The Queenstown Lakes District is most fa-
mous as a winter destination for skiers and
snowboarders, but visitors have now discov-
ered what the locals have known for a long
time – that it's equally gorgeous and lively
in the dry heat of the southern New Zealand
summer---which officially starts in Decem-
ber, but makes its most reliable appearance
in February, straight after the Karaka Sales.
First-up, rent a car; it's the best way to
make the most of your time and get around
without hassle – just remember that, like
Australians, Kiwis drive on the left-hand
side of the road. Then buy a big tube of
SPF30+ sunscreen because New Zealand's
bright, unfiltered sunlight can burn you
very quickly.
Draped around the shores of Lake
Wakatipu, Queenstown is the vibrant cen-
tre of the region and the place to be for ac-
tive travellers keen to experience as much
as possible in a short time.
There's accommodation to suit every
taste and budget but if it's luxury you're
after, try The Dairy, two minutes' walk
from the town centre, for boutique com-
fort and personal service that guests
rave about. Like my American friend who
