5 Best Nightlife in The Southern Alps and Fiordland, New Zealand

In winter, Bardeaux has that upscale mountain-après-ski atmosphere; even in summer there's a fair chance the fire will be roaring. There's a wide selection of whiskey and wine, and they know how to fix you up a cocktail. It's a pleasing bar that's good for a quiet, intimate evening.

Ice bars have become popular over the past few years, and it's great fun if you've never tried one---even just for the beautiful ice sculptures. They deck you out in jackets and gloves prior to entering. In summer, it's a good reminder of how close to Antarctica you are, and, in winter, it just adds to the alpine resort experience. It costs NZ$30 to get in, $35 with a cocktail and $40 for two cocktails.

With its roaring fire, good food, and quirky decor, Searle Lane is a popular Queenstown spot. There's plenty of beer on tap and a good selection of wine by the glass. They do a mean cocktail, too. The food is made for sharing with hearty choices; their specialty is rotisserie chicken, which is seriously good.

This bar offers the best range of New Zealand and international beer in town, including the stand-out local beer, Queenstown's own Altitude Brewing. There's a great pub food menu of burgers and sandwiches and a nice balcony from which to enjoy the hustle and bustle of Queenstown.