The Kingston Flyer is parked up right now, so if someone with lots of spare money fancies getting it up and running again, that would be cool. Photo / Supplied
The Kingston Flyer is parked up right now, so if someone with lots of spare money fancies getting it up and running again, that would be cool. Photo / Supplied
Elisabeth Easther scopes out the many attractions of the tiny community nestled at the end of Lake Wakatipu.
In the Southern Lakes District, at the southernmost tip of Lake Wakatipu between the Eyre Mountains and the Hector Ranges, sits the one-shop town of Kingston.
Origin of name: Originally St Johns after 19th-century police commissioner St John Branigan, the name was changed to Kingston to mirror its neighbour acrossthe lake, Queenstown.
Population: 300 give or take - in summer the place fills to capacity.
Town slogan: It's a bit small for that sort of thing.
Road works: The road into Kingston was built in the 1930s using Depression labour and only sealed in the 1960s. Access was often by rail or boat, which would have been so much more romantic.
Famous local: Author and illustrator Gavin Bishop went to school here. Designer Jane Sutherland lives here.
Big tourism: Tourism and farming are the mainstays. Most people who live in Kingston actually work in Queenstown, because Kingston is more relaxed and the lifestyle rocks. Other residents work remotely for national and international companies, or run their own businesses.
An opportunity: There's only one shop and it does everything - it's the bar, the restaurant and the general store. If someone wanted to open up just one more establishment they'd be very welcome.
Source of pride: Everyone is so friendly, plus they're all pretty chuffed about the new cycle trail - the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail is New Zealand's southernmost trail. Oh, and the golf club is phenomenal, if you like that sort of thing.
Community spirit: The volunteer fire brigade and St John both provide excellent care for the widespread community and their hard work and dedication is much appreciated by all.
Town fiestas: There are two major dances each year in the community centre - the Spring Fling and the Fall Ball. Everyone goes to them and, because they're both held during cold times of year, they force people out of hibernation. And each New Year's Day the fire brigade runs an amazing sports day for kids with lots of brilliant prizes up for grabs.
Best reason to stop: It's just so picturesque, so bring your eyes and feast them. The original Kiwi cribs are all postcards waiting to happen.
Toot toot: The Kingston Flyer is parked up right now, so if someone with lots of spare money fancies getting it up and running again, that would be so cool.
What to do with kids: Let them frolic on the lakefront.
Best playground: There are two little playgrounds in town, you can't miss them.
Best facilities: The local lavatories are kept pristine by the most fabulous and vigilant cleaner. Top marks to Graham Dalziel.
Sheep graze in a paddock by Kingston township. Photo / NZME.
Best walks: The Glen Allen Track through Te Kere Haka Scenic Reserve is sweet as. Shirttail Rock is also a goodie - allow two hours, although many people are able to do it in less than that. Be aware the walk is quite steep at the end but the viewing platform at the top makes it all worth it, perfect for a bird's-eye view of Kingston.
Best view: From the Glen Nevis Access Trail - anywhere and everywhere is good.
Best place to pull over: Stop down by the lakefront, it's a constantly changing symphony of light and reflections. Glassy or choppy, the lake is always stunning.
Best swim: The lake is lovely for a dip but people usually save the swimming for the warmer months.
Best museum: The active historical society is hoping to put a museum together at some stage. Watch this space.
Top shop: Kingston Cafe, Bar and General Store does everything, including providing the postal service. On Wednesdays over winter they do a quiz night to raise funds for various community groups.
Cream of the coffee: You guessed it - the Kingston Cafe, Bar and General Store.
Best food: Kingston Cafe, Bar and General Store - again - the seafood chowder is delectable.
Wet your whistle: See above.
But wait there's more: On Thursday nights the golf club hosts a social pool night and it's getting pretty popular. Take your cue.
Best mountain biking: The Around the Mountains Cycle Trail is wonderful and has seen quite a spike in visitor numbers. And if you don't have your own bike, Hectors rents them out for half or full days.
Best place to stay:Hectors provides everything from stylish motel rooms and cottages to powered sites or tent sites. And it hires out golf clubs, tennis rackets and bikes.
Best adventures: Boating on the lake is always popular - but make sure you have your fishing licence.
