Queenstown : The Adventure and Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand

Dreamy view of the snowcapped mountain peaks, gorgeous blue water of Lake Wakatipu, lot of activities to give you adrenaline rush and spectacular natural vistas, Queenstown brings out the best in travelers. The scenic city sits on the shore of the Lake Wakatipu and is known for extravagant adventure activities. It is also one of the best places to explore the vast expanse of the gorgeous and amazing vinery. The city is a kaleidoscope in terms of culture, vibrant vibes, shopping, wine, activities and adventures. Here are the top ten places to explore in Queenstown:

1. Lake Wakatipu

The city of Queenstown is snuggled along the coast of the deep blue and absolutely mesmerizing Lake Wakatipu. It is a Z-shaped lake surrounded by magnificent hills transcending an area of 293 square kilometers. There is a legendary mythological story associated with the existence of the Lake. It is believed that the lake came into existence after Monster Matau was burnt to death, his heart still pounding in the lake. However, the actual rise and fall of the water is due to tide caused due to the Z-shape of the lake.

2. Skippers Canyon

The canyon is a scenic gorge which is around 22 kilometers in length and is carved out of the Shotover River. It is definitely one of the most soul-feeding scenic journeys that you take through the city. The canyon leads to the Coronet Peak. It was home to number of people after discovery of Gold in the river. The mesmerizing view of the canyon, wilderness and bridge along with the blue shade of river makes it all perfect. There is a high suspension bridge called Skipper’s bridge, the cliffs are combination of high and low.

3. Remarkables

It is located on the south-eastern shores of Lake Wakatipu and the mountain ranges definitely justify its name. The peaks of the mountain range rises sharply in the clear skies creating a stunning backdrop against the lake. There is a ski resort present in the north slopes of the mountain range and offers great skiing options. It is an excellent place to enjoy skiing during the winters and the season majorly lasts from June to September. It is one of the best activities to be pursued here.

4. Shotover River

The Shotover River is nearly 75-kilometers long and is known for the presence of Gold. It rose to fame with the Otago Gold rush and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions for Shotover Jet. The company operates jet boat ride within the narrow canyon of the waterway. It is a power packed racing journey down the river that gives full on adrenaline rush to the individual. It is indeed one of the longest running adventure activities in the city that started its operation since 1965.

5. Skyline Gondola

This gives you an opportunity to take a glimpse of the snow peaked mountains, city, and all the panoramic view all in one frame. This offers such stunning views over the city of Queensland. The rugged mountain terrains of The Remarkables and the Z-shaped Lake Wakatipu looks breathtakingly beautiful. The journey transcends 446-meter high summit of Bob’s Peak and is one of the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere. It is definitely one of the must try things in Queensland.

6. AJ Hackett Bungy

New Zealand is known as one of the best destination to go for activities like Bungee jumping. Navis Valley is particularly popular destinations and the popular A J Hackett Bungee jump is the one that sure is going to give you a lot of adrenaline rush. It is the first company that started bungee jumping and the original location is the Kawarau Bridge. It is a 43-meter jump from a suspension bridge that was built over the Kawarau Gorge and the river flows beneath it. However, Nevis Point is a 134-meters bungee jumping above the Nevis River which is highest point in New Zealand.

7. Lake Wanaka

The gorgeous lake in mesmerizing shade of blue is tugged in a tussock covered hill that overlooks the peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. The town of Wanaka is located just beside the lake along the shore and it is home to some of the best artists of the country. It is a very peaceful and countryside locale that is perfect for settling down after retirement amidst the gorgeous natural setting. It is popular for many activities like fishing, recreational boating and swimming along with numerous trails to hike across. It is one of the most photographed places with the single tree in the water.

8. Mount Crichton Track

It is an easy hike that takes around 2 to 4 hours across the scenic terrains of Queensland. The trail transverses the absolutely stunning and gorgeous Mount Crichton Scenic Reserve amidst the tall beech forests to Twelve Mile Creek Gorge which is known for its Otago Gold Rush. There are many minor cottages that you can see on the way to hiking up the place. There are outstanding views of the mountain ranges beyond and also Lake Wakatipu can be seen from the trail.

9. Queenstown Garden

It is a large botanical garden that is set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is a great place to visit with family. The garden was set for the first time in the year 1867 and contains a number of native and international plant species. There are number of large sweep of Doughlas fir trees present inside the garden. The garden is popular for its historic oak and fir trees that were planted by first Mayor of Queenstown in 1866. There is also a rose garden along with a restored rotunda that was built in the year 1891.

10. Kiwi Birdlife Park

Kiwi is one of the national icons of the country but it is rare to be seen. The flightless bird is nocturnal and hence stays in remote locations inside forests. However, inside the Kiwi Birdlife Park, it gives you an opportunity to see these birds. There are nocturnal houses built inside the park for the kiwis. You can also see endemic species of tuataras inside the park. It is a great place to travel with friends and family with kiwi feeding encounters. The park is set amidst a 5-acre forest.

◎ Closing

Queenstown is one of the most naturally inspiring landscapes that you will encounter. The lakes overlooking the peaks of the mountains, amazing natural trails and tons of activities for the adrenaline junkies make it a perfect destination.