Joanna James
Situated near the banks of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by scenic mountains, Queenstown is highly praised as New Zealand's adventure capital. Here are the top 10 attractions to see and experience.
A relatively easy walk, the track is a great way to experience the region's scenic beauty if you have limited time on your hands. The track takes you through beech forests leading up to Twelve Mile Creek Gorge, famous as the site of a gold rush during the 1860s. The ruins of some of the miners' cottages are still visible today, giving visitors a glimpse of how harsh life must have been like for prospectors.
Situated along the banks of Lake Wakatipu, the gardens are home to a wide variety of both endemic and international trees and plant species. It's best known for it's oak and fir trees that were planted in 1866. There's also a beautiful rose garden that's perfect for an afternoon of walking and relaxing.
One of the most scenic drives you can take around Queenstown is through Skipper's Canyon, a 22km long canyon that was once home to gold prospectors in the late 1890s. Today, the winding road that runs through the canyon, bordered by incredible vertical drops on one side and towering cliffs on the other, makes for a spectacular road trip.
One of the country's most popular destinations for skiing, the Remarkables, a mountain range best known for its excellent ski slopes, is ideal for both beginner and experienced skiers. The ski slopes boast a modern ski facility and shuttle buses that run between the slopes and Queenstown.
Queenstown's most notable attraction is the distinctly shaped Lake Wakatipu, fringed by tall mountains and lush greenery. During the gold rush, over 30 passenger ships were on the Lake, servicing the thousands who came in search of gold. Today, lake traffic has greatly reduced down to recreational fishing boats and kayak tours. If you're looking for hotels facing the lake in Queenstown, apartment accommodation is available near the banks, with hotels like Oaks Shores offering panoramic views.
The countryside around Queenstown is brimming with wonderful natural scenery, but you don't have to travel far to see all of it. The skyline gondola, located in the middle of town, offers visitors a chance to soar high into the skies above the Queenstown and take in amazing panoramic views of the town, Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains. The cable car is the steepest in the region, and the summit is a number of platforms to soak up more of the view.
You can't visit New Zealand and not try bungee jumping. The AJ Hackett Bungy was the company that started the extreme experience that would go on to become a worldwide hit. The Kawarau Bridge bungee is the original location where it all began, so head over and experience bungee jumping with its creators.
The Shotover River is home to the Shotover Jet; an extreme sporting activity that allows you to race down the narrow river, bordered by canyon cliffs and massive boulders. One of the town's oldest sports, it's often described as the most exciting jet boat ride in the world.
Another favourite ski destination that provides world-class facilities is Coronet Peak. However, these slopes are better suited for experienced skiers and offer a range of ski trails and the opportunity to ski at night! Like the Remarkables, shuttle buses run between the peak and the town.
The kiwi is New Zealand's national icon but viewing one can be difficult due to its nocturnal nature and remote habitat. The Kiwi Birdlife Park gives visitors the rare opportunity to view this beloved bird in specially designed kiwi habitats. If you're travelling with kids, the park also has fun activities such as feeding kiwis and conservation talks to keep them amused. In addition, the park has a large 5-acre park where you can spot other native birdlife.
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