Known as a four-season destination, Queenstown is the perfect place to experience the beauty of autumn in New Zealand's South Island. With hills covered in golden and red trees, complemented by the region's blue lakes and rivers, exploring Otago by car is an absolute must-do this season. Here are a few things to do in Queenstown this autumn, recommended by our team of local experts.
Autumn is a wonderful time to explore the region's walking trails and witness the changing seasons. Enjoy short walks around Arrowtown, Lake Hayes, and Queenstown, taking in the iconic change in foliage. Or, set out on one last tramp of the season before winter sets in, and explore the stunning hikes from Glenorchy, only 48km from Queenstown.
If you're keen on biking, the Queenstown Trail is a New Zealand Great Ride, with a 130km network of trails. There are trails for all skill levels, offering easy rides along the basin's rivers and lakes, as well as more serious mountain biking options. Cromwell, located just a 40-minute drive from Queenstown, is one of our favorite places to ride.
Treat yourself to local Central Otago wines with a self-guided wine tour. With subregions like Gibbston, Bendigo, and Bannockburn all within an hour or so drive from Queenstown, you can spend the day indulging in the unique flavours of Central Otago wines. If you have time, we recommend making a stop at Kinross for lunch!
If you're in town from April 25th to 28th, the Arrowtown Autumn Festival is back and the perfect way to experience Arrowtown in autumn. A weekend filled with activities, market days, live music, and entertainment against the backdrop of Arrowtown's iconic changing trees is the ultimate experience this season.
If you need a car to reach these destinations, Evolve Rentals has got you covered!