Keen to take a road trip to Queenstown by campervan hire? You've chosen an exciting way to explore! This South Island gem isn't just about its stunning vistas and adrenaline-pumping activities; it's a paradise for food lovers too. With a range of Queenstown eateries offering delicious and affordable options, your taste buds are in for a treat.
In this handy guide, we'll highlight the top spots for cheap eats in Queenstown, perfect for those exploring by camper. From bustling Queenstown restaurants to quaint cafes, get ready to savour the flavours that make Queenstown's food scene as thrilling as its outdoor adventures.
What is Queenstown most known for?
Often hailed as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is renowned for its thrilling array of adventure sports. From the adrenaline rush of bungy jumping to the exhilarating experiences of jet boating and skydiving, it's a playground for thrill-seekers. But there's more to this beautiful resort town than just high-octane activities. Nestled amidst a rugged natural landscape, Queenstown is a visual feast of great scenery, offering awesome walks and hikes for all fitness levels. Little wonder it’s such a popular destination for Mighty motorhome travellers.
Beyond the adventure and natural beauty, Queenstown's food scene is a hidden gem. The town is peppered with fantastic and affordable eateries, ranging from cosy cafes to bustling Queenstown restaurants. Whether you're refuelling after a day of adventure or simply enjoying a leisurely meal, the variety and quality of food available are sure to impress.
When to visit Queenstown
Queenstown is a year-round destination, each season offering its own unique charm and activities. In winter, the town transforms into a snowy paradise, perfect for skiing and other winter sports. The surrounding mountains attract snow enthusiasts, with world-class ski resorts offering slopes for all skill levels.
As the snow melts and the warmer months roll in, Queenstown's stunning lake takes centre stage. It's the perfect time for boat cruises, swimming, and enjoying the lakeside ambience. The town buzzes with energy, and the Queenstown eateries and vineyards come alive with visitors and locals alike.
Spring in Queenstown is a time of renewal and a little quieter than the peak seasons. It's an ideal time to visit if you’re keen to enjoy a more relaxed pace. The landscape bursts into colour, and the milder weather is perfect for exploring the outdoors without the summer crowds.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
The best affordable food and drink experiences in Queenstown
Discovering the best cheap eats in Queenstown is as much an adventure as exploring its landscapes, with an array of affordable and delightful dining options. Here are a few you might want to add to your travel itinerary:
1. Visit the Buzzstop Bee and Honey Centre
At the Buzzstop Bee and Honey Centre, located just a short drive from Queenstown's centre, you can park up your camper for a few hours and immerse yourself in the sweet world of bees and honey. This unique spot offers a chance to learn about beekeeping and indulge in some fun tasting options. Their offerings include honey, wine, and cheese tasting, providing a unique gastronomic experience. For a more in-depth exploration, consider their Queenstown Honey Farm Tour, where you can get up close with the bees and understand the fascinating process of honey production.
2. Visit Erik’s Fish and Chips
A visit to Queenstown isn't complete without stopping by Erik’s Fish and Chips, a local favourite known for its delicious and affordable seafood. Located conveniently close to Lake Wakatipu on Earl Street, Erik's offers a range of mouth-watering options. We suggest picking up their well-priced fish and chips meal deal and heading down to the lake to enjoy it. You may even like to try Erik's unique desserts – deep-fried kiwifruit, chocolate fish, and feijoa, offering a Kiwi twist to traditional sweet treats.
3. Grab some produce at the Remarkables Market
For a true taste of local life, the Remarkables Market is a must-visit. Open on Saturdays, this lakeside market is a hub of activity and sustainability. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the holiday vibe while you check out the great stalls offering everything from fresh produce to hot and cold food. The market also has a cool selection of arts and crafts, making it a perfect spot to pick up a souvenir or gift. And of course, food enthusiasts will love exploring the various food stalls, each offering a sample of the culinary creativity of Queenstown. Our top picks are the freshly baked pastries from The French Baker pastries and the delicious authentic Eastern European delicacies from Babicka Table.
4. Enjoy a beverage at Atlas Beer Cafe
Situated in a prime location with beautiful waterfront views, Atlas Beer Cafe is a must-do for beer lovers and foodies alike. This cafe is known for its excellent selection of craft beers and a menu that complements the brews perfectly. Among their standout dishes is the Bang Bang Chicken featuring fried chicken tossed in homemade Bang Bang sauce. For a vegetarian treat, try the Drunken Mushroom Tacos, a unique concoction of beer-braised spicy mushrooms, crispy onions, pickles, and BBQ beer sauce. The combination of great food, a fantastic selection of beverages, and the stunning backdrop of the waterfront makes Atlas Beer Cafe an ideal spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Queenstown in your camper.
5. Eat and drink your way around Steamer Wharf
Queenstown’s historic and bustling Steamer Wharf offers a diverse and delicious range of dining experiences. This area, known for its rich history and stunning lakeside views, is a favourite with both locals and visitors. For some cheap dining options, head to Saigon Kingdom for a taste of Vietnamese cuisine or Farelli’s Trattoria for classic Italian dishes. Each restaurant at Steamer Wharf brings its unique flavour to the table, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Queenstown's diverse culinary landscape.
6. Have a chilly drink at Queenstown Ice Bar
For a truly 'cool' experience, head over to the Queenstown Ice Bar, where the temperature is as refreshing as the drinks. This unique bar, right in the heart of Queenstown on Brecon St, is an icy wonderland where you can sip on creative cocktails in a setting made entirely of ice – from the bar to the glasses! Be sure to try out one of their signature cocktails. Our top picks include the Sweet Sunrise, a tropical tequila sunrise with a twist, or the Berry Bramble, a sweet gin-based delight. But you don’t have to indulge in alcohol to enjoy the ambience; they have a great range of delicious mocktails too. Our pick of the bunch is the Virgin Mojito - a fruity blend of mojito mint, pineapple, strawberry, lime, and soda, offering a refreshing and non-alcoholic twist to the classic mojito.
7. Eat some crazy doughnuts at Balls and Bangles
If you're in the mood for something sweet and a bit out of the ordinary, Balls and Bangles in Queenstown is your go-to spot. This doughnut heaven quickly became a favourite for its quirky and delicious creations. Dive into the 'Ferrero' doughnut, a heavenly mix of hazelnuts, cream, and Nutella, or try the 'Glitter Bomb', an explosion of sweets, chocolate cream, and a sprinkle of fairy dust. They also serve up a variety of bagels, burgers, and other meals, along with great coffee. It's the perfect place to satisfy your cravings, whether you're after something sweet, savoury, or a bit of both.
8. Enjoy a wine and cheese tour at Gibbston Valley
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Gibbston Valley Wines is one of the must-visit vineyards in Queenstown for campervan travellers who love good wine and cheese. Gibbston Valley’s cellar door offers a great selection of wines, perfect for sampling the local flavours. But they’re also renowned for their delicious cheese, handcrafted with the same care and expertise as their wines. Take a wine and cheese tour to explore the delightful pairing of these two culinary delights. It's a great value experience that combines the best of Queenstown's local produce, set against the backdrop of the stunning Central Otago landscape.
Where to stay in Queenstown
Looking for the coolest spots to park your campervan in Queenstown? Here are a couple of great campsites worth adding to your travel itinerary.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Driftaway Queenstown
Picture this: you're waking up with majestic mountains on one side and Lake Wakatipu's sparkling waters on the other. Sounds like a dream, right? It’s waiting for you at Driftaway Queenstown. For campervan travellers exploring Queenstown, Driftaway is a real find. It's got all the essentials – kitchen and dining areas, a laundry and drying room, and some relaxing communal spots to chill and chat with fellow travellers. Oh, and did we mention the private hot tubs?
And when it comes to things to do, you're smack in the middle of it all. Fancy a quick bite at one of those famous Queenstown eateries? Or maybe a hike up a scenic trail? Perhaps even bungy jumping for the brave-hearted? It’s all just a few minutes away.
Hampshire Holiday Parks
Over at Hampshire Holiday Parks, it's all about location, location, location. You're parked up with some of the best views in town – think epic landscapes that'll make your Instagram pop! This place is a campervan traveller's dream. You've got spacious spots for your van, top-notch facilities, and communal areas that are perfect for making new friends or just lounging around.
Plus, you're right in the thick of Queenstown's vibrant scene. Whether it's hitting the Remarkables Market, diving into lake activities, or checking out the nightlife, you're never far from the action.
Explore Queenstown with Mighty
From doughnut delights to scenic wine tours, Queenstown is a treasure trove of great value food and drink experiences. And what better way to indulge in the best of them than the comfort of a Mighty campervan? Don’t put it off any longer, book your Mighty campervan online today and start planning your epic Queenstown adventure!
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Image: Tourism New Zealand