The Best Travel Guide to Queenstown (UPDATED 2025) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Oceania New Zealand Queenstown

Overview

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Queenstown The guide was updated: 2025-01-26

Queenstown, the self-proclaimed "Adventure Capital of the World", has, without a doubt, earned this title. The birthplace of bungy jumping, and home to all manner of adrenaline pumping activities, from luge and jet-boating to canyon swinging, attracts thousands of adventure lovers every year.

Set on the edge of the giant Lake Wakatipu, in the Otago region, this intimate town transforms itself into a buzzing ski resort during winter, thanks to its two appealing ski-fields that suit sport lovers of any abilities.

Facts

Population:	Unban: 29,000 District: 52,800
Currency:	New Zealand Dollar (NZD) = 100 cents
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police, Fire & Ambulance: 111
Newspapers:	The New Zealand Herald: www.nzherald.co.nz National Business Review: www.nbr.co.nz Sunday News: www.stuff.co.nz/sunday-news Sunday Star Times: www.stuff.co.nz/sunday-star-times
Website:	www.queenstownnz.co.nz
Opening hours:	Typical hours for shops are from Monday to Friday 9am–8pm, with an earlier closing on weekends.
Tourist information:	Tāhuna Queenstown i-SITE Visitor Information Centre Clocktower Building, Central Queenstown, New Zealand +64 3 442 4100 Open daily 8:30am–8:30pm

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Section in Queenstown

Branded the "Adventure Capital of the World", Queenstown never falls short on thrill-inducing offerings. From bungy jumping and luge rides to white water rafting and jet boating, it's a hotbed for heart-racing exploits. The area's unique topography caters to a multitude of water-sports and lake cruises, and also offers a plethora of breathtaking excursions amidst unspoilt nature.

Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater Rafting

The Shotover and Kawarau rivers serve as premier locales for exhilarating whitewater rafting, presenting thrilling rapids and an immersive, wild backdrop. Buckle up in your safety gear and navigate the turbulent Class I and II rapids of the Shotover River. With the guidance of an expert, you'll take on the river's swirling currents and serpentine turns, all while soaking in panoramic views of New Zealand's stunning landscape. Cap off your adventure with a refreshing swim or a heart-pounding rock jump.

Bungy Jumping

Bungy Jumping

AJ Hackett runs three top-notch bungy jumping locations in Queenstown, which span from the historic Kawarau Bridge Bungy — the birthplace of bungy jumping standing at 43 metres (141 feet) — to the towering Nevis Highwire Bungy. With an intimidating height of 143 metres (440 feet), the latter ranks among the highest bungy jumps globally.

Jet Boating

Jet Boating

Get your blood pumping with adrenaline with a high-octane Jet Boating ride as you whizz down the Shotover or Kawarau river, skimming just inches away from the rugged canyon walls. These jet boat escapades promise heart-racing speed, exhilarating thrills, and a generous helping of those signature 360-degree spins. Feel the rush of the wind against your face as you carve through the sparkling waters of Lake Wakatipu and surge down the Kawarau River, all while drinking in the spectacular surrounding scenery.

Canyon Swing

Canyon Swing

Step off the edge of a cliff 109 metres (360 feet) above the Shotover River on the world’s highest swing: the Shotover Canyon Swing. As they developed 10 different jump styles, there’s a level of thrill to suit everyone.

Luging

Luging

Test out your driving skills around the hairpin bends of the Skyline Luge as you hurtle on a gravity-powered vehicle. It operates from 9am to dusk, and tickets are available from the Skyline Gondola terminals. Truly thrilling and with a stunning view across Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, this will be a ride you will not forget.

Lake Cruises

Lake Cruises

Take it easy and try something a little more leisurely by discovering Queenstown on one of the many boats that cross lazily Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown Fishing Charters offers a variety of cruise options, from fishing cruises to elegant functions.

Kiwi Park

Kiwi Park

Located in the heart of the hectic Queenstown, this wildlife sanctuary is an oasis of calm. Star attractions include the iconic kiwi bird and the tuatara, a unique 200-million-year-old reptile species which has a ‘third eye’ on the top of its head.

Walks & Trails

Walks & Trails

Queenstown is the perfect destination for ramblers, flaunting a stellar range of walking trails — from the challenging Ben Lomond Summit Track to the more leisurely Frankton Arm Walkway skirting Lake Wakatipu's shoreline. Here, you can hike amidst the untouched grandeur of New Zealand's nature.

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown is an adventure for the whole family that is located only five minutes from the city centre. It is reached by Gondola cableway that ends with a sweeping view of the city-centre and Lake Wakatipu, a restaurant, a playground for kids and the opportunity to bungy jump.

Queenstown Gardens

Queenstown Gardens

Perched on a petite peninsula on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Gardens form a lush oasis that offers a tranquil retreat. These meticulously manicured gardens afford spectacular views of the lake and mountains, making it an idyllic spot for a picnic. Thanks to its close proximity to the city centre, accessing this serene haven is a breeze.

Jacks Point Golf Course

Jacks Point Golf Course

You don't have to be a professional golfer to go to Jacks Point and enjoy the surroundings or the impeccable service at the clubhouse. It is an 18 holes par 72 championship course that offers its golfers both a challenge and an unforgettable experience.

Moke Lake

Moke Lake

Moke Lake, despite its proximity to Queenstown, provides a peaceful sanctuary away from the city buzz, along with an abundance of outdoor activities. You can amble along the scenic track encircling the lake, take a tranquil horseback ride, cast your fishing line, enjoy a paddle in a kayak, or whizz around on your cycle. It truly is a place that offers a taste of tranquillity alongside a wealth of adventurous pursuits. The Moke Lake Loop Track is a popular short, undulating walk and cycle track. It's 6.5 kilometres (4 miles) long and most hikers need about two hours to complete it at a leisurely pace.

Queenstown Mini Golf

Queenstown Mini Golf

Queenstown Mini-Golf offers entertainment for kids and families, providing a course equipped with 18 themed holes that can be booked for parties. Take a break from extreme sport activities and pop in for a round.

Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak is the most popular ski area in Southern New Zealand, and it is located only a 20 minutes drive away from the city. The view up the mountain makes you feel on top of the world, and the dramatic slopes are provided with tracks for snow lovers of any ability.

Queenstown Ice Arena

Queenstown Ice Arena

This is not just another ordinary ice-skating experience. This ice arena, situated in Queenstown Gardens, is equipped with an LED light system, ice sleds, and hockey gears for the more competitive ones, offering activities for all ages.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown

If you feel the urge of escaping the city for a day trip, you can venture to Arrowtown, a former gold-rush town located 25 minutes from Queenstown. Nowadays, this picturesque town is home to a number of delightful heritage buildings as well as inviting cafés, restaurants, boutiques and galleries.

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