For central Queenstown, the taxi vs transfer choice is straightforward. For ski areas and outlying towns, it becomes more nuanced.
Taxis to town
The taxi rank is outside the terminal. Meters are used, prices are fair, and the ride is short. To central Queenstown: $30-45 NZD. Card payment is accepted. No negotiation, no hassle. For a couple or solo traveler heading into town, a taxi is simple and efficient.
The fleet is generally modern and in good condition. New Zealand taxi standards are well-regulated.
Transfers to town
A pre-booked sedan transfer to Queenstown center costs $40-60 NZD. This is slightly more than a taxi for the same short ride. The added value is a driver waiting with your name, a guaranteed vehicle, and flight tracking. For the 10-minute ride to town, this premium is modest and mainly useful for travelers who prefer everything pre-arranged.
Where transfers make more sense
The calculus changes for destinations beyond central Queenstown:
Ski areas (Remarkables, Coronet Peak): These are 18-25 km from the airport on mountain roads. A taxi can do it, but a transfer with an experienced local driver, appropriate vehicle, and winter equipment (chains) is preferable. Transfer cost: $60-90 NZD.
Arrowtown (20 km): A quiet historic town popular with visitors. Taxis go there but it is far enough that having a fixed-price transfer ($55-80 NZD) is more comfortable than watching a meter tick.
Wanaka (110 km): Over an hour away, often via the Crown Range, one of New Zealand's highest sealed roads. A taxi would be prohibitively expensive on the meter. A pre-booked transfer ($200-300 NZD) is the standard approach. The driver knows the road, which matters in winter.
Uber as an alternative
Uber exists in Queenstown but the driver pool is small. Availability is inconsistent, especially for airport pickups. It can work for in-town trips during busy periods but is not reliable enough to be your airport plan.
The group and family factor
For groups of 3-4 or families with luggage and ski gear, a minivan transfer splits the cost effectively and provides the space a standard taxi may not have. During ski season, fitting four people, ski bags, luggage, and boots into a regular sedan is not realistic.
Summary
Taxi for a quick, no-fuss ride to central Queenstown. It is metered, fair, and available.
Pre-booked transfer for ski areas, Arrowtown, Wanaka, group travel, winter conditions, or when you want specific vehicle arrangements. The longer the distance and the more complex the conditions, the more a transfer justifies its cost.