What Is Queenstown in New Zealand Known For?

Queenstown is a popular holiday destination situated in the South Island of New Zealand. The city is known for its breathtaking views, adventurous activities and excellent wine & food. It is often called the “Adventure Capital” of the South Pacific region, due to its incredible range of outdoor activities and attractions available for visitors to do and explore.

Queenstown is surrounded by beautiful mountains and stunning bodies of water. It is one of the most picturesque and sought-after touristic destinations in New Zealand. Located near the large Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is the perfect getaway spot for nature lovers, outdoor adventure seekers, foodies and wine connoisseurs.

What Is Queenstown Famous For?

Queenstown is most known for its vibrant night life, scenery, and abundance of adventure activities. It has become a paradise to extreme sports enthusiasts because of its exciting adventures such as bungee jumping and sky diving. Queenstown is also home to a variety of locales offering scenic experiences such as Lord of The Rings tours, jet boating and cinematography sightseeing trips.

Also, due to its location near the lake and mountains, there are plenty of opportunities for leisurely activities such as fishing, boating, sunset and sunrise sightseeing, photography and white water rafting. Other popular attractions include skiing or snowboarding during winter season, visiting the Skyline Gondola for spectacular views, or just strolling around quaint cafes and galleries.

The area is also famous for its wineries and vineyards. A great way to spend a day here is to get a wine-tasting tour on board a classic TSS Earnslaw steamship cruise which takes you to a few wineries along the lake and rivers.

What Are Some Interesting Facts About Queenstown?

Here are some more interesting facts about Queenstown:

• The Queenstown airport is one of the most scenic airports in the world.
• Described by Lonely Planet as “a meta-adventure resort”.
• It was established in the 1860s as a farm and originally called “The Camps”.
• It was developed into a gold mining town in 1862.
• The Shotover Jet boat ride was introduced in 1970.
• The Skyline Gondola was opened in the year 2002.
• The Queenstown Trail was opened in 2016.
• Over 200 international flights land every week.

Overall, Queenstown is an amazing holiday destination with plenty to offer, from adventure activities to wine tastings and more. Visitors can enjoy nature and breathtaking views without compromising on the culture or nightlife of the city. There’s something for everyone. So the next time you’re planning a holiday, you know where to go! To find out more about Queenstown check out QueenstownNZ.nz.

An Insider’s Guide to Queenstown, New Zealand

As one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations, Queenstown boasts an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Known as the “adventure capital of the world,” Queenstown has a lot to offer for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re here to experience heart-pumping adrenaline activities or to relax and soak up the stunning scenery, Queenstown has something in store for you.

Attractions

Queenstown is a picturesque resort town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with the dramatic Remarkables mountain range as its backdrop. The following attractions are must-visit places during your stay in Queenstown:

– Skyline Queenstown: Take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak and enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. Have a cup of coffee or a meal at the Skyline restaurant while taking in the stunning views.

– Milford Sound: Take a day trip to Milford Sound and encounter some of the most magnificent landscapes in New Zealand. You can take a cruise around the fiord, visit the underwater observatory, or hike along the Milford Track.

– The Remarkables: Ski or snowboard on Queenstown’s renowned ski fields, The Remarkables. The snow season generally runs from early June to late September.

– Kawarau Bridge Bungy: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Queenstown is the place for you. The Kawarau Bridge Bungy is the world’s first commercial bungy jump, offering a 43-meter plunge into the crystal clear waters of the Kawarau River.

Dining Spots

Queenstown is home to numerous world-class restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines made with locally sourced ingredients. Some of the top dining spots in Queenstown include:

– Rata: Owned by celebrity chef Josh Emett, Rata is known for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine and impeccable wine list.

– The Cow: A popular Italian-style pizzeria with a relaxed atmosphere and great views of the lake.

– Botswana Butchery: A meat-lover’s paradise with a diverse range of steak and lamb dishes, as well as a great selection of cocktails.

Cultural Experiences

Queenstown prides itself on preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing the new and modern. Some cultural experiences that you shouldn’t miss include:

– Māori Hangi: Experience a traditional Māori feast where food is cooked in an underground oven and served with cultural performances and storytelling.

– Kiwi Birdlife Park: Get up close and personal with New Zealand’s unique fauna, including kiwis, tuataras, and keas.

– Toi o Tahuna Art Gallery: Browse through contemporary and traditional Māori art at this award-winning gallery and learn more about Māori culture.

Local History

Queenstown has a fascinating history, especially its gold mining past, which played a significant role in shaping the town. Some historical sites that you can visit include:

– Arrowtown: A charming gold rush village with restored miners’ cottages and a Chinese settlement.

– Lakes District Museum: Discover Queenstown’s rich history through interactive displays and exhibits, including a restored 1860s schoolhouse.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to venture off the beaten path and explore the hidden gems of Queenstown, consider the following:

– The Routeburn Track: Hike through beautiful landscapes and witness waterfalls, alpine meadows, and native forests on this 32-kilometer track.

– Glenorchy: A peaceful town located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, offering a remote wilderness experience.

– Gibbston Valley Winery: Set amidst picturesque vineyards, Gibbston Valley Winery is known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and offers wine tastings, tours, and dining experiences.

In conclusion, Queenstown is an all-in-one destination that caters to everyone, offering a wide range of activities and experiences. Whether you’re here to indulge in adventure sports, explore culture, or just relax and take in the stunning scenery, Queenstown will leave you with unforgettable memories.