Queenstown Airport is preparing for its busiest winter yet, with more than 785,000 passengers expected to travel through the airport between July and September. That compares with 735,344 over the same three months in 2025.
The peak is expected on 18 July, with 70 flights and about 10,000 passengers arriving or departing through the airport in a single day.
Queenstown Airport Chief Executive Shane O’Hare said the winter season is always a special time for the airport and the wider region.
“Winter is when Queenstown really shines, and we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors from all over New Zealand and overseas to experience the vast range of things our region has to offer, from world-class ski fields and adventure activities to vibrant hospitality.”
Mr O’Hare said there was a strong shift towards ‘cool tourism’, with travellers seeking out crisp alpine air, snowy landscapes, and authentic winter experiences.
“This region is already New Zealand’s premier winter destination, and businesses such as NZ Ski and RealNZ have made significant investments to cater to this global travel trend.”
Local residents also love to travel at this time of the year and are taking advantage of Air New Zealand and Jetstar’s new direct Queenstown-Brisbane services.
“This is a great example of our airline partners responding to demand,” Mr O’Hare said. “With Qantas and Virgin Australia also operating this route year-round, travellers now have more choice than ever.”
Auckland and Sydney remain the most popular destinations for departing passengers.
Australian families will start flying into Queenstown for winter getaways from 20 June, but numbers will really pick up early in July, when Australian and New Zealand school holidays overlap.
The Matariki public holiday on 10 July will boost traveller numbers and early spring will also be busy, with the Snow Machine festival scheduled for 8-13 September.
“As always, our team will work closely with the airlines, border agencies, and wider airport community to ensure a smooth experience during peak travel periods,” Mr O’Hare said.
Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism Chief Executive Mat Woods said visitors can expect a warm welcome to the region.
“Queenstown Lakes continues to be the engine room for New Zealand tourism, and we love sharing it with visitors from around New Zealand and around the world.
“Domestic visitors are the foundation of our winter season, while Australia remains our most important international market. Direct trans-Tasman flights make it easy for Australians to access the region’s ski fields, hospitality, and experiences.
“We're also seeing a meaningful lift in Chinese visitors, many travelling through New Zealand on the visa-waiver programme via Australia. Together, those markets are helping drive a positive outlook for the season ahead.”
Note for editors: Passenger numbers include everyone travelling through the airport – both arriving and departing.
WINTER TRAVEL TIPS
Skip the queues
Travellers who plan to ski or snowboard at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables can collect their online passes at NZ Ski’s self-service kiosk beside the domestic baggage claim area. Then, when they head up the mountains, they can skip the queues and head straight to the slopes.
Parking
Those driving to the airport have a choice of two parking areas near the terminal, or the Queenstown Airport Park & Ride service. This is an affordable parking option located on Brookes Road with a free return shuttle operating 365 days a year. The first trip leaves the Park & Ride area 100 minutes before the first flight is scheduled to depart. The last trip leaves Queenstown Airport 60 minutes after the last flight lands.
Pick-up duty
If you are on pick-up duty, check the flight arrival time before you leave home and take advantage of the P20 zone right in front of the terminal where you may park for 20 minutes for free. Just stay in the right-hand lane as you drive through the roundabout. Please be warned, waiting in the drop-off zone is not allowed and you could receive a traffic infringement ticket if you linger.
Drop-offs
If you are using the drop-off zone in front of Queenstown Airport, please say a quick farewell to your passengers, then drive on. Empty vehicles in the drop-off zone are regarded as a security threat, so if you need to help with luggage or check-in, please use the P20 zone.
What to pack
Before you start packing, check what you are allowed to take on a plane. Be especially careful about batteries and items such as wireless ear buds or hearing-aid chargers, as some of these things are only allowed in a carry-on bag. If you are flying internationally, there are special rules for powders, liquids, aerosols, and gels.
Security screening
If it a while since you last caught a flight, security screening might be a little different. Advances in screening technology mean you no longer need to remove laptops and other electronic devices from your carry-on bag. However, you will have to take off boots and heavy coats.
New Zealand Traveller Declaration
Every visitor flying into New Zealand and Kiwis returning home must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration. The easiest way to do this is online or on the NZTD app before you get on your flight. It is free and can be submitted up to 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand. Doing it in advance will make passenger processing easier when you land in Queenstown.