Queenstown’s motto is ‘Global Adventure Capital’ and it certainly lives up to its name. But it is also noted for its stunning scenery and pioneer history, its burgeoning arts scene and up-and-coming wineries.
Queenstown lies on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with a backdrop of the Remarkables and Coronet Peak to complete the picture. To appreciate its stunning setting, take the Skyline Gondola up to the top where there are also souvenir shops and a cafe and restaurant. Stroll around the area, walk to the summit, admire the bungy jumpers or try out the luge, while all the time admiring the view.
Queenstown was originally settled in the 1850’s when the Pakeha (white man) arrived to farm sheep, though Maori tribes visited the area to search for greenstone. But it was the discovery of gold in the 1860s which led to Queenstown’s development until 1900 when the gold ran out and the prospectors left.
Queenstown, Adventure Capital of the World.
Queenstown is the home of bungy jumping and those willing to take the plunge can choose from various bridges or sites to leap from. One place offers free bungy jumping to anyone over 65, thought there did not seem to be too many senior citizens availing themselves of the offer. The famous Kawarau bridge offers a 43m fall to the river below while the highest is at Nevis bungy where it takes 8.5 seconds to fall the 134m.
Other adventures include white water rafting, jet-boating, sky-diving, hang-gliding and canyon swinging. In winter, skiing is popular, as is heli-skiing and heli-boarding, snow-shoeing and snowmobiling.
For the less adventurous there is walking, hiking, fishing, climbing, cycling, kayaking and boat cruising ... the list is endless. No wonder Queenstown attracts around 1.4 million visitors each year.
Queenstown Accommodation
All types of accommodation are available though booking in advance is recommended, especially in busy times in summer and winter. For the budget traveller, there are campsites and numerous backpackers’ hostels, including two YHA hostels. Self-catering accommodation is plentiful in Queenstown as are mid price range hotels and motels and for those wanting a bit more luxury for their stay, Queenstown can provide that too with prices rocketing to $2,600 per night.
Queenstown Eating and Drinking
The many restaurants and eateries, around 100 at the last count, reflect Queenstown’s cosmopolitan population and choice is varied and plentiful, from burgers to sushi to Thai to fine dining with top quality New Zealand produce. Queenstown’s nightlife is buzzing with plenty of bars and live music, local beers and eclectic bands.
The region boasts the world’s most southerly vineyards and Queenstown’s local winery, Gibbston Valley Wines, produced a Reserve Pinot Noir judged the world's finest at the London International Wine Challenge.
Queenstown is a starting point for trips to Milford Sound to the west and Arrowpoint and Wanaka to the north. It’s a must-see stop on any trip around the South Island and the centre of the universe as far as thrill-seekers are concerned.
Ann Burnett - Ann Burnett is an experienced writer of children's stories and scripts, short stories and articles, and comedy.
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