Adventure Capital of the World. Bungee origins, Matakauri Lodge views, and Central Otago pinot noir.
Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, Queenstown is a resort town on New Zealand's South Island. It is known internationally for adventure sports, and is the commercial home of bungee jumping. The town serves as a base for exploring the mountains, nearby fiords, and the vineyards of the Central Otago region, which is noted for its pinot noir. Its alpine setting provides a backdrop for both high-adrenaline activities and more leisurely pursuits throughout the year.
This area provides direct, walkable access to the main lakefront wharf, restaurants, and shops. It is the primary hub for tour departures and general activity.
A historic gold rush settlement located a 20-minute drive from Queenstown. It offers a quieter atmosphere with preserved 19th-century buildings, boutiques, and river trails.
A residential peninsula across the Frankton Arm from the town centre, reached by road or water taxi. It affords a more secluded setting with views towards Queenstown and the mountains.
Journey to this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its dramatic scenery. Day trips by coach or scenic flight are available to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound for boat cruises on the fiords.
The region is a centre for adventure activities, including jet boating on the Shotover River and bungee jumping from the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, the original commercial site.
Explore the vineyards of Gibbston and the wider Central Otago region, a short drive from Queenstown. The area is particularly recognised for its production of pinot noir.
Ascend to the summit of Bob's Peak via a gondola for panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding alpine landscape. The complex includes viewing platforms and access to walking tracks.
December–February and June–August. Summer (December–February) offers long, warm days for hiking and water sports, and is the peak tourist season. Winter (June–August) provides conditions for skiing and snowboarding on the surrounding mountain ranges, such as The Remarkables and Coronet Peak.
Queenstown Airport (ZQN) serves the region with domestic and some international flights. From the airport, transfers to the town centre and surrounding areas are typically made by private vehicle, taxi, or pre-booked shuttle services.
Queenstown has an alpine climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm with long daylight hours, while winters are cold and bring snowfall, particularly to the mountains and occasionally the town itself.
Milford Sound is approximately 288 kilometres by road from Queenstown, a journey of several hours each way. Visitors can opt for a full-day coach-and-cruise tour or choose a scenic flight to reduce travel time.
Yes, the area offers many other pursuits. These include scenic cruises on Lake Wakatipu, visiting the wineries of the Gibbston region, exploring historic Arrowtown, and numerous walking and hiking trails.
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