Queenstown is probabably among the best places for small or extended walks in the world.

I can agree with previous posters about Blanket Bay with its stunning heated and walled (to protect from the wind) open air pool. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff and a highlight is dining on the terrace outside near a roaring wood fire. Unfortunately this property is not part of Relais & Chateaux because the manager is member of the board of Small Luxury Hotels . Sorry for the charming owners I met last Christmas.

There is something new around Queenstown: Matakauri Lodge will (re)open on 27 August 2010. It is the same owners as Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnapper, so I trust them.

Regarding town accomodation: Eichardts is underwhelming and overpriced and The Spire the place to go (ask for a room on the church side for more peace and quiet).