Zoi’s Queenstown: A Local’s Guide to Ride, Eat, and Explore

Zoi might be known for making history on the world stage, racking up medals at the Olympics, X Games, and basically every major snow comp that exists - but at the end of the day, she’s also a proud local who knows the area like the back of her hand and spends just as much time soaking up the scenery as she does standing on the podium.

When you’re in a new town, it’s always nice to have someone in the know to show you around, so we asked Zoi for help.

This is Queenstown through her eyes — not the glossy tourist brochure version, but the real-deal local’s lowdown. Whether you're visiting Queenstown to ride, party, explore, or just vibe out, Zoi’s got you covered.

We might be biased, but we reckon New Zealand has some of the best food on the planet, and as the South Island’s tourism mecca, Queenstown isn’t short of places to grab a nice bite to eat. Whether you're chasing a recovery brunch, quick sushi fix, or the full Fergburger experience, here are a few of Zoi’s tips on where to go:

Hikaru Sushi Bar is my favourite place to grab some quick food after a day riding the Remarks - it’s a little outside of the busier part of town, and the sushi is epic.

If you happen to hit Coronet Peak and have time, the little town of Arrowtown is a must-see. Slow Cuts is a really nice restaurant you have to check out, with amazing slow-cooked meats.

The Boat Shed is my favourite brunch spot - just outside of Frankton, right on the water with a nice view of Lake Wakatipu. There’s also a pretty awesome spot called Chur Fish and Chips in Fernhill - which is the most kiwi name ever.

And look, a trip to Queenstown wouldn’t be complete without The Fergburger experience. As touristy as it is, the burgers themselves live up to the hype, and worth lining up for. If you can’t be bothered queuing, my hot tip is to hit the pie shop next door - it’s owned by the same crew and for a quick grab and go, it’s the one.

Other spots to check out, according to my friend Leo, who manages the Burton Store in Queenstown are:

• Atlas - Craft Beers by the wharf
• Smiths - All things pub food
• Ramen Ramen - For the best ramen in town
• Odd Saint - Your go to breakfast spot
• Yonder - Gigs, dinners and a night out
• Red Rock - Cheap beers and pool
• Brunch on Church - Locals tip is a breakfast bun + coffee for $11

Come for the snowboarding, stay for everything else. There’s so much to do in Queenstown - and not just Jetboat rides or jumping off a bridge with a cord strapped to your ankles. Here’s what Zoi recommends off the hill.

If the weather’s bad and you have a down day, it’s super fun to hit SITE Trampoline, they have a sick mini ramp to skate too. It’s also right next to the climbing gym Basecamp if that’s more up your alley.

I’m not the best at golf, but there’s a pretty user-friendly 9 hole golf course and driving range close to the airport called Frankton Golf. Tee off right next to the runway and hope you don’t shank it.

People also love the Frisbee Golf Course in Queenstown Gardens - it’s free and a nice spot to spend the afternoon. Check out the Queenstown Ice Arena as well, maybe catch a local ice hockey game and watch some locals go at each other.

If you’re in town on a Saturday, I love checking out the Farmers Market at Earnslaw Park. Great spot to check out local produce, handmade jewelry, arts and crafts. I always go to score a one of a kind hand knitted beanie for boarding.

And you’re ever in need of any Burton gear, or want to chat to some other locals, stop into the following stores in town

• Burton Store Queenstown - New Zealand’s only Burton Store
• Boardertown, Five Mile - Core Store with a skate bowl inside
• NZ Shred - OG backcountry and freeride store on the main strip

Despite being a party town, most people come to Queenstown to snowboard, and with both Coronet Peak and Remarks just a stone’s throw from town, plus Wanaka resorts within striking distance, there are plenty of options to get some runs in. When she’s not training, here’s what she suggests:

Living in Wanaka and being an ambassador for Cardrona, I have to say that's my go-to resort. I love riding up there, there's something for everyone whether you're just starting out or training for the Olympics. Sometimes you might even score one of the famous inversions and ride above the clouds.

Another cool spot a bit closer to Queenstown is the Burton Stash Park at The Remarkables. Located underneath Sugarbowl chair, this natural terrain park is world famous and one of only four Burton Stash Parks around the world. Make sure you go in and check out the stone hut - a notorious pit stop for riders over the years, and loved by Jake. Every September, Burton also runs The Annual Stash Gathering which is an all inclusive jam session for all ages and abilities.

To make it easier to get up to the hill, there’s also a great hitch spot at the bottom of the access road - and for the best photo op of Queenstown, hike up from the top of Shadow Chair to catch an epic few of town.

That should keep you busy! Thanks for checking out the guide, I’ll hopefully see you on the hill!

Follow @zoisynnott as she leads into the 2026 Winter Olympics