A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Mount Aspiring National Park vs. Queenstown for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a rugged, breathtaking, and undeveloped national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a bustling, active, and adventure-filled city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Queenstown. Although Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown are popular destinations, Queenstown has more sights and attractions for tourists. Queenstown is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Queenstown is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery. It is also well known for Kawarau Bridge. Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Mount Aspiring National Park different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is very popular for snow skiing. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Queenstown is among the best in the world. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Queenstown offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Queenstown is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Queenstown offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown are both places where visitors can find world-class hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Mount Aspiring National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Around Queenstown visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Queenstown is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Families?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown are both great destinations for the whole family.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Queenstown. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Couples?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for couples.

Queenstown has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Both Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown are world-class destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Mount Aspiring National Park. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

A large number of backpackers visit Queenstown, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Students?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Queenstown has a few public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Queenstown

Queenstown is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

How long in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

Both Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Mount Aspiring National Park , and 2-7 days is enough time in Queenstown.

Families should spend more time in Queenstown than Mount Aspiring National Park . 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 Mount Aspiring National Park . 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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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.


  • How many days in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mount Aspiring National Park 2-5 
    Queenstown 2-7

One day in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

With around the breathtaking national park of Mount Aspiring National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The bustling destination of Queenstown offers food and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

With around the destination of Mount Aspiring National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Queenstown. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Queenstown has to offer.

Five days in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

Mount Aspiring National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Queenstown is a fun place to experience. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Queenstown has to offer.

A week in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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.

The spirited city of Queenstown offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Queenstown or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109, while the average daily cost in Queenstown is $104. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
    Queenstown $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
    Queenstown $110
Compare Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown

Looking for a hotel in Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Hotels in Queenstown


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices and Queenstown Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49
    Queenstown $10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Queenstown

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Queenstown:

  • Queenstown Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Queenstown: $68
  • From Mount Cook Transfer w/ Guided Landmark Tour: $103
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown to Milford Sound Cruise Port: $165
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown Central to Wanaka: $178
  • Private Transfers from Queenstown Airport to Wanaka : $178
  • Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Airport: $178
  • Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Central: $178
  • Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer: $730
  • Tasman Glacier Helihike with Flight Transfers: $883

Is it cheaper to fly into Mount Aspiring National Park or Queenstown?

Prices for flights to both Queenstown and Mount Aspiring National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18
    Queenstown $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Queenstown

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Queenstown.

  • Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza: $18
  • Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29
    Queenstown $21

Typical Entertainment Prices in Queenstown

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Queenstown are as follows:


  • Skyline Gondola (for 2)
    $30

Tours and Activities in Queenstown

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Queenstown are as follows:

  • Time Tripper Underwater Experience: $8.83
  • Skip the Line: Odyssey Sensory Maze Entry Queenstown Ticket: $19
  • Private Race Car Simulation Experience: $20
  • Fear Factory Haunted House Admission Ticket: $24
  • Escape Adventure AR Experience in Queenstown: $24
  • Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience with Drink Options: $25
  • Go Karts - Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park: $30
  • Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise: $35
  • Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown: $36
  • Scenic Queenstown Lake Cruise : $36
  • Kids Club Experience Including Childcare: $47
  • Guided Segway Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09
    Queenstown $8.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Queenstown

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Queenstown:

  • Ice Bar Crawl: $24
  • Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours: $53
  • Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Bannockburn - departing Queenstown: $60
  • Afternoon brewery tour with lunch: $109
  • Afternoon Wine Tasting Tour with 3 Wineries: $109
  • Classic Wine Tour: $117
  • Queenstown Classic Wine Tour: 3 Vineyards, Caves and Cheeseboard: $120
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Queenstown Wine Tour with Wine Dog | Adults Only: $130
  • The Ultimate Luxury Hop on Hop off Wine Tour: $139
  • Central Otago Wine Tour from Queenstown Including Lunch: $144
  • Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tastings: $170


When comparing the travel costs between Mount Aspiring National Park and Queenstown, we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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