Today· Queenstown, Otago & Fiordland
Queenstown today
Today’s sky, what is open at this hour, and what the mountain and the road have closed.
The sky
Forecast for 4 October 2026
Clear sky. From 9 to 17 °C. No rain expected.
- Morning9 °Cclear sky
- Afternoon17 °Cclear sky
- Evening13 °Csun and cloud
Monday: clear sky, from 4 to 16 °C.
Forecast data from MET Norway (CC BY 4.0), summarised for this region. Checked 4 October 2026.
With this sky
No rain expected today: a day to be outside.
- Every walk in the region, in one list
- Queenstown Gardens, no car and no ticket
- Free things to do near the centre
- What to wear on a Queenstown trail
And if it turns: Real indoor places, near the centre
Open right now
Hours from the map, not confirmed by each business. If the trip depends on one door, call first.
Every business, with its hours, is in the directory. Browse all businesses
What is closed right now
45 current alerts for this region: closed tracks, removed bridges, slips and pest control operations. This is the Department of Conservation’s own list, not ours, and it is the reason to check before driving two hours to a track that turns out to be shut.
Last checked with DOC on 4 October 2026. This page is rebuilt each time Nice publishes, so an alert raised today may not be here yet. If you are heading into the backcountry, check DOC directly as well.
State highways closed right now
NZTA has no state highway closed around here right now. Roadworks and stop/go are not counted: they slow you down, they do not stop you.
Lake Marian Bridge and Track closure extended to mid October 2026
Fiordland · updated 2 October 2026Construction work to replace the Lake Marian suspension bridge has been delayed due to recent weather. The bridge and the track to Lake Marian remain closed. We now expect to reopen both in mid October, weather permitting. The closure includes the bridge access area and sections of the car park. The car park toilets remain open to the public. Hollyford Road remains open. Temporary speed restrictions and traffic management may be in place while construction is underway.
Section of Milford Track closed for bridge replacements
Fiordland · updated 2 October 2026A section of Milford Track, in the Arthur valley, is closed for critical bridge work from 2 June to 20 October 2026: suspension bridge replacement at Boatshed (affects Dumpling Hut to Sandfly Point on Milford Track). There are no alternate bridge crossings so the Milford Track will be impassable at Boatshed. River crossings are not recommended in Fiordland during winter. Contractors will manage site safety. Obey all signage and crew instructions.
Storm damaged bridges on Hollyford Track
Fiordland · updated 1 October 2026Storm damage has affected bridges between Hidden Falls hut and Lake Alabaster Hut: Little Rainbow Bridge is not safe for use and is closed. It is located 10 minutes upstream of Rainbow Creek. Access across Little Rainbow stream now requires a river crossing. Chair Creek Bridge has been removed. It was located approximately 1 km from Alabaster Hut. Access across Chair Creek now requires a river crossing. Trampers are advised to plan accordingly and be prepared to turn back if conditions are unsuitable. River crossing safety skills and experience are required. The crossings should not be attempted in high-flow or when in flood.
Boundary Creek Campsite closed
Otago · updated 1 October 2026The campsite is closed for stays, but visitors can still walk through the campsite for fishing and day visits. There is limited roadside parking and there are no toilet facilities available. Kidds Bush, Cameron Flat and Pleasant Flat campsites are nearby bookable DOC campsites.
Wānaka roar ballot opens 1 October
Otago · updated 1 October 2026The Wānaka roar ballot is moving to the DOC hunting permit system. Applications for the ballot open 1 October 2026 online. Wānaka roar ballot system
Routeburn Track bridges removed for winter
Otago · Fiordland · updated 30 September 2026Side-stream bridges have been removed between Harris Saddle and Lake Mackenzie Hut for winter. This will affect anyone planning to complete the full Routeburn Track. Stream levels can rise quickly. Crossings are not recommended in winter.
Iris Burn Hut is closed for winter
Fiordland · updated 30 September 2026Iris Burn Hut is closed until mid-October 2026 for major renovations. Do not plan to stay at the hut when walking the Kepler Track this winter. Luxmore Hut and Moturau Hut remain open, but there is no hut accommodation between them during this period. Iris Burn Campsite remains open – campers must be fully self-sufficient and prepared for winter conditions.
Milford Track bridge removals for winter
Fiordland · updated 29 September 2026Several side-stream bridges have been flown out by helicopter to prevent avalanche damage over winter. These side streams can be impassable and rise very quickly. Crossings are not recommended in winter.
Milford Track washout near Clinton Forks
Fiordland · updated 29 September 2026There is a washed-out section of track near Clinton Forks. Trampers may need to re-route through the surrounding bush.
Significant treefall between Demon Trail Hut and Hokuri Hut
Fiordland · updated 29 September 2026There is significant treefall along the track section between Demon Trail and Hokuri huts. Fallen trees and slips will require sections of off-track navigation and should only be attempted by experienced trampers. Proceed with caution and allow extra time.
Nevis to Gibbston 4WD Road washout
Otago · updated 29 September 2026The Nevis to Gibbston 4WD road is not accessible from the Nevis crossing. This is due to a washout at the first river crossing. The washout does not affect the Nevis Valley road between Garston and Bannockburn .
Remedial work underway at Swamp Creek
Fiordland · updated 29 September 2026Following a new bridge installation at Swamp Creek, there is still remedial work to be done on site, including the removal of the old steel bridge. Contractors may be present. Visitors should exercise caution while passing through this area. If you have questions, contact the project team at floodrecovery@doc.govt.nz
Slip repairs between Divide Carpark and Earland Falls
Otago · Fiordland · updated 28 September 2026Slip repair work is underway between Divide Carpark and Earland Falls. The track remains open, but brief delays may occur. Take care around workers and equipment and follow any instructions on site.
Didymo detected in the Kaipo River
Fiordland · updated 23 September 2026Didymo has been detected in the Kaipo River. This was discovered at grid ref 1196735 5059826. Clean all gear when moving between waterways to prevent the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests. Clean, Check, Dry protocol has been udpated to include two improved treatments for absorbent gear. See MPI's website to read the updated guidance. How to check, clean, dry your gear.
Chasm Walk closed for construction
Fiordland · updated 21 September 2026DOC is building a new viewing platform and reinstating the lower bridge at The Chasm. Construction starts on Monday, 13 April 2026 and is set to be completed by the end of November 2026 (subject to Fiordland’s wild weather conditions). The Chasm site, including the carpark is closed to all visitors for the duration of the construction period. While construction is underway, visitors may like to explore stunning alternative experiences like Milford Foreshore Walk or Humboldt Falls Track. If you have questions about these projects contact floodrecovery@doc.govt.nz or call DOC’s Te Rua-o-te-moko Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre on +64 3 249 7924.
Construction underway on Key Summit Track
Otago · Fiordland · updated 21 September 2026Construction work to upgrade Key Summit Track is nearing completion. The track is open; however, contractors will be on site finishing the final pieces of work. Construction is expected to be complete by 30 November 2026. Visitors are to expect delays of up to 30 minutes at times. You may hear construction noise from light machinery and helicopter operations. Follow all signs, barriers, and instructions from contractors on site. These works are limited to the Key Summit Track and should not affect the normal visitor experience on the Routeburn Track. For enquiries, email floodrecovery@doc.govt.nz or call Te Rua-o-te-moko / Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre on 03 249 7924.
Rees Dart Track huts and campsites open for bookings
Otago · updated 16 September 2026Huts and campsites on the Rees Dart Track open for bookings on 1 October 2026 for stays from 21 November 2026.
Mackinnon Pass emergency track in use
Fiordland · updated 15 September 2026The emergency track is in use due to an impassable slip. Take care when coming down from Mackinnon Pass.
Percy Burn and Edwin Burn viaducts closed
Fiordland · updated 15 September 2026Percy Burn and Edwin Burn viaducts are closed. Do not attempt to cross them. Use alternative routes provided.
Rabbit control operation for Deans Bank and Dublin Bay Area
Otago · updated 14 September 2026We completed the fourth and final feed of carrot baits coated with the pesticide Pindone on 14 September 2026 in the Dublin Bay - Outlet - Albert Town Recreation Reserve and Dublin Bay Recreation Reserve. Signage is in place. The presence of warning signs indicates pesticide residues may still be present in baits or animals. This pesticide is poisonous to humans and domestic animals. Always remember: do no touch or eat the bait watch children at all times do not eat animals from these areas do not allow dogs access to animal carcasses. The presence of warning signs indicates pesticide residues may still be present in baits or animals.
Access across Wye Creek dam closed
Otago · updated 10 September 2026Pioneer Energy has closed public access across Wye Creek dam for maintenace work. This impacts the dam and the pipeline walk to the helipad and South Branch waterfall. For updates on the closure contact Pioneer Energy.
Lake Hayes Walkway damage
Otago · updated 9 September 2026Recent heavy rain on 27 August 2026 has damaged sections of the Lake Hayes Walkway. Partial track closure: Mill Creek footbridge at the north end has been damaged and is unusable. On the other sections of track: Use caution when walking or cycling. Some sections have erosion, slumping, and washed-out surfaces especially along the western side of Lake Hayes. In places, the track has been reduced to half its normal width. Take care when passing other track users.
Slips on Demon Trail
Fiordland · updated 1 September 2026The route passing slips on Demon Trail has been re-marked to guide walkers safely past the affected areas. Walkers can expect windfall between Demon Trail Hut and Hokuri Hut. The track may take longer to walk than the times on signs and this website.
Lower platform closed at Thunder Creek Falls
Otago · updated 31 August 2026The lower platform at Thunder Creek Falls is closed due to storm damage and is to be assessed by an engineer. The Falls can still be viewed from the upper platform.
East Matukituki 3-wire bridge closed
Otago · updated 31 August 2026The 3-wire bridge crossing the East Matukituki river at Junction Flat is currently closed. Hikers will need to find a suitable point to cross the river, provided the flow is low. Wilkin Valley - East Matukituki Traverse route will not be possible if the river is high. East Matukituki Valley tracks if the river is high, travel beyond Junction Flat towards Ruth Flat will not be possible. Access to Aspiring Flats and the Glacier Burn track is unaffected.
Predator control in Lake Hauroko area
Southland · Fiordland · updated 31 August 2026We distributed toxic sausage bait containing para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) in the Lake Hauroko area between 14 and 19 May 2026. This operation is targeting stoats. For a map of the proposed treatment area see the Pesticide Summary.
Boat ramp closure at Deepwater Basin
Fiordland · updated 26 August 2026The boat ramp at Deepwater Basin (Milford Sound) will be closed from 27 July to end of September 2026 while a new boat ramp is constructed. The area in front of the ramp will be an enclosed construction zone, temporarily restricting vehicle movements and reducing parking in the immediate area. There will be no access to Deepwater Basin or Milford Sound from this location during construction. There are no alternate boat launching facilities at Milford Sound with the closest either at Jackson Bay (West Coast), Riverton (Southland) or Bluff (Southland). The informal gravel ramp adjacent to the construction site remains closed to recreational and commercial trailer-launched powered vessels. This restriction does not apply to emergency service vessels. Public access to this gravel ramp does remains available for paddle craft that can be carried and hand-launched, including kayaks, canoes, waka ama, and stand-up paddleboards.
Bowen Falls Walk permanently closed
Fiordland · updated 14 August 2026Bowen Falls Walk is permanently closed as there is no available boat service for access. This is a long term alert.
Glaisnock Hut fireplace removed
Fiordland · updated 13 August 2026The fireplace at Glaisnock Hut has been removed due to a fault and is currently unavailable for use. There is no fireplace or heating source in the hut at this time plan accordingly by bringing appropriate clothing and equipment for the conditions. We are working to replace the fireplace as soon as possible.
Slip on Dart track – exit via Rees track only
Otago · updated 3 August 2026Due to a large slip, Dart Track is closed indefinitely. Cascade Saddle Route can still be completed but trampers will need to exit via the Rees Track to Muddy Creek car park. This is a long-term alert
Dart Track closed due to slip
Otago · updated 29 July 2026A large slip in Dart Valley between Daleys Flat Hut and Chinamans Bluff has made the Rees-Dart Track circuit impassable. Dart Track is closed until at least December 2026 - we do not have an expected date or confirmed timeframe for re-opening at this stage. View a photo of the slip (JPG, 747K). Trampers can still walk some of the track from either end. Be aware in winter (May- November), conditions on the Rees Saddle and Cascade Saddle change quickly due to snow, ice and avalanche terrain. There is a risk of being trapped at Dart Hut by alpine conditions if you don’t have alpine equipment and experience. This is a long-term alert.
Slip on Routeburn Track
Otago · Fiordland · updated 28 July 2026There is a slip about 800 m into the track from the Divide car park. Pass with care and avoid stopping in this area.
Francis Burn Viaduct closed
Fiordland · updated 28 July 2026Francis Burn Viaduct on the South Coast Track is closed for safety reasons. A rough track has been cut and marked to bypass the Francis Burn Viaduct. The Francis Burn is unbridged, so may be impassable during or after heavy rain events. Crossing the unbridged river can be dangerous. Do not cross: if the river is high during or after heavy rain, as it can rise rapidly if you do not have river crossing skills If in doubt, stay out.
Slip on Key Summit Track
Fiordland · updated 24 July 2026There is a slip about 800 m into the track from the Divide car park. Pass with care and avoid stopping in this area. This is a long-term alert.
Routeburn Track reroute
Otago · Fiordland · updated 23 July 2026There is a 20 min reroute from Howden side of Earland Falls due to a slip. More slipping has occurred on the Earland Falls side on 26 February 2026. A temporary flagged route approximately 5 metres in length has been marked above the new slip movement zone. Follow the flagging tape through the bush. The reroute may be wet and slippery after rain. Caution is required. This is a long term alert.
Pest control operation for Big Bay
Fiordland · updated 6 July 2026The Big Bay Awarua Conservation Trust is running a bait station operation in Ta Hokiauau/Big Bay. Toxic bait may be present from 6 July 2026 to 28 February 2027. Warning signs are in place throughout the project area. For more information, check the pesticide summary.
Pest control operation for Martins Bay
Fiordland · updated 6 July 2026The Hollyford Conservation Trust is running a bait station operation in Martins Bay. Toxic bait may be present from 7 July 2026 to 28 February 2027. Warning signs are in place throughout the project area. For more information, check the pesticide summary.
Wills Valley Track closed
West Coast · Otago · updated 30 June 2026Wills Valley Track is closed until October 2026 while a slip downstream of the Gates of Haast Bridge is being fixed. There is heavy machinery movement at the bridge, and the parking bay at the Gates of Haast is closed, with traffic management in place. During this time, access to and from Wills Valley via the Gates of Haast bridge (on State Highway 6) will be closed.
Borland Road closed for winter
Fiordland · updated 17 June 2026Borland Road is closed from Pig Creek, just past Borland Lodge, for the winter.
Borland suspension bridge closed
Fiordland · updated 10 June 2026Borland suspension bridge has been removed due to erosion damage. The river is crossable in normal flow – do not attempt to cross during heavy rain events/flooding.
Predator control for Mt Aspiring National Park
West Coast · Otago · updated 2 June 2026A predator control operation using toxic bait containing 1080 was completed on 2 March 2026. The operation area includes Mt Aspiring National Park. It is open to the public with warning signs in place at key entrances. There may be toxic carcasses and bait (green coloured pellets) in the area. Do not touch the bait or animal carcasses. Water supply at the huts will be unaffected as tanks will be disconnected from the guttering, but as usual we recommend treating water before drinking. This operation is part of DOC's National Predator Control Programme to protect native species.
Upper Snowy Creek bridge removed
Otago · updated 18 May 2026The upper Snowy Creek bridge has been removed from the Rees-Dart Track for winter 2026. Walking the track now involves a dangerous river crossing. The bridge is usually reinstalled mid to late November depending on avalanche conditions.
Skippers road and bridge closure
Otago · updated 5 May 2026Skippers Road is closed from Skippers Bridge. The bridge is closed to all vehicles and pedestrians for safety of the public. Updates are managed by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and will be posted to the QLDC Facebook page or phone: +64 3 441 0499.
Skippers Bridge closure
Otago · updated 5 May 2026Skippers Road is closed from Skippers Bridge. The bridge is closed to all vehicles and pedestrians for safety of the public. Updates are managed by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and will be posted to the QLDC Facebook page or phone: +64 3 441 0499.
Purchasing Aspiring Hut camping tickets from April to October
Otago · updated 8 April 2026Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre in Wānaka is closed for winter from 11 April to 12 October, 2026. We will still answer queries via phone and email – but for tickets to camp outside Aspiring Hut, you can visit Queenstown Visitor Centre or call them on +64 3 442 7935 to pay over the phone and receive an email-receipt as proof of purchase.