Queenstown

This is your travel guide for Queenstown

1 : Visit Skyline Queenstown Gondola [2 hrs]

Enjoy breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and The Remarkables mountain range from the top of Bob’s Peak. Take a scenic ride on the gondola to reach the viewing platform, where you can also try the thrilling luge ride or dine at the restaurant with panoramic views.

2 : Explore Milford Sound [Full day]

Embark on a full-day tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound, a stunning fjord with towering waterfalls, lush rainforests, and wildlife like seals and dolphins. Cruise along the fiord to appreciate the dramatic landscapes and see famous landmarks like Mitre Peak. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic flight back to Queenstown for a different perspective.

3 : Stroll around Queenstown Gardens [1-2 hrs]

Take a leisurely walk through the manicured gardens located on a peninsula jutting out into Lake Wakatipu. Admire the diverse plant life, rose gardens, and the beautiful alpine backdrop. You can also play frisbee golf, have a picnic, or feed the ducks around the scenic Queenstown Bay.

4 : Experience Shotover Jet Boat Ride [1 hr]

Feel the adrenaline rush as you speed through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River on a thrilling jet boat ride. Hold on tight as the skilled driver performs 360-degree spins and twists at high speeds. This iconic Queenstown adventure is a must-do for thrill-seekers and provides a unique perspective of the region.

5 : Wine Tasting in Central Otago [Half day]

Embark on a wine tour to the Central Otago wine region, known for its world-class Pinot Noir and stunning vineyard landscapes. Visit renowned wineries in Cromwell, Gibbston Valley, or Bannockburn to sample a variety of local wines. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the country’s southernmost wine-producing region.

Background Info

Weather

Queenstown experiences a cool temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summer (December to February) sees temperatures averaging 20-30°C (68-86°F) with occasional rainfall. Winter (June to August) brings colder temperatures with snowfall in the mountains. Overall, Queenstown has relatively low humidity and good air quality.

Language

English (official), with Maori being a significant minority language spoken mainly in cultural contexts.

Cost Of Living

The cost of living in Queenstown is higher than the national average in New Zealand, mainly due to the popularity of tourism and the high demand for housing in the picturesque town. Expenses such as accommodation, dining out, and recreational activities are relatively more expensive compared to other parts of the country.

Other

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, offering a wide range of outdoor activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, hiking, and skiing. The town is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary scene, and hosting annual events such as the Queenstown Winter Festival and LUMA Southern Light Project.