What makes it 78% Solo-Friendly: The lakefront location steps from Steamer Wharf, free WiFi, room kitchens, luggage storage and tour desk suit independent stays, but front desk closes 19:00 so late arrivals must arrange access.
Queenstown Airport: 8.3 km (16 mins drive)
16-min drive to reach regional and domestic flights.
Lake Wakatipu shoreline: 100m (2 min walk)
Scenic lakefront path ideal for sunrise strolls.
Tip: Bring your camera for alpine reflections at dawn.
SKYCITY Wharf Casino: 300m (4 min walk)
Entertainment hub with gaming tables and bars.
Tip: Visit after 6pm to catch live music at nearby bars.
Queenstown Gardens: 610m (8 min walk)
Botanical park with lakeside trails.
Tip: Rent a bike at the motel to explore the trails.
Complimentary Wi-Fi:
Free high-speed internet in rooms and public areas.
On-site self parking:
Free private parking available to all guests.
In-room kitchenette:
Studios include an oven, stovetop, microwave and coffee/tea maker.
Luggage storage:
Store bags at the front desk at no extra cost.
Ski storage:
Secure storage for ski gear between excursions.
Airport shuttle:
Roundtrip service to Queenstown Airport available on request for a surcharge.
Laundry and dry cleaning:
On-site wash, dry and ironing services (additional charge).
BBQ area:
Outdoor grill facilities available for guest use (additional charge).

Pattaraneer Pao Pao
I strongly advise everyone to avoid staying at Lakeside Backpackers. This is the worst backpacker accommodation I have experienced in New Zealand, and I’ve stayed at many. The staff service was unacceptable — they were unhelpful and gave answers that contradicted the confirmation details provided on Booking.com. The cleaning/housekeeping staff even opened my room door without knocking, which is ex...
Greta Divander
The location is beautiful, the staff weren’t mean or anything, but it was so dirty, moldy, a bit of a smell etc. Beds were comfy but my blanket was really dirty. I was there in October and it was really cold indoors. No rags or paper towels so the guest could keep it clean either. Dust hanging from the ceiling and walls, showered were clogged. Ofc cheap for being in Queenstown but I have definitel...
Joanne Tungpalan
My friend and I recently stayed at this motel and, while we found the room to be reasonably decent and appreciated the convenient walking distance to the town centre, we had some concerns regarding the housekeeping service and our experience with their indian receptionist/manager. During our stay, we requested for our room to be cleaned on two separate occasions. Unfortunately, on both instances,...
Bronwyn Talbot
Yes the building is old and rooms could do with a touch up of paint etc BUT for the location, cost and the comfy beds you can't ask for anything better. Having all main amenities available for a apartment it was well worth the cost compared to other places further away from the lake or having to pay for parking. If you happy for a great location then a place I'd recommend.
Isabella Scott
[This is a review for Lakeside Backpackers] As an introverted person who likes to save their money, I loved this hostel. It was very quiet and the other guests were respectful and serious. The public areas are beautiful and well-furnished, and I had no trouble finding a quiet space to read/work. (As other reviews note, it could do occasionally with a deeper clean than it gets.) The beds were v...
Address: 18 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
From Queenstown Airport (8.3 km), take the motel’s airport shuttle (surcharge) or a 16-min taxi ride to 18 Lake Esplanade.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Looking for other Hotels besides Lakeside Motel (Queenstown)?
Explore These Activities
Check-in & Check-out
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 3 442 8976How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!