Local Recomendations
Small businesses with big character
Finding an authentic local experience in Queenstown isn’t always easy. So, we’ve put together a selection of independently owned small businesses that share our passion for delivering memorable, genuinely local experiences. These are businesses we’re proud to recommend.
Tours and Activities
Silver Beech Outdoors Guided Walks
Silver Beech Outdoors is owned and operated by Kaz and Shaun, two highly experienced hiking guides and long term Queenstown locals. From being the only company with access to the summit of Mount Alfred to multi-day hikes into some of New Zealand’s best backcountry. If it’s not on their website, it’s probably not worth walking to!
Southern Trails - Lord of the Rings Tours
Southern Trails is owned and operated by Queenstown locals Shane & Francesco. They both started working for the company in 2018 before taking over and saving middle earth in 2023 just after the pandemic. Today they offer multiple options for Lord of the Rings fans from their base in Queenstown and are not shy in admitting….they’re Nerds!!
Catch a Fish!
Catch a Fish is an amazing eco friendly fishing charter from just over the hill in Tarras. Operated by Sanne and Olly, they offer few different options for catching your dinner, with fishing on Lake Wakatipu, Lake Wanaka or Lake Hawea there’s no better way to get an authentic kiwi Fush and Chups!
Packrafting Queenstown
Packrafting Queenstown is a small, independent business run by long term Queenstown local Huw. They specialise in small group guided packrafting trips and courses, mainly in the Rees Valley and Matukituki Valley in Mount Aspiring National Park. With a packraft weighing just 3kg, you’ll have plenty of room left in your pack for a beer too!
Accommodation
Stay of Queenstown
Stay of Queenstown is a tranquil boutique accommodation where dramatic alpine scenery meets thoughtful design. Run by Queenstown local Ingrid, it’s just a 10 minute stroll into the town centre, with every suite offering both lake and mountain views. You won’t find a better place to STAY!
Transport
QTSKI - Private Mountain Transport
QTSKI is another locally operated service from The Goldrush Tour, operating during the winter months when access to Skippers Canyon becomes more challenging. QTSKI provides private, door-to-door transport from Queenstown to four local ski areas - Or you could just stand out in the cold and wait for the ski bus!
