Queenstown, positioned on the South Island of New Zealand, is a panoramic vacation spot that gives a novel mix of pure magnificence and journey. With beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear lakes, it’s no surprise that Queenstown is taken into account one of many most beautiful places on earth. However this city is greater than only a fairly face. Generally known as the journey capital of the world, Queenstown is a hub for thrill-seekers, and adrenaline junkies. In case you’re on the lookout for issues to do in Queenstown to get the adrenaline pumping, you will have come to the best place.
High Issues to do in Queenstown
Get able to soar by way of the sky with a skydive, really feel the frenzy of a bungee leap, or just absorb the beautiful views, Queenstown has it. On this article, we’ll take a more in-depth have a look at the perfect issues to do in Queenstown, so you may take advantage of your go to and create reminiscences that can final a lifetime.
1. Bungy Soar
Expertise the joys of bungy leaping within the birthplace of the world’s first industrial bungy leap. With three bungy websites to select from it must be on the high of the perfect issues to do in Queenstown. All the websites function each day year-round, and Queenstown is the last word vacation spot for daredevils. Learn extra: 8 Great Places to Go Bungee Jumping in New Zealand
Kawarau Bridge Bungy
Situated 25 minutes from Queenstown in Gibbston, is the world’s first industrial bungy leap, the place you may leap 43m above the Kawarau River. Soar solo or tandem, with water touches being a must-try. Free transfers from Queenstown can be found.
Ledge Bungy
At 43m excessive, it feels even greater because the bungy platform is perched on the sting of a cliff on the high of the Skyline advanced in central Queenstown. With a wonderful viewing space, it’s additionally a fantastic choice for spectators.
Nevis Bungy
Standing 134m (440ft) above the beautiful Nevis valley. Take a look at your bravery and willpower with this excessive expertise. Spherical-trip transfers from Queenstown are included, and you’ll mix them with the Nevis Swing for a very memorable expertise. The spherical journey takes roughly 3.5 hours.
2. Skydiving
Leaping from an plane at 15,000ft requires bravery! You’re tied to a seasoned tandem grasp, brace your self for a sensory overload as you hit 200 kmph. The private problem is large. Soar above breathtaking landscapes, together with alpine resorts, pristine lakes, and snow-capped peaks. You’ll be able to guide your Skydive Adventure in Queenstown prematurely by way of GetYour Information. Cancel as much as 24 hours prematurely for a full refund.
You’ll be able to select to freefall from the next top choices:
- From 15,000ft you’ll freefall for as much as 60 seconds.
- From 12,000ft you’ll freefall for as much as 45 seconds.
- From 9,000ft you’ll freefall for as much as 25 seconds.
- E-book prematurely.
I gave this primary place on the checklist as everybody I’ve traveled to Queenstown with has performed this exercise, it’s nearly a ceremony of passage. The views of the encompassing landscapes can’t be overwhelmed. Your tandem grasp will report the entire expertise which can be out there so that you can buy after the dive.
3. Snowboarding and Snowboarding
Queenstown is famend for its distinctive ski fields, making it the right winter vacation vacation spot for skiers and snowboarders of all ranges. Boasting 4 ski areas inside attain and providing top-notch snow and terrain, Queenstown is positioned within the Southern Alps and guarantees an unforgettable snowboarding expertise. With a prolonged ski season working from June to October, you may hit the slopes for months on finish.
Attending to Queenstown is easy with direct flights from main cities in Australia and New Zealand, permitting you to be on the mountain or within the bustling city heart in minutes.
With a wide range of ski cross choices, together with single-day passes and season passes, you may select the one which fits you greatest. Day by day mountain transport can be out there. You’ll be able to hire all your gear from beginner snowboards to snowboard boots within the city heart.
Ski and Snowboard Resorts
Coronet Peak
Some of the common ski areas in Queenstown, Coronet Peak boasts well-groomed trails and terrain parks, making it preferrred for newbies and intermediates. It additionally gives night time snowboarding from 4-9 PM, maximizing your time on the mountain.
Treble Cone
A ski space that gives a tougher terrain, Treble Cone is understood for its lengthy, uncrowded, and well-groomed runs.
The Remarkables
One other well-loved ski space, The Remarkables gives terrain appropriate for skiers and snowboarders of all talent ranges, whereas additionally offering breathtaking views and a family-friendly environment. It additionally has a leap park for these trying to check their expertise on a ramp.
Cardrona
Situated an hour away from Queenstown, Cardrona is a ski resort that boasts a variety of terrain and is taken into account the perfect ski resort in New Zealand for newbies.
4. Mountaineering
Mountaineering in Queenstown is a well-liked exercise that gives guests the possibility to expertise the pure great thing about the world and get some train on the similar time. With a wide range of trails starting from simple walks to difficult multi-day hikes.
I’d advocate the Ben Lomond Observe. This took us about 4 hours (a method) and we definitely confronted our demons, however the views from the highest have been value it! This is likely one of the hottest hikes in Queenstown, providing spectacular views of the Remarkables mountain vary and Lake Wakatipu. The observe is a difficult 6-8 hour return hike, with an elevation achieve of 1,438 m.
Different beneficial hikes in Queenstown
Bob’s Peak: This hike takes you as much as the highest of Skyline Queenstown, the place you may take pleasure in panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. The hike takes round 1-2 hours, and you’ll take the gondola again down should you want.
Mount Crichton Loop Observe: This can be a reasonable hike that takes you thru the beech forest and previous previous mining ruins. It gives beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu and takes round 2-4 hours to finish.
Routeburn Observe: Whereas technically not in Queenstown, that is certainly one of New Zealand’s Nice Walks and is well accessible from Queenstown. The observe is a difficult 3-4 day hike that takes you thru beautiful alpine surroundings and ends at Milford Sound.
Queenstown Hill Time Stroll
One other common space for hikers is Queenstown Hill positioned close to the middle of Queenstown. The preferred path to the summit is the Queenstown Hill Time Stroll, which takes roughly 2-3 hours to finish. The path begins on the finish of Belfast Terrace, only a quick stroll from central Queenstown. Alongside the way in which, walkers cross by way of a pine forest and open grassy slopes, with a number of viewpoints providing beautiful views of the encompassing space.
On the summit of Queenstown Hill, there’s a stone sculpture known as the “Basket of Goals,” which was erected in 2000 to commemorate the brand new millennium. The sculpture gives a novel perspective on the encompassing panorama and is a well-liked spot for photographs.
5. Milford Sound
The Milford Sound scenic drive and cruise is a well-liked time out that gives guests the possibility to expertise the beautiful great thing about certainly one of New Zealand’s most well-known pure sights.
When you arrive at Milford Sound, you’ll embark on a cruise that takes you thru the fjord and gives close-up views of towering waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and various wildlife. Together with Kea birds and Seals.
Don’t overlook to guide a cruise operator earlier than you go to make sure you get an area. You might also need to think about flying to Milford Sound as an alternative of driving, it can take a fraction of the time though it could be dearer. You’ll be able to guide a scenic cruise prematurely.
This highly rated full day tour consists of not solely a scenic cruise however a return flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Get pleasure from a hen’s eye view of the encompassing mountains, waterfalls, and lakes of the Fiordland Nationwide Park. When you land in Milford Sound board the cruise to take pleasure in a ship tour out to the Tasman Sea.
6. Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown is the Journey Capital of the Journey Capital of the world. Take the Skyline Gondola to the highest of Bob’s Peak, the place you may take pleasure in panoramic views of the encompassing mountains and Lake Wakatipu. On the high, there may be additionally a restaurant, a luge observe, and varied actions resembling scenic walks, paragliding, and mountain biking. Skyline Queenstown is a well-liked spot for each locals and guests and is understood for its breathtaking views and out of doors adventures.
You should purchase from totally different actions when you attain the highest. The principle characteristic of Skyline Queenstown is the Skyline Gondola, which takes guests on a scenic journey to the highest of Bob’s Peak. On the high, guests can take pleasure in a wide range of actions, together with mountain biking, star gazing, eating, and the luge.
7. The Luge
Situated at Skyline Queenstown, the Luge in Queenstown is an thrilling and distinctive exercise that gives guests the possibility to expertise the joys of racing down a purpose-built observe. Make your method up the Skyline Gondola to the highest of Bob’s Peak for a enjoyable journey down the mountain.
Riders sit on a three-wheeled cart and management their velocity as they wind their method down the observe, taking in beautiful views of the encompassing mountains and valleys. The Luge is appropriate for all ages and talent ranges, making it a fantastic exercise for households and teams of associates.
This exercise is ideal for thrill-seekers, households, and anybody on the lookout for a enjoyable and memorable expertise in Queenstown. Whether or not you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply on the lookout for a enjoyable exercise to attempt, the Luge is a must-do expertise.
8. G-Drive Paragliding
That is an addition by Dave and Deb as it’s one other top-of-the-line issues to do in Queenstown. It too is an journey that may be performed on the high of Skyline Queenstown. Taking the Skyline Gondola as much as the highest of Bob’s Peak, make your method to G-Drive Paragliding for top-of-the-line adventures in New Zealand. This thrill begins with a brief coaching session after which you might be strapped to a certified teacher who will take you on a tandem flight to absorb the views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Vary.
The flight lasts round 20 minutes, relying on climate circumstances, and after a working begin off the sting of Bob’s Peak, you float by way of the air having fun with the views whereas letting your information do some enjoyable maneuvers within the air.
Paragliding at Skyline Queenstown is a novel and unforgettable expertise for anybody on the lookout for an adrenaline-fueled journey with out having to leap off a ledge or out of an airplane. Whether or not you’re a seasoned paraglider or a first-timer, the breathtaking views and exhilarating flight will stick with you for a lifetime.
9. Mountain Bike
Additionally positioned at Skyline Queenstown, you’ll discover New Zealand’s first-ever Gondola assisted bike park. Your bike can be hooked up to the Gondola cabin on the base, and when you attain the highest, you’ll be able to hit the paths for some downhill mountain biking.
The world gives a wide range of trails, starting from simple scenic rides to difficult technical tracks and downhill mountain biking. With over 30 world-class downhill MTB trails masking greater than 30 km and providing 450 meters of vertical descent, it’s a must-visit vacation spot for mountain bikers.
With a wide range of terrains starting from inexperienced to black, there’s one thing for riders of all ranges. With an elevation of 790m and the longest run stretching for six km, the Queenstown Bike Park guarantees an unforgettable mountain biking expertise.
10. FerBurger
The second you see the lengthy line snaking alongside Shotover Road in Queenstown, Fergburger isn’t any unusual burger restaurant. Since its opening in 2001, it has turn out to be a staple, and for good cause. Providing a various menu of burgers, together with 3/4lb meat patties and tofu choices, all are freshly made each day, cooked to perfection, expertly assembled, and delectable.
At Fergburger, all the things is made in-house, from buns to sauces, and the standard shines by way of. The burger joint has gained world recognition and ready in line has turn out to be a must-do Queenstown expertise. The locally-owned enterprise has expanded with three sister institutions: Mrs Ferg (ice cream and gelato), Fergbaker, and the newly-added Ferg’s Bar, a comfy spot stocked with all of the necessities.
11. TSS Earnslaw – Walter’s Peak
Get an immersive expertise of farming within the New Zealand excessive nation at Walter Peak. This idyllic farm on the southwestern shores of Lake Wakatipu guarantees a calming go to crammed with enjoyable and academic actions.
Your host will welcome you upon arrival and take you to the amphitheater to witness the unimaginable expertise of the farm canine as they herd sheep from the paddocks. Get pleasure from a strolling tour of the farmyard, the place you may help with feeding sheep and deer and even get near the Scottish Highland Cattle.
Take a leisurely stroll to the charming previous woolshed for a tea break, and possibly even go to the lakeside gardens earlier than you depart on the TSS Earnslaw to your return cruise to Queenstown. Come see why farming in New Zealand’s excessive nation is a lifestyle you don’t need to miss.
12. Queenstown Gardens
Queenstown Gardens is an exquisite park positioned within the coronary heart of Queenstown, providing a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. The park options well-manicured lawns, mature timber, and a surprising lakefront setting, making it a well-liked spot for picnics, enjoyable, and taking within the views.
Disc Golf in Queenstown Gardens
I’d advocate enjoying a recreation of disc golf when in Queenstown. The disc golf course gives a enjoyable and difficult 18 basket expertise amidst the park’s beautiful surroundings. Appropriate for all talent ranges, from newbies to skilled gamers, the course winds its method by way of the gardens and is a good way to take pleasure in the fantastic thing about the park whereas getting some train. This family-friendly course is ideal for households visiting Queenstown. Small Planet within the city heart rents frisbees for under $5 per day!
13. Shotover River Jet Boat Tour
One other addition by Dave and Deb. The Queenstown Shotover River Jet Boat Tour Jetboat expertise might be the most well-liked jet boat journey in New Zealand going by way of the canyons of the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers. We appeared to do loads of jet boating in New Zealand. The Kiwis actually love their thrills on the water and jet boating is likely one of the greatest adventures you’ll have.
You’ll be able to guide this highly rated tour that takes you on a high-speed adrenaline rush by way of Lake Wakatipu and the Shotover and Kawarau rivers with 360° spins as you take pleasure in yet one more thrill journey in Queenstown New Zealand.
How Lengthy Ought to I Spend in Queenstown?
The size of your keep in Queenstown will rely in your pursuits and the actions you need to do. Not less than 2-3 days in Queenstown is beneficial to get a style of what the city has to supply and expertise a number of of the highest sights.
If you wish to absolutely immerse your self in journey sports activities and out of doors actions, an extended keep of 5-7 days is beneficial. This gives you sufficient time to expertise the entire high sights, in addition to participate in a few of the extra time-intensive actions, resembling a multi-day hike or a scenic flight. The size of your keep in Queenstown will rely in your private preferences and the kind of journey you’re on the lookout for.
Is Queenstown Secure for vacationers?
Queenstown is usually thought-about secure for vacationers. Crime rates in Queenstown are low, and the native police are identified to be pleasant and useful to vacationers.
Nevertheless, as with every vacation spot, it’s all the time a good suggestion to be aware of your private security and take acceptable measures to guard your self and your belongings.
As well as, should you’re collaborating in journey sports activities, it’s vital to observe security pointers and use respected suppliers who prioritize the protection of their prospects.
What’s the Greatest Time to Go to Queenstown?
The perfect time to go to Queenstown depends upon your private preferences and the actions you need to do.
Summer season (December to February) is the warmest time of 12 months and is right for out of doors actions resembling mountaineering, biking, and water sports activities. The climate is usually sunny and heat, making it a good time to discover the city and its environment.
Winter (June to August) is the ski season in Queenstown, and the city transforms right into a winter wonderland. In case you’re a skier or snowboarder, that is the right time to go to. The ski resorts within the space are world-class, and the city is bustling with guests from everywhere in the world.
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to Could) are additionally nice occasions to go to Queenstown. The temperatures are gentle, and the surroundings is beautiful, with the altering colours of the timber and the encompassing hills. These seasons are additionally much less crowded than the summer time and winter months, making them a good time to discover the city at a extra relaxed tempo.
The perfect time to go to Queenstown will rely in your private preferences and the kind of journey you’re on the lookout for. Regardless of if you go to, this beautiful vacation spot is bound to depart an enduring impression.
What’s the Greatest Method to Get Round Queenstown?
One of the simplest ways to get round Queenstown depends upon your private preferences and the actions you propose to do. Listed below are a number of choices:
Strolling: Queenstown is a small city, and lots of the high sights and eating places are inside strolling distance of one another. This can be a nice choice should you’re trying to discover the city on foot and take within the sights and sounds of the native space.
Taxis and Uber: Taxis and ride-sharing companies are available in Queenstown and are a handy choice for getting round city. An excellent choice should you’re on the lookout for a fast and straightforward method to get from one place to a different.
Buses: The native bus system is a budget-friendly choice for getting round Queenstown. Buses run recurrently to and from the city heart, and there are additionally companies to the encompassing areas, together with the ski resorts.
Rental Automobiles: Rental automobiles are a well-liked choice for individuals who need to discover the encompassing areas and take day journeys from Queenstown. There are a number of rental automotive corporations positioned within the city heart, and this can be a nice choice should you’re on the lookout for flexibility and independence whereas exploring the world. You can compare rates here.
Is Queenstown Costly?
Queenstown could be thought-about an costly vacation spot, particularly in comparison with different cities in New Zealand. The price of meals, lodging and actions can add up shortly, however there are methods to economize and nonetheless have an fulfilling journey.
Lodging: There’s a variety of lodging choices out there in Queenstown, starting from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious inns. Think about staying in a hostel or Airbnb to economize in your lodging prices.
Meals: Consuming out in Queenstown could be costly, however there are methods to economize on meals prices. Think about cooking your individual meals, or consuming at native cafes and eating places that supply value-for-money choices.
Actions: Lots of the high sights and actions in Queenstown include a excessive price ticket, however there are additionally many free actions to take pleasure in. Think about making the most of the numerous free actions, resembling mountaineering and exploring the city heart, to economize in your journey.
Transportation: Renting a automotive or utilizing public transportation could be cheaper than taking taxis or ride-sharing companies. Think about using the native bus system, or renting a automotive should you plan to take day journeys from Queenstown.
Whereas Queenstown could be costly, there are methods to economize and nonetheless have an fulfilling journey. With slightly planning and budgeting, you may take advantage of your go to to this beautiful vacation spot.
The place to Keep in Queenstown
Queenstown gives all kinds of lodging choices to swimsuit totally different budgets and preferences. Listed below are some strategies on the place to remain in Queenstown:
- Central Queenstown: If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, staying in central Queenstown is your greatest wager. This space is near eating places, bars, retailers, and the waterfront. There are many choices for all budgets, together with inns, motels, flats, and hostels.
- Lakefront: If you wish to get up to beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu, think about staying within the lakefront space. This space is barely quieter than central Queenstown however nonetheless inside strolling distance to the city heart.
- Arrowtown: If you wish to keep in an enthralling historic city only a quick drive from Queenstown, think about Arrowtown. This city is understood for its gold mining historical past, tree-lined streets, and picturesque buildings.
- Ski Resorts: In case you’re visiting Queenstown within the winter for snowboarding or snowboarding, staying at one of many ski resorts is a good choice. There are a number of resorts positioned inside a brief drive of Queenstown, together with Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona.
Wrap Up
Queenstown is a surprising vacation spot that gives a variety of actions and sights for guests to take pleasure in. From adrenaline-fueled adventures to scenic hikes and enjoyable seashore days, there’s something for everybody on this vibrant city. Whether or not you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, you’re certain to seek out loads of issues to see and do in Queenstown.
With its beautiful surroundings, vibrant tradition, and pleasant locals, it’s a must-visit vacation spot for anybody traveling to New Zealand.
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