The best time to visit Queenstown
For most travellers, the sweet spot in Queenstown is February · December · January: the biggest crowds of the year. Peak season brings the biggest crowds of the year, while the quiet months trade weather for space and value.
Climate through the year
| Month | Temp | Crowds | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22° / 11° | High | $$$ | Ideal |
| February | 22° / 11° | High | $$$ | Ideal |
| March | 19° / 8° | Moderate | $$ | Great |
| April | 15° / 5° | Moderate | $$ | Great |
| May | 11° / 2° | Low | $ | Fair |
| June | 8° / 0° | Moderate | $$ | Great |
| July | 7° / -1° | High | $$$ | Ideal |
| August | 8° / -1° | High | $$ | Ideal |
| September | 11° / 1° | Moderate | $ | Fair |
| October | 14° / 4° | Moderate | $ | Fair |
| November | 17° / 6° | Moderate | $$ | Great |
| December | 20° / 9° | High | $$$ | Ideal |
Events in Queenstown
- Mar Gibbston Wine & Food Festival — Central Otago vineyards pour pinot noir amid the autumn harvest.
- Jun Queenstown Winter Festival — Fireworks, parades and ski races open the Southern Hemisphere season.
- Nov Queenstown Marathon — Runners circle Lake Wakatipu against the backdrop of the Remarkables.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Queenstown?
For most travellers, the sweet spot in Queenstown is February · December · January: the biggest crowds of the year. Peak season brings the biggest crowds of the year, while the quiet months trade weather for space and value.
What is the cheapest time to visit Queenstown?
May — Prices run low season this month: some of the best deals of the year. Save 56%.
When should you avoid Queenstown?
No major festivals fall in Queenstown, so the destination feels like its everyday self.
What is the weather like in Queenstown?
Average highs sit around 22°C with lows near -1°C. Rainfall is moderate; the odd shower is likely.
