This self-styled ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ nestles in the midst of an alpine world that is both visually stunning and physically exhilarating.

Queenstown is the destination of choice for the thrill seekers of the world. People flock to New Zealand’s premier winter sports venue to test themselves on the slopes, in the air, on land or on water. Many of the 1.2 million visitors are eager to embrace risk and its attendant thrill therapy.

The choice of activities will leave you gasping for air. Here are some of the lower cost ones:-

Wander down the Mall to the lakefront and steamer wharf to feel the town’s atmosphere
The compact town centre has many retail stores, visitor centres, booking agencies and over 200 places to dine.

Enjoy a walk through the Peninsula Gardens
Follow the circular tree-lined path with views up Lake Wakatipu. There is peace and solitude here just minutes away from the adrenalin-pumping action.

Take it easy with a game of tennis or golf
The Queenstown Gardens tennis courts are open to anyone. There are four golf courses nearby.

Spend some quality time unwinding in the Mall, shops and duty free stores.
The outdoor clothing range is outstanding with hand-made garments unique to New Zealand including sheepskin rugs, leather goods, greenstone (jade) jewellery and fashion wear.

Tootle up the Time Walk on Queenstown Hill
This millennium walk celebrates both the region’s heritage and the majestic alpine landscape laid out before you.

Glide up the Skyline gondola and marvel at the view
Climb the track above the Skyline and soak up one of the world’s best views. Lash out on a luge ride and then dine with the world at your feet.

Amble around Queenstown’s Heritage Trail
Take in the town’s oldest house, Williams Cottage on the lakefront, plus the old stone library, District Court and St Peters Church.

Drive around Frankton Arm to Kelvin Heights
Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light is quite spectacular.

Drive on to Coronet Peak for more ski-high views
Experienced drivers can continue on the steep, winding Skippers Canyon road to the Shotover River Bridge.

Visit the charming old gold mining centre of Arrowtown
Relive the rumbustious gold rush days in the Lakes District Museum, hire a gold pan and strike some of the glittering stuff in the Arrow River and visit the original Chinese Village.

Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the Old World steamboat ‘Earnslaw’
The ‘Lady of the Lake’ dating from 1912 steams over to a classic high country sheep station for farm demonstrations and a cup of tea.

Sample Queenstown’s vibrant nightlife
Cruise the bars, cafes and casino, which are pulsing all year round until the small hours.

Visit the local Queenstown attractions
A Motor Museum and Aviary are located at the base of the gondola and lake trout and eels can be viewed in the Wharf Aquarium.

Drive up Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy
The lakeside drive is glorious and this lovely hamlet is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and a place actually called ‘Paradise’.

From Glenorchy drive on to the start of the Routeburn Track
Sample a portion of this New Zealand Great Walk and also the Dart-Rees Track or Greenstone Track. These tramps in pristine forest are a soul-stirring experience rivalling the famous Milford Track.

Follow the Central Otago Wine Trail
Taste the unique flavours of the southernmost cool climate wines in the world.

Suggestions, Edits and Additions

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