Queenstown is the top pick for adrenaline junkies seeking a holiday packed with thrills.
Queenstown is here to impress with scenic views and to uphold its name as the outdoor adventure capital of the country.
Get ready for some fresh air as you enjoy the high octane activities such as skydiving and canyon swinging that we’ve hand-picked for you. Naturally, there are a few more relaxing activities on the cards here as well, including wine and cheese tastings and relaxing cruises through Milford Sound.
Image: Bungy / The Ledge
Top things to do
Skydive
When in Queenstown you shouldn’t pass up the chance for an adrenaline rush, and a skydive is one of the ultimate bucket list items you can tick off here.
Experience the feeling of freefalling for a minute as you tandem dive with an experienced guide above the city. This skydiving experience lets you choose between jumping from 9,000, 10,000 or 12,000 feet and you may even reach speeds of 200kph.
Milford Sound
People often use Queenstown as a gateway into Milford Sounds.
This World Heritage Fiordland National Park features boat cruises around Mirror Lake to see Mitre Peak and 1,200-metre rock walls. Waterfalls and dense rainforest also make up the area of the Southern Alps and its size and beauty will leave you speechless.
Golfing at Jack’s Point
Queenstown is home to world-renowned golf courses that give you a view as you play. From Jack's Point, you’ll be able to see Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range.
Take time to practise on the 18-hole green before playing a round. Afterwards, relax in the clubhouse with a drink.
The Ledge
Searching for a different kind of adrenaline rush? Why not try one of Queenstown’s swings.
The Ledge is Queenstown's sky swing and will literally see you swinging 400 metres above Lake Wakatipu. As you fall, pull the release cord to add an extra bit of fun. You’ll begin to rock back and forth until you stop swinging.
Snow sports
Queenstown is not just about heart-pumping adrenaline fixes, it’s also a mecca for amateur and professional skiers and snowboarders.
Some of the country’s most popular snowfields are a short drive from Queenstown, including Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona. Snowfields typically open from July to September.
Wine and cheese tasting
Wine tasting is a must in New Zealand but if we had to choose just one, it would be in Queenstown. That’s because it’s home to the world's largest tasting of New Zealand’s wines.
Armed with a pre-loaded tasting card, you’ll be able to sample numerous different champagnes, sparkling wines, whiskies, ports and sherries. A guide will educate you on the region's wines while you sample them with cheese.
White-water rafting
White-water rafting options are rife in Queenstown and you’ll have the option to raft class II and III white-water rapids with paddle techniques that your instructor teaches you beforehand.
No experience is necessary to ride down the rapids and afterwards you’ll often have the space to enjoy a hot shower and relax in a sauna.
Helicopter flight
What better way is there to see Queenstown than from above? There are plenty of options for you to take to the skies, but the Grand Circle Helicopter Flight, in particular, lets you soar through Wakatipu Basin and land in the Remarkables Range.
You’ll even get the opportunity to stand in the snow 1,528 metres above the city and see panoramic views.
Queenstown Skyline Gondola
Don’t miss the chance to ride up the Skyline gondola for views of Queenstown.
When on the top, enjoy a buffet lunch or dinner with guaranteed views of the city’s skyline while you feast.
Queenstown deals
Wotif - Deals
Up to 25% off luxury hotels worldwide
Valid for travel on select dates. Destinations include Auckland, Queenstown, London, Bangkok, Paris, Fiji and more. T&Cs apply.
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RedBalloon
$10 off your next order
Join the RedBalloon newsletter for $10 off your next order. T&Cs apply.
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Groupon
$10 off your first Groupon purchase
Spend $49 or more at Groupon and get $10 off your order. Not valid on Village Roadshow Theme Park deals or gift cards. Valid on first purchases only.
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