'This underrated overseas spot is a foodie heaven, and only a 3-hour flight.'

Sustainability doesn't necessarily always scream 'holiday vibes.'

But what if I told you there's an amazing destination turning eco-conscious living into an art form?

From food, furniture, and adventure all the way to luxury accommodation, one town has embraced sustainable tourism on every level — not just through individual efforts or business initiatives, but as a collective way of life.

Just a three-hour flight from Sydney, New Zealand's Queenstown, isn't just a stunning travel destination; it's a shining example of how a region can lead the way in sustainable tourism.

Cast your mind all the way back to the world pre-covid: the people of Queenstown were beginning to feel the effects of tourist fatigue. Known for its ski slopes, wineries and thrilling activities, Queenstown had become a popular year-round destination.

But beneath the thriving tourist economy, concerns grew among locals about the strain on the region's natural resources.

Watch: Learn more about how climate change is impacting Australia. Post continues below.

Enter March 2020.With the world on pause during lockdown, Queenstown locals took the opportunity to reflect and recalibrate. Instead of binge watching Tiger King (does even the reference trigger you?), they opted for something more transformative — think sourdough-starter energy but on a regional scale. The result? A bold plan that commits to regenerative tourism and a carbon-zero visitor economy by 2030.

And let me tell you, with even small efforts from businesses and locals adding up, you can feel the difference. There's something truly special about this place.

My trip started with a flight into Queenstown with Virgin Australia — a short three-hour skip over the Tasman. Touching down in Queenstown is an experience that feels more like stepping into a postcard than arriving at an airport. As the plane made its descent alongside snow-capped mountain ranges, the breathtaking landscape unfolded. The moment I stepped off the plane and took in the crisp, clean air, it was as if the mountains themselves were offering a warm, restorative embrace… Can you tell how namaste I became here?

The incredible view seen as my Virgin Australia flight came in to land. Image: supplied.

Where to stay in Queenstown.

When it comes to hotels, sustainability might not be the first thing that springs to mind. Luxury spaces can often feel synonymous with single-use items and excess, but in Queenstown, even high-end establishments like the Sofitel are getting involved.

Take their complimentary water bottles, for example. After realising these were contributing a staggering 70,000 plastic bottles to landfill each year, the Sofitel made a change: rooms now feature fresh still and sparkling water served in reusable glass jars, free of charge — just leave the jars behind at checkout.

My room at the Sofitel — so luxe. Image: supplied.

Single-use items have also had a sustainable makeover. Biodegradable options replace disposables, and even leftover soap is (hygienically) repurposed rather than wasted. The breakfast buffet has been thoughtfully redesigned to offer variety while minimising food waste. And what's left over? It's not discarded — it's delivered daily to a local business for composting.

It's hard not to be impressed by Queenstown's commitment to sustainability. Even some local cafes refuse to provide take away cups — you'll need your keeper cup or you can take a mug from their cup library to be returned another day. But a short 45-minute drive away in Glenorchy, The Headwaters Eco Lodge takes things to an entirely new level.

Purpose-built by American philanthropists Debbi and Paul Brainerd, the lodge is the first-ever accommodation facility designed and certified to Living Building Challenge standards — the most rigorous sustainability guidelines in the world.

The peaceful view at the Headwaters Eco Lodge. Image: supplied.

From its creation, the lodge has had a community spirit, designed and built in collaborative effort, bringing together local artists, craftspeople, builders, and a team of national and international experts.

Wandering through the eco-chalets, yoga studio and cosy lounges, you might not immediately notice that every item is upcycled. At first glance, the decor feels effortlessly stylish — think warm, chalet vibes perfect for curling up during winter months.

But on closer inspection (or during a guided tour with the friendly staff), you'll spot the lodge's clever details: mosaic doors crafted from car bonnets, paintings created from leftover paint tubes, lights repurposed from wine barrels, and boho-chic furniture made from wooden pallets.

The lodge's unique mosaic doors. Image: Supplied.

Amidst the beautifully maintained gardens with native plants, you'll also find a solar garden — a dedicated area lined with rows of solar panels quietly soaking up the sun. From the composting toilet system to the energy-efficient cabins and a wastewater system filtered by nutrient-hungry plants, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to minimise impact. 

The toilets (stay with me here!) are the fanciest — I would say boujee even — drop toilets I have ever seen and sat on. Not at all like the ones you may come across on a bushwalk in Australia. There is not a whiff of scent that escapes from them, they appear like yet another work of art. They are dark to hide any potential unpleasant visuals and when you're sitting down on them, a light breeze greets your lady parts to ensure good clean airflow. I found the process rather delightful. This is just one part of their impressively self-sufficient setup. Just by staying here, you feel like you're a pretty good person, with even your waste contributing to the environment. 

The menu (if you don't mind the jump from toilets to food) is crafted using fresh and homegrown ingredients. Mushroom dishes are a particular highlight in Queenstown, with many restaurants sourcing theirs from the urban farm, Remarkable Fungi.

One of my many delicious meals. Image: Supplied.

Where to eat in Queenstown.

Across Queenstown, eateries, breweries and bars are making big strides in regenerative tourism by prioritising homegrown, free-range and locally sourced produce.

Hotel and restaurant Sherwood is ranked among the world's top 10 most sustainable accommodations. Its on-site garden is charming, growing a vibrant mix of herbs and vegetables, with the ultimate goal of becoming fully self-sufficient.

The gardens at Hotel Sherwood. Image: Supplied.

The Grille, overlooking the Remarkable Mountains and Lake Wakatipu — a hot tourist area — also uses local produce to make an extensive, New York bistro-style menu with endless fancy cocktails. 

If cocktails aren't your thing, a short 10-minute drive from Queenstown's city centre will lead you to Canyon Brewing, a microbrewery with big ambitions. Their Grain-to-Glass initiative aims to lower carbon emissions by brewing right on site. The brewery's location is just as stunning as you'd expect from Queenstown — perched above the dramatic Shotover River, it offers front-row seats to one of the area's most famous attractions: jet boating.

Me getting ready go jet boating! Image: supplied.

What to do in Queenstown.

For those (me) not drawn to the thrill of bungee jumping or skydiving, jet boating strikes the perfect balance between low-key and a cracked pepper of adrenaline. Skilled drivers navigate the narrow canyon with precision, performing manoeuvres like the iconic 360-degree spins. It's a rush wrapped in natural beauty — a quintessential Queenstown experience that pairs perfectly with one of Canyon Brewery drinks afterward.

If that even sounds too out-there, Queenstown also has walks, trails and lookouts in abundance. Not short of a sweeping landscape view with water so clear, with shades of crystal clear blue hues that I thought only existed in Croatia.

Purpose-built boardwalks and trails can take you through the Glenorchy waterfront, with scenic views looking towards the surrounding mountains of Mount Earnslaw, Pikirakatahi and its hanging glacier. Driving back toward Queenstown you can stop at Wilson Bay Reverse for a picnic lunch or take one of the many walks on offer at Bob's Cove. Plus, in New Zealand there is not a single slithery or creepy crawly friend to worry about — all year round. 

Bob's Cove. Image: supplied.

Looking for even less movement, maybe just pure relaxation on your holiday? Nestled in the mountains, the Onsen Hot Pools provide the perfect retreat. Overlooking the Shotover River, you can choose your favourite time of day to enjoy 45 minutes in their original cedar-lined hot tubs. Top it all off with complimentary wine, tea and organic chocolate for the ultimate indulgence.

Is there anything more tempting than these Onsen Hot Pools? Image: Supplied.

Queenstown wineries.

Now, it's been long enough into this article, and I haven't even mentioned the wine yet. So, let's end on a high note- or rather, a note of Pinot Noir, the variety this region is famous for. Serendipitously, I am also known for Pinot Noir, attending wine festival Pinot Palozza each year to try all the pinots Australia and New Zealand have to offer, so I was well aware of the Otago region before arriving. Around Queenstown you'll find independent wineries like Mora, with delicious and you guessed it, sustainable wines. Paired with a sundrenched courtyard and artisan kitchen with the perfect cheese-to-cracker ratio, it's hard to not lose hours in this oasis. 

The dreamiest charceturie board from the Mora winery. Image: supplied.

If you're ready to immerse yourself in the heart of the region, a trip to Gibbston Valley in the Central Otago wine region is a must. Just a 30-minute drive from Queenstown, you'll find more than 75 wineries waiting to be explored. For a unique way to experience it, consider hopping on an e-bike from Better Bikes, based in the historic Arrowtown and cruise along the extensive almost 200km of bike trails stopping as often or as little as you like.

Me and my Better Bike about to ride through Arrowtown. Image: supplied.

The trails are well signposted, and the friendly team at Better Bikes will even map out a route to help you hit the best wineries along the way. I would definitely suggest the e-bike options — unless you have glorious calves and glutes, you will need the extra electronic push to get up the stunning but steep hills.

Of all the spots I stopped for a sip, this happy Pinot-loving lady couldn't recommend the Gibbston Valley Lodge more. Picture this: stepping outside your room to views of endless vines, as if you're living among the very grapes destined for your glass.

The lodge itself is pure relaxation, a hub of all your favourite travel things. A short three-minute stroll leads you to wine tastings and a cheese room. You could book dinner at the exceptional on-site restaurant or indulge in facials or massages at their spa. The finishing touches of perfection are teh wine barrel steam room and outdoor hot pool. 

Outside my room at the Gibbston Valley Lodge. Image: supplied.

Queenstown and its surrounding regions are truly inspiring, in views, experiences and the many things you can put in your mouth — but it's also inspiring to see what is actually possible when sustainability is at the forefront. The eco-conscious accommodations and farm-to-table cuisines in every corner of this region are infused with a commitment to preserving its natural beauty. 

Queenstown is the leading example of responsible tourism that doesn't sacrifice indulgence. If you're looking to experience the best of nature while knowing your visit helps protect it, Queenstown is calling your name. I know it's already calling mine back.

The author was a guest of Virgin Australia and Destination Queenstown. During the Christmas holiday peak season, Virgin Australia will operate up to 33 return services per week into Queenstown, with up to 11 return services each from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. All views expressed are the writer's own.