Last Updated on June 20, 2023
New Zealand is a spectacular country, and has so much to offer anyone who decides to pay a visit. Queenstown is located on the South Island on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is set against the breath taking backdrop of the Southern Alps. The population of the town is just 15,000 and has been based around a bay on the lake.
There are other notable lakes in the area and so a feeling of being at one with the water is inevitable whilst staying here. Visitors to the town have good links to nearby cities such as Invercargill and Dunedin.
The area has been famed for its big tourist market and specializes in adventure based activities and skiing, making it popular with those who have a thrill seeking attitude, but also to those who want to experience the beautiful scenery that this town and its surrounding areas has to offer.
When visiting a town such as Queenstown, it is important to be aware of the various things there are to do there, in this article, we are going to take a look at what you can expect to get involved in when you travel to this lovely Kiwi town.
1. Lake Wakatipu
As we mentioned in the introduction, Queenstown sits on the banks of Lake Wakatipu and this is an extremely popular place to visit, it is loved by both locals and tourists alike, and it is no wonder. This is a truly beautiful place. The lake has an impressive length of 80km and so gives explorers ample opportunity to discover many things on and alongside the lake.
2. Milford Sound
This fjord near Queenstown is known for its wildlife, especially the penguin, seal and dolphins which can be seen here, and makes for a unique day out for anyone visiting the area. Here you can find glorious waterfalls and mountains.
This is a place that truly allows you to get back to nature and discover all it has to offer. Guests can take a boat tour or view some extraordinary marine life from the observatory.
3. Routeburn Track
For those of you with a love for all things outdoors, the Routeburn track offers a camping experience like no other. You will find various cycling and hiking tracks here and once again, there is some stunning sights to see in terms of natural scenery. There is a lake here too.
The main hiking trail here runs for 32 kilometres and has a great reputation for being one of the best in the area. The track has two start and end points and guests are free to traverse the trail in either direction whilst taking in the view of the towering mountains.
4. Coronet Peak Ski Area
Do you have a love of skiing? Or perhaps you are just beginning to dip your toes in the water with this sport, then take a trip to the Coronet peak ski area where you can wile away the hours on the piste.
The resort is completely family friendly and so makes for an ideal place to take the kids. Not only do you have the freedom to ski at a very affordable rate but you have the added bonus of some stunning views from the top which must be seen to be believed.
5. Lake Wanaka
Another of the local lakes in Queenstown is Lake Wanaka. The lake is over 300 metres in depth and so is great for diving and those who love to swim. There are options to take a boat out on the water here as well as taking part in a spot of fishing.
Any water based activity that you can think of can be done here, and visitors can spend many hours here. Set within the mountains, Lake Wanaka is another ideal location for taking in the amazing landscape that surround Queenstown.
6. Skippers Roa
One thing that always springs to mind when thinking about any trip to New Zealand is taking part in a bungee jump. This is just one of the activities which can be found at Skippers road. Here you will find a canyon where other activities include water rafting and the chance to explore the natural surroundings.
7. Hollyford Track
If you are looking for a hiking track that is as picturesque as it is enjoyable then perhaps trying out the Hollyford track which is renowned in the local area for its beauty. There is also the chance for guests to stay in one of the on site huts.
The track is mostly flat and so great for those whose mobility isn’t great or those who are just getting into hiking and would like something a little more relaxed.
8. Skyline Queenstown
For those of you who would like to get an aerial view of the town, then a trip on the Skyline will more than fulfill this desire. The cable car will take you over 450 meters in the air, the highest cable car in the entire Southern hemisphere!
There are various events going on here throughout the year so there is always something different to see. Whether you fancy taking a bike ride, relaxing and dining or browsing the lovely gift shop, there will be something for you here.
9. Rhinos Ski Shack
After a long day of exploring everything that Queenstown has to offer, there is no better way to unwind than visiting a chilled out bar where you can enjoy a well deserved drink.
Known as a social hub of the town, there are a variety of events going on here, you can even hire a room for your own party should you be in the area for a celebration. At Christmas time, there is a boat party organised by the bar which is known to be extremely good fun for anyone looking for a good party.
10. Kiwi Birdlife Park
There are some amazing and unique birds in New Zealand, so why not spend some time learning more about them by visiting the Kiwi birdlife park? Not only will you find an array of bird species here but also a great selection of reptiles.
An audio tour is available or you can simply browse at your own leisure. There is a conservation show which lasts half an hour and so is perfect to fit into your visit.
The park is set over 5 acres and so gives guests plenty to explore.
11. Amisfield Bistro and Cellar Door
New Zealand is famous for its wine production, and this is something that anyone visiting the country should experience. The Amisfield bistro and cellar door is a vineyard and winery where you can explore the wine making process and even try a few samples yourself.
The winery is most known for its delicious pinot noir. In the bistro guests can enjoy a beautiful meal complimented by one of the winery’s most well loved tipples.
12. Beach Street
Beach street is a well loved shopping area in Queenstown and is perfect for spending a day on retail therapy. There are also a great selection of places to eat and drink nearby so that your shopping trip can be complimented by a delicious meal. You will find everything from well known high street stores to small boutiques and everything in between.
13. SKYCITY Queenstown Casino
If you’re feeling lucky then why not pop over to the SKYCITY Queenstown casino, which is one of two such venues in the town. The venue is open from 11am every day so you can attend whenever you want to up until 3am. There are a great range of table games as well as over 80 gaming machines, so however you like to play there will be a game for you.
14. Fear Factory
Do you fancy a thrill? The fear factory is an extremely popular and high standard haunted house which has incredible reviews. The fear factory employs only the very best actors and special effects which are sure to leave you mesmerized and terrified.
Over 21000 visitors have not made it through the entire attraction after calling ‘I chicken out!’ That surely shows how good this venue is!
Conclusion
Visiting Queenstown, New Zealand is an opportunity of a lifetime to discover the incredible and breath taking nature that can be found here as well as taking in some exciting experiences and activities such as winery’s, skiing and bungee jumping. Whatever you choose to do on your Queenstown adventure, you will not be left disappointed.
