
Finding the right place to stay can make your Queenstown adventure even more memorable. With everything from luxury lodges to cosy alpine inns, there’s a style for every traveller. Toni and I have stayed in and around Tāhuna – Queenstown many times and we always find something new —whether it’s a boutique stay in Arrowtown’s Millbrook Resort, a smart modern hotel in Queenstown or a lakeside stay with mountain views, there’s something here for every traveller. Here are 5 of the best hotels in Queenstown and its surrounds that we think capture the spirit of the region.
1. Mi-Pad Smart Hotel – Queenstown

Mi-Pad is a new generation of smart, sustainable hotels designed for tech-savvy travellers. It offers modern rooms with app-based features and stylish communal spaces, just a short walk from Queenstown’s centre.
- Style: Eco-smart boutique hotel.
- Best for: Solo travellers, couples and digital nomads.
- Highlight: App-controlled features, rooftop terrace with mountain views.
👉 Check availability at Mi-Pad Queenstown here.
2. Kamana Lakehouse – Queenstown

Perched above Lake Wakatipu, Kamana Lakehouse is all about breathtaking views and relaxed alpine luxury. Its design blends natural materials with modern comfort and the in-house Nest Kitchen & Bar makes dining a highlight.
- Style: Chic alpine boutique hotel.
- Best for: Couples and travellers who love design and views.
- Highlight: Panoramic lake and mountain views from rooms and restaurant.
👉 See Kamana Lakehouse rates and availability here.
3. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside – Queenstown

This is one of the best central options if you want to be right in the action. Just steps from the lakefront and Queenstown’s buzzing restaurants and shops, it’s a great mix of location and value.
- Style: International hotel with comfort and convenience.
- Best for: Travellers who want to be in the heart of Queenstown.
- Highlight: Walk straight out into the town centre.
👉 Check Novotel Queenstown Lakeside availability here.
4. DoubleTree by Hilton – Queenstown

A familiar name with a Queenstown twist, DoubleTree by Hilton offers stylish comfort on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. It’s part of the Kawarau Village complex, which means you also have restaurants, bars and even a water taxi into town at your doorstep.
- Style: Modern international hotel.
- Best for: Families, couples and those wanting Hilton-level comfort.
- Highlight: Kawarau River location and easy access to dining and transport.
👉 Book DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown here.
5. Millbrook Resort – Arrowtown

Set on 650 acres of countryside, Millbrook Resort is a destination in its own right. With luxury villas, a championship golf course and a world-class spa, it’s a peaceful retreat only minutes from historic Arrowtown.
- Style: Luxury resort with golf and spa.
- Best for: Couples, families or anyone wanting a resort-style escape.
- Highlight: Expansive grounds, spa and panoramic alpine scenery.
👉 Check availability at Millbrook Resort here.
🌍 Travel Planning Resources
These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.
- ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
- 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
- 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
- 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
- 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
- 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
- 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
- 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
- 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
- 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
- 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.
🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.
“He rā ki tua, he rā ki tua.”
There are better days to come, better days ahead.