The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences is a five-star lakefront hotel at 377 Frankton Road, Queenstown 9300, on the shore of Lake Wakatipu about two kilometres east of the town centre. Combining hotel rooms, serviced apartments and multi-bedroom lakeside residences with an award-winning restaurant, a private lake beach and sweeping views of The Remarkables and Walter Peak, it appeals to couples, families and luxury travellers who want space, privacy and a true waterfront setting rather than a downtown address.
What to Expect at The Rees Hotel
The Rees offers three broad tiers of accommodation: hotel rooms and suites, one- to three-bedroom luxury apartments, and larger lakeside residences. Most units are designed around the view, with floor-to-ceiling glazing and balconies that look across Lake Wakatipu to the jagged ridgeline of The Remarkables. Apartments include full kitchens and laundry facilities, which makes the property well suited to stays of several nights, while the hotel side provides the daily service of a full-scale five-star operation, including a concierge who can organise heli-skiing, vineyard tours in Gibbston Valley and day trips to Milford Sound.
The property’s own lakefront is a rarity in Queenstown, where much of the shoreline is public. Guests can walk from the grounds onto a small private beach, and the lakeside trail connects towards the Queenstown Gardens peninsula and the town centre. Dining is anchored by Rata, a contemporary restaurant that draws on Central Otago produce and lamb, venison and seafood, with a wine list weighted toward regional pinot noir. The restaurant also serves guests who are not staying at the hotel, so it works as a stand-alone reservation.
- Lakeside Residences: Spacious multi-bedroom residences with large living areas and terraces facing Lake Wakatipu, suited to families and groups travelling together.
- Private Lake Beach: Direct access from the grounds to the shoreline for a lakeside stroll, paddle or quiet evening drink.
- Rata Restaurant: Fine dining built around Central Otago ingredients, with a regional wine focus and views over the water.
- Mountain and Lake Views: Unobstructed outlooks toward The Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Walter Peak from many rooms and public spaces.
- Serviced Apartment Living: Fully equipped kitchens and laundry in the apartments, with hotel services such as housekeeping and concierge on call.
The Rees Hotel at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 377 Frankton Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand |
| Neighborhood / Area | Frankton Road lakefront, east of Queenstown town centre |
| Operating Hours | Hotel reception staffed around the clock; Rata restaurant hours vary by season, so confirm on the official website |
| Admission / Price Range | $$$$ five-star pricing; rates vary by room type and season |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 2 to 5 nights for a stay; 1.5 to 2 hours for dinner at Rata |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Orbus Queenstown services on Frankton Road; on-site guest parking |
| Official Website & Phone | therees.co.nz; +64 3 450 1100 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Queenstown’s peak seasons are the ski months of June to September and the summer holiday weeks around Christmas and January, so book apartments and lakeside residences well in advance for those dates. The property is roughly a 5-minute drive or 25 to 30 minute lakeside walk from the town centre, and Orbus commuter buses run along Frankton Road for those who prefer public transport. Queenstown Airport is about 10 minutes away by car, and guest parking is available on site. The sloping lakeside terrain means it is worth asking the hotel in advance about step-free routes and accessible room options.
Nearby, the Queenstown Gardens peninsula and the lakefront promenade are a short drive or bus ride away, while the town centre’s Eichardt’s Lane and Church Street dining precinct sits a few minutes beyond. Gondola and Skyline luge riders can reach the Skyline base station in under ten minutes, and Fergburger, Queenstown’s famous burger shop, is a short ride from the hotel. For a half-day excursion, the vineyards of Gibbston Valley are about 25 minutes by car.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit The Rees Hotel?
Summer (December to February) offers long daylight hours and lake activities, while winter (June to September) puts guests close to the Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona ski areas. Autumn, especially April, brings golden foliage around Lake Wakatipu and generally calmer rates.
How much does it cost to stay at The Rees?
The Rees is a five-star property in the $$$$ tier, with rates depending on room category, apartment size and season. Check current rates and package offers directly through the official website. Dinner reservations at Rata are recommended, particularly in peak season.
How long should I plan to stay?
Most guests book two to five nights to combine lakeside downtime with day trips to Milford Sound, Arrowtown and the Gibbston wine region. The apartments and residences also suit longer stays given their kitchens and laundry facilities.
Is The Rees suitable for families and guests with mobility needs?
Yes, the multi-bedroom apartments and residences are well suited to families, with separate sleeping areas, kitchens and laundry. Because the site slopes toward the lake, guests with mobility requirements should contact the hotel on +64 3 450 1100 before booking to confirm accessible rooms and routes.
When planning your Queenstown travel guide or comparing verified hotels and restaurants in Queenstown, pair this stop with standout local spots including Brazz, The Grille by Eichardt's, Queenstown Hill, and Tompkins Lookout (0.9 km away).
