Tucked into a stunning bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and backed by the dramatic Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown is one of the most iconic and most visited destinations in New Zealand. But this resort town is so much more than just a pretty face. It’s a year-round playground where adventure meets luxury, wilderness meets culture, and everyday moments feel like once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Where Is Queenstown?
Queenstown is located in the Otago region of the South Island, roughly a 3-hour drive from Dunedin or a 6.5-hour drive from Christchurch. It has its own international airport, making it easily accessible from Auckland, Wellington, and even Sydney or Melbourne.
Adrenaline Adventures (That Made Queenstown Famous)
Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping and a global icon for thrill-seekers. If you’re looking to tick off a few bucket list items, this is the place.
Skydiving
- Freefall from up to 15,000 ft with views of lakes, glaciers, rivers, and snow-capped peaks. Few skydives in the world match the scenery here.
Bungy Jumping
- Try the Kawarau Bridge Bungy (43m) for the original experience.
- Or go all-in at the Nevis Bungy (134m) for the highest jump in New Zealand.
Jet Boating
- Shotover Jet takes you skimming through narrow river canyons with adrenaline-pumping spins.
- KJet offers high-speed rides on Lake Wakatipu and the Kawarau River.
Whitewater Rafting & Canyoning
- Queenstown offers rafting adventures on the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers, with options for beginners and experienced paddlers.
- Canyoning trips take you abseiling, sliding, and jumping through waterfalls and forest canyons.
Nature & Scenic Beauty
Queenstown is just as much about soaking in the views as it is about chasing thrills.
Lake Wakatipu
- Shaped like a lightning bolt, this glacier-carved lake is surrounded by jagged peaks. Walk the lakeside trail, rent a kayak, or hop on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a classic lake cruise.
Hiking Trails
- Queenstown Hill (1.5–2 hrs return): Offers sweeping views of the lake and town.
- Ben Lomond (6–8 hrs return): A challenging alpine hike with panoramic views at the top.
- Mt Crichton Loop Track: A forest walk past waterfalls and old gold-mining huts.
Queenstown Gardens
- Just a 5-minute walk from the town centre, these peaceful gardens have rose beds, lakefront trails, and a frisbee golf course with mountain views.
Relax & Rejuvenate
Need a break from the adrenaline?
- Onsen Hot Pools: Private cedar-lined tubs overlooking the Shotover River canyon—book ahead, they’re popular!
- Spa treatments and yoga retreats are also on offer for those chasing a more tranquil vibe.
Wine, Food, and Flavour
Queenstown’s culinary scene has exploded in recent years, blending global inspiration with local ingredients.
Local Icons:
- Fergburger – The legendary burger joint. Massive portions, epic flavour.
- Fergbaker – Right next door. Try the venison pie or a classic kiwi sausage roll.
Restaurants to Remember:
- Rātā – Upscale dining by celebrity chef Josh Emett, using locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.
- Botswana Butchery – A warm, elegant setting with exceptional meats and wine pairings.
- Taco Medic – Street-style tacos done right, perfect for a casual bite.
Wineries:
- Head to Gibbston Valley, just 25 minutes away, to taste some of the world’s best pinot noir.
- Top picks: Gibbston Valley Winery, Chard Farm, and Akarua.
Winter in Queenstown: A Snow Lover’s Dream
From June to October, Queenstown becomes a snow-covered wonderland with four ski fields in close proximity:
- Coronet Peak – Closest to town and offers night skiing.
- The Remarkables – Great for beginners and families.
- Cardrona – A little further away but has terrain for all levels and a great vibe.
- Treble Cone – More advanced and less crowded, with sweeping views over Lake Wanaka.
Shopping & Souvenirs
Wander the cobbled streets of the town centre, where you’ll find boutique clothing, outdoor gear, artisan crafts, and plenty of great coffee. Don’t forget to grab locally made manuka honey, pounamu jewellery, or merino wool garments as a keepsake.
Where to Stay
Queenstown offers something for every budget and travel style:
- Luxury Lodges – Matakauri Lodge, Eichardt’s Private Hotel
- Boutique Hotels – The Rees, QT Queenstown, Sherwood
- Backpacker Hostels – Nomads, Adventure Queenstown, The Flaming Kiwi
- Lakeside Airbnbs – Plenty of cozy stays with views you'll never forget
Day Trips From Queenstown
Extend your adventure with easy day trips:
- Arrowtown – A charming gold rush village just 20 minutes away.
- Glenorchy – A scenic drive along the lake (a must-do), with incredible hiking trails like the Routeburn Track.
- Wanaka – Just over an hour’s drive, home to another stunning lake and relaxed vibes.
Top Things to Do in Queenstown
Adrenaline & Adventure
- Bungy Jumping – Leap off the Kawarau Bridge (the world’s first commercial bungy) or go big at the Nevis Bungy (134m!).
- Skydiving – Freefall over stunning alpine scenery from up to 15,000 ft.
- Jet Boating – Hold on tight as you speed through narrow river gorges with Shotover Jet or KJet.
- White Water Rafting – Paddle through the wild Shotover or Kawarau Rivers.
- Paragliding or Hang Gliding – Soar above Lake Wakatipu from Bob’s Peak.
- Canyoning – Abseil, slide, and jump your way through waterfalls and canyons.
Scenic Nature & Walks
- Queenstown Hill Time Walk – A rewarding 1.5–2 hour climb with panoramic views.
- Ben Lomond Track – A full-day alpine hike for serious adventurers.
- Lake Wakatipu Walks – Stroll along the lakeside path or explore the peaceful Frankton Trail.
- Queenstown Gardens – Lakeside gardens perfect for a relaxing walk, picnic, or frisbee golf.
Winter Fun
- Skiing & Snowboarding – Hit the slopes at:
- Coronet Peak
- The Remarkables
- Cardrona
- Treble Cone
- Night Skiing – Available at Coronet Peak during the season.
Water & Lake Activities
- Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw – Ride the iconic steamship across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
- Kayaking or Paddleboarding – Rent gear and glide across the lake at your own pace.
- Fishing & Lake Tours – Try your luck fishing or book a scenic boat tour.
Relax & Recharge
- Onsen Hot Pools – Soak in a private hot tub overlooking the Shotover River.
- Spa Treatments – Indulge in a massage or full spa day at one of Queenstown’s luxury spas.
Food & Drink Experiences
- Fergburger – A Queenstown legend. Huge, delicious burgers with global fame.
- Rātā – Upscale dining with a seasonal Kiwi menu by Josh Emett.
- Taco Medic, Devil Burger, or Fergbaker – For casual, tasty eats.
- Amisfield Bistro & Winery – A top wine-and-dine experience near Lake Hayes.
- Gibbston Valley Wine Tours – Explore nearby vineyards and try award-winning Central Otago pinot noir.
Instagram-Worthy Spots
- Sunrise or sunset at Bob’s Peak (via gondola or hike).
- That iconic shot of Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown Hill.
- Arrowtown in autumn – Historic charm + colourful trees.
- Glenorchy Road drive – Possibly the most scenic drive in New Zealand.
Shopping & Exploring
- Browse Queenstown’s town centre – Boutique shops, artisan goods, merino wool, outdoor gear.
- Saturday Creative Queenstown Market – Handmade crafts, jewellery, and local art by the lake.
Epic Day Trips from Queenstown
- Arrowtown – A charming historic gold-mining village just 20 minutes away.
- Glenorchy – Gateway to the Routeburn Track and other stunning walks.
- Wanaka – A scenic 1-hour drive over the Crown Range, with more lakes, hikes, and relaxed vibes.
Final Thoughts
Queenstown is more than just New Zealand’s tourism capital it’s a place that captures your imagination, pumps your adrenaline, feeds your soul, and keeps you coming back for more. Whether you're here to chase thrills, hike mountains, sip wine by the lake, or do absolutely nothing but stare at the view… Queenstown makes it all feel unforgettable.
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