Queenstown is often dubbed the "Adventure Capital of the World" owing to its extensive array of outdoor pursuits, which encompass activities such as bungee jumping, jet boating, skydiving, white-water rafting, and skiing. Notably, the inaugural commercial bungee jumping operation, AJ Hackett Bungy, launched in Queenstown in 1988, with its initial leap spot located at the historic Kawarau Bridge. This town is nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, which stands as New Zealand's longest lake and boasts a unique lightning bolt-shaped form, encircled by breathtaking mountain vistas. Furthermore, the South Island of New Zealand, including the vicinity around Queenstown, served as the scenic backdrop for numerous sequences in Peter Jackson's cinematic trilogies "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," offering guided tours for enthusiasts to explore these renowned filming locations.
This is a year-round destination, with Queenstown sightseeing crowds reaching their peak in summer and winter. Visit Queenstown attractions in autumn (March to October) and spring (October to November) for fewer tourists and cheaper rates.
Navigating scenic Queenstown can prove testing. Keep these top tips handy so you can get around with ease! If, like most tourists, you're staying close to the town centre, you can rely on foot power to see the sites. Hire cars are a popular option here, though be sure to drive carefully. Queenstown's high country roads, especially the ski-field roads often take visitors by surprise. Several buses service the key local attractions, while tours found on isango! usually include transport on Queenstown day trips. The town's local Connect-a-bus service also runs buses to and from town to the Queenstown Airport (ZQN).
Prominent points of interest comprise Lake Wakatipu, the Skyline Gondola, Milford Sound, the charming town of Arrowtown, and the adjacent wineries.
Queenstown is a relatively safe town. Keep these travel tips in tow so your trip can go off without a hitch! The most common crime committed against tourists is car break-ins. Be sure to lock your vehicle and keep your valuables with you at all times. When considering what to do in Queenstown with the little ones in tow, keep in mind that not all activities are child-friendly. Instead of flinging yourself off a bridge, perhaps opt for the many tamer alternatives that suit the whole gang. In any emergency, dial 111.