Queenstown Lakes residents’ overall quality of life has improved over the last year despite cost of living pressures, according to the district’s annual Quality of Life survey.

In the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) 2024 survey, 76 percent of respondents rated their quality of life as good or better, an increase of four percent from 2023.

Key contributors to locals’ wellbeing were the natural environment, safety, and the lifestyle the district offers. Additionally, several annual housing metrics had also improved.

However, inflation and cost of living were having a heavy impact on Queenstown Lakes residents’ day-to-day lives. 

Of the respondents whose quality of life had decreased, 57 percent reported these as a main reason. 

The number of people reporting that they had no disposable income increased over the last year from 21 percent to 29 percent - considerably higher than any other result since the survey's inception in 2018.

On the jobs front, the number of residents that agree there is opportunity for career advancement in the district dropped to 38 percent.

QLDC mayor Glyn Lewers said it was encouraging to see that Queenstown Lakes residents’ overall quality of life had improved.

“These are challenging times with affordability issues and the growing pains that come with ongoing rapid growth, so to see so many in our community feeling good about their quality of life is heartening.”

“The results of this survey show positive movement in some areas but reinforce there’s work to be done.”

He said QLDC was “listening and feeding results into our own decision making, while also continuing to strongly advocate with central government and other organisations who can help to make a difference”.

Other key issues affecting residents included access to medical professionals, public transport, and the impact of the district’s rapid growth.

The 2024 Quality of Life survey had 1,709 responses from residents, and a further 613 from non-residents.

Read the full survey here.

PHOTO: Wānaka App