Things to Do at Night in Queenstown

Lakefront Dining in Queenstown

Queenstown's dining scene is internationally renowned, and its evening offerings are no exception. Many establishments take full advantage of the lake and mountain views, offering an atmospheric backdrop for a luxurious evening meal.

• Rātā: Headed by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett, Rātā presents a modern take on New Zealand cuisine, using local ingredients in creative ways. The setting is elegant but relaxed, tucked away in a quiet laneway near the town centre.

• Botswana Butchery: Located in a historic cottage with views over Lake Wakatipu, this Queenstown institution serves up premium meats, fresh seafood and a celebrated wine list. It’s well-suited for a special occasion or a lingering, multi-course evening meal.

• Blue Kanu: For something more vibrant, Blue Kanu blends Polynesian and Asian flavours in a concept they call "Polynasia." The space is colourful and inviting, with a menu designed to be shared.

• Patagonia Chocolates: Ideal for dessert lovers, Patagonia offers handcrafted chocolates, rich hot chocolates, and ice cream until late in the evening.

Advance bookings are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.

 

Bars and Evening Drinks in Queenstown

Queenstown’s bar scene caters to both the casual and the refined. Whether you're interested in wine, cocktails or craft spirits, the town's compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot from your motorhome base.

• The Lodge Bar: Overlooking the lake, this bar offers an intimate setting and an emphasis on Central Otago wines. The food menu is small but curated, and the interiors feature natural textures that reflect the surrounding landscape.

• The Bunker: A hidden gem tucked away down Cow Lane, The Bunker offers a moody, fire-lit ambiance. The upstairs cocktail bar serves inventive drinks in a space that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

• Gin Garden by Broken Heart Spirits: Local distillers Broken Heart have a dedicated gin bar featuring their award-winning blends. The outdoor garden is heated in winter and lush in summer, making it a year-round stop.

• Minus 5º Ice Bar: With everything made from ice, these themed bars offer a uniquely alpine experience.

Convenient motorhome parking can be found at Boundary Street Carpark a short walk from Queenstown centre. 

 

Evening Experiences and Entertainment

Beyond food and drink, Queenstown offers a range of curated experiences designed to help you make the most of your evenings.

• TSS Earnslaw Twilight Cruise: Board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw for a serene evening cruise on Lake Wakatipu. With live piano music, historical displays, and the option to dine at Walter Peak Station, it’s a relaxing way to spend a few hours.

• Skyline Queenstown Gondola and Dinner: Take a gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, followed by a buffet-style dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant. Twilight hours are ideal for watching the sun dip behind the mountains.

• Creative Queenstown Night Market: Held on selected Friday evenings at Earnslaw Park, this market features local artisans, street food, and live music. It’s a low-key way to explore the creative side of Queenstown after dark.

• Onsen Hot Pools (Evening Sessions): Soak in private hot tubs overlooking the Shotover River, available into the night. Advance bookings are essential.

• LUMA Southern Light Project: Held annually during winter, this festival of light and art transforms Queenstown Gardens into a glowing interactive display.

 

Scenic Night Walks and Lakeside Strolls

Queenstown’s waterfront takes on a tranquil beauty at night. Softly lit paths make for pleasant walking conditions, especially along Marine Parade and the Queenstown Gardens.

• Queenstown Gardens: These botanical gardens are beautifully maintained and offer well-lit walkways, a rose garden, and quiet benches for stargazing.

• Steamer Wharf: The restaurants and bars here spill out onto the waterfront, and it’s a nice spot for an after-dinner walk or a final nightcap.

 

Where to Stay in Your Motorhome

Queenstown has several premium holiday parks with facilities that suit those travelling by motorhome. They offer secure parking, powered sites, and easy access to town.

• Queenstown Holiday Park – Creeksyde: Just a 5-minute walk from central Queenstown, this eco-friendly park is known for its quirky art installations and excellent facilities. Hot showers, laundry, BBQs, and private bathrooms are all available.

• Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park: Located near the base of the gondola, this park is ideal for visitors interested in Skyline activities. Sites are flat, spacious and include power hook-ups.

• Driftaway Queenstown: A newer addition to the local scene, Driftaway sits on the edge of Lake Wakatipu with high-end amenities including private bathrooms, spa pools and a lakefront lounge area.

All parks accept advance bookings and are recommended to secure a spot during weekends and school holidays. For more options further out from Queenstown, including peaceful lakeside and countryside locations, explore our guide to the best campsites and holiday parks near Queenstown.

 

Late-Night Food and Takeaways

If you prefer to dine in your motorhome, Queenstown has several high-quality takeaway options that remain open late.

• Fergburger: World-famous and often queued out the door, Fergburger is open until 5am. Their gourmet burgers are made to order with quality ingredients.

• Fergbaker: Right next door to Fergburger, this bakery is ideal for grabbing a meat pie, pastry, or sandwich for a more relaxed night in.

• Caribe Latin Kitchen: For something spicy and fast, this compact eatery offers tacos, burritos and other Latin American dishes.

 

Exploring Queenstown with maui

 

Booking your maui motorhome online is easy, and with a dedicated branch right in Queenstown, picking it up is just as simple. Choosing a motorhome for your Queenstown adventure gives you the freedom to explore on your own terms. Queenstown offers a broad but curated selection of evening experiences, from upscale dining and lake cruises to market stalls and night walks. It adds a layer of flexibility and comfort that lets you tailor each evening to your mood. Whether you’re seeking indulgence, adventure or quiet moments by the lake, Queenstown by night delivers.