Written by Kelly Hertzog

Both locals and tourists to Queenstown will know that as far as partying goes, Queenstown is the place to be. It is the place for socialites to see and be seen, it’s the place for singles to meet a mate and it’s the place for party-seekers to let their hair down. And with the recent controversy surrounding the sale and use of herbal party pills in Queenstown, there can be little doubt that there is a market for bars which specialise in loud music and large crowds. So what about those of us whose idea of an enjoyable night out with friends does not involve a dance-floor full of seemingly-epileptic youths and music so loud it leaves your ears ringing?

Fortunately, Queenstown has many bars and not all are designed to attract this type of customer/mass market. For people who are interested in a more classy approach to alcohol than the standard ‘bourbon-and-coke’, Queenstown has a variety of smooth cocktail bars specialising in high quality drinks and intimate atmosphere. If this sounds like your idea of a good night out, this author would recommend a trip to the Eureka Arcade, where Barup, Bardeaux and Queenstown’s newest bar Mini Bar can be found. It is here, hidden away from the main tourist strip, that great music and talented bar-tenders meet to create great cocktails and a fun atmosphere. The wine connesuir will appreciate a visit to Bardeaux, while those who savour a fresh and exotic cocktail will not be disappointed at Barup and Mini Bar is the beer-lover’s haven. All three can boast comfortable, relaxing couches and great music.

If a down-to-earth pub sounds more like your ideal night out, then Queenstown has again delivered. Situated on Rees St, Pog Mahones Irish Bar has a cosy, relaxed atmosphere and a great view of Lake Wakatipu. Also, not to be missed are Loaded Hog and the Pig And Whistle, specialising in a warm and friendly atmosphere with great tap-beer and hearty meals. These pubs all feature live music, though it must be said that some acts are certainly ‘interesting’ to be kind, but the atmosphere is none-the-less charming and enjoyable.

To get away from the main-stream crowds and hoards of back-packers, take a wander down Cow Lane. This shady-looking lane is a locals’ hideaway, where The Bunker and Tardis bar are located. Tardis is not unlike the larger bars in town with loud music and plenty of dancing, but the small size and somewhat hidden location of this bar make it a great place for locals to ‘get-down’ to the great tunes spun every night by their DJ’s. Don’t expect to hear Britney Spears or Jennifer Lopez here. Next door, The Bunker has mastered the art of transformation from evening restaurant to late-night hot-spot. Downstairs is where excellent dining takes place and upstairs you will find great music and a cosy place for a night with friends.

The bars mentioned here are a small sample of what queenstown has to offer. With the highest number of bars per capita for any place in the whole of New Zealand, it isn't surprising that there is so much variety. Be assured that a night out in Queenstown can be enjoyable for everyone.