Queenstown: more than just snow

OHbaby! editor Kristina skipped the skiing and discovered Queenstown has plenty more to offer, on and off the slopes.

Queenstown has never been at the top of our family must-dos, but when a surprise 40th for a good friend was planned there in July, we decided to brave the cold and see what all the fuss was about. I was curious to see if it would live up to the hype, given we weren’t snowboarding or skiing. Turns out it was an incredible adventure, even without the mountain action! The crisp, fresh air, the incredible scenery, and the amazing restaurants and activities made for a wonderful family holiday we’ll always remember.

STAY

We wanted a 'home away from home' vibe as we were only staying three nights and packing in quite a lot. The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences was absolutely perfect. Perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, our two-bedroom apartment had majestic views, plenty of room to spread out, and all the cosy comforts to really relax. The beauty of it being attached to the hotel is that we had full access to hotel facilities and services as well.

It’s about a seven-minute drive to the hustle and bustle of the city centre, so close enough to the action, yet far enough away that it felt private and secluded. Mornings were spent sitting on the couch in fluffy robes, drinking coffee and enjoying complimentary local choccie treats in front of the fireplace, looking out at the magnificent lake right out front. I don’t know about you, but in my world, it really doesn’t get much better than that.

PLAY

Even though this trip wasn't centered around snowboarding or skiing, we did want to go up the mountain to have a little play in the snow.  Tallulah got rugged up in her epic One Piece Snowsuit from Therm Kids (she looked so cool, I was jealous), and we got a family sightseeing pass up Coronet Peak. The gondola took us right up the top so we could take in the 360 degree views. After a few snow angels and some snowball throwing we were back cosy and warm in the hire car on the way to Arrowtown for lunch (more on that later).

The Bathhouse playground on the lakefront is perfect for kiddies, and bonus points for the fact you can buy a mulled wine, winter Pimm’s or Bailey’s hot chocolate from The Bathhouse Café and watch them while they play.

I always thought the Luge was a bit of a tourist trap, but our friends were going so we went along too and I actually had the best time! It was my daughter’s trip highlight, and I think it was probably mine also. Over twos (and under 120 cm tall) can ride with an adult. Highly recommend! So much fun zooming around the track with my girl.

Ayrburn is a destination within itself and is fun for all ages. It’s a multi-venue precinct with restaurants, bars, gardens, galleries and seasonal experiences. During our visit in July they were set up as a mid-winter Christmas Winter Wonderland with an ice-skating rink, a toasted marshmallow kiosk and incredible festive decorations to explore throughout the grounds.

EAT

Meal of the trip was without a doubt at Ben Bayly’s Aosta in Arrowtown. It’s a bit fancy, but not at all pretentious. We’d just come off the mountain and rocked up in our active wear and beanies without a booking, and it was totally fine. I felt like something warming and nourishing, so their soup of the day (minestrone) was absolutely perfect and so delicious. My husband Ashton ordered the pappardelle with chilli, garlic, lemon and basil (amazing), and they were very happy to make a special plate of pasta with just butter for our little fusspot.

Right opposite Aosta is the famous Remarkable Sweet Shop which Tallulah had a ball in. They have all the nostalgic sweets you don’t see around anymore (like the aniseed cough tablets, remember those?!) plus fun, novelty candy like giant lolly pops and candy necklaces. Their fudge is outstanding, and you can stand at the counter and try all the flavours before buying. Their best-selling Crème Brulee is unbelievable, a must try.

We fancied Italian again on our last night and Farelli’s by Giovi really delivered. Ashton and I shared beef carpaccio (which I’m still dreaming about) then I had the carbonara while Ashton enjoyed the beef ragu with fettucine. And Tallulah? You guessed it, plain pasta with butter.

We've been to Fergburger before (pre-kids) and loved it, but waiting in line for 45 minutes in the cold, and then jostling for a table to eat at when our burgers finally came out, wasn't a good use of our precious holiday time. With over 150 restaurants and bars to choose from, Queenstown has plenty of other family-friendly places to visit. In fact, we should have skipped the queue and gone next door to Fergbaker for a pie and pastry because they looked fantastic.

This breathtakingly beautiful part of our country has so much to offer.

For those who love to get up early on the mountain with their skis and snowboards, go you! It was lovely to see families of all ages and stages enjoying the mountain. But for those like me who prefer a slower pace, wining and dining, and a touch of adventure, don’t sleep on Queenstown – it might surprise you!

SHOUT-OUT TO:

Queenstown New Zealand queenstownnz.nz

The Rees therees.co.nz

Therm Kids therm.co.nz