Why it's Queenstown’s Best Kept Secret
Everyone talks about Queenstown in winter for the ski season and summer for the adventure sports. But Autumn? That’s when this region really shows off
From April through to May the hills around Queenstown burst into a blaze of red, gold and amber. The crowds thin out, the pace slows down and the region takes on a completely different kind of magic. If you haven’t visited Queenstown in Autumn, you’re missing one of New Zealand’s most spectacular seasonal experiences.
The Colours Are Unreal
The leaves going golden in Queenstown isn’t subtle it’s dramatic. The trees planted by gold rush settlers over a century ago line the streets and riverside trails, turning the whole region into something that looks straight out of a painting. The contrast of rich red and gold foliage against the deep blue of Lake Wakatipu and the jagged peaks of The Remarkables is breathtaking.
Get Out on the Trails
Autumn is one of the best times to explore Queenstown’s incredible network of walking and cycling trails. The temperatures are cooler, the light is golden and the scenery is at its most vivid. The Queenstown Trail offers over 150km of well-maintained paths winding through rivers, lakes and mountain ranges. You can ride from Queenstown through to Arrowtown, loop around Lake Hayes or take the Arrow River Bridges Trail through to Gibbston’s vineyard country.
Wine Country is Right on Your Doorstep
Autumn is harvest season in Central Otago, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions. The Gibbston Valley is just a 30 minute drive from mi-pad Queenstown and is home to some exceptional cellar doors. The Wine Hopper bus offers an excellent personalised service offering a half day tour picking you up from central Queenstown and taking you to the wineries you wish to visit at your own pace. When booking direct at mi-pad Hotel you can save 10% on your wine hopper tour simply add as an extra at checkout. Central Otago pinot noir in Autumn, surrounded by golden vines? Pretty hard to beat.
Don’t Miss the Arrowtown Autumn Festival
The highlight of the season is the Arrowtown Autumn Festival, running from 15-19 April 2026. Now in its 40th year, this five-day celebration is one of the most loved community events in the region. Highlights include the Bayleys Festival Parade, ASB Market Day and the ever-popular Pie, Pint & Pinot. The atmosphere is relaxed, colourful and fun, a real taste of the local community at its best.
Arrowtown is a 20 minute drive from mi-pad Hotel or find the local bus stop just a 5 minute walk away, making it an easy day trip or a leisurely afternoon out.
Practical Tips for Visiting in Autumn
What to wear
Layers are your best friend. Autumn days can be warm and sunny but mornings and evenings cool down quickly. A light jacket, merino base layer and comfortable walking shoes will see you through most days.
Best time for photos
Early morning and late afternoon light in Autumn is absolutely stunning. Get out early for the best shots of the foliage with mist on the hills.
Stay Central, Save up to 30%
At mi-pad Queenstown we’re right in the heart of town - perfectly placed for day trips to Arrowtown, wine tours through Gibbston, trail rides and everything else the season has to offer. Book direct between 14-28 April and save up to 30% on your stay! (***Limted time only, subject to availability***) Autumn in Queenstown doesn’t last long. The colours peak in April and by late May winter is on its way. If you’ve been thinking about visiting, now is the time. 🍂
