Thursday, June 19, 2025
Queenstown Gears Up for a Busy Travel Season as School Holidays, Festivals, and Special Events Drive Passenger Traffic
As Australian families prepare for their school holiday travel, Queenstown is bracing for a significant increase in passenger traffic. The upcoming Matariki public holiday on Friday, along with the Mardi Gras Queenstown event on Saturday, will further fuel the rise in traveler numbers. This surge in visitors is expected to continue throughout the season, especially when New Zealand’s school holidays kick off on 28 June.
The bustling winter season in Queenstown is set to attract even more visitors with the Winter Pride festival starting on 15 August, followed by the Snow Machine festival in early September. These major events will bring an influx of travelers to the city, further boosting the region’s tourism and aviation sectors.
In total, Queenstown is expecting around 248,000 passenger movements for July and August, with another 226,000 forecast for September. From 5 July to 31 August, the airport will handle an average of 65 flights per day, indicating the busy nature of the peak-season travel period.
A spokesperson from Queenstown Airport shared, “While the terminal will be busy, our operations team is well-prepared. The excitement brought by peak-season travelers contributes significantly to the energy and economic boost of the region.”
Last year, Queenstown Airport recorded 235,000 passenger movements in July and August, followed by 210,000 in September, highlighting the ongoing growth in tourism.
To accommodate the growing number of visitors, Air New Zealand will be enhancing its Auckland-Queenstown service by upgrading from the Airbus A320 to the larger A321neo aircraft from July to November. Moreover, the airline will introduce an additional flight, boosting total capacity by over 19,400 seats.
Australian airlines have also adjusted their schedules, adding more winter flights to meet the demand from travelers heading to Queenstown. The busiest travel day is expected to be Sunday, 20 July, when more than 5,000 passengers are anticipated to pass through the airport. Another peak day will be Sunday, 24 August, marking the conclusion of the Winter Pride festival.
In light of the increased activity, Mr. Grace, a representative of Queenstown Airport, encouraged travelers to be patient and considerate. “Our team is dedicated to assisting you. A little patience and kindness go a long way in ensuring a smooth experience for everyone,” he said.
For skiers heading to the slopes, NZ Ski has introduced a self-service MyPass kiosk at Queenstown Airport. This new service allows visitors to skip the usual lines and head straight to the mountains. Conveniently located near the domestic baggage claim area, the kiosk helps save time for eager skiers looking to maximize their time on the slopes.
In an effort to improve the airport experience, Queenstown Airport has broadened its selection of food and beverage options in the international departures area. A new casual eatery and bar, Skippers, opened late last year, offering a range of made-to-order meals, freshly baked goods, and a selection of locally sourced beverages. For travelers on the go, the newly renovated Fuel To Fly eatery now offers an extensive selection of freshly prepared meals, snacks, and drinks, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
Parking and Travel Tips for Queenstown Airport Travelers
Parking Options:
Travelers driving to Queenstown Airport can choose from two conveniently located parking areas near the terminal. Additionally, travelers can utilize the Park & Ride service located on Brookes Road. This affordable service includes a free return shuttle, operating year-round. The first shuttle departs 100 minutes before the first flight of the day, while the final shuttle leaves 60 minutes after the last flight has landed.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Guidelines:
When picking up passengers, it is recommended to check the flight arrival times before heading to the airport. The P20 zone, conveniently located right in front of the terminal, offers free parking for up to 20 minutes. However, waiting in the drop-off zone is prohibited, and vehicles left unattended could face a fine. For drop-offs, make sure to say a quick goodbye and drive on promptly. The drop-off zone is a high-security area, and leaving vehicles unattended poses a security risk. If you need more time to assist with luggage or check-in, it is best to use the P20 zone.
Packing Guidelines:
Before packing, travelers are advised to familiarize themselves with carry-on regulations. Special care should be taken with items such as batteries, wireless ear buds, and hearing aid chargers, which must be packed in hand luggage. International travelers should also be aware of specific rules for transporting powders, liquids, aerosols, and gels.
Security Screening Changes:
For those who haven’t traveled recently, security procedures may have changed. With advancements in technology, passengers are no longer required to remove laptops and electronic devices from carry-on bags. However, you will still need to remove boots and heavy coats during screening.
New Zealand Traveller Declaration:
All visitors flying into New Zealand, as well as New Zealand citizens returning home, must complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration. This can be done easily online or via the NZTD app before departure. The declaration is free and can be submitted up to 24 hours before the flight, helping to streamline processing when arriving in Queenstown.
A Boost for Queenstown’s Economy
The increase in passenger traffic and events such as Winter Pride and Snow Machine is expected to significantly benefit the region’s economy. With increased demand for flights, accommodation, and local services, Queenstown is well-positioned to reap the rewards of its thriving tourism industry. As travelers flock to the area to enjoy its stunning winter landscape and vibrant events, local businesses and the hospitality sector are set to see a substantial boost.
With the careful planning and adjustments made by Queenstown Airport, local airlines, and the tourism sector, the city is prepared to handle the influx of visitors and provide a smooth, enjoyable experience for travelers during this busy season.
