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The Adventure Capital of the World
Dunedin
Queenstown is a stunning lakeside city widely regarded as the adventure capital of the world. The seasons transform the Alpine landscape between a summer paradise and a winter wonderland, each with its own set of athletics. We’re taking you through Queenstown’s most heart-pumping attractions! Enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities to suit every pace—from the tame to the death-defiant. The end of each daring task you undertake rewards you with a view almost too beautiful to be true!
Queenstown was built hugging the inlet of Lake Wakatipu. Various tracks wrap along the shore, ideal for long, romantic strolls and picturesque jogs. The panoramic view is even better enjoyed by boat. Take your pick as the lake is always teeming with traffic: kayaks, yachts, and jet boats to name a few. Try out the Hydro Attack, a semi-submersible that dives into the lake then leaps out into the air!
Otago, New Zealand
Explore Queenstown and its outer reaches on the Queenstown Trail! There are numerous bike rental places in town, so finding one for the day should be easy. The Trails branch out in several routes, some leading to Queenstown’s popular neighbors such as Arrowtown, Gibbston Valley, and Kawarau Bridge. Trace Lake Wakatipu’s coastline for an easy ride. The 15-kilometer track starts at Steamer Wharf, goes along the Frankton Arm lake inlet, and ends at the Kelvin Heights suburbs! Keep going and you’ll be on Jack’s Point Ride, an advanced course riddled with tight corners and steep pitches.
Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
- https://queenstowntrail.co.nz/
The Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve protects the natural beauty of Ben Lomond, a mountain that rises to 1,748 meters! From the top, you’ll see the entirety of Queenstown all the way to Mount Earnslaw (Pikirakatahi) and Mount Aspiring (Tititea)! Its rough terrain and steep ascend make it a challenging trek. Set aside a full day to conquer the peak! From the base, it’s a six- to eight-hour hike to the summit. Get a headstart by riding the Skyline Gondola to save your energy on the first 450 meters; otherwise, enjoy the long way via Tiki Trail!
Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
Moke Lake is a recreational hotspot cradled in a valley between mountains. Paddle a canoe on tranquil waters; cast your fishing rod to reel in a good catch; or, ride a horse through the flat grassland! The lake is also a favored starting point for a good tramp (a Kiwi term that means to walk across rough terrain for long distances). After a full day, sleep under the stars at Moke Lake’s scenic campsite! Do note that this is a conservation campsite with its own special rules (fires are prohibited at any time, for example). Don’t fret—the site provides a sheltered cooking area, running tap water, and flushing toilets.
Closeburn, Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
Kicking off from Moke Lake, follow the Moonlight Track to the historic Moonlight goldfields. The enchanting locale once enticed prospectors to look for gold! The remote path will lead you through an old mining town and green-carpeted mountains. Regardless of whether you find actual precious nuggets, the picture-perfect scenery is bound to be worth its weight in gold. Moonlight Track is moderately difficult; it’s estimated at a four- to five-hour walk and it isn’t a loop, so plan accordingly. You may also opt to take a mountain bike to switch things up a bit!
Arthurs Point, Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
Strap into your skis, slide onto your snowboard, and mount your sleds for a day of play in the snow! The Coronet Peak Ski Area is Queenstown’s original premier and original ski field. It has hosted international races and training sessions for many world-class athletes! Plan your trip around June to October (depending on snowfall) for Queenstown’s ski season. Coronet Peak is perfect for big groups as it has a varied terrain suited for both first-timers and hard-core skiiers. The entire area is also packed with restaurants and equipment shops for anything you may need.
- +64 3 441 1516
Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
- https://www.coronetpeak.co.nz/
Lake Wakatipu’s pristine waters drain into the Kawarau River, carving its own path through the gorge. It is renowned for AJ Hackett Bungy, the world’s first commercial bungy jumping site! Plummet 43 meters from the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge and even touch Kawarau’s turquoise waters! Big crowds gather just to watch the action, so you’ll have plenty of people to cheer you on! Kawarau River’s gushing waters are also a big draw. Steer your kayak through the narrow waterways and dominate the rapids! Riverboarding, on the other hand, will get you in closer contact with the turbulent river to ride the strong currents!
Otago, New Zealand
Zoom across the fast-flowing waters of Shotover River with your ride of choice: jet-boat or raft! The jet-boat propels itself forward by channeling the water under it, giving its passengers an exhilarating high-speed ride! Meanwhile, the raft leaves you at the mercy of the white water rapids. It takes skill and teamwork to traverse the river, offering a different kind of thrill to adrenaline-seekers. Opt to stay dry and swing across the gorge instead, with Shotover Canyon Swing & Canyon Fox!
Otago, New Zealand
Soar over Queenstown’s skyline with G Force Paragliding! The jump launches from the top of the Skyline Gondola where you’ll see the quaint resort town and virgin mountain ranges. Steel yourself for take-off, but enjoy the smooth glide down. You’ll be in tandem with an experienced pro. You’re in good hands since G Force has been at it since 1991!
- +64 3 441 8581
Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
- https://www.nzgforce.com/
Summon all your courage for the ultimate adrenaline-pumping activity in Queenstown: skydiving! Plunge from more than 4,500 meters with NZone Skydive Queenstown. Their office is right at the heart of town; but, their drop zone will take you over The Remarkables mountain range and Wakatipu basin. Savor the few moments that very few share: a bird’s eye view of the region, fresh Alpine air rushing past you, and a stomach-wrenching thrill that is unlike any other!
- +64 3 442 5867
35 Shotover Street, Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
- https://www.nzoneskydive.co.nz/
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