Need a Queenstown base for your Snow Holidays?

Finding the right base for a Queenstown ski holiday can make all the difference. You have to work out whether you want to walk around town after skiing or hibernate and recharge tired legs with no regard to going out at night …If you’re lucky your accommodation might come with a view that totally reminds you why you came to the mountains.

For Snow Action contributor Kay Orford, a recently reopened voco Queenstown delivered exactly the dynamic she was looking for in a hotel. AND this was her first time in New Zealand, so she was extra blown away. “From the moment we arrived, it felt warm and welcoming,” she says. “The reception area was beautiful, sunny and stylish, with the fire going, and the staff couldn’t have been more helpful. We were even welcomed with a locally made cookie, which was a lovely touch.”

Located just a 14-minute drive from Queenstown Airport, the hotel makes an easy arrival after a flight across the Tasman. Better still, once you’ve checked in, the car can stay parked. “We hired a car, but honestly, we walked everywhere downtown,” she says. “It’s in such a great location for Queenstown’s restaurants, shopping and bars.”

Like many visitors, the morning was a favourite part of the day. “We did an early morning walk around the lake before grabbing a coffee downstairs. It was absolutely stunning.” Back in the room, it was the ever-changing mountain backdrop that became the highlight. “The room was beautifully styled, but we were mesmerised by the mountain views. They were incredible at every hour of the day.”

Designed with couples and longer stays in mind, the rooms combine comfort with practical touches. “The king bed was exactly what we needed, with plenty of warm doonas. The walk-in robe, ensuite and kitchenette made it really easy to settle in.”

After long days exploring Queenstown and the surrounding ski fields, the hotel’s inviting communal spaces became a welcome place to unwind. “The fireplaces were so welcoming. It was lovely to relax with a morning coffee or a glass of wine at the end of the day.” Dinner at Mozzarella & Co. bar and restaurant showcased some of the region’s local flavours.

“We shared local whitebait with lemon and chilli oil, wood-fired pizza and local beef, paired with a New Zealand red. It was a great way to spend the evening.” Before heading to the next destination, there was still time for one last indulgence.

“We used the gym and sauna the following morning and it was a great way to start the day.” For skiers, location is often the deciding factor, but for this first-time visitor, it was the combination of service, comfort and scenery that left the lasting impression. “We loved our stay at voco. It made our first trip to Queenstown so memorable”.

Words and Images: Kay Orford