Queenstown Scene

Hello you 👋

School holidays are here and Queenstown is packed with things to do. From creative kids’ programmes and family outings to community nights, markets and winter workshops, there’s something for everyone this week. Here’s your guide to what’s on around town.

🎟️ Events This Week

• 🏒 Wakatipu Wild vs Dunedin Thunder Women – Queenstown Ice Arena
  Queenstown’s women’s ice hockey team hits the rink against Dunedin. Expect fierce goals and fast play. Friday 4 July, 7pm and Saturday 5 July, 7pm. Tickets from $14.35 for adults and $8.20 for children.

• ❄️ Kids Day Out - Coronet Peak

  Bouncy castles, face painting, colouring and sweet treats await at this fun-filled alpine party for little ones. Saturday 5 July, 11am – 1pm. Family fun on the deck (weather permitting). Look out for balloon magic from Ru under the blue marquee!

• 🌿 Plastic Free Night Market – Sherwood
  Browse eco stalls with ceramics, books, skincare, jewellery and more – all focused on reducing waste. Enjoy chats, treats and ideas for low-plastic living. Thursday 3 July, 6pm – 9pm. Free entry. BYO containers and bags. Sustainability starts small!

• 🧩 July Holiday Programme 2025 - Te Atamira
  Creative arts fun for children aged 5–12, with hands-on workshops led by art educators. Runs Monday 30 June to Friday 11 July, from 9am. Morning, afternoon or full-day sessions available. Half day $32, full day $64, with optional late pick-up add-on $15.

• 🍺 Queers & Beers – Searchlight Brewery
  A warm, monthly social for the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Expect local brews, friendly faces and tacos by Tacos Jaguar. Thursday 3 July, 6pm - 9pm. Everyone's welcome. Come solo or with friends for low key chats and beer.

• 🎤 Singers Open Mic – The Blue Door Arrowtown
  Show us your voice! Bring your own backing, guitar or rely on the resilient Mark Wilson to back you up on keys. Sunday 6 July, 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Sign up at 6pm to sing. All styles welcome.

• 🧘 Sleep Health Yoga – Sherwood 

  Explore the science of sleep through calming yoga, guided relaxation and take-home practices. Includes a lavender spray and Yoga Nidra recording. Saturday 5 July, 12pm – 2:30pm. Tickets $79, limited spots available.

👋 General Picks (Locally Verified & Fresh)

•  🌺 Polynesian Dance Workshop - Te Atamira 
  Aloha! Step into the island spirit and come along for a vibrant Polynesian dance experience inspired by the magic of Lilo & Stitch! In this workshop, you’ll practice a joyful choreography full of island vibes, flowers, and tropical rhythm. Saturday 5 July, 3pm - 4:30pm. Tickets $25.

• 🎨 Meditative Art Workshop – Frankton Library
  Unwind and reconnect through creativity at this peaceful, free community session blending art and meditation. No experience needed, just bring your curiosity and openness. All materials provided. Thursday 3 July, 5:30pm. Free, email to book: [email protected]

😊 Good News in 60 Seconds

• 💰 Council Backs Community Groups

  Queenstown Lakes District Council awarded $180,000 in grants through its Community Fund 2025-2026 to support 28 local groups across the district. The funding will boost community initiatives and grassroots projects throughout the region.

• 🎉 98 New Citizens Welcomed
  Queenstown Lakes officially celebrated 98 new citizens at a recent Citizenship Ceremony, embracing diverse backgrounds and strengthening our community spirit across Queenstown and Arrowtown.

• 🏘️ Kingston Village Breaks Ground
  After two decades of planning, construction has begun on Kingston’s new 87-home village. Sections started at $299k, offering much needed local housing relief.