Queenstown

Discover one of New Zealand's most thrilling destinations. Surrounded by magnificent mountains and situated on the edge of a lake, Queenstown is the centre of adventure, adrenaline, and fun. Bungy jump off the historic Kawarau Bridge. Hike to the summit of Ben Lomond for breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu or go skydiving over the Southern Alps.

Highlights

If you can count on one thing, it is that Queenstown will awaken your inner adventurer. Whether you're into leaping off bridges, chasing steep slopes, exploring trails, or indulging in food and wine, there are exhilarating experiences to be found for all tastes and tempos.

Best known as the home of bungee jumping, Queenstown is a bustling city with award-winning restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. Being outdoors and active is the order of the day with skydiving, bungee jumping, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, luging, and rafting on offer.

Bungy Jumping

Queenstown is most famous for the first-ever commercial bungy operation that was launched at the Kawarau Bridge. At first, many locals dismissed it as a passing trend but it caught on and the bungy jump quickly became an international sensation – and the launch of adventure tourism in New Zealand.

AJ Hackett is the original bungy jumping operation in New Zealand. With more than 30 years and 4 million successful jumps, Skypark by AJ Hackett is the world's leading adventure tourism brand.

Nevis Bungy

The Nevis is the highest bungy jump in New Zealand. The 134-metre fall takes a mere eight seconds, amid fear and adrenaline, which may feel like eight years. Bearing in mind that the journey to the big jump over steep roads and across gorges will have your nerves going already.

Kawarau Bridge

This is the bungy jump that started it all in New Zealand. While it may not be as scary as the Nevis, the 43-metres drop into the gorge where you will dip your head into the river below is just as exhilarating.

The Ledge

Before you jump off The Ledge bungy, take a moment to enjoy the wonderful views of Queenstown. You have an option to leap upside down, backwards or straight on. Whichever you choose, it is 47-metres of pure thrills.

Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is renowned for its scenic beauty because it is bordered on all sides by tall mountains, the highest of which is Mount Earnslaw (2.819 metres). Queenstown and the villages of Kingston, Glenorchy and Kinloch surround the lake.

Learn about the Maori legend

When travelling through New Zealand you'll learn about many Maori legends. Lake Wakatipu is oddly shaped and because of that, it has a 'tide" ( "standing wave"), which causes the water to rise and fall about 10 centimetres every 25 minutes or so. According to Maori legend, this strange occurrence is the heartbeat of a huge monster named Matau, who they believe is sleeping at the bottom of the lake.

Cruising across Lake Wakatipu on a restored steamship is a blissful way to appreciate the magnificent alpine scenery. The T.S.S. Earnslaw cruises the lake every day and is a New Zealand icon. The Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Tour is an alternate way to appreciate the beauty of this lake. Feel the breeze in your hair as you cruise across the lake to Mt Nicholas High Country Farm and into the waters of Bob’s Cove.

Go swimming, fishing and hiking

Lake Wakatipu offers year-round trout fishing and in summer, the lake's beaches are popular for swimming. The Lake Wakatipu Ride which is part of the Queenstown Trails is a relaxed way to experience the beautiful landscape.

Things to do

Cruising across Lake Wakatipu on a restored steamship is a blissful way to appreciate the magnificent alpine scenery. The T.S.S. Earnslaw cruises the lake every day. Complete with a bright red funnel, white hull and kauri timber decks, this vintage steamship is a New Zealand icon. The Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Tour is an alternate way to appreciate the beauty of this lake. Feel the breeze in your hair as you cruise across the lake to Mt Nicholas High Country Farm and into the waters of Bob’s Cove.

Go swimming, fishing and hiking

Lake Wakatipu offers year-round trout fishing at the mouths of the Greenstone and Lochy Rivers. In summer, the lake's beaches are popular for swimming. The Lake Wakatipu Ride, part of the Queenstown Trails, is a leisurely way to experience this stunning part of the country.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range

If you love beautiful views of mountain ranges and lakes, the Queenstown Gondola, an icon in Queenstown, is a must. Ride 450-metres up to Bob's Peak and marvel at the unrivalled views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.

Cycle along the Queenstown Trail

One of the best ways to take in the spectacular landscape of Queenstown is by bike. Pick one of the Queenstown Trail’s routes, and relish the scenery of quaint towns such as Arrowtown, and stunning wineries and you could even stop at one of the bungy jump sites.

Get a bird's-eye view of Queenstown

Take to the air on a scenic flight and enjoy views of the mountain ranges, lakes, and lush greenery. There are so many options from helicopter rides to paragliding. Perhaps an early morning hot air balloon ride watching the sunrise with a champagne breakfast upon landing would appeal to your more romantic side.

Visit nearby towns Arrowtown and Glenorchy

The historic and quaint Arrowtown was founded during the gold rush of the 1860s. Only a 20 minutes drive east of Queenstown, this picturesque destination is home to the Lakes District Museum and Gallery – which showcases the area’s history and relics. Why not try your luck at discovering gold while you are there? Hire a Gold Pan and head down to the river and who knows, you might strike gold.

Get lost in other-worldly film locations

Only a 45-minute drive from Queenstown nestled in the forest and towering mountain ranges, you will find the beautiful Glenorchy. It is a paradise for those who love walking tracks, horse riding, and fishing, not to mention avid photographers scouting the perfect shot. Fans of The Lord of the Rings can discover the shooting locations for Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains and Ithilien.

Food and wine regions

For a foodie, Queenstown’s diversity is best experienced via a culinary tour. Let your tastebuds do the exploring from famous burgers and delicious desserts to more refined meals at the many fine-dining restaurants.

The Gibbston area of Queenstown, known as the Valley of the Vines, is one of the most breathtaking areas to visit in New Zealand. Spend a day biking around mountains and rivers as you unearth beautiful vineyards and hidden little gems.

More than 70% of the grapes grown here are pinot noir. Spend some time leisurely exploring this area, sampling the wine, and meeting the locals. Go wine-tasting at any of these wineries and you won't be disappointed.

• Gibbston Valley Winery

• Mt Rosa Wines

• Chard Farm

• Amisfield Winery & Bistro

Experience a picturesque autumn festival

During April, colourful leaves line the streets of Arrowtown and the historic gold mining town comes alive with the Arrowtown Autumn Festival. Mingle with locals, sample the wine and relax on a picnic blanket soaking up the views.

The Queenstown Trail

The Queenstown Cycle Trail network links Queenstown, Arrowtown and Gibbston, and is 130-kilometre of spectacular scenery. The cycling ranges from easy to advanced and you can choose simple lakeside trails or challenging cross-country treks.

Wine tours in Queenstown and Gibbston

You cannot say you have visited Queenstown if you haven't done a wine tour. Stroll through vineyards, cycle to each winery or jump on a hop-on-hop-off winery tour bus. There is an option for everyone, just make sure you to relax and enjoy.

Nearby Towns

Wanaka

Wanaka is a vibrant alpine town, set around Lake Wanaka. It's the perfect place to stay if you want to explore the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park. There are several hiking tracks to try including the Rocky Mountain Track which offers stunning views. Lake Wanaka is ideal for fly fishing, boat cruises, jet boating, kayaking, and swimming.

Most activities revolve around the picturesque lake with bike tours, vineyards, and scenic flights on offer. The town centre is buzzing with lakeside restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops with local products. In the winter months, skiing can be enjoyed at Treble Cone and Cardrona Ski Resorts.

Te Anau

Te Anau is a picture-perfect town nestled on the edge of a lake. With many accommodation options available, it is a charming place to stay to visit Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. It's best to book accommodation as early as possible as it gets booked out quickly.

Invercargill

New Zealand’s southernmost city was founded in the 1850s and with a population of approximately 60,000, it is the capital of Southland. Discover Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco heritage buildings on an evening stroll and savour the old-world charm. A place with plenty of character you'll easily strike up a conversation with locals at the lively bars or restaurants.

Lake Tekapo

During the day the lake exudes a picture-perfect stillness and at night it transforms into a dazzling sight. Part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, it is the perfect spot to spend the evening stargazing.

Lake Tekapo is a three-hour drive from Christchurch. The town is stunning as it faces north across the turquoise-coloured water looking out to the spectacular range of the Southern Alps.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a fascinating city full of history, abundant in wildlife and bustling with students. From edgy urban street art to adorable penguins, it is full of surprises.

Find hidden little gems and admire grand heritage buildings as you explore in and around the city centre. Stroll through the lush Dunedin Botanic Gardens and take a relaxing gondola ride as a floral wonderland passes you by. Or hike to the Signal Hill Lookout for panoramic views over the city and beyond.

The Otago Peninsula is an eco-tourism destination renowned for its rare wildlife species including penguins, albatross and fur seals. A drive down the peninsula will reveal quaint villages set amongst wild landscapes. Take your time discovering local gems, including New Zealand’s only castle.

Make sure you tick off these activities and attractions in Dunedin next time you're in town:

• Enjoy a locally brewed beer

• Visit Port Chalmers

• Explore the Dunedin street art trail

• Have fun at the stunning beaches

• The Otago Museum or Toitu Otago Settlers Museum

• Dunedin's heritage buildings

• Larnach Castle

National Parks

Many national parks are within just a few hours' drive from Queenstown.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is two hours from Queenstown and is popular with hikers thanks to the untouched wilderness. Situated on the West Coast, it is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. It is considered a mecca for outdoor adventure with alpine lakes, towering mountains, deep valleys and spectacular glaciers.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park boasts 19 of the highest 20 mountains in New Zealand and is three hours from Queenstown. It is a vast alpine landscape with snow-capped peaks, glaciers, lakes and ski fields, all set under a canopy of stars. A hiking and nature lovers dream, it has many walking tracks and native flora and fauna to discover.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park has the distinction of being New Zealand's largest national park. Located three hours and forty minutes from Queenstown it is named on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Experience ancient rainforests, snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls and the remarkable Milford and Doubtful Sound fiords. They can be explored by kayak, on foot and by boat.

Where to stay?

Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in Queenstown and beyond. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.

Why book with us?

• A well-designed holiday, just for you

• Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts

• Carefully recommended activities based on your interests

• A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs

• Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday

• 30 years of experience in travel to New Zealand

Let's design your holiday together

We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.