Avoid Tourist Traps in Queenstown: Insider Tips for a Perfect Trip

The fifth stop of our New Zealand self-driving tour: Queenstown
We spent three days in Queenstown, and it was a far cry from the serene lakeside town I had envisioned. To be honest, I felt a bit let down, but this was where I stayed the longest.

Perhaps it was due to aesthetic fatigue. After experiencing the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Tekapo, Pukaki, and Wanaka, Queenstown just didn’t leave much of an impression on me. I even forgot the name of the lake [Crying with laughter]. From a distance, Queenstown does look quite picturesque. However, once you’re in the heart of the town, it feels overly commercialized and crowded with tourists.

Unfortunately, the subsequent adventures like skydiving, Milford Sound, and Deer Park all required starting from Queenstown, so I ended up staying for three days. Due to parking issues, I received my first and only ticket in New Zealand [Angry].

On a brighter note, I witnessed a stunning aurora burst here, which I’ll share in the next post. Fellow self-driving travelers can message me privately to ask about the few free parking spots in Queenstown and the hidden gem photo spot in picture 3 [Observing secretly].

I wouldn’t recommend taking the steamship; it’s just a waste of money. I didn’t go on the Skyline Gondola, so I won’t comment on it. However, I highly recommend trying the jet boat; I really regret not going, as other travelers raved about how thrilling it was! You must also try skydiving! If you’re feeling a bit nervous, a hot air balloon ride is a fantastic alternative.

As for dining, there weren’t any restaurants that stood out. I’m not a big fan of Western cuisine, but the Lanzhou noodles in Queenstown were surprisingly good. In summary, while there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Queenstown, the crowds and commercialization can be a bit overwhelming, so be sure to avoid the tourist traps [Disappointed].