🇳🇿 Queenstown Mini Guide: Compact but Mighty! 🏔️
Queenstown’s charm lies in its small-town vibe with big-time adventures. Here’s how to max your visit: 🚶♀️ City Walk in Half a Day Stroll Queenstown Gardens (free + epic lake views!). All key spots (thrill rides, cookie shops, souvenir stores) cluster near the lakefront pedestrian street. 🏨 Hotel Hack ⚠️ Most hotels perch on hills—expect a 10-min downhill walk to town. ✨ Pro Tip: Book early for lake-view rooms (Mercure Resort steals the show!). 🛍️ Souvenir Smarts 💰 Price Ranking: Tekapo/Wanaka > Queenstown > Christchurch (cheapest!). 🛒 Best Buys: 1️⃣ Alpaca Plushies 🦙 Small alpaca: ~$60NZD | 🐄 Goofy cow: $30-40NZD (compare shops!) 2️⃣ Wool Socks/Gloves 🧦 Mountain Warehouse or riverside market stalls (half the price!). 3️⃣ Felted Soap & Wooden Magnets Weekend lakeside market gems! 🍽️ Food Notes 🔥 Hot restaurants need bookings—no walk-ins! (Full food guide coming!) 📮 Mail a Postcard Red mailbox opposite Starbucks. Stamps at convenience/gift shops. #QueenstownTips #NZTravel #SouvenirHunting #CompactButMighty