Queenstown is NZ's premium lifestyle and tourism destination. Tradies here command the highest rates outside Auckland — labour is expensive and high-quality work is expected by a demanding client base. Here's what painters charge in Queenstown in 2026.
Queenstown Painter Rates 2026
| Service | Queenstown typical cost |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $80–$150/hr |
| Day rate | $60–$850/day |
| Interior — bedroom (supply + paint) | $550–$1,350 |
| Interior — living room (supply + paint) | $750–$1,900 |
| Full interior (3-bed home) | $5,000–$11,500 |
| Full exterior (3-bed home) | $9,000–$19,000 |
| Exterior preparation (wash, sand, fill) | included in above |
| Deck staining / oiling (per m²) | $16–$40/m² |
| Fence painting (per m linear) | $18–$45/m |
| Roof painting (per m²) | $12–$28/m² |
All prices GST inclusive. Among nz's highest — tourism and construction demand drives premium rates.
Queenstown Painting Market
High-end residential construction, luxury renovations, and tourism accommodation fit-outs dominate. Budget operators are rare — quality is the norm.
Getting the Best Paint Job in Queenstown
Quality preparation is 30–40% of a good paint job. A painter who washes, sands, fills, and primes properly will produce a job that lasts 10+ years. Always ask what preparation is included in your quote — shortcuts here mean the job fails in 3–5 years.
For exteriors in Queenstown's alpine, cold winters with snow, warm dry summers climate, use quality exterior paint — Resene X-200 or Dulux Weathershield are proven NZ products.
Find Queenstown painters: Painters Queenstown | Post a Job Free
How much does a painter cost in Queenstown? Hourly rate: $80–$150/hr. Interior 3-bed home: $5,000–$11,500. Exterior 3-bed home: $9,000–$19,000.
Related: Interior Painting Cost NZ | Exterior House Painting Cost NZ