Days get long in summer—really long. With 17 hours of daylight at your disposal, you can finally get to everything on your to-do list: hiking through the valleys, cycling down rocky trails, kayaking across shimmering lakes, and taking a thrilling ride through narrow gorges on a jet boat. Back in Queenstown, the streets swell with a cosmopolitan mix of travelers.

Escape the heat by whitewater rafting on the torrential currents of the Shotover River, or with relaxing swims in the calm waters of Lake Wakatipu.

Summer is a great time to take day trips to the Glenorchy Basin, where spectacular landscapes straight out of Lord of the Rings make it the ultimate horseback riding paradise. Spend the hours wandering past ancient beech forests, bucolic farmlands, and glacial rivers.

Don’t skip the sunblock, even if you’re out and about early in the day. While mornings are chillier, the glare can be just as extreme thanks to the clear skies and strong sunlight.

Winter brings with it the arrival of the long-awaited ski season in Queenstown. There’s plenty to savor: blue skies, crisp temperatures, and world-class slopes. And you’re in luck, because winter happens to be the cheapest time to visit Queenstown. Hotels, rental cars, and outdoor excursions are at their lowest prices of the year.

Don’t be deceived by the warmer weather in Central Queenstown. Gear up with a thick winter jacket when you head south for the mountain slopes—communities in Coronet Peak’s shadow can feel colder during the daytime.

Ever imagined skiing under the stars with the slopes illuminated by powerful spotlights? Give it a try at Coronet Peak, the only place in New Zealand that offers this unique activity. Bonus: it’s the perfect chance to clink glasses and rub shoulders with the festive après-ski crowd.

Soak away winter’s frost at natural hot pools or in luxurious hot tubs at the hotels and spas. You might even want to make it a post-dinner ritual.

Springtime is defined by three words: Do. It. All. The alpine peaks stay ski-friendly until October, while the hiking trails through the lush valleys are lined with wildflowers. The days are longer and the temperatures are warmer, but passing clouds can quickly turn sunny days into spring showers. Expect a more chill vibe, as you’re dodging peak summer crowds.

Pack plenty of layers, as the weather’s always changing. Bring along a warm jacket for when you’re up in the hills, and something light and breezy for when you’re in the valleys and downtown.

This is a world-class wine region, so stop by Gibbston Valley for the full wine country experience. Sample an award-winning Pinot Noir al fresco amid vibrant wildflowers and warm sunshine.

Love a challenge? Hike up the hour-long Tiki Trail to Bob’s Peak, where stands of shady pine trees open up to sprawling views of Lake Wakatipu and the rest of Queenstown. Arrive at the Skyline Gondola lookout point and take the one-way ride down, or opt for a fast track down the biking trails at nearby Queenstown Bike Park.