A paradise for adventurers on New Zealand’s South Island, with bungee jumping, jet boating and so more much on offer.
With its glorious scenery and exciting adventure sports, New Zealand’s South Island is a much-visited destination for lovers of the great outdoors from across the globe. Situated between the country’s longest lake, Lake Wakatipu, and the Ben Lomond mountain, Queenstown is the region’s hub, attracting everyone from hikers and campers to mountain bikers and skiers, all of whom come to enjoy the captivating beauty of the country.
With its temperate oceanic climate, Queenstown benefits from warm summers with average temperatures reaching 25°C, long days and cool nights perfect for exploring the landscape. Between May and July, you’ll see the snow-capped peaks that envelop the cityscape, making the region ideal for anyone with a passion for the white stuff.
You don’t have to go far to find somewhere to explore. Board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, take a cruise to Walter Peak, or visit High County Farm for a taste of traditional farm life. Or for incredible views around the region and some great hiking around Lake Wakatipu, take the Skyline Gondola up to the top of Bob’s Peak.
With world-class facilities across Queenstown, adventure sports enthusiasts flock from all over the world to enjoy the thrills on offer. Head for the Kawarau Suspension Bridge where you can go bungee jumping at the first such commercial platform in the world, and take the plunge some 43 metres down. Or you can take a ride down the Shotover River on the Shotover Jet, an exciting and heady jet-boat experience.
Even if you choose to stay in Queenstown, you’ll feel the great vibe around the city in its bars, restaurants and hotels. Check out Steamer Wharf for some fun entertainment as well as plenty of fine local cuisine and wines available for you sample. For a more peaceful day out, pay a visit to the Queenstown Gardens for a leisurely stroll and a picnic in the sunshine.
Situated to the southwest of South Island, you can reach Queenstown by plane, bus or car. Cars are widely available to hire, making it easy to explore the region. Popular throughout the year, the snow season is the area’s peak time with accommodation selling out fast. If you need gear for your hiking or skiing adventures, there are plenty of local shops offering equipment around town.
Queenstown Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Queenstown
Frankton
4.5/5Wonderful!(202 area reviews)
Stay in this picturesque part of Queenstown where the airport is located to enjoy spectacular mountain views and relaxed lakeside walks.
Go for a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Wakatipu in this peaceful suburb in the foothills of Ben Lomond, one of Queenstown’s most iconic mountains.
This family-friendly Queenstown hotel is located near the airport, within 1 mi (2 km) of Steamer Wharf and Lake Wakatipu. Skyline Gondola and Queenstown Gardens ...…This family-friendly Queenstown hotel is located near the airport, within 1 mi (2 km) of Steamer Wharf and Lake Wakatipu. Skyline Gondola and Queenstown Gardens ...WWW…
4.4/5Wonderful! (2,564 reviews)
"Staff were very friendly and helpful. Service was really good and the rooms were very clean and tidy"…""Staff were very friendly and helpful. Service was really good and the rooms were very clean and tidy"WWW…"
Situated on the waterfront, this luxury hotel is within 3 miles (5 km) of Lake Wakatipu, Remarkables Park Town Centre and Queenstown Event Centre. Alpine Aqualand ...…Situated on the waterfront, this luxury hotel is within 3 miles (5 km) of Lake Wakatipu, Remarkables Park Town Centre and Queenstown Event Centre. Alpine Aqualand ...WWW…
4.5/5Wonderful! (2,354 reviews)
"It was in a great location, across the lake from the centre of town, but still easily accessible by ferry. Our room was right on the water and had a lovely outdoor dining area. We had a two bedroom suite which was lovely and had everything we needed, including a washer and dryer for our dirty laundry! ..."…""It was in a great location, across the lake from the centre of town, but still easily accessible by ferry. Our room was right on the water and had a lovely outdoor dining area. We had a two bedroom suite which was lovely and had everything we needed, including a washer and dryer for our dirty laundry! ..."WWW…"
Situated on the waterfront, this luxury apartment building is within 3 miles (5 km) of St Josephs Parish, Queenstown Gardens and Lake Wakatipu. Skyline Gondola ...…Situated on the waterfront, this luxury apartment building is within 3 miles (5 km) of St Josephs Parish, Queenstown Gardens and Lake Wakatipu. Skyline Gondola ...WWW…
4.1/5Very Good! (1,120 reviews)
"We got the dirty room but they changed better one. And there are not easy wifi system. But there has fantastic view. I want to come here again if I back to NZ"…""We got the dirty room but they changed better one. And there are not easy wifi system. But there has fantastic view. I want to come here again if I back to NZ"WWW…"
A great location for water sports, New Zealand’s third-largest lake is an impressive natural landmark framed by soaring mountains and encircled by walking trails.
Take lessons on the baby slopes, tear up fresh power at a higher elevation or attempt daring stunts in the terrain parks at this popular mountain resort.
Skiers and snowboarders will find plenty of inviting slopes at this ski mountain, known for being one of New Zealand’s best venues for freestyle snow riding.
Join our seamless day trip to Milford Sound on board brand new glass-roofed coaches connecting with a spacious purpose built catamaran. Board the coach in Queenstown and travel alongside Lake Wakatipu and through farming countryside to Te Anau where you will enjoy a short rest stop.
Milford Sound Sunriser - Early Coach & Cruise Full Day Tour
NZ$149
Be the first Queenstowners of the day to discover beautiful setting of Milford Sound on this comprehensive early departure coach & cruise day tour. Explore for yourself on this scenic glass roof coach ride and fjord cruise.
For Lord of the Rings fans, this is the trip where Nomad Safaris really does take you There and Back again. Bring the films to life with our authentic replica props, dress up and take photos, or simply soak up the scenery.
Step aboard a spacious catamaran to cruise into the untouched waters of Doubtful Sound. With knowledgeable guides describing this pristine landscape's landmarks and wildlife, take in the remote majesty of the waterways and mountains in the heart of Fiordland National Park.
No restaurant in Queenstown can compete with Stratosfare for views. See for yourself with a memorable dining experience high above town. Take a ride up the Skyline Gondola to the summit of Bob’s Peak, and enjoy a sumptuous meal in spectacular surroundings.
Queenstown 60 minute Jet Boat Ride on the Shotover & Kawarau Rivers
NZ$112
Itinerary Only KJet takes you on an insane 60 minute high speed ride across three waterways traveling at speeds of up to 95kph in the fastest and meanest Jet boats in town. Stop At: • Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown New Zealand • Kawarau River, New Zealand
