About Queenstown Ice Arena
Queenstown Ice Arena is the only indoor ice rink in Queenstown and one of just two in Otago, located in the heart of the scenic Queenstown Gardens . Situated at 29 Park Street (adjoining the lakeshore), it is just a few minutes’ walk from downtown Queenstown . The arena as it stands today was built in 1996 by local and Tahitian investors , replacing an earlier outdoor rink from 1966 that once drew crowds of over 2,000 in its heyday . The entire complex (ice surface, seating, cafe, and support areas) covers about 2,510 sqm on a 4,855 sqm leasehold site within the gardens . In 2010 the Graham family bought the venue and invested millions in upgrades, including new dehumidifiers, dasher boards and seating . The arena’s design features a high, arched roof over a full-size hockey rink and bleacher stands for 642 seated spectators . For concerts or standing-room events its capacity is roughly 1,000 people . Its cozy cafe lounge and observation galleries (with sofas and a fireplace) make it a welcoming venue for families and athletes alike . The Ice Arena is notable not just for sports but also as a community hub – a place where locals gather year-round for skating, parties and events, continuing Queenstown’s long tradition of ice recreation dating back to the 1960s .
Events and Programming
Queenstown Ice Arena hosts a wide range of ice sports and other events throughout the year. It is home to local ice hockey clubs – notably the Southern Stampede (formerly Skycity Stampede) of the NZ Ice Hockey League (NZIHL) and the Wakatipu Wild women’s team of the NZ Women’s Ice Hockey League – which call the arena their base for practices and home games . The NZIHL season (typically September–December) brings regular hockey fixtures here, and the arena has even staged international series such as Australia vs. New Zealand Trans-Tasman challenges and high-profile matches (for example a sell-out Canada vs. USA game in 2018) . In addition to hockey, the arena supports public figure skating sessions, stick-and-puck clinics and youth hockey leagues. Regular “league nights” on weeknights allow adults to drop in and play informal games as well . Over the years the arena has also been a feature venue for the biennial Winter Games NZ (skiing and winter sports festival) and has hosted fundraising charity matches and learn-to-play hockey programs for beginners.
Besides sports, the Ice Arena is a versatile event space. In non-ice mode the rink floor can be covered and boards removed to host concerts, corporate dinners, trade shows or even wedding receptions . The high curved ceiling provides excellent rigging points for lighting and sound , making it suitable for live shows. A recent example of this is a 2023 corporate conference where the arena was booked exclusively for seven weeks of skating shows, dinner and entertainment . Special attractions are regularly scheduled in the public program, such as Saturday evening “Night Skate” disco parties (with music, games and LED lights) . Family-friendly features include ice bumper cars and a frisbee golf course around the Gardens . All-day public skating sessions run daily, and birthday party packages are available. The calendar is year-round, so alongside summer school-holiday specials there are holiday-themed sessions (e.g. festive skating events) and bespoke group bookings on offer.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for public skating sessions can be purchased online through the official Ice Arena booking site or on-site at the box office during open hours. Pricing is very reasonable: adult public skate tickets are typically in the low-$20 range (often including skate hire) while child rates are lower. The arena’s website advertises convenient package deals – for example a “3 for $49” combo (covering skating, bumper cars and frisbee golf) when booked together . Skate hire and basic equipment use are generally included in the ticket price . Special events and games (such as NZIHL matches or Night Skate) may have separate ticket windows; these often go on sale a few weeks in advance and can sell out on busy days. For large groups or corporate outings the arena offers discounted group rates – for instance, 12+ skaters pay about $21.50 each (all-day with skate hire) and 20+ skaters about $19.90 . Local residents can also buy multi-visit passes (10 or 25 entries) at a reduced per-skate rate . The Ice Arena staff recommends booking popular slots well ahead of time, especially for weekend sessions or league games. Tickets can be reserved via the official channels (online system or phone) and then collected at the venue.
Seating and Layout
The Ice Arena’s main feature is the full-size ice rink (roughly 60 m×30 m) surrounded by integrated seating. The aluminum bleachers seat about 642 spectators along three sides of the rink (all behind protective plexiglass). These fixed seats offer good sightlines along the benches, especially in the centre where much of the action takes place. For concert or standing-room events, additional floor space is used to raise capacity to around 1,000 . The arena has an intimate feel – even the hardest-to-see sections are quite close to the ice. There are no private boxes or elevated balconies; parking-lot style ramps at the rear provide wheelchair-accessible seating vantage points. The walls and roof curve high above the ice, providing room for stage lighting and sound rigs for non-sport events .
Beyond the rink, the venue includes a licensed cafe and lounge overlooking the ice. This cozy space has about 30 seats (plus standing room) and offers snacks, pizza and drink service to spectators . Adjacent to the lounge is an outdoor courtyard terrace (capacity ~150) which is often used for cocktail parties and open-air gatherings . The lounge and courtyard give families and groups a place to sit off the ice (one reviewer noted “a comfy lounge area…with sofas and a large fireplace” ). Showers and changing rooms with lockers back onto the ice area for players, and public restrooms are accessible from the lobby. For elevated viewing, crowds can also stand behind the boards at ice level. In short, the layout is very open – whether from a seat, the lounge or standing areas you have great visual access to the rink. Acoustic note: as a converted field house, sound can echo during loud concerts, but the high ceiling and modern lighting trusses allow professional-quality event production .
Getting There and Parking
Queenstown Ice Arena is located at 29 Park Street, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu right beside the Queenstown Gardens . If you arrive by car, the venue has a small on-site car park (about 18 spaces) immediately next to the arena . Additional parking is available in the adjacent Queenstown Gardens car park (public 24/7 lot) and on nearby Garden City Lane; however note that street parking on Park Street itself can have time limits. Parking is managed by the Queenstown Council, but for Ice Arena patrons it is generally free (being Reserve land). Valet or shuttle drop-off is not provided, but rideshare/taxi drivers usually pull up along Park Street in front of the building. The Arena is only about 300–400 meters (a 5-minute walk) from Queenstown’s central shops on Shotover Street , so it’s easy to park in town and walk over during peak days.
Public transport is convenient: several Queenstown Orbus bus routes stop near the Gardens entrance on Park Street. In fact, a new Orbus stop was installed right on Park Street a short walk from the Arena’s front door . For example, city loop buses (#5) and the airport/bus terminal route (#6 or #8, depending on schedule) serve the Gardens stop. Buses in central Queenstown are often free or low-cost on a Bee Card. Shuttle vans from the airport or ski fields can also request drop-off nearby (the Uptown area is only 2 blocks away). During winter December–February or special event nights, additional charter shuttles or taxis may be arranged (check event info). But generally walking down the lakeside park from downtown or a short taxi/RideShare drop at Park Street works well, given the Arena’s very central lakeside location .
Inside the Venue
On arrival you’ll pass through ticketing and security in the main lobby. The staff checks tickets and bags (large bags may be searched for prohibited items), but it’s a casual entry. The atmosphere inside is family-friendly and lively – hockey games generate excited cheering, while public skate session play soft music. Expect the ice surface to be cool (usually around 8–10°C), so dress in layers. At the rink (spectator) entrance you’re greeted by a full-service cafe & bar. The licensed bar offers local Central Otago craft beers on tap and a selection of wines by the glass . A stone-grilled pizza oven and snack menu serve hungry skaters and guests . Baristas make coffee, and kids love the “legendary hot chocolate” by the wood fire . The cafe area has a big fireplace with couches and tables overlooking the ice, perfect for spectators who want to relax . (One TripAdvisor review noted “friendly, helpful staff” and an affordable food offering in the lounge .) Beyond the lounge you’ll find public restrooms (including accessible toilets) and a modest lower-level pro shop.
Skaters enter through locker rooms and changing areas adjacent to the ice. Rental skates and gear are provided at check-in (skate hire is included in ticket price ), and spares like shin guards and helmets are available if needed. The arena provides skate aids – in fact, “penguin” skating pals and ice sleds are on hand for beginners . (Always wear socks suitable for skating shoes.) On big hockey game nights there may be additional lines at the concessions and gear shop, so it’s smart to arrive early for food or practice lacing skates. Behind the rink you’ll also find storage lockers and trainers’ rooms. Wi-Fi is not prominently advertised, so assume mobile data coverage is your best bet for connectivity inside. Overall, the Ice Arena’s interior is modern and well-maintained (the Grahams’ renovation program has kept it fresh ) – you can expect efficient skate check-in, clear signage, and friendly staff. During mentored sessions or classes, instructors patrol the ice to help newbies, so events feel safe.
Nearby Amenities
The arena’s location in Queenstown Gardens means there are amenities all around. Directly across from the venue is the large public Gardens car park, and beyond that is the famous Queenstown Lakefront with walking paths and playgrounds (for families visiting early, the inner Gardens are lovely to stroll). Just outside the Gardens entrance you’ll find casual food vans and sometimes a mini-market for quick snacks. For sit-down dining or drinks, the shops and restaurants on nearby Shotover and Beach Streets are only a short walk away. Well-known eateries like Fergburger, World Bar, and Stratosfare (gondola restaurant) are within 500 m. In the immediate vicinity of Park Street there are also dozen of cafes, pubs and liquor stores for post-skate treats. If you plan to stay overnight, there are many hotels adjacent or within 5 minutes walk – for example, the Crowne Plaza Queenstown (with a restaurant and bar), Novotel Lakeside, and budget inns. Queenstown’s downtown shopping area is 3–4 blocks further, offering grocery stores, pharmacies and an entertainment district if you need any last-minute items. After evening sessions, Queenstown’s late-night buses and hire car/drop-off services make it easy to get back to hotels. In short, the Ice Arena is extremely handy to central Queenstown shopping, dining and transport – you can easily grab a meal or drinks before/after a session without travelling outside the walkable square mile.
What Makes This Venue Special
Queenstown Ice Arena is more than just an ice rink – it’s a social hub with a fun personality. Its scenic lakeside setting gives it a unique character: from inside the rink you can glimpse the Remarkables mountains and lake through the Gardens trees, linking it to Queenstown’s natural beauty. The building’s interior feels warm and welcoming – reviewers often call it “the coolest place in Queenstown” (both literally and figuratively) . What really sets the arena apart are its novel features. The facility has introduced first-in-region attractions like ice bumper cars (you literally slide around bumping fellow drivers) . Disco-themed Night Skate events with LED lighting and music draw a crowd of families every week . Even the café lounge has a roaring fireplace and movie screen for kids, making spectating cosy. On the sporting side, players love it as the home of championship-winning local teams (NZ Ice Blacks champions Stampede, and beloved women’s team Wild) . It has hosted legendary moments in local hockey history: after an international series, fans remember roaring chants echoing through the pavilion. For the community, it has cultural significance too – many locals grew up learning to skate or playing junior hockey here. Economically, the arena adds value as a year-round tourist draw (breakfast skaters and conference clients keep it busy even outside ski season) . The owners maintain a schedule of improvements, so it feels cutting-edge – for instance in 2016 the old wooden boards were all replaced with modern glass barriers for safety and better sightlines . In summary, the Ice Arena is special because it blends serious ice sports capability with playful leisure amenities and a central location – a family entertainment centre in dress code but a stadium under the hood. It’s beloved by locals and visitors alike for its friendly vibe, diverse programming and of course that chirpy Queenstown spirit among athletes and fans.
Visitor Tips and Information
The Queenstown Ice Arena is designed to be accessible and easy to enjoy, but a few tips will help you make the most of it. Arrive at least 10–15 minutes before your session to suit up or change skate boots – for some activities (like the ice bumper cars) arrival ~20 minutes early is mandatory . All skating ticket types are “all day” passes, meaning you may re-enter within the session without extra charge . Wear warm layers and non-slip socks (the ice hall is kept cold to maintain the ice). For children or first-timers, take advantage of the beginner aids – the arena provides penguin-shaped supports and little sleds so even very young kids can learn to glide . Skate hire (and helmet hire) is included with your public skate ticket , but you can also bring your own skates if you prefer; helmets are recommended for all ages. If you’re not skating yourself, there’s no cover charge – you can sit in the lounge by the glass and watch. The Ice Arena is fully wheelchair-accessible (built to Council community-standards) , with ramp entry and an accessible restroom. As for bringing items: outside alcohol is not allowed (aside from what you purchase at the bar), and large sports gear bags may be stored in lockers. Outside food is discouraged (the lounge sells hot drinks and snacks) but baby food and sealed water bottles are fine. A coat-check is not provided, so keep belongings at your table or in lockers (free locker use is offered during skating). After you skate or a game, the restroom and changing facilities are located just off the changing area by the rinks. Lastly, check the Ice Arena’s online schedule or call ahead for any special events that might affect timings. By planning for cold ice, early arrival and using the on-site rentals/aids, most visitors have a smooth and fun experience.
How much does it cost to ice skate, and what does the ticket include?
General public skate tickets are very affordable (around NZ$15–20 for adults, slightly less for kids), and the price includes skate hire and an all-day skate pass . For example, corporate group rates start at $21.50 per person for 12+ skaters (all-day pass with hire) . The arena often runs package deals too (like a “3-for-$49” bundle of skating, bumper cars, and frisbee golf ). Check the Ice Arena’s official site or call ahead for exact pricing and session options.
Where can I buy tickets for public skating or events at the Ice Arena?
Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the venue. The Ice Arena’s official website and authorized ticket partners sell passes for public skate sessions and special events. Walk-up tickets are usually available at the onsite box office during open hours (arrive early on busy days). The ice rink’s phone number is sometimes listed for bookings, but the website and onsite sales are easiest. Note that major games and private functions may have advance sales, so buying ahead is recommended for popular events.
Are there discount passes or group rates available?
Yes. In addition to occasional promotional deals, the Ice Arena offers a “Locals Multi Pass” (prepaid pack of 10 or 25 skate entries with extra perks) . There are also corporate and group packages – for example, groups of 12 or more skaters pay about $21.50 each for an all-day session (or $19.90 if 20+ people) . Group rates always include skate hire and cafe discounts. Check with the Ice Arena for current group pricing and any seasonal specials.
What is the address of Queenstown Ice Arena?
The Ice Arena is located at 29 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand . It sits inside the Queenstown Gardens on the lakefront side, about a 5-minute walk from the town center .
What parking is available at the Ice Arena?
There is a small on-site parking lot with around 18 car bays . That lot is usually free for arena patrons. If the on-site lot fills, additional parking is available in the Queenstown Gardens public lots right beside the building (these are free, open 24/7). Street parking on Park Street and the surrounding Gardens area is also available (though watch for time limits in some spots). In short, you can usually find free parking within a two-minute walk.
How can I reach the Ice Arena by public transport?
Queenstown Orbus buses serve the Queenstown Gardens area. Several routes stop near the Gardens on Park Street, just a short walk from the arena’s entrance . For example, the city loop buses and others connecting downtown to Queenstown Airport/Frankton pass the Gardens stop. If you’re coming from farther out, take the free central zone bus into town and change at the Gardens. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs work on Park Street as well. Because the Arena is so central (only ~300m from Shotover Street) , many visitors prefer to walk from town if conditions allow.
How far is Queenstown Ice Arena from the town center?
It’s in the Queenstown Gardens on the lakefront, roughly 300–400 meters (about a 5-minute walk) from the central shopping streets. As reported by Colliers, it’s “just a few hundred metres from the CBD” . You can see downtown from the rink’s entrance. This makes it very convenient to combine an arena visit with shopping or dining in town.
What is the seating capacity of the Ice Arena?
The arena has fixed bleacher seating for about 642 spectators during ice hockey games . Because it’s relatively small, even back rows are quite close to the ice. If configured for standing-room (e.g. for concerts or exhibitions), total capacity rises to roughly 1000 { . Additional people can occupy the cafe/lounge and upper courtyard areas (about 30 indoor seats plus a 150-person terrace , but those are separate from the main arena count). Keep in mind that major events might use temporary seating or floor space to slightly increase capacity.
Which seats are best for watching hockey games?
The best views are typically from center-ice or mid-ice seats, where you can see plays develop at both ends. Aim for rows around the middle of the stands, where you’ll be at eye-line with the puck. Front-row seats (behind the yellow railing) put you right up against the glass, which is thrilling but has a risk of errant pucks. The highest rows have a very clear overview as well. All seating surrounds the rink, so you’ll have a good view from almost anywhere, but avoid extreme corner seats if you want the widest sightlines. For intimate viewing (and photos), many fans like the café’s large picture windows or even standing behind the players’ bench (where permitted), though spectator benches are at ice level behind glass.
What items are prohibited inside the Ice Arena?
For safety and licensing reasons, certain items are not allowed. Outside alcohol is prohibited (the on-site bar has a full drinks menu and no outside alcohol is permitted ). Weapons, large coolers, glass containers, and drones are banned. Skateboards or rollerblades can’t be used on the ice. Outside food is discouraged; small snacks and water are okay but the facility’s café should meet most needs. Personal cameras and cellphones for photos/video are fine for amateur use, but professional filming requires permission. Backpack-style hockey bags can be checked at the skate shop if needed. In general, pack light: a small backpack, wallet, phone and keys are all you should need. Security staff will advise if any item is not allowed.
Can I bring my own skates or helmet to the Arena?
Yes, you may wear your own skates and helmet if you have them. However, the standard ticket price already includes skate hire, and rental helmets and basic pads are available free of charge for public skaters . If you prefer your personal gear, you are not required to rent. Just make sure any non-hired equipment complies with safety standards. Helmets are strongly recommended (some drop-in hockey leagues or lessons require them), but are not strictly mandatory for recreational skate sessions. If bringing your own helmet or chin guard, remember to secure it as you would in any winter sport.
Is outside food or drink allowed in the Ice Arena?
Generally no. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted due to licensing . Sealed water bottles or kids’ juice boxes are usually okay, but the arena’s café is fully licensed and offers hot drinks, snacks and meals on-site. One review mentions that the lounge sells "affordable and tasty food" including stone-baked pizza . If you have dietary needs you cannot accommodate with the café, it’s best to eat beforehand. Otherwise plan to enjoy the local coffee and food menu inside rather than bringing picnic-style food.
Is Queenstown Ice Arena wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Because the Arena lease is on Council Reserve land, the facility meets community and accessibility standards . The entry path and lobby have ramps (no steps required) and there is seating space allocated for wheelchairs in the stands. An accessible restroom is available on the ground level. Spectators in wheelchairs can view from specially-designated spots (with clear sightlines), and accessible parking is available near the ramp. Staff are generally able to assist with any special needs (just call ahead if you need specific arrangements). In short, a person in a wheelchair or with other mobility aids can navigate the Ice Arena independently.
Is there food and drink available on site?
Yes. The Arena has a licensed cafe/bar right inside by the ice. It serves coffee and hot drinks, plus a menu of snacks and a stone-grilled pizza selection . You'll also find local Central Otago craft beers on tap and wines by the glass . In winter many people enjoy soup, hot chocolate or mulled wine by the fire. The cafe is open throughout public skating and event hours. There’s also a casual lounge seating area for drinks and watch-the-ice if you’re not skating yourself. Outside of the venue, many restaurants and bars are within walking distance in town, but you should stay inside the arena for concessions during sessions.
Can I rent or buy ice-skating equipment at the Ice Arena?
Absolutely. There’s a pro shop at the venue that rents skates (included free with most tickets ) and also sells or rents hockey gear, helmets and protective pads. You can have your skating shoes or hockey skates sharpened on site. The shop stocks branded merchandise (like jerseys or hoodies) and basic skate maintenance items. In short, if you need skates or gear you’re covered – you don’t have to bring anything other than your own warm socks. Just remember to bring your own helmet if you prefer it, otherwise helmet rental is typically complementary.
Are there restrooms and locker facilities?
Yes. Public restrooms (including an accessible toilet) are located just off the lobby and cafe area for spectators . Separate locker rooms are provided for skaters and teams behind the rink, with showers and towel racks. Free small lockers (keyed padlocks) are often available for day-use during skating sessions. There is no dedicated coat-check, but the lounge is a safe spot to keep coats and bags. Overall, locker and toilet facilities are adequately provided as noted by visitors .
What beginner-friendly facilities are offered for new skaters?
The arena is very family-friendly and set up for beginners. For example, they provide “penguin” skating aids (plush-wheeled helpers) and ice sleds so children and adults can learn to balance on the ice . During public skate sessions, arena staff help beginners with simple how-tos. The cafe also has children’s entertainment (a TV playing cartoons and a kids’ corner) to keep little ones busy after they skate. In short, even if you’ve never been on ice boarding, you’ll find all the support you need – just go slowly, hold a rail, and don’t hesitate to ask a staff member for help.
What is an ice bumper car, and how does frisbee golf work at the Arena?
The Ice Arena offers unique activities beyond skating. Ice bumper cars are exactly what they sound like: car-shaped boards you sit in and slide around bumping into each other on the ice . It’s a supervised, ticketed session perfect for older kids and adults. Frisbee golf is a course set up through the adjacent Queenstown Gardens: you rent a frisbee from the rink reception and take turns throwing at target baskets along the loop . Both activities have age restrictions (generally 6+ for bumper cars and frisbee), require safety briefings, and must be booked in advance. They are fun add-ons if you have time between skating and enjoy some extra action.
What is a Night Skate session?
Night Skate is a themed evening skate session (like a disco on ice). It typically runs on Saturday nights (around 6:15–8:00pm) with music, games, and special lighting . Tickets for Night Skate are around $20 (including skate rental) . Skaters often dress up or bring glow accessories. It’s a popular social event for families and groups – kids love it, and many parents use it as a fun date night. The Arena posts official schedule in advance, so check their site or bulletin to see which Saturdays are Night Skate sessions.
