Summer in Queenstown is an exciting time of year to welcome our international visitors. There’s great energy around town, spectacular warm weather, and long daylight hours on offer to fully explore the Home of Adventure. 

We have a lot of updates for you this quarter, including our exciting announcement below on decarbonisation and the removal of the NZ Travel Declaration.

TRENZ is returning from 8-11 May 2023, the first full TRENZ to be held since 2019. This will be hosted at Te Pae Convention Centre in Ōtautahi Christchurch. TRENZ is New Zealand’s largest international tourism business event, more details and the application process can be found here. If you are attending TRENZ and are interested in attending a Pre- (5-8 May 2023) or Post-TRENZ Famil (12-15 May 2023) in Queenstown, expressions of Interest are now open on our website.

If you need to contact one of the team or have any questions, you can learn more about us, and contact us at any time. We now have Tracy Cui our Business Development Manager Asia on board. You can find out more on our website, Facebook group, or YouTube channel.

Ngā mihi nui (Kind regards),

Linda, Tracy, Alex and Kiran

Queenstown Update

Some of you may have seen our announcement last week that the Queenstown Lakes region’s tourism industry has committed to a bold ambition of being carbon zero by 2030.  

It follows wide-ranging feedback and support from the local community and our industry – with many of our operators already on their own regenerative tourism journey. We look forward to sharing more about our journey to carbon zero with you over the coming months.

Queenstown has a lot of new and iconic products on offer. We recommend you check out the What's New section of our website for our latest updates. This includes New Products, Major Developments, and Accommodation Pipeline alongside our Accommodation and Airline Connectivity Maps & Guides.

Queenstown town centre upgrades and district roading and Infrastructure enhancements (including the new arterial road) are progressing well, with exciting developments underway in the region. These projects will unlock a range of other investments that will vastly improve the town centre experience for your clients.

We would advise booking restaurants and activities ahead of time to avoid possible disappointment and to allow Queenstown businesses time to plan and be ready for your client’s arrival. Queenstown businesses can’t wait to serve them, but staffing is an issue across the hospitality sector globally as businesses work to recover from the pandemic.

The latest Nine Month Forward Outlook indicates the current levels of forward-looking accommodation occupancy in Queenstown to help you choose a time when Queenstown will deliver the optimal visitor experience for your clients.

If you missed our Quarterly On-Demand Training or Quarterly Q&A Update you can find these and other resources on our website. Keep an eye on your inbox at the start of next month for the next online training.

Travel and Aviation Update

  • The NZ Travel Declaration was removed on 20 October, which is a great step for the tourism industry. The COVID-19 Protection Framework was also removed in New Zealand on 12 September. Travellers are also not required to be vaccinated or to test for COVID-19 upon arrival in New Zealand.
  • Air New Zealand has been named Best Airline in the South Pacific at the APEX Awards.
  • Air New Zealand has released their 2022 Sustainability Report, with a letter from Chair Dame Therese Walsh and CEO Greg Foran which said travel was bouncing back much quicker than anticipated. They have announced Mission Next Generation Aircraft – an accelerator programme to progress ambitious goals to fly its first commercial demonstrator flight from 2026 and begin replacing its Q300 domestic fleet with a more sustainable aircraft – likely green hydrogen or battery hybrid systems – from 2030. 
  • The World Economic Forum's Global Future Council has released "Ten Principles for Sustainable Destinations: Charting a new path forward for travel and tourism"
  • Emirates announced its non-stop A380 service between Dubai and Auckland from December.
  • Competition has grown on the Auckland to USA routes with American Airlines and United Airlines reentering the market. American Airlines is returning with their Dallas/Fort Worth service while United Airlines operates to and from San Francisco.
  • Air New Zealand has started using Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first 1.2 million litres of jet fuel being imported was the equivalent of about 400 return flights between Auckland and Wellington.
  • Air New Zealand has resumed its nonstop service between Auckland and Chicago, bringing the airline back to all 29 international pre-COVID destinations. They are now servicing Vancouver daily and are also now flying three times a week to New York City. The seasonal Air New Zealand service to Bali will begin in March next year.
  • Direct flights with Qantas between Auckland and New York City will commence in June 2023.

Accommodation Update

Plans have been released for a 27-room Hotel Tewa, including a 'hidden' onsen-like pool, spa and wellness centre, bar, restaurant and common area. To date, the only building near Lake Tewa is Jack’s Point’s Clubhouse Restaurant.

An architecturally crafted landmark building is set to be the heart of a stunning new alpine village. The Homestead will be a focal point for owners and visitors at Mt Cardrona Station, a $650m development set over 400 hectares of high-country land above the Cardrona Valley.

Harvest Hotel in Cromwell, Central Otago offers guests a choice of dining experiences.  Ideal for group tours with an acre of free parking borders the golf course and is close proximity to Lake Dunstan Trail, Cromwell Mall, Wineries, Orchards and Highlands Motorsport Park.

Pitches Store in historic Ophir in Central Otago,  A historic Boutique Lodge with 6 elegantly furnished ensuite rooms. There's a private guest dining room for breakfasts and a public café and fine dining restaurant by night. 

Tussock Lodge in Central Otago is ideal for a group on a self-drive itinerary needing 4 ensuite rooms, 2 lounges and a full country kitchen. Feed alpacas over the fence, soak up rural views and enjoy a short stroll to a historic tavern serving hearty, flavoursome food. 

Activities Update

O'Connells Mall has recently reopened. O’Connells blends the luxury offerings of retail tenant DFS Group’s T Galleria with EATSPACE, an artisan, locally-focused food and beverage offering and venue.

Luxury retailer DFS group opened their T Galleria by DFS in the heart of Queenstown in the rebuilt O'Connells Mall at the end of October. This showcases over 120 brands, including 40 exclusively available at T Galleria by DFS in Queenstown.

Black is the new orange. RealNZ have given their jet boats a new lease of life, stripping back colour to reflect the raw and real environment around us. These fresh illustrations are designed to get you even closer to nature.

The Helicopter Line Fiordland Lodge Heli & Long Lunch. You head towards Milford Sound with views over the Whakatipu, Mt Earnslaw and the national parks. Landing on a remote West Coast beach, a diver will showcase a crayfish experience before your descent into Fiordland Lodge.

The Kingston Flyer is back on track and operating on Sundays from the Kingston Foreshore to Fairlight Train Station and back over summer. 

TSS Earnslaw turns 110 - Olive, Lady Hutchins (co-founder of RealNZ) was amongst guests on the TSS Earnslaw as the steamship celebrated 110 years on 18 October. For every guest who sailed during her birthday week, RealNZ is planting a native tree at Walter Peak.  

Southern Discoveries has introduced its Dinner Cruise. Cruise Lake Wakatipu on board Spirit of Queenstown while enjoying a generous shared platter-style menu, local wines, and fantastic views.

Go Rentals is the first rental car company in New Zealand to offer a fleet of the new Tesla Model Y, with electric vehicles which are proving popular for travellers.

Queenstown Ferries is the first public transport water service to be added to the Bee Card network, this was launched onto the Bee Card pay service last week to create a seamless payment link between public transport options. The Ferries are owned and operated by RealNZ. 

The Queenstown Marina, which includes 17 floating buildings and 15 berths currently available to lease, has officially opened as plans are announced for Stage Two. Construction of Stage Two is due to start in mid-2023.

NZONE Queenstown is now operating seven days a week. They also now offer their exclusive private skydive experience alongside BLACK for your clients.

Skyline Queenstown will be closed from April 23 until July 2023 to install the new 10-seat Gondola. From July next year there will be a temporary ticketing building while the bottom terminal and carpark are under construction until December 2023.

Goldfields Jet has reopened following hibernation. Their relaunch includes a new check-in location and complimentary van transfers to/from the river.  It offers a fun and fabulous 40‑minute jetboat journey in the rocky gorge of the Kawarau River. 

Your Seller’s Guide to Central Otago’s Cycle Trails is online. It aims to help sellers build confidence, grow commission and book clients on cycle trails with confidence. Product knowledge is key so take time to learn to matching the cycling ability with the right trail.

Cloudy Bay Epicurean Experience is a delicious lunch of seasonal produce matched with Cloudy Bay’s fine wines. Allow 2 hours, pre-booking essential (min. 4/max. 16 guests). 

The Taycan Takeoff is the new electrified Porsche experience at Highlands Park. Driven by a professional race-car driver - up to 3 passengers can experience an adrenaline rush from zero to 100 in 2.4 seconds.

Wings and Water operate the only seaplane in the South Island. Local pilots will take you into Fiordland National Park exploring and landing in unique locations where they can immerse themselves in Fiordland.

Food and Drink Update

Imperium Luxury Collection has announced the appointment of Trent Watson as Executive Chef across its iconic Queenstown, New Zealand venues Eichardt’s Grille, No5 Church Lane, Eichardt’s Bar and Pacific Jemm.

Remarkables Park Market recently launched its 13th summer season with over 50 stalls. Open 9am – 2pm on Saturdays, it is continuing its journey towards zero waste to enjoy the food and drink on offer.

Kinross Winery & Cellar Door has opened its new cellar door, with the capacity for multiple large groups to enjoy wine tastings. They offer a takeaway menu and picnic hampers in the evenings from 5pm, and have temporarily closed the dine-in bistro in the evenings.

Whakatipu Brewing is the perfect place for family, friends and soon-to-be-friends to unwind after a day of adventure. Fresh craft beers, quality burgers and banter in a cosy space with a fun crew to look after your clients.

Akarua Wines & Kitchen by Artisan has announced its new name and look of Mora Wine and Artisan Kitchen following the recent sale of the Akarua brand. Rest assured, they say all the wonderful things they are known for are staying the same.

EATSPACE, located at the entrance of Queenstown’s busiest pedestrian precinct, opened in November. O’Connells blends the EATSPACE is an artisan, locally-focused food and beverage offering and venue.

 

Hyde Liquor and Social has recently opened in Arrowtown and is one of Arrowtown’s newest venues that is brought to you by the people behind The Bunker. From local & international wines to signature cocktails and DJs, Hyde Bar has something for everyone.

Odd Saint, brought to you by the team behind Margo's, Little Mez & Little Blackwood is a new spot opening in town. They plan to open on 15 December 2022 on Earl St.

Awards And Accolades

Key Dates & Events

Discover more events in Queenstown with a complete guide to our best attractions.

Your DQ Travel Trade Team

Linda McIntosh
Trade Marketing Manager
+64 27 264 7533
lindam@queenstownNZ.nz		 Linda McIntosh
Tracy Cui
Business Development Manager, Asia
+64 21 246 1828
tracyc@queenstownNZ.nz
Alex Holmes
BD Executive
+64 27 740 8597
alexh@queenstownNZ.nz 
 Alex Holmes
Kiran Nambiar
BD Director
+64 27 611 3188
kirann@queenstownNZ.nz
 Kiran Nambiar