Queenstown can be overwhelming when it comes to choosing between the countless activities, restaurants and sites Queenstown has to offer and even more so adding whether it is family friendly.  So, to save you hours of scrolling through reviews and google, I (Emily a mum to a 2-year-old) will tell you the best of what Queenstown has to offer this winter.

First off, and in my opinion the most important – the best places to eat in Queenstown with young children.

Places To Eat

Sundays

Sundays is first on the list as it has basically everything you would want as a parent when wanting to go out for a nice meal or some drinks with your family and friends. Located in Frankton close by to our Whakata On McBride and Lakeside Indulgence properties Sundays offers a delicious menu (kids menu also of course) including woodfire pizza and pretty drinks, live music at times, a gorgeous venue, a beautiful outdoor area with festoon lights, an open fire and of course an outdoor play area featuring a playhouse, toys and ponies that come up to the fence you can pet that your children will love.

Ayrburn

Ayrburn is a must do in Queenstown regardless of whether you have kids or not but it’s great to know they are also family friendly. Ayrburn is 5 minutes drive from Arrowtown and 5 of our stunning Arrowtown properties that you can check out on our website. Close to the main restaurant ‘The Woolshed’ there is a giant wooden fish playhouse children of all ages will love (not fenced off to the river so littles will need supervision). There is also a full playground in Ayrburn a few hundred meters from all the eateries. Kids menu, great wine and food – Must do!

Ferg Burger

Okay I know this isn’t a café or restaurant and it’s not very original but it wouldn’t be a list of places to eat in Queenstown without mentioning the famous Ferg Burger. Make some core memories with your kids and grab some burgers and fries to go and sit on the beachfront watching the Earnslaw come in, you could even go to the further end for your kids to play at the bathouse playground when they are done eating. Alternatively, you could go to the Bathhouse Café next to the playground if burgers aren’t your thing, the outdoor seating right on the lake front (like literally on the beach) it gives you the best views and spot to eat in, including views of the playground.

Family Activities  

Skiing or snowboarding at Remarkables or Coronet Peak

No brainer with this one but I feel like this just needs to be said, chances are if you have come for a holiday in Queenstown during winter, you want to go up the mountain for at least one day. Kids under 6 ski for free. There is also a ‘Parent Pass’ that allows you to take turns on the mountain while the other parent looks after any kids that prefer to stay by the café! Alternatively put your kids in a lesson while you both enjoy that time together on the slopes, after, enjoy time with your little one and check out their new skills they have picked up!  

Earnslaw and Walter Peak  

Catch the iconic Earnslaw boat over to Walter Peak. You can either go for the boat trip alone or do one of the many activities they offer at Walter Peak. From farm tours, cycling and horse treks. My recommendation is the gourmet BBQ.

Shotover Jet

An all time favorite.  If you are looking to have a thrill boating experience Shotover Jet would be my recommendation!

Need a Recovery day?

I have also bundled together what I feel is missed a lot of the time, just a simple list of things to do on a rainy/chill kind of day. Those days you want to kind of relax but still be doing something exciting for the kids and that will fill in the day without being at home. They are also somewhat a more affordable option as we all know how quickly things can add up.

Escape room

I absolutely love the Escape room, however this is for slightly older kids probably for around 7 up.

Time Tripper Underwater Adventure

This is a wee hidden gem in my opinion, located on the wharf where you used to go underwater to feed the eels back in the day, it is now a full educational and awesome short film taking you through the history of Queenstown all the way back to the dinosaur days and teaching you about the Māori Legend of Lake Wakatipu. Bonus – You still get to feed the eels at the end and it’s only $15 per person.

King Pin

If it has been over two years since your last Queenstown holiday then King Pin will be new for you. Located on Brecon Street it has everything from bowling to an arcade with great food and even a bar.

Odyssey Sensory Maze

This is perfect for kids of all ages, I first brought my wee girl Olive here when she was about 1 and a half and she loved it!

Have a Look Around!

Bobs cove

If you follow our Instagram @tahuna_hideaway you may have seen our lovely Hayleys top picks round Queenstown last month. One of her top picks under things to do for free was Bobs Cove. Stunning all year-round Bobs cove is a beautiful little bay with a short or long (you can decide) walking track that gives you stunning views over lake Wakatipu.

Arrowtown

This historic Goldmining town 20 minutes’ drive from Queenstown is a local favorite. Incredible eateries, boutique movie theater, shopping and the historic Chinese Village. You can also rent bikes from ‘Better by Bike’ located on Buckingham Street.

Glenorchy

Drive down to Glenorchy, I recommend on a beautiful sunny day and stop to soak up the views and take pictures along the way. This drive is in my top two New Zealand drives along with Milford sound!

Whatever you do while you’re here just soak in the scenery and have fun! There are plenty of options for everyone in the family to enjoy!

Renting your property during the busy festive season in Queenstown can be a fantastic way to generate extra income. Here are some steps and tips to help property owners prepare their property.  

A wonderful way to make sure that you have the house prepared for renting is having a checklist of things you need to prepare as well as putting away any sentimental or valuable items that you do not want on display for guests. 

House Checklist 

When setting up bedding for seasonal rentals, it is advisable to furnish each bed with essential items: 

• mattress protector 
• duvet inner  
• pillows (2 per person) 
• pillow protectors (optional)  
• throw and coloured cushions if the room needs more vibrancy   

A well-stocked kitchen can have its advantages, by providing guests with a comprehensive array of equipment for their stay can be of great convenience to the guest. Essential considerations include:  

• utensils
• cookware
• dinnerware/glassware 
• kitchen gadgets 
• food storage 
• basic pantry items 
• cutlery 
• appliances 

Some specific examples would be coffee machines, BBQ, baking equipment, large dishes, and cheese boards.  

We always recommend having enough plates, cutlery, and glassware for the number of guests that your property can accommodate, if not double.  

Supplies

Tāhuna Hideaway can organise and supply your home with the items each guest stay requires, however we do like to offer home owners the opportunity to provide their own supplies in order to reduce expenses while you are away. These are items such as:  

• Toilet paper
• Hand wash, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, laundry liquid & dishwashing liquid (along with refills)  
• Paper towels 
• Tissues 
• Dish tablets 
• Rubbish bags  
• Coffee, sugar, tea  

If homeowners do not want to supply their own amenities, they can choose to use the Tāhuna Hideaways amenities. We can supply a quote for the larger items and order them in advance so we can store them in one of your cupboards, then the other items we will stock the house with when and if they run out.  

Maintenance 

Maintaining your property in top condition before renting it out seasonally is a wise strategy to ensure a positive experience for your guests and reduce the need for ongoing maintenance during their stay. Here are some key steps to consider: 

Landscaping and Garden Tidying 

• Regularly trim bushes, hedges, and trees to keep the garden looking neat. 
• Remove weeds, fallen leaves, and debris from the garden and pathways. 
• Ensure that the lawn is mowed, and the grass is kept at an appropriate height. 

We can provide mowing services while you are away if necessary. 

GRASS – healing any patches before you leave for holiday can make the grounds look looked after, especially if you leave for summer, and do not have irrigation you may need to organise a neighbour to turn the sprinkler on between stays to keep the grounds healthy. 

Deep clean  

If owners do not have time to give their house a deep clean before they go, then Tāhuna Hideaway can arrange for the Busy Lizzy cleaning team to do this for you. It is advisable for owners to tackle cleaning tasks gradually in the lead up to their departure. This can help in two ways: first, it lessens the workload for the professional team, and secondly, it can potentially reduce the overall cost of the deep clean. 

Window Cleaning 

Clean all windows, both inside and outside, to ensure they are spotless. 

Pay special attention to the windows with the best views as they can significantly enhance the overall impression of the property. We also have amazing contractors we can get in touch with if you would like to pay for someone to do this before you go.  

Additional dates throughout the year 

If owners are starting to see some great bookings, then they might consider opening their house more often for bookings throughout the year. This is easy enough to do if you let one of the team at Tāhuna Hideaway know so they can unblock the dates. Also, tell the team what the minimum price per night would need to be to make it worth the owners leaving the property. 

Insurance  

If you plan to rent out your property seasonally, it is crucial to notify your home insurance provider about your intentions. Many standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover short-term rentals, and failing to disclose your rental activities could lead to issues in case of damage or liability claims. Here are some important steps to consider: 

Contact Your Insurance Provider: Inform your insurance company or agent about your plans to rent out your property on a short-term basis. This communication should be made well in advance of your first rental. 

Property Damage Coverage: Ensure that your policy covers potential damage caused by guests. This includes damage to the structure of your property, as well as any furnishings or personal belongings you provide for guests’ use. 

Compliance with Local Laws: Comply with any local regulations or licensing requirements related to short-term rentals, as these can impact your insurance needs. 

It is essential to be transparent with your insurance company and follow their guidance to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your short-term rental property. This proactive approach can help protect your investment and provide you with peace of mind while hosting guests. 

By following these steps and being well-prepared, you can make the most of renting your property during the festive season and ensure a positive experience for both you and your guests. 

Photo credit: Simplify my home  

A trend we have noticed when chatting with prospective clients (investors and owners) is that a lot of them tend to ask similar questions in regard to our systems and how we work as a team. So, for your convenience we decided to put together a list of our FAQ’s – frequently asked questions, to help answer these!

Q: Where abouts are the homes advertised? Which websites do you use?

We have our own company website www.tahunahideaway.com where our properties have their own listings, pictures, bios etc. Think of it as a personalized portfolio for your property! We also use the platforms AirBnb, Booking.com, Homeaway and Marriot which are popular and well-renowned websites worldwide, along with other local and national sites. We also have social media accounts on all major platforms, including Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Q: How do we keep track of our bookings as owners?

We use what is called an owner portal. This is a website that allows us both to keep track of your property’s bookings at the same time. This shows our guests details, the length of their stay, pricing and much more. This also provides the owner statements and invoices so that you can keep track of your records and monitor how well the property is performing.

Q: Who cleans the properties after each stay? How often are they cleaned?

We pride ourselves on keeping our holiday homes up to a pristine standard. That means using the best of the best when it comes to our hygiene, cleaning and linen services. Professional cleaning is supplied after every guest departs. If requested by the guests, we can also provide in-stay cleaning services. That’s where our wāhine (ladies) at Busy Lizzy come in- Carpets vacuumed, bathrooms sparkling, surfaces dusted, beds made, replenishments and linen replaced. They take care of the details so that you don’t have to!

Q: What happens if our property needs maintenance during the time it is managed by Tāhuna Hideaway? What if there is damage cause by a guest or tenant?

This is again processed through our owner portal, which allows for us to communicate with our owners about the issue and you then have the chance to approve or decline this request. We will organize a quote for pricing, pictures and a description on the matter also. Prior to each stay we take a security deposit from each guest (or a bond). If there is damage caused to the property as a result of the guest or tenant this will be taken from this, or charged on top. However, it is important to note that with renting your property to the public there is always risk of general wear and tear over time.

Q: What is involved in the initial stages of listing our property? Photos, furnishing etc.

Prior to guests staying at the property we conduct an initial inspection as well as documenting and photographing your home and chattels. We also offer furnishing services so if you need your property revamped of furnished, we can take this job off your hands! We have a great eye for detail and we can cater to any and all budgets. Professional photos of each of our properties are also taken before the property is listed.

Q: How is the property monitored and by whom?

Ingoing and outgoing checks are done upon guests’ arrival and departure by our property managers, this is to make sure it remains perfect both for you and for the next guests. We also have an on-call manager available for emergency calls – we are dedicated, live locally and are on call at all times.

Q: How can we provide our guests with the best service, or something more personalized?

We take care of the little extras, providing those extra services that make your guests’ stays more enjoyable. We provide complimentary soaps and toiletries, coffee and tea. We can also cater to guests’ needs in terms of platters, birthday cakes, baby equipment and much more. It’s all part of the service they can expect from Tāhuna Hideaway holiday homes and is part of the reason guests keep coming back to our properties and recommending us to others.

Q: Are toiletries and cleaning products provided?

All of our homes use local products from Real World and With Small including soaps, shampoos, conditioner and other sanitary products like toilet paper and tissues. We like to hold our properties to a high standard this means supplying our guests with quality products. Not only are they eco-friendly, but our guests absolutely love them. You can find more information on the brands here www.realworldnz.com and www.withsmall.co.nz

Q: Can we list our property as a once off or on a flexible contract?

This is possible if you choose to go away for periods of time during the year etc. However, if your property in discussion is the one which you reside in, we must again note that there is risk of general wear and tear over time. From experience it is also more mutually beneficial for both parties (you as the owner and us the property management company) to have 6-12 months’ worth of availability noted in advance so that we can demand and execute premium prices.

Q: Are there options for me to rent my property out long term (residential) vs short term (holiday home)?

Yes, if at any stage you wish to change to long term accommodation, we can assist with this. We can also find suitable tenants for your property and manage all the accounts as normal. Head to our blog post here for more information on which option may suit you best www. tahunahideaway.com/residential-rental-vs-holiday-home-renting/ Have a question we didn’t answer? Fire away! We are always available to answer any other queries you may have in regards to renting your property out and we are here to help. If you would like to have a chat, contact our team today! Nga Mihi, Tāhuna Hideaway.

The highly anticipated Queenstown Marathon, scheduled for Saturday, November 18th, is just around the corner. This event marks an exciting and vibrant weekend, drawing participants, supporters, and spectators from various corners of New Zealand and even abroad.  

The allure of the Queenstown Marathon lies in its three distinct options: the full marathon, the half marathon, and the 10km run, each offering a unique experience that highlights the stunning natural beauty of the region. 

Runners in the full marathon, half marathon, and 10km race are treated to the breathtaking vistas of Lake Wakatipu’s crystal-clear shores, with its waters mirroring the surrounding mountain ranges. As they push their limits, participants are not only immersed in the challenge of their chosen race but also in the awe-inspiring scenery that serves as a backdrop to their journey.  

The marathon’s finish line is right in the heart of Queenstown, an energetic and picturesque destination that adds to the overall appeal of the event. With its combination of physical exertion, natural wonder, and vibrant community spirit, the Queenstown Marathon promises an unforgettable experience for all who choose to be a part of it. 

We have curated a selection of tips to guide you in the run-up to this event. 

Transport 

1. The key is to have a plan when it comes to transportation around Queenstown over the Marathon weekend as there will be traffic delays that need to be accounted for when getting to the start line and for spectators travelling to the best viewing spots. Make sure to add bus transport to your event ticket if required or organise for a supporter to drop you off at your designated start line allowing some extra time so there is no rush. For anyone not participating in the race and wanting to get to the airport or anywhere in Queenstown CBD you need to allow 30 minutes to an hour in advance due to road closures and traffic. 

Weather 

2. Making sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast for race day in the days leading up to the event will help prepare you on what to expect on the day. Ensuring you dress appropriately, choose good footwear, have sun protection, and adjust your pace to the weather are ways to make sure you are best prepared for any conditions on the day.  

Nutrition and Hydration  

3. It is important to maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to fuel your training and recovery. Practicing your race day nutrition strategy during long training runs to avoid any surprises on race day. Begin hydrating a couple of days before the race to make sure you are hydrated and consider including sports drinks or electrolytes, especially important if the conditions are hot or humid.  Make sure that you BOOK all restaurant reservations in advance for lunch and dinner as with the increased number of people in town, it will be busy. 

Race day planning  

4. To make sure that you do not have any last-minute stresses, a few things you can do are familiarise yourself with the racecourse, logistics and start times, lay out your race gear the night before and arrive at the race venue early. For people who are not competing in the race, a day trip to Wanaka or a trip to Gibbston Valley to visit a few wineries is a wonderful way to stay out of the chaos of race day. 

Rest and Recovery  

5. The training regimen should have already transitioned into a tapering phase in the weeks leading up to the race. This is a critical period during which your body requires ample time to recuperate. Prioritizing a full night’s rest, especially in the two nights preceding the marathon, is of paramount importance to ensure that you approach the starting line in peak physical condition. A great viewing spot for spectators to watch the runners come into Queenstown is around the Queenstown Garden and from the waterfront cafes and bars. 

Ever stumbled upon the quirky term ‘shoulder season’? Turns out, it’s not just a phrase travelers throw around to get fantastic holiday deals – it’s got a fashionista twist too. Shoulder season is like the Goldilocks of climates – not too hot for singlets, but not chilly enough for your chunky winter woolies. We’re talking about that sweet spot where your shoulders get all the attention.

Now, whether you’re taking a plunge in Lake Wakatipu in the middle of summer, or you’re conquering the ski slopes in the heart of July, trust us, Queenstown is your year-round haven.

But hold on, what about those in-between months? You know, the months that don’t come with scorching heat or bone-chilling cold. Here’s the lowdown on why Queenstown remains an A-list destination even during shoulder season:

1. Wallet-Friendly Wins: Accommodation and flights tend to be kinder to your wallet during shoulder season. It’s like the universe’s way of saying, “Hey, treat yourself without maxing out your credit card.” We think that the most affordable way to travel and stay in our houses is as two couples, or a group of four. Checkout our basic cost breakdown below to compare prices for this summer and the next shoulder season:

	December 2023	May 2024
Destination	Auckland → Queenstown
Flight Price	$204 per person	$109 per person
Accommodation	1 Bedroom Studio
	$400 + cleaning fee	$175+ cleaning fee
	2 Bedrooms
	$600 + cleaning fee	$200 + cleaning fee

2. Adventures Unleashed: Just because the weather is having a ‘not too hot, not too cold’ moment doesn’t mean your inner thrill-seeker has to hibernate. Queenstown’s adventure mecca – from heart-pounding bungee jumps to soul-soothing hikes – is ready to serve no matter the season. Here are a few of our local tips to add to your Queenstown bucket list while keeping your wallet happy:

• Planit Bnb- This nifty tool hooks you up with a 10% discount on a variety of activities when you use our exclusive code QT2280. Using a travel planner can streamline the process of booking activities, making it a breeze.

• Disc Golf- It’s a fantastic shoulder season activity for guests exploring Queenstown. For just $5, you can grab a disc and embark on a leisurely journey through the Queenstown Gardens, which hugs the beautiful Lake Wakatipu. 

• Onsen Hot Pools- Recently recognized as a winner of the 2023 Spa Awards, this boutique experience tends to be more serene during the shoulder season and offers special local and seasonal rates. They even operate a complimentary shuttle from Central Queenstown.

3. Crowd Charades: Imagine this: fewer people, more space to stretch your legs. Shoulder season means you won’t need to become a pro at navigating around hordes of tourists. You can wander through the quaint streets, discover hidden gems, and savor tranquil views without constantly playing the “excuse me, pardon me” game. In June 2022, we welcomed 12,290 visitors to Queenstown, compared to a bustling 37,871 in December. That’s significantly fewer folks crowding this charming but iconic southern town.

4. Wine and Dine in Peace: Ever wanted to savor a gourmet meal without enduring endless wait times for a reservation? Shoulder season hands you that exclusive pass. Slip into Queenstown’s culinary scene with ease, relishing every delectable bite without the hustle-bustle stealing the show. Gibbston Valley offers great experiences like their winery tour, which includes a tour of the vineyards, wine making process and inside the cave with four premium tastings for only $38 per person.

5. Mother Nature’s Art Show: Queenstown’s scenery doesn’t shy away during shoulder season. The scenery retains its awe-inspiring beauty, only now with a sprinkle of autumnal hues or the promise of spring buds. It’s as if Mother Nature has arranged a unique exhibition, exclusively for your enjoyment.

So, fellow adventurers, it’s time to appreciate Queenstown’s shoulder season. It’s that time of year when the weather can’t quite settle on a single mood, but the experiences are as invigorating as a breath of fresh mountain air. 

We at Tāhuna Hideaway are here to assist you in making the most of this transitional phase and securing some amazing deals. We look forward to serving as your holiday personal assistant during this season, and all year round.

We sit down with Founder and Managing Director of Tāhuna Hideaway in a Q&A to get to know Rebecca on a more personal level.

Firstly, Kindly introduce yourself.
My name is Rebecca Freeman and I’m the founder and managing director of Tāhuna Hideaway. I have a gorgeous 3 year old fluffy dog that keeps me busier than anything and live in the sunny up and coming Hanley’s Farm.
 
Where are you from?
I am originally from the sunny Hawkes Bay but I have been in Queenstown for 7 years. My time began here when I studied and I have worked in a variety of hospitality roles before finding my passion in Property Management.
 
What is something you are proud of since starting the business?
It would have to be our rebrand at the start of 2023 as it really portrayed who we are, who I am and what we are about in the business.
 
What demographic do you think most likely stays at Tāhuna Hideaway?
Between the 35-45 age gap and a lot of couples coming with their friends.
 
What do you think are the most common misconceptions about being a business owner?
That you get a lot of time off. I think that in our industry it is 24/7 no matter what you do and whether you say your on holiday or not, you are the business owner therefore you need to be available 24/7 as your business is your baby.
 
What are you most looking forward to in business over the upcoming year?
Finding a good momentum for the team and the right balance with our properties.
 
Looking back at everything, what would be one piece of advice you wish someone had given to you when first starting as a business owner?
That there is no rule book and it is all about asking questions and finding your own answers.
 
What’s your favourite thing about hosting visitors in Queenstown?
Providing them with a kiwi experience and being able to share our stunning region with them. We are fortunate to live with this beautiful scenery and I love that our guests get to experience this when they stay.

Who are some of your role models or mentors in the business?
I always go back to my parents as they have been in business ever since I was born and I go to them a lot for advice.

Favourite spots to eat out in Queenstown?
Dinner spot would have to be Blue Kanu in Queenstown and Brunch is The Dishery in Arrowtown.

What’s your drink of choice?
Pinot Blanc from Mt Rosa, A must try for everyone.