There’s many reasons to rent a car in Queenstown, New Zealand. Sure, it’ll get you from point a to b. And it also means you don’t have to carry your bags everywhere you go.
But the best part of hiring a car in Queenstown is that you have the freedom to visit so many incredible locations and if you find a good car rental deal, you’ll have more money to spend on the fun stuff too! Bonus.
So, what are you waiting for? Get yourself a cheap car hire in Queenstown from NZ Rent a Car, and hit the road to these top five destinations.
1.Explore the beautiful Milford Sound
The Milford Sound is world famous for a reason – its pristine natural landscapes are absolutely breathtaking. From towering cliffs that reach to the sky, to lush rainforests and thundering waterfalls, many visitors to the Milford Sound say it’s like stepping back to a time when dinosaurs roamed the earth.
The drive to Milford Sound is around three and a half hours, so it’s worth booking in for an overnight stay. And don’t forget to grab yourself a discount rental car from Queenstown so you can stop along the way – there’s plenty to see and do, there and back.
2.Wander through historic Arrowtown
Another place you can ‘go back in time’ is the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown. At a quick 20 minute drive from Queenstown Airport, it’s an easy day trip and certainly worth putting on your itinerary. Stroll the heritage main street, delight in the charming retail boutiques, and get your camera ready to snap some pictures of the quaint 1870’s miners cottages and buildings.
3.Take a ride on the thrilling Shotover Jet
You can’t come to Queenstown and not do at least one adrenaline-filled activity, it’s what the region is well known for! And what better way to do it than onboard the quintessential Shotover Jet.
You’ll need to hold onto your seat (and your hat) as you get up to speeds of 85 km/hour, winding through tight river spaces and wall-to-wall canyons. It is one epic ride and you’ll be glad you ticked it off your Queenstown to-do list. The drive out there is pretty cool too, so having your own wheels will mean you can stop along the way.
4.Jump aboard the TSS Earnslaw
At a slightly more relaxed pace, the TSS Earnslaw is an iconic part of Queenstown’s history and is one of the world’s oldest and largest remaining coal-fired steamships. Operating on Lake Wakatipu since 1912, the cruise takes you across to Walter Peak High Country Farm and back, allowing you plenty of time to explore the various decks on the ‘Lady of the Lake’ and enjoy a delicious meal or drink from the onboard cafe.
5.Visit Gibbston Valley Winery
Just a short drive from Queenstown is Gibbston Valley Winery, and this is no ordinary winery. It’s home to New Zealand’s largest wine cave and region’s oldest vineyards, as well as a variety of wine to taste and delicious food to enjoy. Jump on a bike for a tour through Gibbston Valley, spend the afternoon with a winemaker and did someone say cheese? There’s plenty of that here too.
Of course this is just a small selection of everything Queenstown has to offer. Perfect as a base for so many attractions and sights to see, get yourself a discount rental car in Queenstown and explore the way you want to.
Heading to Queenstown for a holiday? Make sure you check out all of the awesome Lord of the Rings locations. Download our guide and check them off the list!
