13 Best Things to do in Queenstown New Zealand

Queenstown, situated on the South Island of New Zealand, is a wide ranging vacation spot that gives a singular mix of pure magnificence and journey. With beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear lakes, it’s no marvel that Queenstown is taken into account one of the stunning locations on earth. But this city is greater than only a fairly face. Known as the journey capital of the world, Queenstown is a hub for thrill-seekers, and adrenaline junkies. If you’re in search of issues to do in Queenstown to get the adrenaline pumping, you will have come to the best place.

Top Things to do in Queenstown

Get prepared to soar by means of the sky with a skydive, really feel the push of a bungee soar, or just take in the beautiful views, Queenstown has it. In this text, we’ll take a better have a look at the perfect issues to do in Queenstown, so you may take advantage of your go to and create recollections that may final a lifetime.

1. Bungy Jump

Experience the fun of bungy leaping in the birthplace of the world’s first industrial bungy soar. With three bungy websites to select from it has to be on the high of the perfect issues to do in Queenstown. All of the websites function each day year-round, and Queenstown is the final word vacation spot for daredevils. Read extra: 8 Great Places to Go Bungee Jumping in New Zealand

Kawarau Bridge Bungy

Located 25 minutes from Queenstown in Gibbston, is the world’s first industrial bungy soar, the place you may leap 43m above the Kawarau River. Jump 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 increased 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 an ideal choice for spectators.

Nevis Bungy

Standing 134m (440ft) above the beautiful Nevis valley. Test your bravery and willpower with this excessive expertise. Round-trip transfers from Queenstown are included, and you may mix them with the Nevis Swing for a very memorable expertise. The spherical journey takes roughly 3.5 hours.

2. Skydiving

Jumping from an plane at 15,000ft requires bravery! You are 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 can ebook your Skydive Adventure in Queenstown in advance by means of GetYour Guide. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can select to freefall from the next top choices:

From 15,000ft you’ll freefall for up to 60 seconds. From 12,000ft you’ll freefall for up to 45 seconds. From 9,000ft you’ll freefall for up to 25 seconds. Book in advance.

I gave this primary place on the record as everybody I’ve traveled to Queenstown with has finished this exercise, it’s virtually a ceremony of passage. The views of the encircling landscapes can’t be crushed. Your tandem grasp will document the entire expertise which shall be obtainable for you to buy after the dive.

3. Skiing and Snowboarding

Queenstown is famend for its distinctive ski fields, making it the proper 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 situated in 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.

Getting to Queenstown is straightforward with direct flights from main cities in Australia and New Zealand, permitting you to be on the mountain or in 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 finest. Daily mountain transport can be obtainable. You can hire all your gear from newbie snowboards to snowboard boots in the city heart.

Ski and Snowboard Resorts

Coronet Peak

One of the most well-liked ski areas in Queenstown, Coronet Peak boasts well-groomed trails and terrain parks, making it ideally suited for newcomers and intermediates. It additionally presents 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

Another well-loved ski space, The Remarkables presents terrain appropriate for skiers and snowboarders of all talent ranges, whereas additionally offering breathtaking views and a family-friendly environment. It additionally has a soar park for these trying to take a look at their abilities on a ramp.

Cardrona

Located 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 newcomers.

4. Hiking

Hiking 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 straightforward walks to difficult multi-day hikes.

I’d advocate the Ben Lomond Track. This took us about 4 hours (a technique) and we actually 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.

Other really useful hikes in Queenstown

Bob’s Peak: This hike takes you up to 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 may take the gondola again down in the event you favor.

Mount Crichton Loop Track: This is a reasonable hike that takes you thru the beech forest and previous outdated mining ruins. It presents beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu and takes round 2-4 hours to full.

Routeburn Track: While technically not in Queenstown, that is one in every of New Zealand’s Great Walks and is definitely 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 Walk

Another in style space for hikers is Queenstown Hill situated close to the middle of Queenstown. The hottest path to the summit is the Queenstown Hill Time Walk, which takes roughly 2-3 hours to full. The path begins on the finish of Belfast Terrace, only a quick stroll from central Queenstown. Along the way in which, walkers cross by means of a pine forest and open grassy slopes, with a number of viewpoints providing beautiful views of the encircling space.

At the summit of Queenstown Hill, there’s a stone sculpture known as the “Basket of Dreams,” which was erected in 2000 to commemorate the brand new millennium. The sculpture presents a singular perspective on the encircling panorama and is a well-liked spot for pictures.

5. Milford Sound

The Milford Sound scenic drive and cruise is a well-liked day trip that gives guests the possibility to expertise the beautiful great thing about one in every of New Zealand’s most well-known pure sights. 

Once you arrive at Milford Sound, you’ll embark on a cruise that takes you thru the fjord and presents close-up views of towering waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and various wildlife. Including Kea birds and Seals.

Don’t overlook to ebook a cruise operator earlier than you go to make sure you get an area. You may need to contemplate flying to Milford Sound as an alternative of driving, it can take a fraction of the time though it might be dearer. You can ebook a scenic cruise in advance.

This extremely rated full day tour contains not solely a scenic cruise however a return flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Enjoy a chook’s eye view of the encircling mountains, waterfalls, and lakes of the Fiordland National Park. Once 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 Adventure Capital of the Adventure 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 encircling mountains and Lake Wakatipu. At the highest, there’s additionally a restaurant, a luge observe, and numerous actions comparable to 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 can buy from totally different actions when you attain the highest. The essential function of Skyline Queenstown is the Skyline Gondola, which takes guests on a scenic trip to the highest of Bob’s Peak. At the highest, guests can take pleasure in a wide range of actions, together with mountain biking, star gazing, eating, and the luge.

7. The Luge

Located at Skyline Queenstown, the Luge in Queenstown is an thrilling and distinctive exercise that gives guests the possibility to expertise the fun 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 encircling mountains and valleys. The Luge is appropriate for all ages and talent ranges, making it an ideal exercise for households and teams of pals.

This exercise is ideal for thrill-seekers, households, and anybody in search of a enjoyable and memorable expertise in Queenstown. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply in search of a enjoyable exercise to strive, the Luge is a must-do expertise.

8. G-Force Paragliding

This 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 finished on the high of Skyline Queenstown. Taking the Skyline Gondola up to the highest of Bob’s Peak, make your method to G-Force Paragliding for top-of-the-line adventures in New Zealand. This thrill begins with a brief coaching session after which you’re strapped to a professional teacher who will take you on a tandem flight to take in the views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range.

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 means of the air having fun with the views whereas letting your information do some enjoyable maneuvers in the air.

Paragliding at Skyline Queenstown is a singular and unforgettable expertise for anybody in search of an adrenaline-fueled journey with out having to soar off a ledge or out of an airplane. Whether 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

Also situated at Skyline Queenstown, you’ll discover New Zealand’s first-ever Gondola assisted bike park. Your bike shall be connected to the Gondola cabin on the base, and when you attain the highest, you’ll be prepared to hit the paths for some downhill mountain biking. 

The space presents a wide range of trails, starting from straightforward scenic rides to difficult technical tracks and downhill mountain biking. With over 30 world-class downhill MTB trails protecting 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 Street in Queenstown, you understand Fergburger is not any strange burger restaurant. Since its opening in 2001, it has grow to be a staple, and for good motive. Offering 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, the whole lot is made in-house, from buns to sauces, and the standard shines by means of. The burger joint has gained international recognition and ready in line has grow 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 in the New Zealand excessive nation at Walter Peak. This idyllic farm on the southwestern shores of Lake Wakatipu guarantees a calming go to stuffed with enjoyable and academic actions.

Your host will welcome you upon arrival and take you to the amphitheater to witness the unbelievable expertise of the farm canine as they herd sheep from the paddocks. Enjoy a strolling tour of the farmyard, the place you may help with feeding sheep and deer and even get shut to the Scottish Highland Cattle.

Take a leisurely stroll to the charming outdated woolshed for a tea break, and possibly even go to the lakeside gardens earlier than you depart on the TSS Earnslaw on 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 a ravishing park situated in the center of Queenstown, providing a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. The park options well-manicured lawns, mature bushes, and a shocking lakefront setting, making it a preferred spot for picnics, stress-free, and taking in the views.

Disc Golf in Queenstown Gardens

I’d advocate enjoying a recreation of disc golf when in Queenstown. The disc golf course presents a enjoyable and difficult 18 basket expertise amidst the park’s beautiful surroundings. Suitable for all talent ranges, from newcomers to skilled gamers, the course winds its method by means of the gardens and is a good way to take pleasure in the great thing about the park whereas getting some train. This family-friendly course is ideal for households visiting Queenstown. Small Planet in the city heart rents frisbees for less than $5 per day!

13. Shotover River Jet Boat Tour

Another addition by Dave and Deb. The Queenstown Shotover River Jet Boat Tour Jetboat expertise might be the most well-liked jet boat trip in New Zealand going by means of the canyons of the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers. We appeared to do a whole lot of jet boating in New Zealand. The Kiwis actually love their thrills on the water and jet boating is likely one of the finest adventures you’ll have.

You can ebook this extremely rated tour that takes you on a high-speed adrenaline rush by means of Lake Wakatipu and the Shotover and Kawarau rivers with 360° spins as you take pleasure in yet one more thrill trip in Queenstown New Zealand.

How Long Should I Spend in Queenstown?

The size of your keep in Queenstown will rely in your pursuits and the actions you need to do. At least 2-3 days in Queenstown is really useful to get a style of what the city has to provide and expertise a couple of of the highest sights. 

If you need to absolutely immerse your self in journey sports activities and out of doors actions, an extended keep of 5-7 days is really useful. This provides you with sufficient time to expertise all the high sights, in addition to participate in a number of the extra time-intensive actions, comparable to 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 in search of.

Is Queenstown Safe for vacationers?

Queenstown is usually thought-about secure for vacationers. Crime charges in Queenstown are low, and the native police are identified to be pleasant and useful to vacationers. 

However, as with every vacation spot, it’s all the time a good suggestion to be conscious of your private security and take applicable measures to defend your self and your belongings. 

In addition, in the event you’re collaborating in journey sports activities, it’s vital to comply with security pointers and use respected suppliers who prioritize the security of their clients. 

What is the Best Time to Visit Queenstown?

The finest time to go to Queenstown will depend on your private preferences and the actions you need to do.

Summer (December to February) is the warmest time of 12 months and is right for out of doors actions comparable to 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. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, that is the proper time to go to. The ski resorts in the world are world-class, and the city is bustling with guests from all around the world.

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are additionally nice instances to go to Queenstown. The temperatures are delicate, and the surroundings is beautiful, with the altering colours of the bushes and the encircling 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 finest time to go to Queenstown will rely in your private preferences and the kind of journey you’re in search of. No matter while you go to, this beautiful vacation spot is bound to go away an enduring impression.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Queenstown?

The finest method to get round Queenstown will depend on your private preferences and the actions you propose to do. Here are a couple of choices:

Walking: Queenstown is a small city, and most of the high sights and eating places are inside strolling distance of one another. This is a superb choice in the event you’re trying to discover the city on foot and take in 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 in the event you’re in search of a fast and simple method to get from one place to one other.

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 encircling areas, together with the ski resorts.

Rental Cars: Rental vehicles are a preferred choice for many who need to discover the encircling areas and take day journeys from Queenstown. There are a number of rental automotive corporations situated in the city heart, and this can be a nice choice in the event you’re in search of flexibility and independence whereas exploring the world. You can evaluate charges right here.

Is Queenstown Expensive?

Queenstown will be thought-about an costly vacation spot, particularly in contrast to different cities in New Zealand. The price of meals, lodging and actions can add up rapidly, however there are methods to get monetary savings and nonetheless have an gratifying journey.

Accommodation: There is a variety of lodging choices obtainable in Queenstown, starting from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious accommodations. Consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb to get monetary savings in your lodging prices.

Food: Eating out in Queenstown will be costly, however there are methods to get monetary savings on meals prices. Consider cooking your individual meals, or consuming at native cafes and eating places that provide value-for-money choices.

Activities: Many of the highest sights and actions in Queenstown include a excessive price ticket, however there are additionally many free actions to take pleasure in. Consider benefiting from the numerous free actions, comparable to mountaineering and exploring the city heart, to get monetary savings in your journey.

Transportation: Renting a automotive or utilizing public transportation will be cheaper than taking taxis or ride-sharing companies. Consider utilizing the native bus system, or renting a automotive in the event you plan to take day journeys from Queenstown.

While Queenstown will be costly, there are methods to get monetary savings and nonetheless have an gratifying journey. With a little bit planning and budgeting, you may take advantage of your go to to this beautiful vacation spot.

Where to Stay in Queenstown

Queenstown presents all kinds of lodging choices to go well with totally different budgets and preferences. Here are some solutions on the place to keep in Queenstown:

Central Queenstown: If you need to be in the center of the motion, staying in central Queenstown is your finest wager. This space is shut to eating places, bars, retailers, and the waterfront. There are loads of choices for all budgets, together with accommodations, motels, flats, and hostels. Lakefront: If you need to get up to beautiful views of Lake Wakatipu, contemplate staying in the lakefront space. This space is barely quieter than central Queenstown however nonetheless inside strolling distance to the city heart. Arrowtown: If you need to keep in an enthralling historic city only a quick drive from Queenstown, contemplate Arrowtown. This city is understood for its gold mining historical past, tree-lined streets, and picturesque buildings. Ski Resorts: If you’re visiting Queenstown in the winter for snowboarding or snowboarding, staying at one of many ski resorts is a superb choice. There are a number of resorts situated inside a brief drive of Queenstown, together with Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona.

Wrap Up

Queenstown is a shocking vacation spot that gives a variety of actions and sights for guests to take pleasure in. From adrenaline-fueled adventures to scenic hikes and stress-free seaside days, there’s something for everybody in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, you’re positive to discover 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 touring to New Zealand. 

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