Queenstown

General Info

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, is one of New Zealand’s premier tourist destinations. With a population of around 27,000, this South Island town is famed for its outdoor adventure opportunities, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural beauty.

Known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” Queenstown is popular for activities like skiing, bungee jumping, and skydiving. Its mild climate, breathtaking landscapes, and proximity to iconic attractions like Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park make it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Top 10 Natural Attractions

1. Lake Wakatipu – A stunning, crystal-clear lake framed by mountains, perfect for boating, kayaking, and scenic walks along its shores.

2. Remarkables Mountain Range – A majestic mountain range known for skiing in winter and hiking and climbing in warmer months.

3. Milford Sound – A breathtaking fjord within Fiordland National Park, known for towering cliffs, waterfalls, and marine life.

4. Queenstown Gardens – A beautiful public garden featuring walking trails, flower beds, and views over Lake Wakatipu.

5. Ben Lomond – A challenging hiking destination offering panoramic views of Queenstown and surrounding mountains.

6. Glenorchy – A picturesque village and gateway to stunning hikes, including the Routeburn Track, with incredible scenery.

7. Skippers Canyon – A historic and scenic canyon with rugged landscapes, popular for 4WD tours and jet boating.

8. Mount Aspiring National Park – A diverse landscape of glaciers, rivers, and mountains, ideal for hiking and exploring.

9. Arrowtown – A charming historic gold mining town near Queenstown, surrounded by scenic hills and autumnal colors.

10. Fiordland National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site offering some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes and hiking trails.

Top 10 Key Tourism Activities

1. Bungee Jumping at Kawarau Bridge – Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at the world’s first commercial jump site.

2. Skyline Gondola and Luge – Take the gondola up to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, then ride the luge tracks down.

3. Jet Boating on the Shotover River – Enjoy a high-speed jet boat ride through narrow canyons on the scenic Shotover River.

4. Skiing and Snowboarding – Queenstown is a top destination for winter sports, with nearby ski fields like Coronet Peak and the Remarkables.

5. Skydiving Over Queenstown – Experience the adrenaline rush of skydiving with incredible views of lakes and mountains.

6. Wine Tasting in Gibbston Valley – Visit vineyards in the Gibbston Valley, known for its excellent Pinot Noir and scenic vineyards.

7. Milford Sound Cruise – Take a cruise through the stunning fjords of Milford Sound to see waterfalls, wildlife, and towering cliffs.

8. Hiking the Routeburn Track – Explore one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, with views of mountains, lakes, and valleys.

9. Helicopter Tour to Franz Josef Glacier – Take a scenic helicopter flight to land on a glacier and explore the icy landscape.

10. Explore Arrowtown’s Historic Sites – Discover Arrowtown’s heritage with a walk through preserved buildings from the gold mining era.

With its blend of thrilling activities, picturesque landscapes, and unique attractions, Queenstown offers an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking adventure and natural beauty.