Queenstown Scene

Hello you 👋

Spring is fully waking up the Whakatipu! This week we’re celebrating The Remarkables’ 40th with mountain fun and a downtown rail jam, toasting steins at Oktoberfest, and waving winter off in style. There’s colour at the Arrowtown Spring Flower Show, fresh bites at Remarkables Market, plus mid-week creativity at Paint & Sip and easygoing hangs at Darts & Beers. See you out there!

🎟️ Events This Week

• 🎿 40th Anniversary Spring Carnival – The Remarkables

  The Remarkables ski area turns forty with a three day carnival 26 ‑ 28 September, 9am ‑ 4pm. Expect retro ski vibes, on‑mountain action, music and family-friendly activities as locals and visitors celebrate four decades of alpine adventures. Pack your favourite throwback outfit and join the party. It’s a once‑in‑a‑generation milestone!

• ⛷️ Downtown Rail Jam – Brecon Street Steps

  Friday 26 September, 5pm ‑ 8pm sees the Brecon Street Steps transformed into a street style snow park for the 40th anniversary rail jam. Top riders bring mountain energy downtown with music and high‑flying tricks. It’s free to watch and perfect for the whole family. Grab a hot chocolate and witness some gravity defying talent.

• 🎈September Holiday Programme - Te Atamira

  Keep the kids entertained and inspired with the September Holiday Programme at Te Atamira. Running on weekdays from September 22 to October 3, this arts and crafts program offers a range of creative workshops for children. It’s a fantastic way for them to learn new skills, make new friends, and have fun during the school holidays. A half-day program is $32 and a full day is $64.

• 🍻 Oktoberfest – Searchlight Brewery

  Raise a stein on Saturday 27 September, 1pm ‑ 10pm at Searchlight Brewery’s Oktoberfest. Expect German style brews, pretzels, sausages and live music in a cheerful beer garden setting. Free entry with yummy German fare by Handlebar Barbeque & Brewery. Grab your lederhosen – prost!

• 🌷 Arrowtown Spring Flower Show – Athenaeum Hall

  The 102nd Arrowtown Spring Flower Show blooms 26 ‑ 27 September, 12pm ‑ 5pm. Daffodils, floral art, handicrafts, baking and photography fill the historic hall, with plant stalls and raffles outside. Entry is a small donation, and there’s homemade tea and entertainment. Perfect for gardeners or anyone who loves a splash of colour.

• 🏂 Red Bull Homerun – Coronet Peak

  Calling all thrillseekers! On Saturday 27 September at 2pm the Red Bull Homerun challenges skiers and boarders to sprint, strap in and race from the summit to the base. The mass dash closes the snow season with laughs, spills and an epic après‑ski party. Spectating is free – cheer on your friends or sign up if you dare!

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🏔️ General Picks

• 🎨 Artvine Paint & Sip at Brazz – Brazz Steakhouse & Pub

  Wednesday 1 October, 5:30pm ‑ 7:30pm. Unleash your inner artist over two hours of guided painting at Brazz. Everything’s supplied – canvas, paints, apron. Tickets are $50 and include expert tips. Order a cocktail or wine and nibble on bar snacks while you create; no experience needed, just a smile and a willingness to get creative.

• 🎯 Darts & Beers – Searchlight Brewery

  Every Wednesday at 6pm the brewery hosts a casual darts night. Grab a craft brew, meet locals and enjoy friendly competition with prizes and good tunes. It’s free to play, all skill levels are welcome, and the laid‑back atmosphere makes it a perfect mid‑week hangout.

• 🔥 End of Winter Party – The World Bar

  Say goodbye to winter with a bang on Saturday 27 September from 5pm ‑ late at The World Bar. This free party features flash tattoos, fire dancers, special cocktails and a line‑up of local DJs. It’s an anything‑goes celebration of snow season memories. Dance the night away and toast to longer days ahead.

😊 Good News in 60 Seconds

• 🌟 Community Groups Get Active with 1300+ Free Passes 

  Queenstown Lakes District Council has awarded over 1300 free passes to 16 community groups, enabling access to local sport and recreation facilities. This fantastic initiative supports new migrants, disabled people, and youth, with recipients like the Whakatipu Buddy Programme and Happiness House benefiting. It’s a wonderful example of how our community is fostering wellbeing and connection for everyone.

• ❄️ Queenstown Ski Areas End Season on a High Note 

  The 2025 ski season is wrapping up with a bang, thanks to excellent snow conditions throughout September. The Remarkables and other Southern Lakes resorts have enjoyed a fantastic end to the season, with plenty of fresh powder and successful events. It’s been a great winter on the slopes, and we’re already looking forward to next year!

• 🌳 Love Queenstown Brings Back Community Planting Initiative 

  The popular Industry Planting Day is back for 2025, thanks to Love Queenstown and the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust. This wonderful community event brings together local businesses and residents to plant native trees and support reforestation efforts in our beautiful region. It’s a great way to give back to the environment and connect with fellow nature lovers.

Fill your week with local colour, flavour and a little adventure! 🏔️