Queenstown Gardens

Overview

Queenstown Gardens is a beautiful 16-hectare public park occupying a peninsula that juts into Lake Wakatipu. Established in 1867, it offers mature trees, rose gardens, and lakeside walking paths just minutes from the town centre.

Highlights

• Lakefront Walks: Flat, paved paths circle the entire peninsula with continuous views of the lake, the Remarkables, and surrounding peaks.
• Disc Golf Course: An 18-hole disc golf course weaves through the gardens' mature trees — one of the most scenic courses in New Zealand.
• Memorial Rose Garden: A formal rose garden with over 70 varieties, dedicated to soldiers from the two world wars.

History

The gardens were established in 1867, just five years after the gold rush brought the first European settlers to Queenstown. The original plantings of oaks, sequoias, and Douglas firs have matured into towering specimens that now shade the walking paths.

Visitor Tips

• Morning Walk: Visit early for a peaceful lakeside stroll before the town wakes up.
• Frisbee Golf: Disc golf discs can be hired from nearby sports shops — it's a fun free activity.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.