Your Ultimate Guide to Remote Work in Queenstown
🌄Stunning mountain and lake views everywhere
🏄♂️Outdoor activities from skiing to bungee jumping
☕Cozy cafes with fast Wi-Fi
⭐⭐⭐⭐ ”Some nice scenery and cafes to work from.”
🚵♀️ adventure | 🌄 mountains | 🌳 nature | 🥾 hiking&walking | 😌 wellness | 🍸 nightlife | 🏙️ city break | 🍔 food & drink | 😎 great for singles | 😎😎 great for couples | 🚼 child-friendly | 🚶♀️safe for solo travellers
As dawn breaks, the first rays of sunlight filter through your bedroom window, casting a golden glow over the Remarkables. You stretch, savoring the crisp mountain air that fills your lungs. After a quick shower, you brew a cup of rich, locally roasted coffee, its aroma mingling with the scent of pine from the forest outside.
Your workspace is a cozy nook by the window, overlooking Lake Wakatipu. The lake's turquoise waters shimmer under the morning sun, providing a serene backdrop as you dive into emails and video calls. The hum of your laptop is occasionally interrupted by the distant call of a tui bird or the rustle of leaves in the breeze.
By midday, you take a break to stroll through the Queenstown Gardens, the crunch of gravel underfoot and the vibrant colors of blooming flowers invigorating your senses. Back at your desk, you power through the afternoon, productivity fueled by the promise of adventure.
As the workday ends, you trade your keyboard for a pair of hiking boots, setting out on the Ben Lomond Track. The trail offers breathtaking views, the scent of wild thyme filling the air. By dusk, you’re back in town, savoring a craft beer at a lakeside pub, the day's work a distant memory as you watch the sun set behind the mountains.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Safety | ❌ Cost of living |
| ✅ Internet quality | ❌ Seasonal weather variations |
| ✅ Availability of recreational and cultural activities | |
| ✅ Climate conditions | |
| ✅ Air quality | |
| ✅ Community reception and ease of socializing | |
| ✅ Healthcare quality | |
| ✅ Safety for diverse groups | |
| ✅ Freedom of speech and political climate | |
| ✅ Road safety | ❌ Smoking prevalence |
| ✅ Language barriers (minimal) | ❌ Business environment (challenging for newcomers) |
| ✅ Low population density and minimal urban crowding |
Imagine starting your day with a cup of coffee brewed from locally roasted beans, watching the first light hit the Remarkables mountain range. That's Queenstown, New Zealand for you—a place where remote work meets stunning natural beauty. The town is small, but it packs a punch, offering a unique blend of work and play that can make your remote working experience truly memorable.
Finding a place to work in Queenstown is relatively straightforward, but it does require some planning. For a quiet, focused environment, you might head to one of the town's coworking spaces like The Cell. Located in the heart of town, it’s a hub of productivity with high-speed internet and plenty of desk space. The hum of keyboards and soft chatter creates a focused atmosphere that’s perfect for getting into the zone.
If you prefer a more relaxed setting, many cafes double as great workspaces. Vudu Cafe & Larder, with its rustic decor and mouth-watering menu, is a popular choice. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and the sound of milk frothing are constant companions as you type away on your laptop. Just be prepared to share your table during peak hours; it’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
Getting around Queenstown is a breeze, though it helps to have a strategy. The town is compact, and most places are within walking distance. You’ll find that the walk from your Airbnb to your favorite cafe or coworking space often involves scenic routes along Lake Wakatipu or through lush parks. These walks can be both a blessing and a curse—beautiful but sometimes distracting when you’re on a tight deadline.
For longer trips, the local bus service, Orbus, is reliable and affordable. It’s a straightforward way to get to more distant spots like Frankton or Arrowtown. The buses are clean, punctual, and offer a chance to catch up on emails or read a book during the commute. If you’re in a hurry, rideshare services like Uber are also available, though they can be a bit pricier.
Balancing work with social life in Queenstown is an art form. The town’s vibrant social scene is hard to resist, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and outdoor activities to choose from. After a productive day, you might find yourself at Smiths Craft Beer House, enjoying a pint of local brew and striking up conversations with fellow remote workers or friendly locals.
Weekends often mean exploring the natural beauty that surrounds the town. Whether it’s a hike up Queenstown Hill, a bike ride along the Queenstown Trail, or a more adventurous activity like bungee jumping, there’s no shortage of ways to unwind and recharge. These activities not only provide a break from work but also offer a chance to connect with the local community and other digital nomads.
Your daily routine in Queenstown might start with a morning jog along the lakefront, followed by a hearty breakfast at Bespoke Kitchen. Then, it’s off to your chosen workspace for a few hours of focused work. Lunch could be a quick bite from Fergburger, famous for its massive and delicious burgers, or a healthy salad from Rehab.
Afternoons might be a mix of work and short breaks to enjoy the scenery. You could take a quick stroll to clear your mind or even fit in a short hike if your schedule allows. As the day winds down, you might join a yoga class at Nadi Wellness or meet up with friends for dinner at one of the town’s many eateries.
Queenstown offers a unique rhythm of life that blends productivity with natural beauty and social opportunities. It’s a place where you can find a balance between work and play, surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Just be prepared for the occasional distraction—whether it’s a breathtaking view or an impromptu adventure—that makes working in Queenstown a truly unique experience.
"Best coworkings were in Queenstown - Fluidspace or imeet were both good, imeet cheaper but fluid was nicer."
"Queenstown would be my choice. Lots of tourists in and out all year long. Some nice scenery and cafes to work from. Still very expensive and boring in general."
"Queenstown is really nice as a base, but super touristy and one of the most expensive cities in the world. Actually all of NZ is more expensive than you might expect. Be careful driving, the roads are worse than you're probably used to and dangerous. Do some woofing. Also they just had another minor 4.5 earthquake, but people don't seem to be stressing."
Landing at Queenstown Airport, you're greeted by the stunning backdrop of mountains and lakes that define the region. The most convenient way to get from the airport to your accommodation is by taxi or a shuttle service. Renting a car is also a great option if you're planning to explore the wider region at your own pace. For a smooth journey, it's wise to book your transport in advance, especially during peak seasons.
While English is predominantly spoken, embracing the local Maori culture with a few simple greetings can make a big difference. Here are some you might find useful:
In Queenstown, like much of New Zealand, card payments are widely accepted, including credit and debit cards. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, such as at local markets or in cases where small businesses might not accept cards. For a smooth transaction process, inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any potential blocks on your cards.
Queenstown is best explored through a combination of walking and driving. The town itself is quite walkable, with many shops, cafes, and attractions within easy walking distance. For adventures further afield, such as visiting the many vineyards, scenic drives, or the ski slopes, renting a car is highly recommended. Public transportation options are available but may not offer the flexibility needed for a workation schedule.
Queenstown is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any travel, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or when exploring less populated areas. Keep your valuables secure and always inform someone of your plans if you're heading out on a solo adventure. In winter, be mindful of the weather conditions, especially when driving or participating in outdoor activities.
| ✅ Local emergency number | 111 |
| ✅ Best hospital | Lakes District Hospital | 20 Douglas Street, Frankton, Queenstown | +64 3-441 0015 |
| ✅ U.S. embassy | 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington 6011 | +64 4-462 6000 |
☔ Rainy days -- peak tourist season
Queenstown is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons such as summer (December to February) and winter (June to August) for skiing. During these times, it can feel quite crowded, particularly in the town center and at major attractions. However, there are always quieter spots to be found away from the main areas.
Queenstown offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs to suit different tastes. Whether you're looking for a cozy place to have a quiet drink, a lively bar with live music, or a club to dance the night away, Queenstown has it all. The town is also known for its friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to meet both locals and travelers.
In Queenstown, you'll encounter a diverse mix of people, including local residents, tourists from all over the world, adventure enthusiasts, and seasonal workers. The town has a cosmopolitan vibe, with a welcoming community that embraces the varied cultures and backgrounds of its visitors and inhabitants.
Yes, Queenstown offers a wide range of healthy eating options. Many cafes and restaurants focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Whether you're looking for a healthy breakfast to start your day, a nutritious lunch, or a wholesome dinner, you'll find plenty of choices in Queenstown.
Queenstown is very pedestrian-friendly, particularly around the town center where most attractions, shops, and eateries are located within walking distance. There are also several scenic walking and biking trails around the lake and in nearby parks, making it easy to explore the natural beauty of the area on foot or by bike.
Power outages in Queenstown are not very common and when they do occur, they are usually addressed quickly. Outages may happen due to severe weather conditions or maintenance work, but the local power companies are efficient at restoring service. Most outages are short-lived, lasting only a few hours.
The natural environment in Queenstown is stunning and diverse, ranging from the serene waters of Lake Wakatipu to the dramatic peaks of the Remarkables mountain range. The area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and scenic hiking trails. Queenstown's natural beauty makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Yes, it's relatively easy to access other destinations from Queenstown. The town serves as a gateway to the Southern Alps and is well-connected by road to other parts of the South Island, such as Fiordland National Park and Central Otago. Queenstown Airport also offers flights to major cities in New Zealand and Australia, making it convenient to travel further afield.
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