Kelvin Heights is a residential neighbourhood of Queenstown surrounded by outstanding natural scenery. It sits on the southern shores of Frankton Arm, an area of Lake Wakatipu. Kelvin Heights is popular with visitors to Queenstown wanting to escape the bustle in the centre of New Zealand’s adventure sports capital.
A major highlight of the suburb is the Queenstown Golf Course, which spreads across a headland where Lake Wakatipu meets Frankton Arm. This public 18-hole course has a range of challenging par-3, par-4 and par-5 holes. Take a break from the game to appreciate the surrounding mountain peaks, including Ben Lomond and The Remarkables range. Afterwards, eat, drink and enjoy more stunning views at the waterfront clubhouse.
Go to Jardine Park, a recreational area located in the centre of the neighbourhood for its children’s playground, BMX track and mountain bike trails. Bring your own food to eat in the park’s picnic areas.
Follow the waterfront Kelvin Peninsula Walkway on foot or by bike. The trail starts at Jardine Park and passes through the wooded Franklin Recreational Reserve to Kawarau Bridge, which crosses the Kawarau River into the Frankton suburb. Find picnic areas and swimming spots spread out along the route.
Another trail is the lakeside Jack’s Point Track. Walk, bike or ride on horseback east from Jardine Park over rolling grassland. Look up at The Remarkables mountain range and snow-covered mountaintops, such as the 1,978-metre (6,489-feet ) tall Cecil Peak. Allow approximately 2.5 hours for the return journey from Jardine Park. Stop for lunch at the clubhouse of Jack’s Point Golf Course.
Kelvin Heights is just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown’s town centre and a 15-minute drive from Queenstown Airport. Catch public buses to the commercial and entertainment district of Queenstown. Alternatively, walk along Kelvin Peninsula Walkway and then the Frankton Arm Walkway to reach the city. Once in Queenstown you have access to abundant adventure activities, including bungee-jumping, jet boat rides and skiing.
