Hi there, it’s Ash, aka the Still Life Nomad! Today I am going to teach you about the 7 neighborhoods within Queenstown, New Zealand and which may be best for your needs. Let’s get into it!

#1. Central Queenstown (Downtown)

Central Queenstown, aka Downtown or Shotover Street is the very heart of Queenstown and the main attraction to tourists, expats, and those on a working holiday visa. Here you can find a plethora of shops, bars, restaurants, hostels, hotels, and a vibrant night life. It is also right beside Lake Wakatipu.

• Pros: By the lake, lots of hostels, easier to make friends, quick access to amenities, very walkable
• Cons: Potentially expensive if you’re not in a hostel and loud from the nightlife
• Best For: Those staying in hostels, working downtown and don’t own a car, or wanting a vibrant nightlife

#2 Frankton

Frankton surrounds the airport and is a 15 minute drive–or 90 minute beautiful walk–to downtown. It is a growing suburb perfect for families and budget-conscious people seeking flat mates, with tons of grocery shops, shopping centres, and residential areas.

• Pros: More affordable for flats, close to shops and retail stores, close to the airport
• Cons: Not quickly walkable to downtown (especially if you work there and don’t own a car), less nightlife, less or no hostels
• Best For: Those wanting flat mate and okay taking public transportation

#3 Fernhill

Fernhill is a residential area situated on a hillside, offering panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.

• Pros: Beautiful view, quick access to walking trails, quiet life
• Cons: Very steep making walking difficult, limited acces to amenities
• Best For: Those who want a quiet, nature-centric life and preferably own a vehicle

#4 Kelvin Heights

Kelvin Heights is upscale peninsula neighborhood known for luxury homes and the Queenstown Golf Club. It is a 20-minute drive to downtown.

• Pros: Peaceful setting, scenic lake views
• Cons: Extremely expensive, meant for high-class residents
• Best For: Wealthy individuals wanting exclusivity and leisure

#5 Arthur’s Point

Arthur’s Point is a semi-rural community between Queenstown and Arrowtown, known for its proximity to the Shotover River and extreme water sports.

• Pros: Access to the river and water sports, quiet
• Cons: Limited amenities, need a car
• Best For: Those seeking adventure and a semi-rural lifestyle

#6 Lake Hayes Estate

Lake Hayes Estate is a family-friendly suburb with parks and modern homes. It is a 15 minute drive to downtown Queenstown and right beside Lake Hayes.

• Pros: Community-oriented, spacious properties, recreational areas
• Cons: Fewer entertainment options
• Best For: Families and those seeking a suburban lifestyle

#7 Jack’s Point

Jack’s Point is a planned residential community featuring a golf course and stunning landscapes. It is also next to Jack’s Point Track. It is a 20-minute drive to downtown.

• Pros: Higher-quality houses, outdoor amenities, a sense of community
• Cons: Higher cost of living, need a car
• Best For: Golf enthusiasts, those seeking a resort lifestyle, and wealthy individuals

Closing

So what neighborhood is best for you? While it depends on your needs and desires, I strongly suggest Central Queenstown (aka Downtown) to the average expat coming to New Zealand on a WHV. Hostels start at $25 a night, it is walkable to work, has public transportation, surrounded by beauty, and has a nightlife scene. If you want to get flat mates after a while, Central Queenstown or even Frankton if you’re okay taking public transportation are solid contenders.

Let me know what neighborhood appeals to you the most!

Love,

Ash