Queenstown sits on Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest at 80 kilometers. Some brave souls swim in the chilly waters, but boat charter is a more popular option for taking in the incredible views.
Andrew Demaria/CNN
Call of the muttonbird —
On the Queenstown lakeshore, Aggy's Fish and Chip Shack serves deep-fried fresh scallops and muttonbird -- an oily fish locals say tastes like old sheep.
courtesy Aggy's Fish and Chip Shack
Unexpected arthouse —
In little Arrowtown, Dorothy Browns Cinema shows independent and mainstream films with comfy seats and possum-fur throws.
courtesy dorothy browns theate
Great art —
The cinema isn't the only arty stop. Arrowtown's Nadene Milne Gallery presents top New Zealand artists.
courtesy Nadene Milne Gallery
High design —
Housed in Queenstown's oldest cottage, Vesta Design Store has creaky wooden floors and modern furniture.
courtesy Vesta Design Store
Classics hotel —
Design classics, including Eames recliners and Phillippe Starck lighting, are featured in the rooms at the Spire Hotel in Queenstown.
courtesy The Spire Hotel
Local gourmet —
In addition to local cuisine such as foraged gooseberries and South Island scampi, the restaurant's signature prosciutto and flash-fried beef cheeks tempura-style on cauliflower mousse are a must-try.
courtesy Saffron
Pork belly and pinot —
The onsite bistro at Amisfield Winery, on Lake Hayes, is celebrated for both.
