Locations in Queenstown suitable for Photoshoots and Elopement Weddings
Are you considering to Elope or to simply have a beautiful Photoshoot in Queenstown?
Our past clients have expressed interest in having locations that are.. Beautiful, Lake-side or with Mountain-Views, Quiet, Private, No Tourists and… FREE for use.
We have compiled together a list of our favourite locations within Queenstown, that we would be recommending to our own clients.
These locations are also ranked in order of suitability for Weddings & Photoshoots.
Moke Lake
Just 15 minutes drive away from Queenstown - Moke Lake is a fishing and camping spot in the valley between Mt Ben Lomond and Mt Creighton.
When the wind is calm, the lake turns into a mirror and is a must-visit spot for Photoshoots in Queenstown. There are no fees for Wedding Ceremonies here if there are under 10 guests.
Moke Lake is also far enough out of town that there’s no light pollution to be seen at night - one of our favourites for our Epic Starry-Night Shoots.
The beautiful Mirror-like Moke Lake
Long and deep valley views heading towards Moke Lake - Only 15 mins drive from Queenstown central!
Moke Lake at night…
Wilson Bay
Wilson Bay is right on the other side of the Moke Lake turn-off on Queenstown-Glenorchy Road. A flat, scenic and private spot for chill vibes. No Cell Reception here for live streaming.
Kelvin Heights
Tourists don’t go wandering around here - they’re all over on the other side where all the hotels are.
The Wakatipu Yacht Club area in particular is quite hidden, with the driveway in the bushes that is very easy to miss.
Kelvin Heights has nice and quiet beaches facing towards the North, South and West.
Kelvin Heights facing North towards Ben Lomond and Queenstown Central
Kelvin Heights facing South towards the Remarkables and Jacks Point - this spot can get a bit windy, especially with the Southerlies.
Kelvin Heights facing South - East towards the Remarkables
Kelvin Heights facing North towards the Crown Range
Jacks Point
Jacks Point is on the Southern end of the Queenstown trail - a quiet and private spot with not many people or boats.
Coronet Peak
Coronet Peak is a busy Ski Field in winter, but you don’t have to go all the way to the Ski Field for the views - The photograph below is from half-way up the mountain.
At night, a bit of light pollution can be seen from Queenstown Airport’s runway but it’s still an epic spot for Photos.
Skippers Canyon
Skippers Canyon can be accessed via the turn-off on Coronet Peak Road. Get here 30 minutes before sunset for the best views. No Tourists here - rental cars are not allowed, as it is “The World’s 3rd Most Dangerous Road”. We don’t have to drive far down for the most epic spot though, and we can take you there in our company vehicle.
Glenorchy Wharf
Beware: The Red Barn and the jetty at the Wharf get A LOT of tourists. Just skip across about 400 meters South and there will be nobody there - a very beautiful spot for an intimate Wedding Ceremony or Photoshoot. This spot is approx 45 mins drive away from Queenstown - a very windy but scenic drive.
Panorama Terrace
The scenic spot for the locals - This is a residential area and gets a bit of traffic, so while we don’t recommend this spot for intimate wedding ceremonies, this is a must-visit Instagrammable spot for Photoshoots. Only 8 minutes away from the Airport and Queenstown CBD!
Lake Hayes
Lake Hayes is beautiful, but it’s towards the bottom of our list because we reckon the other spots like Coronet Peak and Moke Lake are a lot better, with more privacy and variety in scenery.
Queenstown Bay Beach
A beautiful and Instagrammable spot - however for couples who prioritise intimacy and privacy, you can expect a lot of tourists watching you!