Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is a breathtaking lakeside town that’s world-famous for its adventure sports, stunning landscapes, and vibrant lifestyle. While it’s a top tourist destination, Queenstown is also a fantastic place to call home. With a strong economy, a thriving job market, and an exceptional quality of life, it’s no surprise that more and more people are moving to Queenstown.
If you’re considering making the move, here are five compelling reasons why Queenstown should be your next home.
1. A Thriving and Diverse Community
Queenstown is home to an international community, with more than 50 nationalities living and working in the region. This creates a dynamic and inclusive environment, making it easy to meet new people and build meaningful connections.
The cultural diversity also extends to the food scene. Whether you’re craving authentic Kiwi cuisine at Rātā, Japanese at Tatsumi, Italian at Lombardi, or a casual bite from the famous Fergburger, Queenstown offers a culinary experience that rivals any major city.
2. A Lifestyle for All Seasons
Queenstown embraces all four seasons, each bringing its own unique charm.
- Summer (20-30°C): Perfect for hiking, mountain biking, lake activities, and wine tours.
- Autumn: The town transforms into a stunning canvas of golden hues, creating some of the most scenic backdrops in New Zealand.
- Winter: As the ski capital of the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown offers world-class ski fields and an exciting après-ski scene.
- Spring: A great time to explore the outdoors, whether it’s golfing, jet boating, or enjoying the blossoming gardens.
With its year-round beauty and activities, Queenstown is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
3. A Booming Job Market and Business Hub
Queenstown’s economy is flourishing, with tourism, hospitality, and construction providing ample job opportunities. The region is also seeing growth in healthcare, education, and self-employment, with many professionals choosing to start businesses here.
New infrastructure projects, such as the expansion of the Southern Cross hospital and new residential developments like Te Pā Tahuna and Mill Farm, are creating even more employment opportunities.
4. Exceptional Living Standards and Education
Queenstown is known for its high quality of life, offering a safe and family-friendly environment with excellent schools and tertiary institutions. Some of the top educational options in the region include:
Primary and Secondary Schools:
- Remarkables Primary School
- Arrowtown School
- Shotover Primary School
- Wakatipu High School
Tertiary Education:
- Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) Queenstown Campus: Offering a range of part-time and full-time study options, with a Zero Fees Scheme for eligible domestic students.
- Queenstown Resort College (QRC): Specialising in Tourism and Hospitality Management, with strong industry connections and practical training programmes.
Housing in Queenstown
Housing options vary from modern apartments in central Queenstown to luxury homes in exclusive suburbs like Kelvin Heights and Queenstown Hill.
The average property value in the Queenstown-Lakes District reached over $2 million as of 2024, reflecting strong buyer demand and making it a premium real estate market in New Zealand. Rental prices have also seen fluctuations, with the median weekly rent varying based on location and property type.
Some of the best neighborhoods to live in include:
- Kelvin Heights: Known for its stunning lake views and prestigious homes.
- Queenstown Hill: Offers luxury homes with breathtaking panoramas of Lake Wakatipu.
- Frankton: A well-connected hub near shopping centres, Queenstown Airport, and key amenities.
- Shotover Country: A newer development with a strong community feel, great for families.
- Lake Hayes Estate: A peaceful, suburban-style neighborhood just a short drive from Queenstown.
- Jack’s Point: A master-planned community featuring golf courses, high-end homes, and spectacular natural surroundings.
5. Adventure and Entertainment at Your Doorstep
Queenstown is a world-class adventure destination, offering everything from skiing and bungy jumping to skydiving and jet boating. However, there’s more to Queenstown than just adrenaline-fueled activities.
The region is home to vibrant arts and cultural festivals, a buzzing nightlife, and historic towns like Arrowtown and Glenorchy, which offer charming retreats for weekend getaways. The stunning Lake Wakatipu provides a serene escape for those who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle.
Some must-visit food and leisure spots include:
- Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door: Known for its ‘Trust the Chef’ degustation menu and premium wines.
- Nest Kitchen+Bar: Offering breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and contemporary New Zealand cuisine.
- Blue Kanu: A unique fusion of Pacifica and Asian flavors, delivering a distinctive ‘Polynasia’ dining experience.
Ready to Move to Queenstown?
If you’re thinking about relocating, Queenstown offers the perfect mix of career opportunities, lifestyle benefits, and natural beauty. Moving to a new town can be daunting, but with the right support, it can be a seamless experience.
At Crown, we make moving easy. Whether you need assistance with packing, storage, or settling into your new home, our expert team is here to help. Get a free moving quote today and start your new journey in Queenstown!
