March is one of Queenstown's best summer months because it has clear skies, a warm mountain climate and a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities. The number of tourists remains high after the peak summer season, continuing to attract both local and international visitors. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, ideal for hiking, lake activities and local festivals around Lake Wakatipu and its neighbouring areas.
Queenstown in March sees a surge of visitors. The outdoor activities are a major draw, and the crowds are smaller than in January, yet the summer weather remains in full swing.


Saturdays throughout March 2027
Remarkable Market
This weekly outdoor market in summer featuring regional food vendors, handcrafted goods, local produce, and live music that attracts both locals and visitors.
Various weekends in March 2027
Gibbston Valley
Open-air concerts continue throughout March, offering live music performances alongside regional food and wine experiences in vineyards.


Late January to Early March (varies annually)
Queenstown and surrounding trails
A celebration featuring cycling races, community rides, skills events, and social gatherings across Queenstown’s wide network.
Skyline Queenstown Gondola
An elevated gondola ride up Bob’s Peak offers stunning views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountain ranges. In March, the early autumn colours begin to appear, adding warm tones to the landscape. The pleasant weather and slightly quieter atmosphere also make it a great time to visit, including in the evening for sunset views.


Bob’s Cove
A full-day alpine hike accessible during snow-free summer conditions.
Queenstown Hill Time Walk
A shorter walking trail through forest and open viewpoints overlooking the township.
Kawarau Bridge Bungy Centre
Bungy jumping operates year-round at Queenstown in March, with stable summer weather and extended daylight hours. The Kawarau Bridge site is recognised as the world’s first commercial bungy jumping location, offering jumps above the Kawarau River with viewing platforms for spectators.


Shotover River
Kawarau River
Dart River
Jet boating provides access to remote wilderness areas, braided rivers, and canyon landscapes daily throughout March.
Lake Wakatipu
Scenic cruises run regularly during March, 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 during late summer.


Bob’s Cove
A short lakeside track leading to sheltered picnic areas and elevated viewpoints over Lake Wakatipu.
Roads between Queenstown and Gibbston Valley
March ends the stone fruit season, with roadside honesty box stalls selling cherries, apricots, peaches, and locally grown products.


Gibbston Valley
Cellar doors and vineyard tastings showcase Central Otago Pinot Noir and regional wines which remain popular during the late summer harvest period.
Queenstown Bay
Extended evening activity along the waterfront continues, with late sunsets allowing relaxed lakeside dining and walks.


Lake edges away from central lighting around Lake Wakatipu
Clear summer skies during March often allow visibility of the Milky Way on calm nights.