This thesis explores the housing situation and systems of housing provision in the towns of Wānaka and Queenstown in New Zealand’s Queenstown Lakes District. Specific foci are on housing access challenges associated with questions of affordable renting and housing, in relation to the large-scale tourism that occurs as a direct result of the ski industry, while also recognising the parallel impact of amenity migration. Drawing insights from both international and local (Aotearoa New Zealand) academic literature, the research delves into pivotal themes such as amenity migration, affordable housing, short-term rentals, the impact of second homes, ramifications of the Covid pandemic, flow on effects of remote workers, and post-tourism models. The methodological approach adopted follows a social constructivist perspective, utilising a mixed methods approach. This included expert opinion gained through key informant interviews in addition to a survey to gain wider community opinions. Additionally, secondary methods were used which included a literature review, a policy review, and a media review, which enabled triangulation with the primary data collected. 

The primary driver of the district's growth was identified as amenity migration, which was subsequently influenced by lifestyle opportunities and the thriving ski industry. Concurrently, the region faces multifaceted housing challenges, exacerbated by short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, which have led to housing scarcity and inflated prices. Policies, both national and regional, have been introduced with good intentions for urban tenants but sometimes yield unintended consequences, highlighting the gap between policy aspirations and experienced realities. The research also underscores the transformative impact of the Covid pandemic, with the emergence of zoom towns as remote work gained prominence. This shift has introduced new economic and housing dynamics, further straining the already delicate balance between tourism and local housing needs. The study draws parallels with global ski towns, revealing patterns of overtourism and its implications on housing and community cohesion. Lastly, this thesis puts forwards six planning recommendations based upon these findings for national, regional, and local policymakers to mitigate the affordable housing challenges within these ski towns and work towards environmental justice.