Where to stay in Queenstown, New Zealand: Best hotels, hostels & unique stays for every budget
There’s just something about Queenstown that grabs you. Maybe it’s the way the Remarkables slice across the sky like a painting, or how Lake Wakatipu turns electric blue when the sun hits just right. Whatever it is, this place has a hold on me — part alpine village, part adrenaline capital, and totally unforgettable.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times now, and each trip has had a slightly different feel — from solo adventures to laid-back escapes with friends. So, I figured it was time to share some of my go-to places to stay in Queenstown, depending on the kind of trip you’re planning. Whether you’re splurging, saving, or just chasing a good vibe, I’ve got you covered.
Planning your trip?
•••
Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
SIM Cards: Simify
I register as an affiliate for anything I use and recommend. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means if you click these links and make a purchase I may earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you, and in some cases, these links may even unlock savings or give you bonuses I’ve negotiated. You can find out more about this here and here.
1. QT Queenstown — for big views and boutique vibes
QT is the kind of place that instantly makes you feel like you’ve arrived. Perched just above town, it offers these sweeping, cinematic views of the lake that never really get old — especially from the balcony with a glass of wine in hand.
It’s stylish without being pretentious. The rooms have this moody, modern aesthetic — lots of texture, soft lighting, and little luxuries that make you want to settle in. I stayed here on a trip with a mate and we both kept saying, “This place just gets it.”
Why I love it: The views are next level, the breakfast spread is legendary, and the bar feels like something straight out of a Bond film — dark, sexy, and slightly dangerous (in a good way).
2. The Sherwood — for earthy energy and outdoor lovers
This one’s for the travellers who want something a little more grounded. The Sherwood sits just outside town and leans into sustainability, creativity, and slow travel. The rooms are cosy in that modern cabin kind of way — think raw timber, woollen throws, and a record player in the corner.
I stayed here after a few big days hiking and mountain biking, and it was exactly what I needed. There’s a calmness to the place — plus, the restaurant serves up seriously good food (sustainably sourced, of course), and the yoga classes are a nice touch if you’ve been punishing your legs on the trails.
Top tip: The sauna hits different after summiting Ben Lomond. Honestly, it was one of the highlights of the trip.
3. Haka Lodge Queenstown — for budget backpackers & solo socialites
Haka Lodge was my first stay in Queenstown — a last-minute booking on a solo trip that turned out to be a total win. It’s budget-friendly, right in the heart of town, and has that social hostel energy without feeling chaotic.
The communal kitchen is a proper hub, which makes it easy to meet people, especially if you’re travelling solo. I met a couple of Scottish travellers here who I ended up bungee jumping with the next day — and we’re still in touch today!
Why it works: Clean, central, and friendly. You get the hostel vibe without the mess.
4. Mi-Pad Smart Hotel — For Tech-Savvy Travellers on a Budget
Mi-Pad is like the younger, cooler cousin of a boutique hotel. It’s minimalist, modern, and packed with tech — you control lights, temperature, and even the do-not-disturb sign from your phone. I stayed here on a quick couple’s getaway and it was perfect. Super central too, which makes it easy to pop out for dinner or grab a morning coffee by the lake.
It doesn’t have the big hotel bells and whistles, but that’s kind of the point. It feels slick and self-contained — great if you’re the kind of traveller who likes to do your own thing.
Perfect for: Digital nomads, couples, or solo travellers who want comfort without the fuss.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you stay in Queenstown, try to get yourself a room with a view — that lake-mountain combo is the stuff of postcards. Waking up to it each morning honestly makes the whole trip feel elevated, no matter your budget.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, fresh air, or just a really good Pinot Noir by the fire, Queenstown delivers in spades. These are just a few of my favourites, but there are plenty more gems out there.
Planning your trip? Don’t miss my full Queenstown itinerary here — packed with personal tips, must-do activities, and a few sneaky food spots you’ll thank me for later.
Author: Matthew Turk
Matt is a Brisbane-based adventurer and content creator passionate about growth, fitness, creativity and travel. Matt loves crafting vibrant content that inspires and entertains.
