Which one: Auckland, Queenstown, or Wellington for 4 nights in Jan., 2013?
 

We will actually arrive in New Zealand from Sydney on Dec. 30, 2012, and stay in one of these three cities through the 2nd of January, then return to Sydney on the 3rd. Our stay will be on hotel points so we're either committed to the Crowne Plazas in Auckland or Queenstown, or the Intercontinental, if going to Wellington, on the chance that any responder has had any stays at any of these properties as a factor, + or -, for our stay.

Which of the 3 New Zealand cities would you recommend for our short stay? Why?

It if were me, I'd opt for Queenstown. And this from someone who thinks QT has exploded and therefore lost alot of it's appeal, but I'm jaded. It's small, compact and easy to navigate and there's just loads of things to see and do in the vicinity. The surroundings are eye-popping and QT provides relatively easy access to places like Milford Sound, Te Anau and Glenorchy (which is my favorite place on the SI).

Auckland is just another Big Smoke. Wellington is also a big city (by NZ standards anyway).

The added bonus of QT is that it's on the SI, which is much more interesting and scenically stunning than the NI.

If you like traffic, museums, and the trappings of city life, go to Auckland or Wellington. If you like small town charm, copious outdoor activities and a spectacular setting, go for QT. Go for QT anyway, there's just no comparison.

Having been to all three places, I totally agree with everything Melnq8 says. Choose Queenstown.

Vote #3 for Queenstown!

Ditto

Pretty persuasive! Unanimous for Queenstown. Thank you all.

Yes me too Queenstown - beautiful!

I would definitely go to Queenstown, we are going to stay at the Crowne Plaza QT next week. It is in a fabulous location right on the lake and town centre. Queenstown is very busy at New Year I would book now. I live in Wellington and everyone has left town at New Year. The IC in Wellington is a business hotel and would be a bit dull at new year IMHO.

Queenstown, not a doubt.

I agree with Other Mel, Pat & others - Queenstown for sure.

Melodie
Certified Kiwi Specialist