Queenstown Airport

I came through Queenstown Airport in October of 2024, and for a smaller airport, I was genuinely impressed by how smoothly everything worked. It’s compact, but it’s extremely well organized, thoughtfully laid out, and easy to move through without feeling crowded or confusing. The outside area is clean, simple, and efficient, with straightforward signage and plenty of space to get your bearings or wait for your transportation. It gives you a calm first impression, which is honestly something most airports don’t even attempt. Inside, the airport is tidy, modern, and intuitive. Even if you’re not familiar with the layout, it’s hard to get lost. One of the standout features is the view—every time you look toward a window, you’re greeted with those dramatic Queenstown mountains. It almost feels like the airport is showing off, but in the best way possible. You don’t expect scenery like that while grabbing your bag or walking to your gate. The staff were friendly, helpful, and kept everything moving even during busier moments. There’s a steady flow of people coming and going, but the atmosphere stays calm and welcoming. Nothing felt chaotic or overwhelming. There was some construction happening when I visited, but all the businesses were open and running strong. The work didn’t interfere with the overall experience, and it was easy to navigate around. Overall, Queenstown Airport is a great example of a smaller airport done right—clean, efficient, scenic, and genuinely pleasant to travel through. It’s the kind of place that makes arriving and departing feel just a little easier.

Visited Oct this year! Such an amazing experience at the Queenstown!! Airport is simply beautiful and beyond explainable unless you experience it. Stunning landscape around the airport. People’s are nice and welcoming, service at the airport was outstanding!

Considering its size, the infrastructure is great! A small and cozy airport — very well organized. Right outside, there’s a beautifully designed plaza with plants and memorials. For a small-town airport, it’s actually pretty impressive!

Nice airport with friendly staff, lovely views of the mountains as you take off/land

Queenstown Airport is easy to get around, clean, and has amazing views. It’s close to town and good for both local and overseas flights. Staff are friendly and everything runs smoothly.

Busy, active place with constant churn of people coming and going. Like many businesses places, it needs more women restrooms! Parts are under construction, but businesses are open doing a brisk business.

One of the most beautiful places to fly into in the world (On a good day). With the backdrop of The Remarkables in the background, the views are stunning. There are a few Eateries and a place to order a Coffee or Drink before going through security. Inside there are not as many options

Beautiful little airport (by big city standards). Very clean and easy to get around, both for arrivals and departures. Only qualm would be the lack of charging ports in the domestic terminal.

Never knew the Queenstown Airport was a small airport with a short runway, and actually one of the most challenging airports to land in due to the mountain ranges, lakes, weather, and other variable. I only learned this because our plane was cruising in a holding pattern, and I overheard a gentleman in front of me explain the whole thing. It was quite interesting, but boy, the flight was rough and made me feel queasy. After landing, we got off the plane outside and it was indeed a small airport with only one terminal, but everything inside is super close by with many seats, and I really needed a minute to sit and compose myself. The baggage claim was just a few steps away, and our luggage was the LAST ones on the conveyor belt. Good thing it wasn't big. The airport is quite clean, organized, and very comfortable. It felt and looked like a lodge. I'm disappointed I didn't take any photos! Everything is clearly marked, and once outside, there are clear signs of where to go, such as ride share, car rental, and bus stop. I checked for an Uber, and it was over $75 at that time! Yikes! Luckily, I found the public bus does stop near our hotel, and the airport bus stop was easily visible. The driver was nice to answer my questions about taking our luggage aboard and if it's the correct bus. It was only $10. I think I want to get the Bee Card next time! Overall, I'm not sure I want to fly into Queenstown anytime soon. I'd rather drive 8 hours from Christchurch lol. But the airport is nice, clean, and relaxing. Everything was just a breeze. Easy in and easy out.

Queenstown Airport is a small airport located in the dramatic Southern Alps, the views as you land or take off are very stunning. Domestic and international flights. It's a no-frills experience. Pro Tip: Eat Before Security! Once you pass through security, dining options are severely limited.

Another great small airport. Even the farthest point is not that far away. It's clean and compact, but surprisingly spacious. (Maybe to accommodate all the winter skiing gear??) Lots of seats, lots of space around the two baggage claims. Note: Stairs were the only way down out of the plane. If you can't do stairs, make sure to notify someone that you will need help. There doesn't seem to be enough toilets, especially by the gates. The lines were quite long. Taxis get the prime location directly in front. The bus stop is out front, but you have to cross two active driveways, which is not ideal. Buy your Bee card at Papers Plus before exiting the terminal. It's NZ$15, which includes NZ$10 In fare. Tap when you get on, and when again when you get off. I asked the driver to announce the Stanley Street Bus Hub (because stops are not announced), but he did not. However, nearly everyone got off at one stop so I went up and asked. Also, bus-wise, the airport bus has limited luggage storage space (it's just like any other bus), so it's not ideal.

It's a small airport but really easy to get in and out. There was plenty of seating and the space was airy; I didn't feel cramped at all. There was a great coffee bar by us. Having a nice airport really helps with the stress whether you're arriving or departing.

Although the airport is tiny, our checkin and wait before our flight was pleasant. Many shops to satisfy your food and souvenir craving. Sushi, candies, pastries, ice cream, sandwiches and more are available. The airport is clean with better seating than most other airports.

Queenstown Airport is convenient to get in to or out of the area. Beyond that, we didn't have the greatest experience here, but it's a necessity of traveling. We booked the first flight to Auckland of the day. Being unsure of the facility, we scheduled an early Super Shuttle pickup and went to the airport with a few other guests. The driver made some offhanded comments about why we'd all need to go so early, which quickly became apparent. Nothing was open. The check-in counters were all closed, and the self-service kiosks also didn't open until the desks did. There were no signs nor on-screen instructions about this fact much to the chagrin of all the passengers waiting in the area. Everyone was a bit confused and visibly upset there was no one there. We personally enjoy dropping our bags right away and going to explore and maybe have a meal. When we finally dropped our bags it was more issues. The gate attendant was grumpy and made us repack a bit, which we did by moving items to our carry-ons to appease him. He then demanded our carry-ons and weighed those, saying he wouldn't allow us on the plane since those were now overweight. We put a bunch of stuff in a carry bag, which then somehow made him happy. After finally leaving the check-in area, we went to explore the airport. Surprise, nothing was open. Security was after all the shops and restaurants, but this wasn't open yet either. We waited in limbo, never having the time to eat or anything. The security officers were nice and it was a breeze into the gate area, where we eventually boarded. Our old friend was at the gate, but gave us no further problems. The best part of this airport is the surrounding gorgeous mountains. The morning we left there were snow flurries and frigid winds. We look forward to coming to Queenstown again, but not the airport.

A very small, easily managed airport connected to other city's in New Zealand by frequently service. They only have a couple of gates and you walk up portable stairs to enter the planes. Since they board from both front and back of the plane, it's a pretty quick turn around. This place is very low-Key and laid back like all of the country. You don't go to the gate or security until right before your flight-listen to the announcements and since you can't have any carryon over 15 lbs getting around is easy. There are a few shops and a couple of pleasant spots for a bite to eat. The rental car companies are located just by baggage claim and it was one of the fastest and most pleasant experiences I've had renting a car anywhere.

This was a small quaint airport only about 10 to 15 minutes away from the center area We used the super shuttle to and from the airport for $10 per person. Staff including TSA were friendly. You dont have to take your shoes off going through security. The waiting areas in international flights were small and tight. You better grab something to eat before going through security because food is scarce at the gate areas. Hopefully I'll be returning to this airport because I would love to see more of the picturesque Queenstown and it's surrounding areas.

We arrived at Queenstown airport after a 13 hour trek from Honolulu, Hawaii. My family and I travel quite a bit and we've visited numerous airports throughout those adventures, and this one, was by far, one of the nicest "small" airports that we have visited. Upon arrival, it was raining and cold and, as luck would have it, there was no jet bridge to deplane on. Yep, we walked down the steps, through the freezing rain and into the terminal. HA HA, my wife still had on slippers on instead of real shoes. How's that for luck, huh? This was not the first time either, she had the same experience when we flew into Fairbanks, Alaska too - except it was REALLY cold there. That was the only negative (my Hawaii girls whinning about the weather), but once we entered the terminal that stopped immediately. It was a short walk to baggage claim which, to my delight, also coupled as a rental car mall . . . SCORE, my family and I are all about efficiency.

Considering how touristy Queenstown is, I was surprised to see how small their airport was. However, I love how quick the security lines were. One thing different was when you land (or board) the plane, they don't have a jet bridge to connect the plane to the terminal. So, you actually walk outside to the plane. So just keep that in mind if you are traveling during winter time, because it can be hella cold out there!

Very small airport comparing to LAX. In addition, the parking lot for dropping off/picking up is also small (first 20 minutes is free though). The number of seats inside the airport is also limited; therefore, it was hard for me to find a seat as my flight was delayed. Food/drinks/souvenirs were expensive just like any other airport. I would recommend getting those things prior to coming to the airport. Security lines, however, were much better than LAX. Lines were short and staff were very nice and efficient.

Is it inappropriate to call an airport cute? I hope not, because that is how this airport strikes me...cute! We had the opportunity to fly in and out of this airport. The airport is entirely too small to get lost that is for sure. Although it is small, it has everything you need. And since it is a small airport, you sure don't wait long on your luggage. I do highly encourage you to have your car reservations made in advance though, but that has nothing to do with the airport. Just keep in mind that a small airport normally means small everything. On departure day the weather did not behave like it should have and our flight was delayed...along with all the other flights flying in our same direction that day. The airport staff (not just the airline staff) were extremely friendly. They kept you well informed and were apologetic. That goes a long way when your flight is delayed. That said, there are a few restaurants and coffee shops available. But please do keep in mind they are for paying customers. There a few historical type items to take in no matter what your wait is. There is a huge waiting/seating area near the departure gates, outdoor seats as well and seating all the way down to where the rental car and baggage area is. But when you have several flights cancelled it can be different. We must use etiquette in a smaller airport and not take up 2 or 3 seats for one person (yourself), be kind and share. The airport staff was certainly up to the task in keeping everyone semi-happy. After all, you can't do anything about the weather! Once flights started moving again, the security was amazing. I love it when security is extremely thorough, fast and mostly...very kind and friendly about it. Makes everything so much better. They didn't miss a beat! We travel all over the world and this is certainly a nice airport for sure. Note: This has nothing to do with the airport, but I read in another review the Air NZ checked every carryon bag. We flew with Air NZ and this did not happen to us. We carried on our carryon's just fine and no one checked anything or even asked us. Perhaps this is only some flights, but certainly not all.

What a tiny little airport for such a touristy city! This airport is small but efficient. Make sure to get food before going through security, because there is literally nothing on the other side. The airport is updated and comfy. There are lots of chairs and overall this is a well-managed airport. Use mobile boarding passes with Jetstar to skip the long check in line. The bathrooms are nice and updated as well. I love this airport, it feels so cute and little but exciting. There are loads of windows and there are fabulous views. It's an easy place to spend a couple of hours!

This airport gets the job done and it's pretty average. It's really small for such a popular place in New Zealand. There's buses outside to get into the town right outside the airport which is great!

Small, but great airport. Bustling, but not overwhelming. Lots of seating, cute shops to walk around, easy security. Kind of sucks there aren't more restaurant options, but it's an airport fitting of the city it's in.

Very small but efficient airport. It is picturesque when you land, walk down stairs from the plane and take in the sights. Security is pretty quick and efficient. You only need to check in 30 min before domestic flights, even with bags. I think it's an hour for international (maybe 45 min). It's only a 10 min uber or taxi from the Hilton and probably 15-20 form Queenstown proper.

Tip: Specifically for JetStar passengers, have your mobile boarding pass with you so you can line up on the bag drop and skip the long line that requires you to get your boarding pass.

Lovely little airport with cute shops and a couple of decent places to have a bite to eat or a drink before your flight. We had several hours to wait after returning our car here so we took our time and journaled our adventure up to that point. I found great gifts for my nieces and nephews and enjoyed an excellent Sauvignon Blanc. We were so relaxed we didn't realize our flight was boarding in a completely different area for int'l departures. We were right by the security checkpoint for what we thought was to be our gate area - whoops! Luckily we went to check about 40 minutes before our flight and the folks working at the airport frantically rushed us through, shaming us for being so late! They could probably use better signs in the airport here indicating the separate security checkpoint for intl flights! I didn't think there would be anything different because it was such a small airport but here they actually did check IDs for the flight to Australia. That was reassuring!

Great small airport! Good airport, no delays, security good, usual food/drinks/souvenirs. Easy to navigate.

Small airport, but at least it'd be hard for you to get lost. I like the shops along the way to the gates. I was able to save some time on my trip by buying some cute shirts and treats for family and friends back home while waiting for our flight. Tip: If you are flying with Air New Zealand, they are VERY strict about the weight of your carry-ons and they do check EVERY bag for EVERY passenger. To save yourself time and grief (they will have you leave the gate to go back to the check-in desk and go through security once again), pay the extra dollars to check-in those carry-ons right from the beginning.

I imagine there is a huge fight when the time comes for Qantas pilots and attendants to choose their rosters because everyone wants to do the Queenstown run. Only three hours from Sydney, I didn't even get to finish the movie and had to watch the ending on the way back. (Interstellar, pretty crappy movie I thought) The plane flies right over the Southern Alps so you get to see glaciers and check out the fiords and sounds and glacial lakes and all the geological stuff like moraines, hanging lakes, arretes and V shaped valleys. Its stunning. Then the plane either circles to lose altitude and drops down from the north onto the tarmac or just cruises up Lake Wakatipu. Extraordinary scenery. Watch this video and you will understand just how well RNP works for Queenstown landings which are often under cloud. www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mxmFCw-Dig The airport works really well and is only ten minutes from Queenstown. On the return trip there are plenty of private areas where you can cry your eyes out before leaving. Keeno got us into the Qantas lounge which had a Kiwi name. It was fine. I have included a couple of photos of our bus and the planes so International guests aren't caught by surprise, New Zealand is still catching up in some respects. Go the Wallabies!

Very convenient airport. Car rentals are a cinch and all staff were friendly. Used Queenstown AP. Three times during March/April 2019.

Queenstown International is one of the nicest airports I have been in. I love the shops and a few choices for coffee/eats to hang out it. The system to go through security to Auckland was interesting - long line to go in and then wait at a different gate to head out. I think this is one of the larger airports on the south island. Also interesting coming in and going out with winds so be prepared for some possible bumps....

This is the most beautiful airport ever! In between mountains and I was awestruck when I stepped outside. Staff is super friendly and always willing to help. Fairly small which made it easy to navigate around. Probably my favorite airport in the world.

Cute!!!! The airport is surprisingly small. But then everything in NZ is so cute. We had to get there for a 7am flight after a whole night of partying so yes, it was a relief to not have to deal with long lines or confusion. The eatries are all outside the checkpoint for domestic flights. But everything was quick and boarding was quick and easy. Don't have the info on International. We had a early morning car dropoff. Once you park the car, you have to lock the car and come to the terminal to drop off the keys. It took a little while to figure this out but was smooth.

Small airport. FYI most food options are outside security, at least for int'l travelers. Past security there's just a small airspresso selling small pre-made sandwiches and snacks (cheese/grapes, quinoa cup, fruit cup etc), and then a small fridge of options in what seems to be their version of Hudson news. Note security usually takes no time at all (don't have to remove shoes, though you do need to take laptop out)...30 min or less, if not 15 min the two times we went through.

Love the easy access to car rentals, shuttles and checkout. Security is a breeze. They have some cool cafes including Patagonia, which took me by surprise. Airports immigration staff is very well versed and acquainted with different cultures. If this is international visit for you, I suggest keeping all your food items(packed or home cooked) in separate bag, so you can take it out for customs, rather than rummaging it through luggage . You will be asked to declare all food and muddy shoes when you arrive at customs.

It is a typical small airport but it has a room for improvement. For instance, screening for international flights can be quite confusing when it will say "Open for screening" on a display and "Closed" on a separate stand.

Pretty cute little airport with just about everything you newd. Short security line. Expensive food as usual. Check in to jetstar international was painless and no line at 7am. The best thing about this airport is the free water past security!

A decent airport. International security is pretty full on, many checks to go through. However it is a nice displayed airport, pretty efficient. I love the duty free, buying all the alcohol :), well of course only 2 bottles as thats all you can fly with.

Super cute little airport - it's got everything an airport needs PLUS a Remarkables Sweet Shop! Every time I've been here, it's been very quick getting in & out, lots of friendly smiles & great clean toilets. Yes, the restaurant/cafe/bar here is a wee bit pricey, but hey, you're in Queenstown!! Get used to it! Plus it's a cool little set-up with great views of the runway. The food selection is a great representation of NZ - big ole home-cooked pies, Southland cheese rolls, even fish n chips. Sauv blanc & Pinot noir on tap & a good selection of Kiwi beers & ciders too. The biggest bonus about this airport is that you're in Queenstown. You've either just had one of the prettiest, most scenic flight descents in the world & you're champing at the bit to get into NZ's most picturesque adventure playground, or you're sadly reminiscing about the amazing time you have just had & already making plans to return!

Flying into Queenstown is quite an experience - the spectacular alpine and mountain view. The airport is small. Eventhough it's an International airport the flights are majorly domestic apart from flights from Australia.