About Buckingham Street
Buckingham Street is the historic main street in Arrowtown, Otago, New Zealand (www.a-maverick.com ) (www.trip.com ). Lined with preserved 19th-century stone cottages and heritage buildings, it retains its gold-rush-era charm. An avenue of trees planted in 1867 provides a leafy canopy over the street (voicemap.me ), and in autumn the elm leaves turn brilliant gold, giving visitors the feeling of stepping into a colonial time capsule (www.a-maverick.com ) (www.a-maverick.com ). Today Buckingham Street is a mix of residential cottages and small businesses – boutiques, art galleries, bakeries and cafes (www.trip.com ) – so strolling along its paved sidewalks feels like walking through living history. The street’s overall atmosphere is unique to Arrowtown, often described as one of New Zealand’s best-preserved gold-rush town environments (www.a-maverick.com ) (www.trip.com ).
Events and Programming
Buckingham Street isn’t an enclosed concert hall, but it hosts many community events. From late spring through autumn, the bustling Arrowtown Farmers Market (often called the Sunday Market) sets up each Sunday morning on the Library Green at 58 Buckingham Street (www.whats-on.co.nz ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Here dozens of stalls sell fresh local produce, artisan crafts and treats while live music and buskers create a festive vibe. In mid-April every year the street comes alive with the Arrowtown Autumn Festival. The official opening ceremony takes place on Buckingham Green (the little park on Buckingham St) and has been known to fill the area to capacity (www.odt.co.nz ). The festival honours local Maori and Chinese heritage with kapa haka and lion dances, and even the community parade (floats and marching band) travels down Buckingham Street (www.odt.co.nz ) (www.odt.co.nz ). One historic highlight is the Arrowtown Long Table (formerly called the Long Lunch), when the street is closed and a single long banquet table seats around 500 diners for a communal outdoor meal (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz ) (www.arrowtownlongtable.co.nz ). Outside of these big events, nightlife continues at venues like The Blue Door bar (accessed through an alley off Buckingham) which is famed for live music and DJs each weekend (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz ). In short, Buckingham Street’s programming ranges from free public markets and parades to ticketed dining events, with something happening on many weekends.
Tickets and Booking
You do not need to buy tickets to simply walk along Buckingham Street – it’s a public road open 24/7 with no admission fee (www.trip.com ). Most events that take place there (street markets, parades, outdoor entertainers during festivals) are free for the public. The only time tickets come into play is for special organized gatherings. For example, the Arrowtown Long Table requires advance booking through the participating restaurants (www.arrowtownlongtable.co.nz ). Each restaurant sells a limited number of seats for that communal lunch, and an event fee is added on top of the meal price (www.arrowtownlongtable.co.nz ). Similarly, some Autumn Festival workshops or gala dinners may have a ticket cost (sold on the festival website), but general street entertainment on Buckingham Street remains free. In practice, if you plan to attend a big night like the Long Table, buy your tickets online early. Otherwise, you can simply show up to enjoy Buckingham Street at no charge.
Seating and Layout
Buckingham Street is a typical village thoroughfare, not a seated theatre. It’s roughly two blocks long, with traffic flowing slowly through the centre when open and wide footpaths on either side. There are no fixed seats, but visitors can rest on benches or lawn areas. The little parks at either end – Buckingham Green (near the war memorial) and Butlers Green – have benches and lawn space for picnics. Many cafes also put tables and chairs outside for customers. During events the whole street may be repurposed; for instance, at the Arrowtown Long Table one continuous 200m-long table is set up down the middle of the road to seat around 500 diners (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz ). Otherwise, sightlines are completely open – you can stand or stroll anywhere along the street and see the action. (Tip: during street parades or performances, standing on either footpath or in Buckingham Green gives a good view.) In general the street is flat and easy to walk on, so getting around Buckingham Street itself is straightforward.
Getting There and Parking
Buckingham Street sits in central Arrowtown (postcode 9302), right off State Highway 6. If you’re coming by car from Queenstown, follow SH6 north for about 20 km and turn into Arrowtown at the traffic lights near the town centre – you’ll wind up on Buckingham Street itself. Queenstown Airport is also about a 20-minute drive south of Arrowtown. Alternatively, public buses (Orbus) serve Arrowtown several times daily. Otago Regional Council’s Orbus Route 2 (Frankton–Arrowtown) and Route 4 (Kelvin Heights–Arrowtown/Milford) both stop at the Arrowtown hub on Buckingham Street (www.orc.govt.nz ). The bus journey from central Queenstown takes roughly 25–30 minutes. Taxis and rideshare services (Uber, etc.) also run between Arrowtown and Queenstown; drivers can drop you off anywhere on Buckingham Street or at nearby Ramshaw Lane.
Parking in Arrowtown is generally free. The main carpark is the “Buckingham Street Car Park” just off Ramshaw Lane (north of the main shops). Other municipal lots are at the community centre/sports fields and on Ramshaw Lane beside the Postmasters Hotel (a short walk from the street). On-street parking spaces along Buckingham Street allow short-term stays (usually limited to 30–60 minutes), which is handy for quick visits but not for all-day parking. During busy events it’s wise to arrive early or use one of the larger lots, as the central parking areas can fill up. If you prefer cycling, a dedicated trail (the Arrowtown – Frankton cycleway) ends near the golf course above Buckingham Street, and there are bike racks available by the schools and parks.
Inside Buckingham Street
Walking onto Buckingham Street feels like entering a small open-air village square. There is no gate or ticket-check – just stroll in and explore. For security, Arrowtown is very safe by day; you may see some volunteer marshals during big events, but generally no special entry procedures apply. Expect a family-friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Inside the street, businesses range from casual cafes to licensed restaurants and bars. Most eateries let you order at the counter or bar and choose your own seats – for example, the Arrowtown Bakery sells take‐away pies and coffee, and you can sit outside on picnic blankets on the lawns (Buckingham Green or Butlers Green) or on sidewalk tables. Licensed bars and restaurants will scan IDs for under-18s (and fire presents on site, but an open public street has no age limits of its own).
Buckingham Street offers a wide range of food and drink on site. You can grab coffee and pie, enjoy fish’n’chips, or dine at sit-down restaurants any day. Licensed premises sell local beer, wine and spirits (there’s even a bottle store on the street). Many venues have indoor and outdoor seating, and you’ll find at least a few staffed bars or counters if you need refreshments. There is no coat check or cloakroom – it’s Jersey on the street, so just wear what you like. Restrooms are limited: public toilets are available in the Arrowtown Library building (open limited hours) and at the Lakes District Museum (with museum admission), and most cafes/restaurants have small toilets for patrons. If you rely on cell phones, coverage is strong (Spark/Vodafone/Telcos operate here), though public Wi-Fi on the street is not guaranteed. In summary, Buckingham Street is basically a pedestrian-friendly shopping street: no special entry rules, plenty of open-air dining, and a safe, welcoming vibe.
Nearby Amenities
Within a few steps of Buckingham Street you’ll find almost everything a visitor needs. In fact, many of Arrowtown’s top restaurants and bars line the street itself. For a special night out, Saffron (18 Buckingham St) offers an upscale menu of local produce dishes – it gained fame when pop star Justin Bieber booked the whole place on tour (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz ). Down the alley is Dorothy Brown’s , a cozy two-screen cinema with its own bar. Casual eats include Chop Shop (44 Buckingham St), which serves international street-style small plates (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz ), and Slow Cuts (46–50 Buckingham St), famous for gourmet burgers and deli sandwiches (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz ). Traditional flavours appear at Terra Mia (Italian kitchen) and The Stables (roasted meats by the fireplace). For Spanish tapas and cocktails, the lively La Rumbla (on the former post office site) is popular. Another unique spot is The Blue Door basement bar (access through 18 Buckingham), known for its rustic feel and live music nights (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz ). Several casual taverns and a small bottle store on Buckingham Street offer Kiwi beer and wine to enjoy on a sidewalk table or to take away. In short: whether you fancy a coffee and pie or a fine-dining meal, you’ll find a dozen cafes and restaurants right on or very close to Buckingham Street.
Other essential services are also handy. A Night ‘n Day convenience store and the Arrowtown Pharmacy (on Ramshaw Lane/King’s Store building) are within a block for snacks and supplies. Accommodation options are just up the hill or down the road: the on-street “Park Motel” (Buckingham St) and boutique lodges are within walking distance, and the luxury Millbrook Resort (golf course, hot pools, 5 min drive) is very close by. Queenstown’s hotels are about a 15–20 minute drive away. For evening travel, note that public buses run until around 9pm; after that, local taxis/Uber can take you home. Most visitors arriving for a show or festival select a nearby drop-off point (drivers often stop at the library corner or main street bus stop). Overall, Buckingham Street is self-contained: shops, eateries, lodging and parking are all nearby. Just aim to arrive a little before busy starts (e.g. Sunday markets open at 10am) to find parking and get settled before the crowds.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set Buckingham Street apart. First, its historic character: many of the stone cottages and storefronts date to Arrowtown’s 1860s gold rush, and they’ve been carefully restored. Walking the street feels like a step back in time; locals even call Arrowtown a “colonial time capsule” and Buckingham Street is the shining example (www.a-maverick.com ). The beautiful avenue of elm trees – planted by miners in 1867 (voicemap.me ) – is another signature. In autumn these trees turn vivid orange and gold, making Buckingham Street one of the most photographed scenes in New Zealand (www.a-maverick.com ). The contrast of colourful leaves against the Southern Alps backdrop is unforgettable.
Culture also makes it stand out. Buckingham Street is the heart of the community: local festivals, markets and even parades happen right along its length. During the Arrowtown Autumn Festival, for example, the Buckingham Belles (a local dance troupe) perform on the Green and crowds cheer on the Maori kapa haka and Chinese lantern dances (www.odt.co.nz ). Even outside festival time, you’ll often hear local musicians busking or see artisans at work in their shops – it’s not a sterile tourist trap, but a living town centre. The mix of nationalities and traditions (Māori, Chinese, European) is reflected in the street’s food, events and architecture. Lastly, the pure atmosphere: Buckingham Street has panoramic mountain views at each end (www.a-maverick.com ) and an unhurried, friendly vibe. Both visitors and Kiwi locals love it because it feels genuine, not artificial. Artists paint it, filmmakers have shot scenes here, and many New Zealand travel guides list Buckingham Street as a must-see. In sum, the combination of historic streetscape, seasonal beauty and lively community spirit makes Buckingham Street truly special.
Visitor Tips and Information
Buckingham Street is easy-going, but a few insider tips can enhance your visit. Dress in layers – Otago’s weather changes fast. Even in spring or autumn, evening temperatures drop, so bring a jacket. Summers are warm but sunny, so a hat and sunscreen are wise if you’ll be outdoors at noon. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll do a lot of walking on the flat pavement. If you visit on a market day or festival, arrive early (by 10am) to grab parking and a good spot; afternoons can get busy and traffic near the town centre slows. Speaking of parking, be mindful of signs: many on-street spaces are time-limited, so use the free all-day carparks if you plan to stay more than an hour. If you have mobility needs, Buck St is mostly accessible – it’s flat and has curb cuts – but note that old building entrances sometimes have a step, and restroom access can be limited.
While Buckingham Street is very child- and pet-friendly (kids stroll the sidewalks and dogs on leashes are generally allowed), remember that children must be supervised at events or parks. (After 8pm, bars will typically ask for ID to serve alcohol, though families can still walk along the street.) Cameras are encouraged – you’ll want to photograph the charming storefronts and tree-lined avenue. There is no cloakroom, so carry only what you need. Cash is handy for small market stalls, but nearly all shops and restaurants take credit cards. If you’re not from NZ, the currency is New Zealand dollars; an ATM is available at the local bank on Buckingham Street. Finally, treat Buckingham Street like a neighborhood – avoid littering, and respect that some businesses may close early in the evening (generally cafes close by 5pm, while pubs stay open later). By planning ahead with parking and knowing the day’s schedule, you’ll avoid glitches and soak up everything this uniquely historic place has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need tickets or an entrance fee to visit Buckingham Street?
No. Buckingham Street is a public road at the heart of Arrowtown, so there is no admission charge. Visitors can walk along the street and enter shops or cafes freely at any time. The only exceptions are special events (for example, the Arrowtown Long Table or festival dinners), which require tickets separately. For casual sightseeing or shopping on Buckingham Street itself, no ticket or reservation is needed.
Are there any events on Buckingham Street that cost money to attend?
Most of the street festivals and markets on Buckingham Street are free to the public. For example, the weekly Arrowtown Farmers Market and the open-air street entertainment during fairs have no entry fee. However, special experiences like the Arrowtown Long Table (communal lunch) or indoor festival events (gala dinners, feature concerts) are ticketed. If you plan to attend those, you must purchase tickets in advance from the event organizers. (Otherwise, the street atmosphere and general festivities remain free.)
How do I get to Buckingham Street by public transport or car?
By car, Buckingham Street is reached directly from State Highway 6 in Arrowtown (turn at the traffic lights into town). It’s about a 20-minute drive north of Queenstown. For public transit, take Orbus bus route #2 (Frankton Hub ↔ Arrowtown) or #4 (Kelvin Heights/Jacks Point ↔ Arrowtown). Both routes stop at the Arrowtown Bus Hub (near Buckingham & Albert Streets) (www.orc.govt.nz ). From the bus stop it’s only a short walk to central Buckingham Street. In peak season, rideshare or taxi are also popular ways to reach Arrowtown, with drop-off points anywhere on the street.
Is there parking available near Buckingham Street, and does it cost money?
Arrowtown offers ample public parking, and most of it is free. The closest lots are along Ramshaw Lane (behind the shops) and the free Buckingham Street car park (just off Ramshaw) – both are within a 2-5 minute walk to the main street. On-street parking on Buckingham Street is available but often limited to short-term (30–60 minutes). The sports field car park on Newcastle Street also offers free parking a bit farther out (a 5–10 minute walk). No metered parking is used; just be sure to obey any posted time limits.
Which bus routes serve Buckingham Street in Arrowtown?
Otago Regional Council’s Orbus network connects Arrowtown to Queenstown via Routes 2 and 4 (www.orc.govt.nz ). Route 2 runs between Queenstown (Frankton) and Arrowtown, and Route 4 runs between Queenstown and Arrowtown via other suburbs. Both have a stop at the central Arrowtown hub on Buckingham Street. Buses typically run every 30–60 minutes during the day (less frequently on Sundays), with a one-way trip from Queenstown taking about 25–30 minutes.
Where can I sit or rest on Buckingham Street?
Buckingham Street itself has no fixed seating, but several spots are available to relax. Each end of the street has a small park (Buckingham Green and Butlers Green) with benches and lawns for sitting. Many cafes and restaurants provide outdoor tables and chairs along their frontages. Additionally, during events you’ll often see temporary seating (for example, the Arrowtown Long Table fills the street with audience tables (www.nzwomansweeklyfood.co.nz )). Otherwise, you can simply stand or perch anywhere along the wide sidewalks to watch street activities. The view up and down the street is generally unobstructed.
Is Buckingham Street wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Buckingham Street is mostly wheelchair-friendly. The entire street is flat and paved. Most sidewalks have curb cuts at intersections. However, because the area is historic, not every building entrance is ramped (some shops and cafes have a single step). In general you can navigate along the street and reach the parks easily. If you need assistance, wheelchair ramps and an accessible toilet are available at the Arrowtown Library (on Buckingham Street) when it is open.
Can I bring my dog or pet when visiting Buckingham Street?
Yes, leashed dogs are generally welcome on Buckingham Street’s outdoor areas and parks. Many locals walk their dogs along the street. Just be aware that dogs are not allowed inside food counters or bars (unless they are service animals). Also clean up after your pet using the provided bins. As with any public place in New Zealand, pets must be under control and on a leash by ordinance. So feel free to stroll around with your dog, but the cafés and shops (especially food-focused ones) typically request animals stay outside.
Are children and families welcome on Buckingham Street?
Absolutely. Buckingham Street is very family-friendly. You’ll see parents with strollers and kids enjoying the markets, playgrounds and parks. There are no age restrictions on the street itself. (Just note that once evening falls, bars will enforce the legal drinking age of 18+ indoors, but children can still walk or dine with adults in most establishments.) Many restaurants have kids’ menu options, and the whole outdoor atmosphere (benches, ice cream shops, murals) is great for families. In short, you can feel safe and comfortable visiting Buckingham Street with children of any age.
What is Buckingham Green?
Buckingham Green is a small public lawn and reserve located on Buckingham Street (near the Lane Street intersection). It features a war memorial and is shaded by tall trees. This green space is basically the central square of the street and is often used for community events. For example, the official opening ceremony of the Arrowtown Autumn Festival is held on Buckingham Green each year. (www.odt.co.nz ). Locals also use it for picnics or as a shady spot to sit among the shops. Think of it as Buckingham Street’s village green.
Are public restrooms available on Buckingham Street?
Public restrooms along Buckingham Street are limited. The main public toilets are inside the Arrowtown Library building (58 Buckingham Street) when it is open to the public. The Lakes District Museum (15 Buckingham Street) also has restrooms for visitors. Outside of those, you will be relying on cafe or restaurant toilets – most eating places welcome customers and may allow restroom use if you buy something. There are no free standalone street toilets (except at larger parking areas or sports fields outside town). If bathroom access is needed, plan to use the library or a cafe on that street.
Do shops and restaurants on Buckingham Street accept credit cards?
Yes. Almost every cafe, restaurant, and shop on Buckingham Street accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) for payment. In fact, New Zealand is very card-friendly. It’s still a good idea to carry a small amount of cash if you want to buy something from a market vendor or a small stall, but you won’t be stranded without cards. If you need cash, an ATM is available at the Arrowtown bank on Buckingham Street. Overall, paying by card is completely normal here.
What are the typical opening hours for shops and restaurants on Buckingham Street?
Hours vary by business, but as a general rule, most retail shops open around 9–10 am and close by 5 pm (some extend to 6 pm in summer). Cafés typically open early for breakfast (from about 8 am) and stay open through lunch. Licensed restaurants often open from midday and serve dinner into the evening (some until 9–10 pm). On Sundays, weekends, and off-season, hours can be shorter or later. For any specific venue, it’s wise to check their posted hours or website. During festivals or special events, hours can be extended by local agreement.
Is Buckingham Street an indoor or outdoor venue?
Buckingham Street is an entirely outdoor venue. It is a public street – open to the sky – with shops and restaurants along its sides. There are no covered arenas or halls in the street itself (indoor activities like shop browsing take place inside individual buildings). This means all events on Buckingham Street happen in the open air, so be prepared for sunshine or weather changes. (The street does have tree cover in places, but in rain you would be wet unless you shelter under a shop awning.)
Is there a best time of year to visit Buckingham Street?
Buckingham Street is open year-round and has charm in every season. However, it is especially popular in Autumn (March–April) when the elm trees blaze with color – many say the street is at its most beautiful then. The Arrowtown Autumn Festival in mid-April also adds free entertainment. Spring and summer bring good weather and the weekly farmers’ market, while even winter has a cozy vibe (look out for occasional snow on the mountains). If you want to avoid crowds, visit on a weekday or outside festival weekends.
