Kelvin Peninsula Walkway

Also known as Lake Wakatipu Ride and Frankton Arm Walk, the multi-staged circuit of the Kelvin Peninsula is known as the locals choice of the Queenstown walks.

This walkway is usually commenced on the western side of the Kawarau River from the growing area of Frankton, the view from the start point being amongst Queenstown’s best, the lake, the Remarkable Mountains, and some seriously posh real estate. The lakeside path meanders past the impressive new Hilton Hotel and continues past the upmarket homes of Kelvin Heights, towards the golf course.

One might be charmed by the affluence of the area and private pontoons, floating and fixed, as the lake-scape changes from sheltered and calm with paddling and water sports, to a view of commercial jetboat operators on the other shore, and towards the open waters of the upper arm of the lake past Queenstown. For plane spotters, there is the bonus viewing of aircraft large and small make their way in and out of the international airport on a very tight schedule.

Lakeside winds might get up around the golf course, the scene changing to that of happy golfers on one of Central Otago’s most popular courses. As the track rounds the Peninsula the outlooks becomes decidedly more rural, impressive with mountains and the burgeoning subdivision of Jacks Point on the right. The long version of the walkway is 27km, finishing at the next golf club, named Jack’s Point. A more classic way to get back to town is to catch a water taxi from Kelvin Heights Golf Club.

Mountain Bikers use this track in a different way, with added areas of challenge at the end of the peninsula in Jardine Park, see the link to NZbyBike. Because of the mountain bikers, walkers should keep their eyes peeled and keep to the left.

While there is no physical challenge in this gentle walk, in winter it may subject to snow and other weather conditions and it pays to be well prepared in any season.

This walk is the absolute epitome of why Queenstown locals love their home, an immaculate balance of environment, urban, suburban and rural and a life of recreation.