Queenstown is a resort town in Otago, situated in the south-west of New Zealand’s South Island. The town is built around an inlet called Queenstown Bay on Lake Wakatipu, a long thin lake which was formed by glacial processes, and boasts incredible views of nearby mountains such as The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Walter Peak, Ben Lomond, and Queenstown Hill. Thanks to its spectacular location, Queenstown is a popular tourist destination, especially amongst adventure and ski enthusiasts.
If you’re planning a visit, be sure not to miss these 6 top-rated adventures.
Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park
Arguably the most breath-taking destination in New Zealand, the Milford Sound offers an extensive landscape of often snow-capped mountains, crystal fjords and lakes, roaring waterfalls, and lush greenery. Travel by coach from Queenstown to the Fiordland National Park to explore this abundant landscape, and take a boat cruise on the Milfound Sound to see the Remarkables mountain range, Lake Wakatipu and Lake Te Anau.
Lake Wakatipu Cruise and Mt Nicholas Tour
You can’t go wrong with the 3h45m sightseeing catamaran cruise from Queenstown across Lake Wakatipu to the Mt Nicholas High Country Station. From there you will be able to tour the hills in a 4 Wheel Drive vehicle with a guide where you will learn all about the local wildlife. Catch interesting tales from the captain en route to the merino sheep farm on Lake Wakatipu’s southern shore, and take brief walks for a birds-eye view of the region.
SKYCITY Queenstown Casino
SKYCITY Queenstown casino is the destination of choice for a thrilling adventure like no other! Open from noon until 4am daily, you will never have to wait until nightfall to join in on the fun, and fun is definitely available in abundance. Featuring your favourite casino table games such as Blackjack, Roulette, Midi Baccarat, and Caribbean Stud Poker, as well as 86 game machines, you’ll never run out of entertainment. However, if online casino NZ is more your speed, there are plenty to choose from as well.
Queenstown Skyline Gondola and Luge
This is definitely one for the thrill-seekers. Although not as hair-raising as the Olympic sport, the Queenstown luge winds downhill with outstanding 220 degree views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, and guests can choose between the scenic, gentle track or descend a steeper gradient on the advanced track. You can also take the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak where you can experience the Skyline Luge Queenstown on 5 rides.
Half Day Bike Tour of Arrow River Trail
For those that love the great outdoors, but also want to get some exercise while on vacation, the half day bike tour of the Arrow and Kawarau River Trails is the perfect option. A free hotel pick-up and drop is included, and you will be transferred from Queenstown for an easy off-road mountain bike trail that spans approximately 9 miles or 15 kilometres of flat terrain. Cross the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, famous for its bungee jumping, and enjoy wine tasting at the Gibbston Valley Winery.
Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride
Perfect for adrenaline junkies, the Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride is a hair-raising 25 minute skim across the Shotover River’s surface. Experience high-speed 360 degree fishtails, rapids, and narrow canyons for a heart-pounding adventure you won’t forget in a hurry.
Whatever your fancy, Queenstown has it all!