January is one of the most active months in Queenstown, with long daylight hours, warm alpine temperatures, and clear conditions supporting a wide range of outdoor and cultural experiences. Average daytime temperatures typically range from 7°C to 20°C in 2026, This year 2027 its been estimated around 6°C to 22°C making it a suitable time for hiking, lake activities, scenic travel, and regional events around Lake Wakatipu and surrounding areas.
29 December 2026 to 1 January 2027
Cardrona Valley
A multi day music and camping festival held near Queenstown featuring international and local artists. The event extends New Year celebrations into early January and attracts visitors from across New Zealand and overseas.
The lineup features headliners Rudimental, Dizzee Rascal, Santigold, Synthony, and Chaos in the CBD, with over 10,000 attendees expected.
9 January 2027 (expected annual schedule)
Glenorchy
A traditional regional horse racing event combining racing, food stalls, and live entertainment, set against alpine scenery at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu. Its been held every 1st saturday afternew year with just a minimal fee of $20 starting at 11 and till event lasts.
Saturdays throughout January 2027
Remarkables Market
A weekly outdoor market offering local produce, handmade goods, food vendors, and live music during the summer season.
Various weekends in January 2027
Gibbston Valley
Open air concerts hosted within vineyard settings featuring live performances and regional food offerings.
Skyline Queenstown Gondola
A gondola ride ascending Bob’s Peak, providing elevated views across Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and surrounding mountain ranges. Extended daylight hours in January allow evening visits.
Ben Lomond Track
Ben Lomond Track
A full day alpine hike accessible during snow free summer conditions.
Queenstown Hill Time Walk
Queenstown Hill Time Walk
A shorter walking trail through forest and open viewpoints overlooking the township.
Kawarau Bridge Bungy Centre
A weekly outdoor market offering local produce, handmade goods, food vendors, and live music during the summer season.
The lineup features headliners Rudimental, Dizzee Rascal, Santigold, Synthony, and Chaos in the CBD, with over 10,000 attendees expected.
Shotover River
Kawarau River
Dart River
Jet boating operates daily during January, offering access to canyon landscapes, braided rivers, and remote wilderness areas.
Lake Wakatipu
Scenic cruises run regularly throughout January, including sailings aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw.
Queenstown Trail
A connected trail network suitable for cycling and walking between Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Gibbston Valley.
Arrowtown
Historic streets and riverside paths reflecting the region’s gold mining heritage. Evening visits are generally quieter.
Bob’s Cove
A short lakeside track leading to sheltered picnic areas and elevated viewpoints over Lake Wakatipu.
Roads between Queenstown and Gibbston Valley
January marks peak cherry and stone fruit season, with roadside honesty box stalls selling locally grown produce.
Gibbston Valley
Cellar doors and vineyard tastings showcasing Central Otago Pinot Noir and regional wines.
Queenstown Bay
Late sunsets occurring after 9 pm allow extended evening activity along the waterfront.
Lake edges away from central lighting around Lake Wakatipu
Clear summer skies often allow visibility of the Milky Way on calm nights.
