New on Neat Places: Queenstown Tāhuna!
Unmistakably a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and unhinged adrenaline junkies, Queenstown is just as much a place for foodies, craft beer fans and culture lovers looking to get their thrills.
The Complete Wellness Guide to Queenstown
Words by: Maggie Worthington Photos by: Anna Briggs and Supplied
Best Queenstown Walks & Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards
The Queenstown region is a hiker’s paradise, with an abundance of tracks etched into its incredible landscape. From easy-going paths skirting the lake’s shores, to rugged alpine terrains and serene trails through native bush, we’ve put together 10 of our favourite picturesque walks for every level. And because no good adventure is complete without a culinary indulgence (we’re not talking about the muesli bar stashed in your pocket), we’ve paired each trail with some delicious recommendations, including great coffee, flaky pastries, crafty brews and hearty meals. So lace up your boots and let’s get going…
One of the Locals: The Insiders Guide to Queenstown
Forget about Google recommendations. If you’ve been hosted by locals while visiting a city, you’ll appreciate their access to authentic experiences that may have otherwise slipped under your radar. With that in mind, we’ve been teasing insider tips out of the people that know this town best, to bring you a list of locally approved places to eat, shop and get together in Queenstown. We reveal the best burger in Queenstown, charming shopping laneways, community gatherings, neighbourhood eateries, and more. So even if you’re staying for a week or a while, it’s time to get down with the locals. We can promise you that you’ll be welcomed as an old friend.
What’s Good in Queenstown: Meet the businesses making a difference
When wonderland is the place you call home, there’s a lot worth protecting and preserving. A collective of Queenstown locals are rolling up their sleeves and changing the way they do business to keep the towering mountains, pristine lakes and rich soils of this well-visited land in pristine condition. There’s no doubt this community is in it for the long haul – and their efforts are already making a huge difference in the region.
We celebrate the neat restaurants, cafes, shops, and galleries around New Zealand. Whether you're a local or visiting you'll find something on Neat Places to tickle your fancy.
New and Notable
Bar Yoku
The ultimate izakaya experience in Ōtautahi Christchurch, Bar Yoku is something special.
Tanoshi
Tanoshi has made a name for itself in Queenstown with three popular sites, each with a slightly different focus. But its Christchurch restaurant is a fusion of them all.
Victoria Free House
A British-style pub, Victoria Free House is a slice of the old world in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Mora Wines and Artisan Kitchen
“Mora” means to linger or pause in Latin, and believe us – this is the place to do just that.
Frances Nation Café
Frances Nation Café is a go-to in Christchurch for superb coffee and delicious food.
Broken Heart Gin Garden
Bridging the gap between Queenstown and Arrowtown, Broken Heart Gin Garden offers an unexpected world-class gin experience on the main roadside in Arthurs Point.
Blue Door Bar
Who would’ve thought an old, weathered doorway sporting peeling blue paint could cause such a stir? Arrotown's Blue Door Bar is a hidden speakeasy-style bar,...
Neat Planner
Looking for something to do? Whether you’re a local, new in town or just passing through, we’ve rounded up the best things happening across New Zealand – from neighbourhood parties to restaurant pop-ups, boutique festivals and more.
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Stories
Uncovering Queenstown: Your Guide to Exploring The Wider Region
From the tranquillity of Glenorchy, to the quaint streets of Arrowtown and the lush vineyards of Gibbston, there's plenty on offer throughout the wider region of Queenstown. We've ventured from one end of the region to the other, uncovering the best places to eat, drink, shop, explore and stay. So, put some time aside and dig a little deeper, and you'll discover plenty of pockets deserving of your attention.
The Best Places to Wine & Dine in Queenstown
In the heart of Queenstown Lakes where gardens, farms and lakes thrive with first-class produce, Queenstown was destined to be a haven of culinary delights. From hatted restaurants to under-the-radar eateries, scenic beer gardens to renowned wineries, exploring this town’s hospitality scene is just as thrilling as any bungy jump. With so much on the menu, we recommend extending your stay by a few more days to get a taste of it all.
10 Trails in the Hutt Valley and Where to Treat Yourself After
Nestled within the lush, rolling landscapes that make up the lower North Island, the Hutt Valley offers an expansive network of interesting walks appealing to both seasoned hikers and casual strollers alike. Whether you’re after a leisurely meander or a more challenging multi-hour ‘slog’, the Hutt Valley trails offer a variety of native bush landscapes and panoramic vistas, meaning there really is something for everyone. Fortunately, the adventure doesn’t have to end with the last step of the walk; the Hutt Valley also offers a yummy selection of culinary spots to reward the tired explorer. Our guide below unveils ten of the best walks in the Hutt Valley and our suggestion of the perfect places to treat yourself afterwards.
How to Spend a Day in Petone, Lower Hutt
Beers, Bites, and Bowling: A Guide to Upper Hutt’s Brewtown
Just a stone’s throw from Upper Hutt train station lies Brewtown, a 6,000 square metre entertainment and dining hub that effortlessly attracts families, parties, and thrill seekers from around Wellington and beyond.
12 Hour City Itineraries
Amberley & Waipara
Craft brews, excellent wine and standout local produce are awaiting in North Canterbury's Amberley and Waipara. Add breathtaking views, easy driving and friendly people to the mix and 12 hours in this region will fly by.
Auckland
Tāmaki Makaurau: an isthmus dwarfed by two almighty harbours, Manukau to the south and Waitematā to the north. It’s no surprise Auckland is nicknamed the “City of Sails”, with its abundance of boats (and ocean) seen in every direction. There are many reasons why 1.5 million people call this place home. With a diverse culture, bustling food and drink scene, beaches, and 48 dormant volcanoes to keep things interesting, Auckland is as cosmopolitan as they come. Here’s how to spend the day in the biggest city in Aotearoa.
Central Otago
Dramatic landscapes and enchanting seasons abound in Central Otago. If you only have a short time to enjoy it, here’s the best way to spend 12 hours.
Christchurch
Christchurch is home to top of the line retail, quality eating and drinking establishments, and plenty of activities to nourish body and soul. So whether you’re treating yourself, exploring the rebuilding city, or simply after a fresh take of the city, Christchurch is forever full of surprises.
Dunedin
While this 12-hour guide can’t possibly cover all the things to do in Ōtepoti Dunedin, it will give you a great overview of the history and culture found here, with plenty of stops for food and drink along the way!
Gisborne
Fill your day getting amongst the finest places to eat, drink, and shop in Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Hamilton
Lovers of sport, great food, and wine make up the population of people who have a palpable sense of loyalty to their city, Hamilton.
Havelock North
A quaint township in Hastings, Havelock North punches well above its weight when it comes to eating, drinking, and shopping. Looking for things to do in Havelock North? We have you covered with this 12-hour guide.
In Parnell
Offering a striking contrast between historic architecture and New York-inspired warehouses, Parnell really does have it all. And let’s not forget the sprawling outdoor spaces ready to discover on foot, like the Rose Gardens, Judges Bay and Auckland Domain. From delicious eateries through to art galleries and local boutiques, here’s how to spend the perfect day in this dreamy suburb.
In Timaru
Make the most of your flying visit to Timaru with our 12 hour guide, which will have you sipping the best coffee, nipping into intriguing boutiques and galleries, learning about the ancient practice of Māori rock art and filling up on the best food in town. The locals refer to their petite town as the Riviera of the South, and while it’s all a bit of tongue-in-cheek fun, there is definitely something to this statement. The stunning Caroline Bay and harbour and the easy walking township filled with historical buildings and plenty to pique your interest, make this underdog of the east coast a place well worth visiting. Whether you make Timaru your main destination or stop en-route North or South, make sure you take some time to get to know this gem of a town.
Invercargill
Make the most of your time in Invercargill, one of the southernmost cities in the world. Known for top notch hospitality, cheese rolls and rolling green hills, Invercargill features the very best of Southland cuisine, culture, fashion, design, art and entertainment. You’ll need to use your time wisely to get a sampling of it all.
Kaikōura
Think you can't experience a taste of Kaikōura in 12 hours? We can prove you wrong. We’ve gathered a neat package of activities, delicious food, scenic spots, and great entertainment that can all be squeezed within a day trip to this seaside town.
Marlborough
If you’re thinking about taking a day trip through Marlborough but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered with our 12-hour itinerary. From eating and drinking to shopping and exploring, our guide will make sure you get the best out of your trip.
New Plymouth
The best of art and food collide in coastal New Plymouth. Enjoy world-class art, culture, and cuisine in a seaside setting, with a backdrop of mountain views, all in our 12-hour day trip guide to New Plymouth and the best things to do.
Ōamaru
Ōamaru is more than meets the eye. While Steampunk is this Waitaki town’s usual calling card there’s also a host of local food and drink to try, native wildlife to discover, inventive art to enjoy and friendly locals to meet. We've rounded up a day trip guide for when you have 12 hours or less, but we suggest you come back with more time.
Palmerston North
Toss any preconceptions you might have, there is A LOT to do in Palmerston North. If you like food, drink, art, shopping, and friendly people, you’ve come to the right place.
Porirua
If you're visiting Porirua for a day trip, we have the best things to see, eat and do in 12 hours in this city at the southern end of the Kāpiti Coast.
Raglan
Casual beachy vibes, friendly people and a delicious food scene are all found in Raglan, a township with a penchant for zero waste and keeping New Zealand beautiful. The perfect destination for a day trip, and we have just the guide to help you..
Rotorua
If you haven’t got long in this beautiful geothermal town, then it pays to plan your visit so you know exactly what hot spots to head to first.
Tauranga
When you only have 12 hours somewhere you want to hit the best places first, right? Here’s our guide to the coolest spots in Tauranga.
Wānaka
A place where every house in town seems to have a million-dollar view, you'll find endless activities to fill 12 hours in Wānaka.
Wellington
Wellington is well-known for its quirky, colourful streets, its love of fashion and events, and its bustling hospitality scene. Here's how to spend 12 hours in the capital city.
Whanganui
A wonderfully quiet place, Whanganui’s charm is in the pretty streets where there’s no rush to find a park or feel frazzled by traffic. There’s no need to drive far here anyway, so join the locals sipping coffee on street corners, and find some of the most acclaimed art in the country at the numerous galleries.
Only Have In Hastings? Here Are The Best Things To Do
If you have an appetite for rich culture and relish sampling local food and wine, Hastings is bursting with flavour in all aspects. When your time in a city is limited, you need fail-safe tips to point you in the right direction on how best to spend your day. Here’s our guide on how to get the very best out of the rich and vibrant scene in Hastings.