What’s On
in Queenstown 2026
Discover the best upcoming events happening right here in Queenstown; from inspiring festivals and community gatherings to major sporting events and lakefront celebrations. Whether you’re visiting or a local planning a staycation, there’s always something to look forward to.
The Ayrburn Classic 2026
Date: February 20-22, 2026
The Ayrburn Classic returns to Queenstown’s bringing together luxury vehicles, motoring heritage and premium hospitality in one standout weekend. Set amongst landscaped grounds, restaurants and bars, the event showcases an impressive collection of classic and modern cars alongside entertainment, exhibits and a relaxed festival atmosphere.
With expanded displays, exhibitors and programming for 2026, the Ayrburn Classic has quickly become a highlight on the national motoring calendar, appealing to enthusiasts and curious spectators alike. It’s an exceptional summer weekend of cars, cuisine and scenery in one of the region’s most picturesque settings.
Learn more here
Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon & Trail Runs
Date: February 21, 2026
The Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon offers runners the chance to explore Ben Lomond Station’s spectacular high-country terrain, beginning beside the Shotover River and traversing historic mining trails, alpine ridgelines, beech forest and creek crossings. With ever-changing scenery and technical sections including a ladder climb and tunnel, it’s one of the region’s most rewarding off-road events.
Finishing near Moke Lake, participants can unwind, celebrate their achievement and take in one of Queenstown’s most picturesque backdrops. A range of distances are available, from a 10km trail run through to the full marathon and 56km ultra, catering to both seasoned athletes and adventurous first-timers.
Buy tickets here
New Zealand Open
Date: February 26, 2026 – March 1, 2026
The New Zealand Open returns from 26 February to 1 March 2026 for its 105th edition, hosted across the championship courses of Millbrook Resort in Arrowtown. As New Zealand’s premier golf tournament, the event attracts a world-class field of professional golfers alongside a Pro-Am competition that pairs amateurs with the pros on course.
Set against panoramic alpine scenery, spectators can enjoy free entry, relaxed viewing and food and beverage offerings throughout the four days. With a coveted place in The Open Qualifying Series also on the line, the atmosphere is both competitive and celebratory, appealing to dedicated golf fans and casual visitors alike.
Blending heritage, sport and the natural beauty of the region, the New Zealand Open remains a standout week on the Queenstown summer calendar.
Learn more here
The Motatapu
Date: March 7, 2026
The Motatapu is one of the South Island’s signature off-road endurance events, giving participants exclusive access to the high-country valleys and ridgelines between Wānaka and Queenstown. Taking place over a single day, the event offers a range of distances including mountain biking, trail running, marathon, ultra and junior options, attracting thousands of entrants each year.
With its mix of alpine scenery, river crossings and historic station tracks, the Motatapu is both challenging and achievable, and is well-known for its friendly southern atmosphere and strong sense of camaraderie. For many, it’s a true bucket-list experience and a rare opportunity to traverse private land in one of the region’s most dramatic landscapes.
Learn more here
Plan Your Stay
Wherever the event, make Novotel Queenstown Lakeside your home base for exploring Queenstown’s festivals, sporting events, and celebrations. Located right on the lakefront and steps from the town centre, it’s the ideal spot to stay close to Queenstown’s most exciting moments.