The newly redeveloped Tarras Village is now home to a contemporary wine destination, the Bendigo Wine Cellar. A nod to the rich viticulture of surrounding Central Otago, the cellar is part of a vision founders Christina and Callum Grant of Bendigo Station have to put Tarras Village on the map as

Greenstone Entertainment will celebrate their 15th year anniversary in 2025 with an all-star, powerhouse bill featuring renowned artists Gold Chisel, ICEHOUSE, Bic Runga and Everclear at the 2025 Summer Concert Tour. The 2025 Summer Concert tour will play in Queenstown at Gibbston Valley Winery on Saturday, January 18, followed by Taupo

A beautifully restored 1930s church is the backdrop for SUNDAYS restaurant, the latest addition to Country Lane in Frankton, offering woodfired cuisine and genuine hospitality. Relocated from Waipahi near Gore the church has made the transformation to a popular neighbourhood eatery under the guidance of owners Annabel Herbison and Alex

The newest hospitality outlet to open in Queenstown’s Upper Village, Wahlburgers, is a family destination. “Wahlburgers has brought a real fusion of great food to the Upper Village offering a menu that appeals to families, locals and visitors,” says brand manager Ashley Steriti. “From mouthwatering burgers and tantalising pizzas to refreshing

Perched high above Queenstown in the Upper Village near the Skyline Gondola the Assembly Gastropub, formerly The Bavarian Queenstown, has outstanding views over the resort and offers a culinary journey celebrating New Zealand produce and hospitality.  “As customers navigate their way through our grand entrance they are generally awestruck by the

There is an unmistakable timelessness about Queenstown furniture designer Ed Cruikshank’s work. Often understated and always beautiful it is crafted from natural tactile materials and built to get better with use and the passage of time spanning generations.  Ed’s creative journey and lifelong passion for fine craftsmanship and beauty began in England where he trained as

The name Olivers is synonymous with the historic town of Clyde which had its beginnings in the 1860s as a goldmining village supplying services to miners seeking their fortunes on the local goldfields. The historic buildings that comprise today’s Olivers Collection began as the Victoria Store owned by enterprising merchant Benjamin

Bringing a festive blend of small businesses together in one marketplace was Emma Mowat’s vision for Wānaka’s Gather Market. “We held our first market in December last year and the response was unreal. People loved discovering local talent with stallholders having a successful day,” says Emma. “It was amazing to support

Specialist gift store Thieving Kea blends contemporary jewellery, textiles, clothing and designer goods in its special location in downtown Wānaka. “Our small, charming cottage is directly across from Lake Wānaka offering quality and well-priced goods,” says owner Becky Roberts. “We have beautiful winter items including cashmere beanies, super soft plaid scarves, mittens

Corban Taylor likes the idea of a garage being a welcoming space rather than just a through way to a home which is the inspiration behind Garage Gurus.  The Wānaka business creates design led garages and toy sheds featuring customised cabinetry components and modules. “As a builder working on high-end homes I

Wānaka’s extensive outdoor community was the motivation for Elise Le Compte to open Reform Wānaka following on from the success of her reformer Pilates studio in Christchurch. “Wānaka is an incredibly active place and we felt Reform's dynamic style of reformer Pilates would thrive here,” says Elise. “ Fortunately this opportunity lined up

An après ski pop up restaurant at Wānaka’s Rippon Vineyard hall headed by London trained chef Sam Metcalfe of Raspberry Creek Catering Co is a winter dining experience with a difference. “The Chef’s Table is our shared dining concept that’s a wonderful way to sample locally sourced food and wine expertly

Arrowtown sisters Caroline Walak and Sophie Gibbs have grown up in a world of fashion. “We learnt the ropes working in our family stores Wallace & Gibbs, Ikon, The Wool Press and Te Huia alongside our parents Delvine Wallace and Bruce Gibbs and sister Elizabeth,” says Caroline. “It was an amazing

GOALS new winter collections create effortless style for whatever the season brings forth from designer activewear to men’s & women boutique streetwear fashion. CAFE AU LAIT Cosy up in the Aim’n Pile Jacket  - quite possibly this season’s comfiest jacket. This full-zip jacket made from soft pile fabric with a loose, oversized

When Sally Battson and Jenny Ainge launched Wanaka's independent bookshop The Next Chapter little did they appreciate it would become just as much a tourist destination as a favourite local's haunt.  Almost four years ago the pair opened their store in its container style building next to Cinema Paradiso forming part of an appealing

McCaw Mews is an architecturally designed neighbourhood positioned in Alpine Estate, The Terrace Wānaka. With 13 exclusive homes designed by Tobin Smith of Common Architecture, this private enclave offers a high quality lifestyle within a stunning natural setting. 16 McCaw Mews is the last remaining land and build package currently under

Matariki Arrowtown Kā-Muriwai returns to Arrowtown on June 28 for its third year with a new image and a new name. “The aim for 2024 is to bring Matariki back to its roots,” says Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association manager Nicky Busst.  “It started as a small Arrowtown Preschool community event

Queenstown’s oldest hospitality establishment Gantley’s Tavern, opened in 1874 near Arthur’s Point, has a new direction with local snow enthusiast Euan (Urb) Patterson now spearheading the venture. “As my favourite local pub I knew lots about being a customer but not much about the other side of the bar. I knew

Standout new hospitality venue Fino Wine Bar in Frankton’s Queenstown Marina has a charming and sophisticated European influence. The wine bar is a collaboration between business partners Eugene Kliushneu and Richard Meads and Central Otago wine label Quartz Reef. “Eugene and Richard are passionate Quartz Reef aficionados and when they approached us

The historic Cardrona Hotel is all about Kiwi style hospitality and co-owner Alexis Thornton spoke to QT Magazine about the winter specialties. What breakfast choices do you have for people heading to the ski areas? We open early to ensure everyone is fuelled up for a day on the slopes. Breakfast is

Michelle Freeman, Rae Ellis and Chris Vile were the faces behind Queenstown’s legendary Vudu Café and today operate Bespoke Kitchen in Isle Street. QT Magazine spoke to them about their award-winning café style. What keeps you motivated to innovate at Bespoke Kitchen? Innovations come seasonally for Bespoke, Central Otago has its unique and

The Queenstown Ice Bar is bringing the heat to Upper Village as the coolest hot spot in town. “It’s easy to find on the way to the Skyline Gondola and our new look alpine lodge style entrance is a warm and inviting space to change into plush coats and winter accessories

Frozen margaritas and margarita tasting flight wooden paddles are crowd favourites at Miss Rita’s Cantina along with an authentic Tex-Mex led menu. Miss Rita’s bright and airy restaurant is easy to spot at Upper Village with its riot of colour and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. “It’s a favourite locals

When Sally Woods moved to Queenstown from the UK in 2005 she only planned to stay for a year. Eighteen years later she is the driver for Fierce Grace Queenstown, a UK based hot yoga franchise and the first to open in the Southern Hemisphere. “I discovered Fierce Grace yoga in 2018

Life Pharmacy Wilkinsons is owned and operated by Queenstown pharmacists Glenn Mitchell and Bronwen Judkins offering a large selection of pharmacy medicines, vitamins, natural health products and luxury skincare. QT Magazine spoke to Glenn about optimal winter wellness. How important is establishing a supplement routine for winter wellness? Taking regular supplements is a great

Ben Lewis has built his reputation on creating designer interiors for over 20 years and his signature retail brand Trenzseater showcases luxury New Zealand and European furnishings across the country. “The art of living well is surrounding yourself with beautiful things to make a home a sanctuary to relax, unwind and

International attention for Wānaka’s Stoked Stainless company’s range of handcrafted electric and wood-fired, stainless steel and cedar baths, hot tubs, spas and plunge pools is expanding its profile. “We now have New Zealand’s largest range of luxurious indoor and outdoor hot tubs, spas and plunge pools with Australia the next big

Mt Cardrona Station’s first homeowners are celebrating receiving the keys to their new properties in the stunning 400-hectare village above the Cardrona Valley. In what’s being hailed as a significant milestone for the alpine village, there are 13 homes already under construction this winter. The first five to be completed include

Natalie Newlands is the creative director behind Arrowtown based New Lands Studio, and aside from developing her personal brand, the studio’s key pillar is designing bespoke uniforms for businesses wanting to elevate their image with original designs to empower their teams. Natalie, who formerly owned the acclaimed boutique Angel Divine in

New Zealand luxury leather accessories brand Deadly Ponies has opened a flagship South Island store in Queenstown marking a new era for the company. Deadly Ponies co-founders Liam Bowden and Steve Boyd launched their first South Island store in the resort to expand the brand's exposure to a diverse global visitor

 An overriding respect for nature is intrinsically linked to the ethos of Swedish outdoor company Fjällräven whose first New Zealand store in Queenstown targets people who appreciate their environment. “Our mission is clear and that is to inspire the world to walk with nature and create products that make people feel

Te Atamira is a multi-purpose community arts and cultural space at Remarkables Park Town Centre with plenty on offer for winter 2024. Winter Tale Friday June 28 – Friday August 2 2024 Opening night: Thursday June 27 5:30-7.00pm / As the frost blankets the ground and winter's breath whispers in the

Cardrona Alpine Resort is set to become New Zealand’s largest commercial ski area when its new six-seater high speed chairlift is commissioned in Soho Basin for the 2025 winter. GM of Cardrona and Treble Cone Experiences Laura Hedley says work began on the installation of the lift this summer which will

Former professional free skier Hamish Acland has spent the last 15 years building high profile New Zealand outdoor clothing brand Mons Royale alongside his wife Hannah. QT Magazine spoke to him about life and work in Wānaka. Describe your Wānaka lifestyle? Best in the world with an amazing mix of people who

The skies above Queenstown will light up on Saturday 13th July with the return of Queenstown's 2024 Winter Fireworks hosted by DFS Queenstown. The resorts iconic winter celebration is tailored for family friendly experiences under the banner 'Ignite the Night' that will see thousands of locals and visitors descend on Queenstown's

A $23 million investment at The Remarkables Ski Area which includes the new Shadow Basin chairlift is a bonus for skiers and riders this winter opening up almost 50 percent more accessible terrain. The six-seater Doppelmayer lift has boosted capacity from 1500 to 2400 people per hour and the ride takes

LUMA Southern Light Project is back to switch on winter for 2024 with the popular event being held over Kings Birthday weekend from the 30th May - 3rd June. The Queenstown festival is in its ninth year and will feature a vast range of expert soundscapes, live music, illuminated art

After a six-year hiatus, Aspiring Conversations festival is set to return, transforming Wānaka into a hub of intellectual exchange and cultural celebration. From 4-7 April the festival will host 14 events across three venues, featuring a diverse line up of forty speakers and artists, exploring themes ranging from culture and history to

A new community and recreation hub close to the centre of Wānaka has created fresh opportunities for people to connect and get active. Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has transformed the former Mitre 10 building on Plantation Road into Paetara Aspiring Central.nQLDC Community Services general manager Kenneth Bailey says there

An original 1882 Queenstown stone cottage is home to Yonder widely upheld as an essential part of the daily brunch and coffee DNA for Queenstown locals. Co-found Gary Livesey encourages visitors to discover for themselves what the restaurant is all about. “This summer it’s our mission to invite visitors to come

Millbrook Resort is a high-profile award-winning five-star golf and lifestyle resort in Queenstown and is renowned for its quality residential neighbourhoods. QT Magazine spoke to director of property and development Ben O’Malley. What premium property is currently available?  In recent years Millbrook’s development has been progressing in an orderly westward direction away

Wānaka’s Escape has a diverse selection of elegant fashion from leading international brands reflecting owner Lucy Lucas’s love of classic designer clothing. “I source for quality, uniqueness and timelessness. Uniqueness in fashion is a huge thing for me along with exceptional quality, fabrics and prints.” From statement dresses, skirts and jackets to

The Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow has been left on the sidelines for six years due to the global Covid-19 pandemic – but organisers are upbeat about the prospects for the Easter 2024 event on March 29, 30 and 31. General manager Ed Taylor says the last airshow was in 2018 and

The Cardrona Hotel is a drawcard for summer hospitality and a destination for artisan style food, premium craft beers and top regional wines within its relaxed country garden setting. Angela Cook is head chef of the historic country pub and her focus is on retaining its popular hospitality legacy. “The hotel

With new designer ranges arriving continuously throughout summer Arrowtown’s boutique store Ikon is a fashion destination. "The store is revamped for the summer season with new looks from some of the world’s most successful fashion brands like Ksubi, MINPINK, C&M, Coop, Diesel, Amuse Society, Scotch&Soda, Superdry, Maison Scotch, Oneteaspoon, Rue Stiic,

Jack’s Point championship golf course was a recent nominee in New Zealand’s Best Golf Course category at the 2023 World Golf Awards and is a past winner. QT Magazine caught up with general manager of golf John Griffin. What importance does the Jack’s Point golf team place on international accolades? Ongoing global

After a year in business at Bannockburn Riverside Gallery owner Andie Pearce is upbeat about the pleasure her destination gallery, in its exceptional garden setting beside the Kawarau River housing a curated selection of art works, brings to visitors. “The location alongside the Dunstan Trail gives me the opportunity to combine

The unveiling of a new state-of-the-art packhouse mid 2023 has consolidated production levels for Jackson Orchards cementing it as one of Central Otago’s largest orcharding enterprises. Kevin Jackson and his team operate more than 200 tonnes of stone and pip fruit through their newly installed MAF RODA grader each season

The Headwaters Eco Lodge offers fresh, seasonal and destination dinners seven nights a week prepared by well-known executive chef Pete Gawron and his talented team. The former owner and head chef at Arrowtown’s Saffron restaurant  Pete spearheaded the naming of Saffron as one of Condé Nast Traveller’s Top 100 Tables which

The new timber clubhouse complex at the Queenstown Country Club (QCC) on Ladies Mile is a central feature of the development and makes a significant impact underlining the sustainable creativity of JTB Architects. "We're seeing an exciting growth in demand for sustainable design," says lead architect on the QCC development Mike

Arrowtown golf course is ranked amongst the top ten in New Zealand and has significantly been singled out by prominent US golf writer Tom Doak as one of the country’s most charming and quirky courses. “We recommend it not because it’s short and bunkerless but because its narrow and bouncy fairways

Queenstown boutique hotel The Spire has confirmed its luxury status in the resort after winning a number of 2023 World Luxury Hotel Awards including the coveted Luxury Small Hotel title. “These awards acknowledge the important and integral role The Spire plays in the Imperium Collections high-end hospitality footprint in Queenstown,” says

Wānaka artist Sierra Roberts has attracted a national and international following for her vibrant artworks exploring perceptions of beauty and the female experience. After graduating from university with a Fine Arts degree Sierra spent time travelling and working in Australia, Asia and South American which influenced her decision to start full

The 2024 Warbirds Over Wanaka international airshow will be without its greatest supporter – founder patron and number one fan Sir Tim Wallis who recently died aged 85 in Wanaka. He was recognised as the driving force behind the event for 20 years after the first airshow Warbirds on Parade was

The highly anticipated completion of the Arrowtown to Arthurs Point to Tuckers Beach cycling trail will coincide with the start of work on the Kawarau Gorge Trail, connecting Queenstown to Central Otago with a spectacular off-road trail. “It’s an exciting time for trails in our region as we begin to see

Summer fashion comes to life at boutique activewear store Goals. "We are all in love with summer at Goals,” says executive director Caroline Walak. “New labels instore are Aussie fitness brand Ryderwear and resort sport wear The Upside. There are plenty of fresh arrivals happening weekly from our leading brands Lorna

The world-class Arrowtown trail network embodies a vast range of walks and backcountry hikes appealing to all ages and fitness levels. “The trails come into their own in summer with people getting out experiencing these special areas that are right on Arrowtown’s doorstep,” says Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association manager Nicky

Wānaka bookshop Next Chapter celebrated its third birthday in October underlining the important role it plays in the community. Owners Jenny Ainge and Sally Battson have been overwhelmed with the support from local and out-of-town book lovers which has reinforced the continued growth of the independent store. “It is hard to believe

Kinross’ purpose built cellar door celebrates five of Central Otago’s best known wineries and is the highlight of a visit to Gibbston either by car or on the Queenstown cycle trail. “Kinross is a great place to sample wines ranging from world-beating classics to small boutique gems all in one place,”

The enduring appeal of Queenstown for visitors and avid golfers has enabled organisers of the 103rd New Zealand Open to play the long game in the build-up to the 2024 event from February 29 – March 3. The largest event on New Zealand’s golfing calendar is back in play for

Standing out from the crowd, Queenstown's newly launched food and wine destination, Ayrburn, is set to be summer’s most notable hotspot. Set amongst the rich 160-year history of one of the region’s most historic farm holdings, Ayrburn offers an unbeatable setting for expansive modern culinary experiences. The innovative, ambitious new precinct developed

The distinctive work of artists Neville Porter and George Gray has a special synergy. Porter Gray Gallery recently opened in downtown Queenstown, opposite the Steamer Wharf, providing a shop window for their combined artistic talents with Neville’s outstanding photographic works hanging alongside George’s exceptional oil paintings. “It is a totally collaborative endeavour,”

Clyde’s Eade Gallery, co-owned by Melanie and Rex Eade, is hosting three solo and duo solo exhibitions this spring centring on the work of artists represented by the gallery.  Stories - October 7– November 1 2023 Impressionist painter Paul Samson has a new collection of oil on canvas works entitled Stories which

Cromwell based Infinite Energy celebrates ten years in business this year with innovation the backbone of their success according to CEO Regan Heal. “Our team’s technical expertise has allowed us to play a leading role in the design and delivery of bespoke and complex systems for a massive range of applications.

A stylish selection of international designer fashion makes an elegant statement at Wānaka’s Escape Clothing which has attracted a dedicated following since opening in 2002. “Wānaka has grown massively since then and the business has really developed with the town. I think our customers are much more fashion focused today and

A core belief in inner beauty and skin care led beauty therapist Alecia Hodgson to immerse herself in the industry and subsequently open Silver Sixpence skin clinic and spa in Wānaka. “After qualifying from Christchurch’s National School of Aesthetics I went to Canada for spa experience and then travelled to various

Indoor golf has arrived in Queenstown with the opening of Golf Federation in the centre of the resort. The indoor golf simulator in Athol Street is the brainchild of PGA golf professional Ben Guilford who saw an opportunity for a facility where people can practice and play golf in all weathers

From design concepts and project management to installation and delivery Central Otago based Power Solutions is a results driven company. Managing director Mark Laming has shaped the company that works specifically with developers, surveyors,  planners and councils to provide effective power solutions for a broad range of infrastructure, building and land

Spring marks six years since Queenstown’s Five Mile launched with the shopping centre today one of the region’s fastest growing retail destinations. “We have a vibrant array of clothing stores offering everything from sports and outdoor clothing to streetstyle and footwear,” says Five Mile retail manager Regan Allington. “ Our centralised

One of Arrowtown’s oldest, heritage buildings in Buckingham Street houses The Jade and Opal Factory which has been creating original jade sculpture and jewellery collections for over three decades. Lee Roy Mullings, a master carver in his own right, heads the business started by his father, Gary Mullings in the early

Spring breathes new life into the rural home, garden and gallery of Queenstown artist Angus Watson and his many paintings on display reflect his love of colour. “Another year has passed and I have been painting prolifically turning the surrounding spectacular landscape into vibrant, contemporary colours.” Angus enjoys commissioned work and receives

Easy Big Trees have been growing high quality plants and trees for over 100 years and the Southland horticultural enterprise is the largest of its kind in the South Island. “We offer an extended range of the highest quality plants and trees, all expertly cared for with the wisdom and experience

New owners of Arrowtown’s Provisions Matthias Schmitt and Monika Ederer are relishing stamping their mark on the café housed in an original miner’s cottage in Buckingham Street. The professional chefs moved to Arrowtown with their two young children this year after spending more than a decade working and living on

Creative Space Architecture is a leading architectural design agency based in Queenstown and Tauranga. QT Magazine spoke to executive director Andre Laurent about designing energy efficient homes for the Southern Lakes region. How do you maximise energy efficiency through architecture? We guide clients to select the most appropriate construction methods and materials

F L Bone has been an importer of luxury home appliance brands for over 100 years and features a selection of exceptional designer products for the home. The high-end appliances include range cookers and fireplaces and are on display in their Queenstown store at The Junction in Gorge Road. Queenstown store manager

A new couture collection created by Wānaka bespoke jeweller Alice Herald reflects her ongoing love of nature so prominent in all her designs. “I see jewels when walking through forests. Nature’s colour, its architecture and quiet energy have such an influence on my design and in the story telling of the

Quartz Reef Wines was one of several Central Otago wineries to be recognised recently in The Real Review Top Wineries of New Zealand 2023. The list is a national benchmark identifying where New Zealand wineries are placed amongst their peers. The awards panel reviews around 10,000 wines each year with certificates awarded

The 2023 Rhythm & Alps music festival, now in its 13th year, has a stellar line up for New Year celebrations in the Cardrona Valley from December 29 until December 31. The festival is a highlight on the Australasian music calendar with more than 10,000 festival goers expected to experience three

In the past five years the Future Hospitality Group headed by James Ace and Bert Haines has grown its portfolio of high-level restaurants and bars to seven venues across Queenstown. The pair are ardent advocates of hospitality excellence  and their restaurant Margo’s in the Queenstown Mall is a fun, contemporary place

High-quality and innovative cuisine is the calling card of Lil Red, the new 40-seat restaurant at luxury boutique hotel QT Queenstown. Originally set up as a pop-up in 2021, when the hotel opened, Lil Red at QT promises stylish fine dining in an intimate setting. Local ingredients blended with traditional Japanese

Conceived as an original New York style American steak house for the New Zealand market Jervois Steak House (JSH) in Queenstown punches well above its weight. Owned by the Foley Group  JSH in Queenstown, housed in Sofitel hotel, is a sister restaurant to Auckland’s flagship Jervois Steak House in Herne Bay

Queenstown’s only dedicated agaveria Little Mez has a reputation for its impressive range of premium, authentic tequila and mezcal varietals sourced directly from Mexico. Opened in July 2022 by the award-winning Future Hospitality Group the sophisticated, speakeasy style basement bar is tucked away in Cow Lane and is a popular addition

Gibbston Valley Winery’s upmarket $750 million lifestyle development project has reached a significant milestone with the first homes currently being built in the prestigious settlement. “This is great progress for the Gibbston Valley Resort,” says CEO Greg Hunt. “The Reserve stage is now titled with 70 per cent of the sections

Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa’s French inspired hospitality is legendary and its latest addition –  Le Salon Rouge – is reminiscent of a prohibition era speakeasy. The intimate cocktail bar and lounge has a mix of fine food and wine and cocktail experiences from early afternoon until late evening. “Our decadent French

A Central Otago alpine village development is celebrating over $50million in total sales and will release its first titles to buyers this spring. Mt Cardrona Station in the Cardrona Valley is also offering fixed pricing on a range of architecturally designed luxury house, land and landscaping packages and has recently launched

Contemporary artworks by Eelco Hilgersom were recently unveiled at Bonham Art & Design Gallery in Arrowtown. Showcasing the Amsterdam based artist's lifelong fascination with structures found in nature, the series entitled Habitat features organic shapes in vibrant hues inspired by organism's intricate communication systems . "The response to Eelco's work

Glass-fronted, architecturally-designed new builds to restored heritage homes, sprawling glades to manicured inner-city patio gardens – tickets for the 2022 season of the NZ House & Garden Tours are on sale from October 5, 2021. And for the first time the tour will also have weekend getaway packages planned around

From running a ski lodge in Australia to appearing on celebrated chef Al Brown’s Hunger for the Wild television series to starting an award-winning artisan preserves company and operating her own cafés Jane Shaw’s life has always revolved around food. Her popular Arrowtown café Provisions is a warm and inviting winter refuge to

Arna Craig, founder of rebranded change marketing agency Conscious is turning her business model on its head and wants other local businesses to follow her lead.  “The world is in climate crisis and we as a business community are not doing enough. We are in the midst of a global climate

With a portfolio of award-winning design to their name, brothers  Ben and Hamish Lewis have captured the imagination of New Zealand homeowners with their exquisite selection of tailor-made luxury furniture and European design on display at their Trenzseater stores in Christchurch, Auckland and Queenstown. The Covid-19 lockdown last year led to Trenzseater