Queenstown has a phenomenal amount of activities to offer all who visit. From the more extreme sports including white water rafting and bungee jumping to the more relaxed mountain biking and horse riding, there really is something to cater for everyone. Even more relaxed still are the number of lake cruises and wine tours on offer where you just sit back and let someone else do the work for you.
As well as the selection on offer, Queenstown is pretty exclusive with regard to the fact that you can partake in different sports all year round. For example those visiting during the summer months can test their skills at the various water sports, many of which are too dangerous to even attempt during winter. During winter, however, visitors hit the hundreds of ski slopes on offer.
And, for those of you who are worried that all these activities may be putting a little too much strain on your wallet, there is another alternative which will cost you nothing at all. In fact, it was this particular activity which saw the first tourists arrive in Queenstown – walking. The city and surrounding area are home to some of the most impressive trails in the world, many which take up to three days to complete, so don’t forget to pack your walking shoes as these are something which really should not be missed.
Finally, there are also some really good day trips which you can make from Queenstown. Among the most popular is a visit to Arrowtown, an historic gold mining settlement which has remained virtually unchanged throughout the decades. Strongly resembling a movie set, this is actually the real thing so it’s certainly worth checking out.
Bob's Peak, Queenstown, New Zealand
Sitting on top of Bob’s Peak some eight hundred metres above sea level this attraction and the trip by cableway to it will reward you with breathtaking and unrivalled views of Queenstown and the surrounding area.
Various Locations, Queenstown, New Zealand
Undoubtedly one of the most popular activities in Queenstown, there are several locations in which to do your jump as well as a host of companies who will organise it for you. All you have to do is decide if you’re brave or crazy enough to go ahead with it.
The Remarkables & Coronet Peak Skifields, Queenstown, New Zealand
If you’re fortunate enough to visit during winter then you’re in for a real skiing treat. Home to over four hundred runs, the conditions are excellent. And, for the more adventurous among you try out the latest phenomenon – heli-skiing.
Shotover & Kawarau Rivers, Queenstown, New Zealand
With a selection of rapids ranging from I which is perfect for the beginners among you to VI which is regarded as unraftable, all companies include the bus trip to the river and any gear which you will need for your voyage in their packages. It is worth shopping around, however, as prices can vary quite a bit from one company to another.
Clutha, Hawea & Kawarau Rivers, Queenstown, New Zealand
For those of you who want to take your water adventure even further, then these two activities are well worth a try. Again, there are several companies which will organise your trip so keep a look out for the best value.
12-Mile Delta Canyons, Queenstown, New Zealand
If a combination of plunging into pools, swimming narrow passageways, abseiling waterfalls and bush walking sounds like your idea of fun, then you’ll love canyoning. Incorporating all of the aforementioned as well as much more, this is not one for the faint hearted.
Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, New Zealand
Taking things at a slightly slower pace, why not board the TSS Earnslaw, the most famous of all the boats, and avail of one of the many cruises on offer. You can visit a typical sheep station, horse ride at Walter Peak or take an evening dinner cruise, depending on your particular preference.
Queenstown Nature Park, Brecon Street, Queenstown, New Zealand
Keeping the relaxed pace, this is another attraction where you will get to catch your breath after some of the aforementioned activities. Set in eight acres of landscaped bush land, you will have the opportunity to discover the nocturnal world of the kiwi as well as see numerous endangered species.
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