Often dubbed the adventure capital of the world for its abundance of adrenaline-fueled activities, the majestic city of Queenstown sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the dramatic alpine ranges of The Remarkables.
However, whether you’re up for careening down steep ski slopes, traversing the many hiking trails, indulging in gourmet food and wine, soaking in Japanese Onsen spas or seeking hair-raising thrills, you’ll no doubt find something to suit your personal taste and tempo.
Enjoy world famous snow fields
With an epic ski season spanning from June to October, Queenstown is an absolute mecca for snowboarders and skiers who can choose amongst the regions’ five world-class commercial ski resorts – The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona, Treble Cone and Snow Farm.
Each resort is suitable for all levels of ability, featuring Olympic super pipes, comfortable chairlifts, smooth manicured runs, mountain trails, green to black diamond runs, and, of course, breathtaking scenery. Grab yourself a single, multi day or season ski pass and some lessons, and hit the slopes for a truly unforgettable time!
Get your adrenalin fix
Outside of winter, there are plenty of exhilarating activities on offer, from indoor thrills to adventures in the sky, water and on land. Immerse yourself in the beautiful natural surrounds with outdoor adventures, from mountaineering and climbing, hiking, mountain biking, rafting and kayaking.
Turn it up a notch and experience a famous Kawarau Bridge Bungy jump, or go jet boating through the rugged grandeur of the white-water rapids of Shotover River. Take in epic views of the Southern Alps and surrounding lakes with a spot of tandem skydiving, or for those who like to be a bit closer to the ground, explore the rocky gorges and creek crossings by quad bike.
Indulge in world-class food and wine
For an après–ski culinary fix, Queenstown certainly doesn’t disappoint, serving up something for every taste and budget. Brave the queues and try one of the famous burgers at Fergburger or a delicious pie next door at Fergbaker.
There are some amazing fine-dining options but be sure to book in advance. We recommend Nest Bar & Kitchen for breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu, and Botswana Butchery for the finest cuts of wagyu eye fillet and slow-roast lamb shoulder. After dinner, head to Patagonia Chocolates or Cookie Time Cookie Bar for delectable dessert treats.
Satiate wine cravings and book into one of many wine tours through the renowned Gibbston wine region, where you can taste award-winning Pinot Noir and visit New Zealand’s largest wine cave at Gibbston Valley Winery.
Soak in a Japanese Onsen spa
After a day of activities, soothe away sore muscles and unwind at Onsen Hot Pools, a boutique retreat and day spa that offers ultimate relaxation. Overlooking the Shotover River, the spa has 14 world-renowned cedar-lined hot pools that are open from the afternoon to and evening.
Book in for an hour-long soak in the Original Onsen or treat yourself to the Ultimate Relaxation Experience, and afterwards indulge in your choice of face or body treatments in the day spa room.
Checkout nearby Arrowtown and Glenorchy
Historic Arrowtown, established during the gold rush of the 1860s, is an easy 20-minute drive east of Queenstown. The scenic town sits beside Arrow River and is as vibrant today as ever, with several boutique and designer stores, chic cafes and fine dining restaurants. For a touch of the past, visit the Lakes District Museum and Gallery to discover the area’s rich history, or hire a gold pan and try your luck at gold mining at the river!
Set against a background of native beech forest and towering mountain ranges, and only a 45-minute drive from Queenstown, you’ll find beautiful Glenorchy. An outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, Glenorchy has plenty of things to do, from walking tracks, horse riding, fishing, to finding those perfect photography spots. It is also home to filming locations from The Lord of the Rings, including Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains and Ithilien.
The most breathtaking view of Queenstown
Take a ride on the Southern Hemisphere’s steepest cable car, the iconic Queenstown Gondola, and travel 450 metres up to Bob’s Peak. From the top, you’ll find awe-inspiring panoramic views of the aptly named The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.
For lovers of speed, test out Queenstown Luge and zoom down a course of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Afterwards, grab a bite to eat at the Market Kitchen Café or Stratosfare Restaurant and enjoy the views over a sumptuous meal. There are also some cute shops to explore, such as the Jelly Belly Store and fun giftshops!
Wander along scenic trails
Whether you’re looking for relaxed short walks or multi-day walks, you will find the most beautiful trails in and around Queenstown. Explore the Queenstown Gardens as you wander along the walking trails or have a go at playing the Disc Golf course – an 18-basket course that takes you through 14 hectares of perfectly landscaped gardens.
For longer walks showcasing Queenstown’s world-famous natural beauty, try out the Queenstown Hill Walking Track or the Ben Lomond Walkway, giving you spectacular 360-degree alpine views.
Enjoy a Milford Sound day trip
Explore majestic Milford Sound and discover its towering peaks, magnificent cascading waterfalls, and remarkable wildlife. There are plenty of day and overnight cruises and scenic flights to choose from, or hire a kayak and journey around the sounds.
While you can spend more than one day in Milford Sound, a one-day itinerary is enough to see all the beautiful views along the way, take a scenic cruise around the fiord, and get back to Queenstown in time for dinner. These day tours usually arrive in the sound around lunchtime, just in time to board a cruise on the fiord and explore it from the water.
Afterwards, you can choose to return via coach, or take a scenic helicopter flight back! Top rated Milford Sound day tours include awesomeNZ.com and GreatSights.
