Destinations › New Zealand › Queenstown › Scams
Queenstown, New Zealand
8 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Queenstown, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Rental-car insurance excesses that are high by international standards and commonly exclude gravel-road, windscreen and undercarriage damage without this being made clear at the counter.
Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound day trips sold for departures that are weather-cancelled without refund, where the operator's own terms would have refunded.
Accommodation cancelled at short notice in ski season and relisted at a substantially higher rate.
Adventure activity bookings taken by third-party agents at above the operator's own price, with cancellation terms that differ from the operator's.
Unofficial parking and shuttle services charging for access at trailheads where parking is free.
Dynamic currency conversion offered as the default on card terminals at a poor rate.
Theft from vehicles at trailheads and scenic stops, which is the most common crime affecting visitors here.
Card terminals presented with a pre-entered tip or a surcharge not shown on the menu.
