lovely Airbnb is located in a quiet location near the beautiful Millbrook Resort and Golf Course only a 10-minute walk from downtown Arrowtown or a 15-minute drive (or bus ride) from Queenstown. The studio has its own separate entrance and has its own outdoor patio area too. There is a toaster oven, kettle, refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities within the apartment. With a large queen bed and TV, this Airbnb is perfect for a relaxing holiday in the Queenstown area. It is also located on the ground floor and has a nice outdoor space to enjoy.
Important info to note: This Airbnb only has limited kitchen facilities and does not have a stove or full oven to cook with.
Guest Review: “Very near grocery store and bus line to Queenstown! The owners’ hospitality and helpfulness were beyond compare.”
Book this studio apartment on VRBO!
Related Read: Thinking about staying in Arrowtown? Read about all of the amazing things you can do in Arrowtown!
14. Terrace Retreat Studio

- Location: 10-minute walk from Queenstown town center
- Type of home: Entire studio apartment
- Guests: 2
- Bedrooms: 1 common area with bed
- Beds: 1 queen bed, 1 single bed (best for a child)
- Bathrooms: 1
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $119 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Couples who want a quiet stay while still being within a flat and easy walk to Queenstown. This Airbnb is very affordable and great for anybody on a tight budget.
What makes it a top choice: This Airbnb is clean and spacious – perfect for a small family holidaying in Queenstown! It is also very reasonably priced considering the views and amenities. The Airbnb is an apartment with your own private space and entrance. Unlike most studio apartments, this holiday home has a full kitchen so you can cook up a storm. It also has a living area and patio – and lake views! Lots of parking is available.
Important info to note: There is a 2-night minimum stay. The unit only sleeps 2 people, but a second single mobile bed can be proved if required – however, it is not the best bed and is better suited for children rather than adults.
Guest Review: “Very comfortable and clean accommodation. Water pressure was very strong in the shower, which made for an invigorating experience. The owner was friendly and amenable, attending to my pre-arrival request for a bouquet of flowers to greet my wife on arrival. Would definitely recommend this place, and maybe one day in the future we could be back here again, one of the best stays we have had in recent years.”
15. Exquisite views | Close to Downtown | 4-Bedroom Home

- Location: 15-minute walk from Queenstown town center
- Type of home: Entire 2-Story home
- Guests: 8
- Bedrooms: 4
- Beds: 1 queen, 2 kings beds, 2 single beds
- Bathrooms: 3
- Superhost: Yes
- Price: $465 NZD/night+
Who will love this Airbnb: Large families or groups that want a place close to Queenstown center. This home is a short 15-minute walk from Queenstown center which is mostly flat. It is located in a quiet cul de sac with ample parking.
What makes it a top choice: This holiday home is easily one of the Airbnbs in Queenstown with its 4 bedrooms and large common areas. The kitchen is fully equipped and there is a private patio with lake views. Laundry facilities are located on the property and the unit has heating and air conditioning. The home is clean and modern at a super reasonable price. It comfortably sleeps 8 people and because of the location, is suitable for people who do not have a vehicle.
Important info to note: This home is two stories, so those with mobility issues may not find it suitable. It also has a 3-night minimum stay.
Guest Review: “Really enjoyed staying here and would recommend for a large group visiting Queenstown. We had 8 people and there was plenty of space for everyone. A 15 min walk to town and close to main bus routes.”
Book this large holiday home on VRBO!
Hot Tip: The best holiday homes generally get booked up first during the busy times of year in Queenstown. During events, school holidays, or even December in Queenstown (Christmas and New Year) it is especially important to book well in advance!
Must-Do Activities While in Queenstown

While in Queenstown there are plenty of other activities that will keep you busy… Honestly, there are so many it’ll be hard to choose which ones to do! Below are some of my favorites.
- Central Otago Wine Tour and Tasting – This is my personal favorite wine tour in Queenstown! It is one of the best values for money, for $215 NZD your tour bus will stop at 4 different boutique wineries in the Otago region that include a wide range of wine samples and a provided gourmet lunch platter. As you hop between wineries you’ll gaze out the window at spectacular views.
- TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise – This scenic and relaxing cruise in Queenstown is an activity great for any afternoon. The ship you will be cruising on is the Historic TSS Earnslaw and you will get to watch crew members add coal to the flames that power the vessel. Take in the mountain ranges and lush green valleys of Otago. You can also upgrade this tour here to include dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
- Queenstown Canyoning Adventure – Climb and jump off waterfalls, rappel, swim, and trek your way down a part of a Queenstown canyon with a qualified guide. This thrilling full-day activity is perfect for those who love adventure and exploration! As long as you aren’t afraid of heights and have a basic swimming ability you won’t need any other skills.
- Day Trip to Milford Sound With Picnic Lunch – This tour will give you the ultimate ability to explore the beauty of Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. Not only will your guide stop at several impressive viewpoints on the way from Queenstown but there is also a cruise in Milford Sound included. This small-group tour goes for $249 NZD a person and I think it’s a really great value for a more personalized experience.
- Extreme Jet Boating – Looking for a thrill? Jet Boating is one of New Zealand’s most unique activities. On the tour out of Queenstown, you’ll be able to zoom up the Shotover River through narrow canyons at high speeds and make 360-degree spins. Trust, me it’s epic!
Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in New Zealand


Let’s face it, you’re going to need wheels to get around New Zealand. Although a small country, buses between destinations are infrequent and expensive. Plus, some of the best experiences you can have in NZ are on road trips!
You have three options when it comes to getting wheels in New Zealand; a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:
- Car – A normal car is the cheapest rental vehicle you can get in New Zealand. It’ll get you around to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels or Airbnbs during your travels (no camping.) The easiest place to rent a car in New Zealand is on Discover Cars where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.
- Campervan – A Campervan is a large van that has a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what most budget travelers use for traveling around New Zealand since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here. Alternatively, you can easily compare all campervans available in NZ on Motorhome Republic here.
- Motorhome – A motorhome is larger and more comfortable than a campervan. Many motorhomes will comfortably sleep 6 or more people – perfect for a family visiting New Zealand. Motorhomes are the most expensive option, but with one you won’t ever need to stay in a hotel and you’ll save money that way. My top choice for a motorhome company is Star RV because they have beautiful motorhomes at affordable prices. You can check prices and availability for Star RV motorhomes online here. Alternatively, you can use Motorhome Republic to search all motorhomes in NZ. For more detailed info, read my complete guide to renting a motorhome in New Zealand!
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT CODE: I’ve managed to snag a discount code for 5% off for my readers if you book your campervan or motorhome through JUCY or Star RV! Simply click here to select your JUCY campervan, or click here to select your Star RV motorhome, and then use the code DTRAVEL25 at checkout to get 5% off – it’s that easy!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, I currently use and recommend SafetyWing. I’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had my back when I needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference I’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. I’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum and you get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped me out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given me peace of mind. Read my full review on if you should get travel insurance in NZ for more info!
Thanks for reading!

Queenstown is easily one of the best places to visit on the South Island, and as such, you’re going to love it! Staying in an epic Airbnb will only make your visit that much more special, and I hope I’ve helped you choose one!
You can’t go wrong with any of the Airbnbs I’ve mentioned in this blog. They truly are the best Airbnbs in Queenstown and are sure to impress.
Be sure to look around my blog a little more, I’ve written all about Queenstown and include a ton of local tips for visiting! My blogs about where to stay in Queenstown, the best hotels in Queenstown, and the best hostels in Queenstown are all great guides to accommodation worth checking out. Also, I’ve listed some of my personal favorite guides here:
Things to know before visiting Queenstown