A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Auckland vs. Queenstown for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Auckland or Queenstown?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Queenstown can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and thrill-seeking city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a outdoorsy, nature-oriented, and spirited city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Auckland and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Queenstown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Auckland. Although Auckland and Queenstown are popular destinations, Auckland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Auckland is very popular for its museums, beaches, and big city activities, while Queenstown attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower. Queenstown is famous for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery.

How is Auckland different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Queenstown and Auckland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Auckland is not a skiing destination.

Queenstown is among the world's best ski destinations. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Auckland is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Queenstown?

Auckland is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Auckland. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

While most people don't head to Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or Queenstown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Queenstown has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Both Auckland and Queenstown have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

The people in Queenstown know how to have a good time. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Queenstown is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Auckland for it's beautiful beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Queenstown is not a beach destination.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Queenstown specifically for its hiking. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Queenstown?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Auckland and Queenstown.

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Queenstown. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Auckland or Queenstown.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Queenstown is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Couples?

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Queenstown has plenty to offer. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Queenstown is extremely popular for backpackers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Students?

Both Auckland and Queenstown are high quality destinations for students.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Queenstown is a great city to visit as a student. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

Is Auckland or Queenstown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Auckland and Queenstown.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Queenstown, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.

Is Auckland or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Queenstown is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Queenstown is a very walkable city. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached on foot.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Queenstown?

Both Auckland and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Queenstown than in Auckland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 2-7 days is enough time in Queenstown.

Families should spend more time in Queenstown than Auckland. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Queenstown, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Queenstown than Auckland. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Queenstown that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Queenstown than Auckland if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Queenstown.

One day in Auckland or Queenstown?

When visiting Auckland, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Queenstown offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Queenstown?

When visiting Auckland, people usually allow for lots of time. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Queenstown is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Queenstown, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Queenstown?

Auckland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Queenstown is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Queenstown, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Queenstown?

Auckland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Queenstown is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Queenstown has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best 10-Day Tours in New Zealand, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auckland and Queenstown, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Queenstown much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Queenstown would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Queenstown and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland than you might in Queenstown.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Auckland Expensive? and Is Queenstown Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Queenstown?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Queenstown. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Queenstown, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.