Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa epitomises refined hospitality seamlessly blending exquisite food and wine within its elegant interior. The hotel’s style hallmark is evident in Le Salon Rouge and Le Petit Salon, the inhouse bar and restaurant inspired by original clandestine European salons featuring rich reds, velvet decor and soft candle lighting. “Le
The culinary philosophy at Steamer Wharf restaurant Sunfire is one of flavours on fire incorporating the elements of charcoal, flame and high quality ingredients. Owners Jonathan Bisley and Lou McDowell have designed their menu so every dish is centred on a connection to cooking with fire, expanding on the legacy of their other high
The ongoing success of Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen underlines its reputation for exceptional culinary experiences. Deb and John Pickens who jointly own the business with Mora Wines say the restaurant is defined by three key attributes – people, place and passion. “It is set in a beautiful garden with an inviting
Domaine Thomson winery has made its presence felt as a leading Central Otago wine producer during the past 25 years and is celebrating the landmark occasion with the launch of an exclusive French champagne. “We bought the vines in the Aube region of France in 2022, grown by the same family
The 2025 New Zealand Open injected more than $23 million in direct economic impact for the Queenstown region.Post tournament statistics show the event also generated $12.3 million in net impact nationally after a 48 per cent growth in attendance numbers to 34,199. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upton says the success
A 46-kilometre drive from Queenstown on one of the world’s most scenic roads to the small township of Glenorchy at the head of Lake Whakatipu is a highlight. Set in stunning alpine scenery Glenorchy is a drawcard during spring with offering a range of passive and adventure activities. Exploring the wilderness Glenorchy
Gibbston will come alive this summer with a celebration of wine, food and music at The Valley– a new music and lifestyle festival debuting on Saturday, January 24 2026 at The Church Cellar Door. The Auckland anniversary weekend festival will showcase a premium selection of top-flight Kiwi music, world-class wines, gourmet food and craft brews. “The Valley is
Queenstown’s pioneering thrill-seeking adventure tourism experience Shotover Jet has clocked six decades of adventure on the renowned Shotover River. From its roots as a pioneering jet boat operation to becoming the only company permitted to navigate the dramatic Shotover River canyons Shotover Jet has carried more than 4.6 million passengers since
An ever-changing selection of New Zealand artists and jewellers at Wānaka’s Gallery Thirty Three makes it a drawcard destination. Director Vanessa George says Gallery the gallery’s dynamic and ever-evolving new Summer Series exhibition will be a major attraction in December and January. “This exhibition is well known for its depth and variety featuring
A selection of new and noteworthy works headline spring at Wānaka’s contemporary art gallery Gallery Thirty Three. The gallery is recognised as a leading art and cultural destination in the Southern Lakes and exhibits paintings, sculptures and jewellery created by leading New Zealand and Australian artists. “As we launch into spring we
Ed Cruikshank’s name is synonymous with fine furniture and innovative design. The Queenstown designer’s first creations were crafted in wood while studying at one of England’s leading cabinet making schools before he broadened his skills and knowledge with a degree in furniture design and put his training into ten years of
Sarah Austin is breathing new life into vintage treasures at her jewellery business Maebel which is bringing international pieces to local collectors. “I absolutely love jewellery and always have. I believe it should be worn, enjoyed and celebrated.” Maebel’s current collection has been widely sourced from New Zealand, the UK, USA and
Safari Tents NZ has a reputation for the high-quality European glamping tents and other products it distributes. Director James Lamb talked to QT Magazine about the development of the venture. What was the impetus for starting the business? Our original inspiration came from UK friends with a glamping business on their farm. They had an amazing set up and asked us about glamping in New Zealand. After researching it we realised it was an exciting opportunity to get involved in at the
Orchard Gardens in its idyllic setting between Clyde and Alexandra boasts the largest hedge maze in the South Island combined with extensive English style gardens. Owners Frances and Bryan Raymond say the almost four-hectare property has provided the backdrop for more than 500 wedding ceremonies and is a popular stop over
Kim Rangiaonui Logan’s name is synonymous with climbing, extreme mountaineering and search and rescue work but the Central Otago legend’s recently released memoir A Journey Between Worlds is so much more than an adventure story. Interspersed with tales of mountaineering on big named mountains like Everest and K2 and his beloved Aoraki Mount
Dining al fresco is one of life’s simple pleasures and spring is an ideal time to experience Arrowtown’s dining scene according to Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association manager Nicky Busst. “Many local restaurants and cafés feature stylish outdoor areas and courtyards where diners can take in the hustle and bustle of village