The Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide to Queenstown on a Budget

In Queenstown, you’ll find joy in awesome hikes, soak in the scenic beauty on cheap day trips, or revel in an economical cruise. This small wonder bordered by majestic mountains offers a lot and we’re here to break it all down for you.

Here’s our Queenstown budget travel guide for backpackers.

Queenstown caters to a variety of budgets, so here’s a breakdown to help you plan your trip in Euros (assuming an exchange rate of €1 = NZ$1.70):

Suggested Budget per person

• Low: €41 – Shoestring adventurer (hostels, self-catering, free activities)
• Middle: €88 – Comfortably exploring (mid-range accommodation, some paid activities, meals out)
• High: €176+ – Living the high life (luxury accommodation, adventure activities, fine dining)

Detailed Costs: Backpacking Queenstown

Accommodation

• Low: Hostels or budget guesthouses: €17-29 per night (dorm bed)
• Middle: Mid-range hotels or B&Bs: €59-118 per night (private room)
• High: Luxury hotels or upscale apartments: €176+ per night (breathtaking views, top-notch amenities)

Read: Best Hostels in Queenstown

Public Transportation: Queenstown lacks a metro system. Here are some options (converted prices):

• Bus ticket (one way): €3-6 depending on distance
• Queenstown Flexipass (24-hour access): €15
• Queenstown Explorer (multi-day pass): Prices vary depending on duration

Entrance Fees

• Low (mostly Free Activities): Hiking trails, Queenstown Gardens, Earnslaw Park
• Middle: Skyline Gondola for panoramic views: €47 (adults), Kiwi Birdlife Park: €32 (adults)
• High: Shotover Jet (white-water rafting): €132 (adults)

Restaurants

• Low: Fergburger (legendary!) or kebabs: €6-9
• Middle: Mid-range restaurants: €12-18 for main course
• High: High-end restaurants: €29+ for main course

Queenstown’s Food Staple: Fergburger

• Low: Classic Fergburger: €7
• Middle: Gourmet Fergburger creations: €9-12
• High: Add premium toppings for an extra luxurious burger

Coffee

• Low: Takeaway coffee at a local cafe: €2.35
• Middle: Cafe latte in a scenic spot: €3-3.50
• High: Fancy flat white with a lake view: €4+

Beer & Wine

• Low: Local beer at a pub: €4.70-5.90
• Middle: Craft beer or glass of wine at a mid-range restaurant: €7-8.80
• High: Premium craft beers or New Zealand vintage wines: €8.80+

From jaw-dropping mountain views to adrenaline-inducing activities, Queenstown offers something for every thrill seeker.

Must Do in Queenstown

1. Bungy Jump: Take the plunge! Queenstown is the birthplace of bungy jumping, so why not experience the original?
2. Shotover Jet: Hold on tight for a white-water adventure on the Shotover River, navigating canyons and thrilling rapids.
3. Skyline Gondola: Ascend Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range, and glistening Lake Wakatipu.
4. Jet Boating: Zoom across Lake Wakatipu at breakneck speeds, performing spins and heart-stopping maneuvers.
5. Mountain Biking: Shred world-class downhill trails at the Queenstown Bike Park, or explore scenic backcountry tracks.
6. Hiking: Lace up your boots and conquer Queenstown’s many trails, offering stunning lake and mountain vistas. Ben Lomond and Queenstown Hill are popular choices.
7. Ziplining: Soar through native forests and canyons on zipline adventures, offering breathtaking views and exhilarating drops.
8. Rafting: Paddle down thrilling rapids on the Dart or Kawarau Rivers, encountering exciting challenges and beautiful scenery.
9. Paragliding or Parasailing: Take flight and experience Queenstown from a bird’s-eye view, gliding over mountains and sparkling lakes.
10. Skiing or Snowboarding (Winter): Hit the slopes at nearby Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, or Cardrona Alpine Resort, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding terrain.
11. Milford Sound Day Trip: Witness the grandeur of Fiordland National Park’s iconic fiord. Look for combo deals that include transport and lunch

Bonus Adventure: Feeling extra adventurous and have some extra time? Consider a multi-day trek on the world-famous Routeburn Track, which traverses through stunning mountain scenery and connects to Mount Aspiring National Park. This option requires planning and budgeting in advance, but the experience is unforgettable.

Cheap Things to Do in Queenstown

1. Queenstown Gardens: Stroll through these beautiful lakeside gardens, boasting flower displays, historic sites, and stunning views.
2. Earnslaw Park: Explore this scenic reserve, offering sheep shearing demonstrations, walking trails, and opportunities to spot native wildlife.
3. Queenstown Trail: Embark on a scenic cycling or walking adventure along this network of trails, showcasing stunning lake and mountain views.
4. Arrowtown: Explore this charming historic gold mining town, with its preserved buildings, craft shops, and delicious cafes.
5. Lake Wakatipu: Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or simply relax on the shores and soak up the scenery.
6. Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour for a budget-friendly introduction to Queenstown’s history, landmarks, and hidden gems.
7. Scenic Lookouts: Visit Bob’s Peak (accessible via gondola) or Queenstown Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Top Museums in Queenstown

1. Kiwi Birdlife Park: Learn about New Zealand’s iconic flightless bird, the kiwi, and see other native wildlife in a beautiful setting.
2. TSS Earnslaw: Take a historic steamship cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a charming vintage vessel offering scenic views and onboard dining. (Free ferry option available across the lake)
3. Queenstown Artspace: Discover contemporary art exhibitions by local and national artists in this downtown gallery. (Free entry)
4. Earl’s Restaurant & Bar: This historic pub houses a fascinating collection of mining artifacts and memorabilia, offering a glimpse into Queenstown’s gold mining past.
5. The National Kiwi Centre: Learn all about the kiwi bird, and its conservation efforts, and see them up close in a nocturnal house setting. (Discounts available for students and seniors)

Hidden Gems Queenstown

• Secret Moke Lake Viewpoint: Take a short detour off the Glenorchy Road and be rewarded with a jaw-dropping panorama of snow-capped mountains reflected in Moke Lake. Perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
• Searchlight Brewery: Escape the tourist crowds and mingle with locals at this hidden gem brewery. Sample their craft beers and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. 3. Frisbee Golf at the Queenstown Gardens: Who needs fancy equipment? Grab a frisbee and challenge your friends to a fun and free round on the picturesque course within the gardens.
• Glenorchy Animal Experience: get up close and personal with some friendly farm animals at the Glenorchy Animal Experience. This family-friendly spot allows you to feed sheep, goats, and even alpacas! It’s a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of Queenstown.
• Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Tour: Carve through a dramatic canyon on a thrilling jet boat ride. This option is less crowded (and often cheaper) than some of the other jet boat tours in Queenstown, offering a hidden gem adventure.
• Coronet Peak Winery: Nestled amongst the vines at Coronet Peak, this boutique winery offers stunning views and delicious wine tastings. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon sampling local vintages with a backdrop of breathtaking scenery.

Best Walks in Queenstown

• Queenstown Gardens Loop: This easy, wheelchair-accessible trail offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch.
• Bob’s Cove Track & Nature Walk: An easy lakeside trail with beautiful native bush, birdlife, and a secluded cove for a refreshing dip (weather permitting!).
• Kelvin Heights Peninsula Trail: Enjoy panoramic views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu on this easy to moderate track, with options to extend your walk further.
• Arrowtown River Trail: This flat and scenic trail alongside the Arrow River is perfect for a family-friendly walk or a bike ride to the historic town of Arrowtown.

Easy Hikes Near Queenstown

• Moke Lake Loop Track: This moderate loop track offers stunning lake and mountain views, native bush, and a chance to spot some cheeky Kea parrots.
• Mount Crichton Loop Track: Enjoy diverse scenery, from farmland to native forest, on this moderate loop with rewarding views from the summit.
• Queenstown Hill Time Walk: While a bit steeper than others, this rewarding walk offers panoramic views and historical insights along the way.

Challenging Hikes Queenstown

• Ben Lomond Track: This iconic hike takes you to the top of Queenstown for breathtaking panoramic views. Choose between a gondola ride to the start or a challenging hike from the bottom.
• Lake Alta Track: A moderate to challenging hike through native beech forest to a beautiful alpine lake, perfect for experienced hikers with a sense of adventure.
• Gibbston River Trail: Embark on a multi-day adventure on this historic trail alongside the scenic Gibbston River, with options for overnight stays or day walks.

Queenstown’s accommodation scene is as diverse as its landscape. While the picture-perfect waterfront location comes with a premium price tag, fear not, budget backpackers! Queenstown has plenty of wallet-friendly neighborhoods to set up your base camp.

Dodge the Million-Dollar Views: The central waterfront area is undeniably stunning, boasting swanky hotels and undeniable convenience. But be prepared to cough up some serious dough for the privilege of staring at those postcard-worthy mountains.

Read: Best Hostels in Queenstown

Budget-Friendly Areas in Queenstown

Arthurs Point: Calling all adrenaline junkies! Arthurs Point is the beating heart of Queenstown’s adventure scene. Here, you’ll find budget-friendly hostels, backpacker lodges, and holiday parks, all within easy reach of the gondola, jet boating, and white-water rafting action. It’s a social, no-frills zone, perfect for those who crash after a day of epic adventures and don’t mind sharing a kitchen with fellow thrill-seekers.

Frankton: This lakeside suburb offers a relaxed vibe with stunning mountain views (without the waterfront price tag). Frankton is a great choice for families or those seeking a quieter stay. There’s a good selection of self-catering apartments, motels, and holiday parks, many with lake access for a refreshing post-adventure dip. Keep in mind it’s a bit further from the town center, but buses are readily available.

Sunshine Bay: Nestled on a sunny peninsula across the bay from central Queenstown, Sunshine Bay offers a peaceful escape with stunning lake and mountain views. Here, you’ll find a mix of self-catering apartments, guesthouses, and holiday parks, perfect for those seeking a tranquil base camp. It’s a great choice for couples or those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Queenstown.

Mandeville: This quirky little neighborhood, located on the outskirts of town, offers a glimpse into Queenstown’s historic past. Here, you’ll find converted miners’ cottages and characterful guesthouses, all at budget-friendly prices. Mandeville has a strong local vibe and is a great option for those who want to experience the “real” Queenstown. Be prepared for a bit of a walk (or a bus ride) to get to the town center, but the charm and affordability make it worthwhile.

Queenstown may be an adrenaline junkie’s paradise, but that doesn’t mean your bank account has to take a swan dive. Fear not, budget travelers! Queenstown offers plenty of ways to keep your stomach happy without maxing out your credit card.

Water: Queenstown boasts some of the most refreshing tap water in the world, so ditch the bottled stuff and refill your reusable bottle for free at any public fountain. 

Affordable Eats: Queenstown Travel Guide

• Food Trucks & Stalls: Queenstown’s streets come alive with a smorgasbord of affordable eats on wheels. Think juicy burgers, steaming Asian dumplings, and gourmet hot dogs – all without the hefty restaurant price tag.
• Local Pub Fare: Skip the fancy restaurants and head to a local pub for a hearty meal at a fair price. Many pubs offer daily specials and “happy hour” deals, perfect for grabbing a cheap beer and a filling bite. Pro tip: Pub food in Queenstown often comes in generous portions, so consider sharing a plate with a friend!
• Spice It Up: Queenstown has a surprising number of international options that won’t break the bank. Indulge in sizzling fajitas at a Mexican cantina, slurp down a steaming bowl of ramen at a Japanese eatery, or treat yourself to some budget-friendly curries at an Indian restaurant.
• Tourist Traps? Queenstown’s tourist hotspots are notorious for inflated food prices. Wander a few streets away from the main drag and you’ll find hidden gems offering better value for your dollar.

Market Mavens:

• The Remarkables Market: Open every Saturday morning, this market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious hot food options.
• Earthship Queenstown Market: This eco-friendly market boasts an atmosphere and a variety of local vendors selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to international street food.
• Queenstown Night Market: Held on select Thursdays throughout the summer, this lively market offers a delectable array of international cuisine, live music, and a fun atmosphere.

Affordable All-Stars:

• Ferg Baker: This Queenstown institution is a haven for budget-conscious bakery lovers. Grab a freshly baked pastry or a hefty pie for a satisfying and affordable meal on the go.
• Fish & Chips: No trip to New Zealand is complete without indulging in this classic Kiwi dish. Head to a local takeaway shop and grab a parcel of golden fried fish and crispy chips – perfect for a picnic lunch with a view.
• Supermarket Salads: Queenstown supermarkets offer a wide variety of pre-made salads, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch on the go. Don’t underestimate the power of a protein-packed salad to keep you fueled for your next adventure!

Grocery Gems – For Backpackers in Queenstown

• Fresh Choice: Known for its competitive prices and wide selection of fresh produce, Fresh Choice is a great option for stocking up on groceries.
• Pak’n Save: This budget-friendly supermarket chain offers great value on everything from pantry staples to household items.
• CountDown: Another popular budget-friendly supermarket option, Countdown boasts a user-friendly layout and frequent special offers.

Where to have a cheap lunch in Queenstown:

• Red Rock Bar Cafe: This local favorite is known for its hearty and delicious breakfasts, but its lunch menu offers fantastic value too. Think bacon butties for under $12 or upgrade to “The Mighty Works” (a full breakfast spread) for around $18. Plus, they have $5 tap beers for happy hour, perfect for washing it all down.
• Wild Thyme: Venture down to the waterfront and grab a lunch option from Wild Thyme at SKYCITY. They have a selection of $10 lunch specials, including classics like bangers and mash and fish and chips. Enjoy your delicious and affordable meal with stunning lake views.
• Caribe Latin Kitchen: Spice up your lunch with a delicious and affordable option at Caribe Latin Kitchen. Their Arepas, which are corn flatbreads stuffed with various fillings, are a popular choice and come in under $10 with options like chicken, pork belly, or a vegetarian version. They also have tacos and other Latin American specialties at reasonable prices.

Bonus Tip: Many Queenstown cafes offer “cabinet food,” a selection of pre-made sandwiches, salads, and quiches perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or lunch.

Here’s everything you need to know about Queenstown’s public transport system, taxis, rental cars, and even some scenic extras.

Public Transportation: Queenstown Travel Guide

• The Orbus Odyssey: Queenstown’s public transport champion is the aptly named Orbus. This bright red bus network conquers the town center and surrounding areas, offering a convenient and wallet-friendly way to explore. Adult fares are a steal at NZ$2 (around $1.40 USD) with a Bee Card, a reusable contactless payment card. Score bonus points for epic mountain views along the way! Multi-day passes are available for heavy bus users:
• Day Pass: NZ$20 (around $14 USD) allows unlimited travel for 24 hours.
• Flexi 5-Day Pass: NZ$55 (around $39 USD) allows five journeys within a seven-day period.

Budget tips:

• The Bee Card Lowdown: While not strictly necessary for single rides (you can pay cash on the bus – but it’s more expensive!), a Bee Card is your key to unlocking the true potential of Queenstown’s public transport system. With a Bee Card, you’ll enjoy the discounted fare of NZ$2 (around $1.40 USD) per ride. Bee Cards can be purchased and topped up at various locations around town, including the Paper Plus store next to the domestic terminal at Queenstown Airport.
• Exploring on Foot: Let’s face it, Queenstown is a stunner, and exploring it on foot is a fantastic (and free!) way to soak up the scenery. The town center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to navigate by foot. Lace up your walking shoes and get ready for some postcard-worthy views!

Taxis and Ridesharing: Hail a Hero (or App):

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Queenstown, but be warned, they can be a pricier option compared to the public bus or exploring by foot. This is best saved for late-night adventures, situations where your legs are screaming for mercy, or if you’re traveling with a group and the cost can be shared. Flag down a taxi, or call a local taxi company for pick up. Fares can vary depending on distance and time of day, so it’s always a good idea to ask for an estimated fare before you hop in.
• Ridesharing Roundup: Ridesharing apps like Uber and Zoomy are also available in Queenstown and can sometimes offer a more cost-effective alternative to taxis, especially for longer journeys. Prices can fluctuate depending on demand, so it’s recommended to check the fare estimate within the app before booking your ride.

Cheapest Way to Get To and From the Airport in Queenstown

Queenstown Airport: Queenstown boasts a single airport located just outside the town center. Here are a few ways to get from the airport to your accommodation:

• Shuttle Service: Shared shuttles are a budget-friendly option, especially if you’re traveling with a few people. Several companies offer shuttle services between the airport and central Queenstown. Expect to pay around NZ$25 (around $18 USD) per person.
• Public Bus: The Orbus network also operates a route from the airport to the town center, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to get to your accommodation. Just like on regular routes, adult fares are NZ$2 with a Bee Card.
• Taxi Time: Taxis are readily available at the airport, but be prepared for a slightly steeper fare compared to other options. Expect to pay around NZ$60-NZ$80 (around $42-$57 USD) for a taxi ride to Queenstown town center.

Bonus Round: Scenic Extras!

Ferry Fun: For a touch of scenic splendor, hop on the Queenstown ferry network which operates scheduled daily services from Frankton to Queenstown. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu.

Gondola: Queenstown’s iconic Skyline Gondola is a must-do for any visitor, but the price tag can be a bit of a heart-stopper (almost as much as the views!).

Queenstown’s magic transcends seasons, but depending on your priorities, the ideal time to visit can vary. Here’s a breakdown of the high, shoulder, and low seasons to help you choose the perfect adventure:

• High Season (December – February):

Pros: Long sunny days, great atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities.
Cons: Peak crowds, higher accommodation prices.

• Shoulder Season (March-May & September – November):

Pros: Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, good deals on accommodation.
Cons: More unpredictable weather in spring (March-May) with occasional rain showers, some winter activities may be limited towards the end of autumn (May).

• Low Season (June – August):

Pros: The most affordable hotel rates, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
Cons: Shortest daylight hours, some attractions may have limited hours. The weather can be cold and snowy.

National Holidays & Peak Festivals:

• Waitangi Day (February 6th): Celebrates the signing of the treaty between the British Crown and Maori chiefs.
• Labour Day (fourth Monday in October): Celebrates the contributions of workers.
• Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow (Easter Weekend): This annual event (held near Queenstown in Wanaka) attracts aviation enthusiasts, potentially affecting accommodation prices in Queenstown as well.
• Queenstown Winter Festival (June – August): Celebrate winter with a program of events, including snow sports competitions, live music, and quirky winter challenges. Expect higher prices during this period.
• Goldfields Autumn Festival (April): Immerse yourself in Queenstown’s gold mining history with parades, costume contests, and family-friendly activities. This can lead to a slight increase in accommodation rates.
• Queenstown Marathon (October): Lace up your running shoes and participate in this scenic marathon that winds through the stunning Southern Alps. Be prepared for potential surges in accommodation prices around race day.
• Cardrona NZ Ski & Snowboard Championships (August – September): This prestigious event attracts world-class skiers and snowboarders, potentially impacting accommodation rates.

Queenstown may be an adrenaline-pumping adventure hub, but that doesn’t mean your bank account needs to take a bungee jump. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your wallet happy without sacrificing any Queenstown magic:

Budget Passes

• The Orbus Multi-Day Pass: Conquering Queenstown on foot is fantastic, but sometimes your legs need a break (or a scenic bus ride). The Orbus multi-day pass is your ticket to budget-friendly exploration, offering unlimited travel for a set period. No more scrambling for cash for every ride!
• The Remarkables or Coronet Peak Multi-Day Pass: Conquer both mountains with this combo pass. Perfect for skiers or snowboarders who can’t decide between epic views or challenging terrain.
• Flexi Passes: Ski all four mountains (Remarkables, Coronet Peak, The Ledge, and Treble Cone) with this flexible option. Great for indecisive adventurers who want to try it all!
• Off-Peak Tickets: Hit the slopes before 9 am or after 3:30 pm for a discounted rate. Bonus: fewer crowds for those fresh powder turns!

Backpacker Essentials for Queenstown

• The All-Weather Warrior: Queenstown’s weather can change faster than you can say “bungee jump.” Pack a good rain jacket, waterproof hiking boots, and a warm hat – you might even consider thermals depending on the season.
• Sun Smartie: New Zealand’s sun packs a punch, especially during the summer months. Don’t be that lobster-colored tourist – pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to keep those rays at bay.
• Jandal Power (Don’t Judge): Jandals, otherwise known as flip-flops to some, are a way of life in New Zealand. Pack a sturdy pair for hostel showers, quick beach trips, or relaxing by the lake. Just be aware that jandals aren’t the best choice for hiking or proper adventures.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and save money by carrying a reusable water bottle. Queenstown boasts some of the world’s tastiest tap water, so refill your bottle on the go!

Safety Tips Queenstown

• Respect the Mountains: Queenstown’s adventure activities are exhilarating, but safety should always be a priority. Always follow instructions from qualified guides, don’t overestimate your abilities, and be aware of weather conditions before heading out.
• Be Avalanche Aware: If you’re planning on venturing into the backcountry during winter, make sure you carry avalanche safety gear and know how to use it. Avalanches are a serious risk in the Southern Alps, so it’s important to be prepared.

Common Scams Queenstown

• The “Accidental” Souvenir: Keep an eye out for folks trying to “accidentally” bump into you and leave a souvenir (like a carved Maori greenstone pendant) in your hand. While the guilt trip might be strong, politely decline and move on.
• The “Free” Rideshare: Ridesharing apps like Uber and Zoomy are legitimate options in Queenstown, but be wary of anyone offering you a free ride. Especially if they seem overly friendly or their car is unmarked. Stick to using the official app to hail a ride.

Things Not to Do

• Trail Blazing Blunder: Always stick to marked trails when hiking or biking. Getting lost in the wilderness is no fun, and search and rescue operations can be costly.
• Feeding the Wildlife: While the cheeky Kea parrots (New Zealand’s alpine parrot) might look adorable, feeding them human food is bad for their health. Admire them from afar, but resist the urge to share your snacks.
• Cliff Jumping Calamity: Queenstown has some epic cliff-jumping spots, but they should only be attempted by experienced thrill-seekers. Unless you’re a pro, admire the view from a safe distance and leave the cliff-jumping to the experts.
• Drone Drama: Queenstown has strict regulations on drone use. Do your research and obtain the necessary permits before flying your drone. Don’t be that tourist who gets their drone confiscated (or worse, fined) for a scenic shot.