Queenstown
If it's your first time in Queenstown, some things might be new to you, like the public transport system and finding your way around town. This can be exciting but don't worry if you feel a little homesick. That's natural, especially in the first 12 months of living overseas.
One of the best things you can do to feel at home is to explore and experience your town. Then the things that are new become normal as you create a great life here.
Been in Queenstown for a while? Scroll down and see if you've visited all the places and landmarks listed below!
Quick facts
Population
The Queenstown-Lakes district has a population of around 39,000 people(external link that opens in a new tab), but it might feel like more as there's a constant visitor population too!
Fun fact
Queenstown is nicknamed the 'Adventure Capital of New Zealand'.
Living in Queenstown
There are many ways to describe life in Queenstown. Here are two important ones:
Winter wonderland
Queenstown is a great place to live all year round, but it really comes alive during winter. There are four ski areas(external link that opens in a new tab), all within 20-90 minutes drive from the town centre (The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona and Treble Cone) for those that love fresh air and the thrill of skiing or snowboarding.
The annual Queenstown Winter Festival(external link that opens in a new tab) is also something to look forward to. So put it in your calendar now! Last year's programme had live music, a dodgeball championship, fireworks, comedy nights, athletes showing off their skills on the snow and much more.
Expect some great photo opportunities!
If you're living here during the the colder months of June to September, it's good to be aware that temperatures average between -2° to 8°. Make sure you have the right clothes to keep yourself warm. A good coat, jumper/jersey, thick socks, winter boots, thermal underwear (which locals call 'thermals'), wool hat, gloves and a scarf are all items you should bring.
Multicultural
You'll meet people and experience cultures from all over the world in one place! There may only be around 28,000 people living in Queenstown but millions of people visit it every year. It's one of New Zealand's most popular destinations, not just for tourists but also backpackers on working visas. So expect a population that is both vibrant and constantly changing.
Tip: Want a challenge? See how many people you can meet from different countries! It's also a fantastic opportunity to hear English spoken with different accents too.
Get useful information and important updates to make your life easier while you're living and studying in New Zealand.
Useful Queenstown websites
Here are a few suggestions to help you have a great experience and a safe time in Queenstown.
Studying in Queenstown(external link that opens in a new tab): Find information on study, activities and support for students in Queenstown.
Queenstown New Zealand(external link that opens in a new tab): Find festivals, fun things to do and great places to eat.
Queenstown Lakes District Council(external link that opens in a new tab): Find out how local government works and important information to help you with daily life in Queenstown. For example information on local parks, museums, libraries, recycling and the location of public toilets and other facilities. You can also follow the local council on Facebook.(external link that opens in a new tab)
Travelling around Queenstown(external link that opens in a new tab): Learn how to get around your new home and its surrounding suburbs on public transport. Find out which bus you need to catch and how to use a 'Bee Card' for cheaper travel.
Lakes District Museum(external link that opens in a new tab): Take a 25 minute drive out to Arrowtown to see history in action! Discover the stories of our indigenous peoples with a focus on the Queenstown and Lakes District region. Arrowtown was also a famous gold mining village in the mid-1880's. You can see examples of what life would have been like for the European and Chinese settlers that travelled there to find their fortune and even try panning for gold!
The Māori legend of Lake Wakatipu(external link that opens in a new tab): There are many stories about Queenstown's beautiful Lake Wakatipu. Learn about the most popular one – a romantic tale about two lovers caught in a complicated situation.
Lakes District Hospital Queenstown(external link that opens in a new tab): If there's a medical emergency and you or someone else's life is in danger, go to the local hospital or phone 111 (this emergency number gives you access to police, fire and ambulance services). If it's not urgent, make a doctor's appointment or visit the Accident and Medical Clinic(external link that opens in a new tab).
Civil Defence - Emergency Management Queenstown(external link that opens in a new tab): New Zealand is a pretty safe place, but like anywhere in the world there is a chance a natural disaster could happen. This could be something like a flood, tsunami, earthquake. Civil Defence have information on how to prepare for a natural disaster and you can follow them on their Otago and Lakes District Facebook page(external link that opens in a new tab) to keep up to date on what's happening.
Trade Me - Rooms in Queenstown(external link that opens in a new tab): If you're not staying in a homestay, you might need to find a room to rent. You can try Trade Me to find a place to live. Make sure to check how far your new home is from important places, like your place of study or job (if you're working part time).
Vegan and vegetarian in Queenstown(external link that opens in a new tab): Find vegan and vegetarian cafes and restaurants near you.
Frisbee golf at Queenstown Gardens(external link that opens in a new tab): Haven't tried it? Get a bunch of friends together, buy or hire a frisbee from a local sports store and you have a cheap day of fun! There are 18 baskets in Queenstown Gardens for you to try and land your frisbee in. Good luck!