Queenstown Travel Blog | New Zealand Guide & Tips

My Experience

Brace yourself for the ultimate adrenaline rush in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Without a doubt, this city holds the top spot for me and I find myself irresistibly drawn to it every time I have the chance to visit. This incredible destination is packed with heart-pounding activities like bungee jumping, sky diving and skiing/snowboarding during the winter months. Also when the sun is shining, get yourself ready to conquer wild rapids with a thrilling white water rafting trip. But wait, there is more – this place isn’t just for thrill seekers; it’s a haven for food fanatics as well. You will have the opportunity to indulge in the mouth-watering delights of the local cuisine at the various restaurants and cafeterias scattered throughout the city and nearby towns.

Must-See Places

Hiking

For me, I love to explore the outdoors and enjoy the beautiful scenery that a new place has to offer. Luckily Queenstown is an ideal location to head outdoors and start exploring. Queenstown Hill is a great starting point which has some absolutely amazing views of the city and surrounding mountains. This trail is a very popular hike for runners and walkers and is considered a challenging route to complete as it has an elevation of around 400m. The distance to the top can be around 5km depending on what route you decide to take; this can take around 2-3 hours.

Skyline Gondola

If hiking isn’t your thing, why not consider taking the gondola up to the summit of Bob’s Peak? In just 5 minutes, you’ll be treated to breath-taking views of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables and of course the city of Queenstown. At the top of the mountain you are greeted by a silence so profound that it defies explanation. This is a unique experience that always reminds me how much I love this beautiful place. If you only have a few days here – make this a priority if you enjoy spectacular panoramic views. Looking for a reliable platform to book your tickets? Look no further than Skyline. This is a fantastic platform starting from just $52.00 (NZD) for an adult gondola ride. However, there are numerous other options available, catering to your specific preferences and desired experiences.

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Milford Sound

The final destination in the Otago region that should be part of your visit is the Milford Sounds. From Queenstown, the destination is around 4 hours away which means there is a bit of travel involved to get there. But boy, it is worth it! Personally, if I were to embark on this journey again, I would opt for renting a car. This way, I could take breaks whenever and wherever I desire, allowing me to explore at my own pace instead of being bound by the schedule of a guided tour. On the flip side, there were a number of advantages of going on a day guided tour. You have the opportunity to be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who provides insightful commentary throughout the tour. You can enjoy the comfort of a well-equipped bus, hotel pick-up and drop-off which eliminates any transportation concerns. Lastly, you will be treated to a breath-taking 2 hour sightseeing cruise on the Milford Sounds, creating unforgettable memories. As an added bonus, a delicious lunch is provided, satisfying your hunger while on the go and allowing you to refuel and continue exploring.

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Exploration

Queenstown is not the only destination to visit in this area, with some charming towns surrounding the city. Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Gibbston and Wanaka are just naming a few and you’ll be tempted to extend your stay by 2-3 days just to explore the captivating Otago region. If you want to explore these incredible destinations, renting a car is essential. Wanaka is the ultimate choice if you are seeking a laid-back, nature-centric overnight adventure. Wanaka is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene and exquisite wines. The town has a wide range of restaurants and cafes that you should not miss if you decide to visit. For food enthusiasts, a visit to the Wanaka Farmers Market on Thursdays is highly recommended. This vibrant market showcases an array of fresh produces directly from local farms around the region. If you’re looking to take a quick break during your journey to Wanaka, I strongly suggest making a stop in Arrowtown. This delightful town offers a wonderful chance to try your hand at gold panning which is a unique experience in itself. For just $10.00 (NZD), you can hire a pan kit and receive all the necessary guidance on where to go and what to do to try and uncover some of that precious gold. Arrowtown Curis – Gold Panning is an excellent option to consider, conveniently located on the main street of Arrowtown. You definitely won’t miss it!

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Unforgettable Moments

Kawarau Bridge Bungy

No visit to Queenstown is complete without making a pit stop at Kawarau Bridge Bungy. As you step cautiously towards the edge, your heart racing and your mind buzzing with excitement; you’ll realise that you’ve reached the ultimate home destination for bungy jumping. It is impossible to put into words the rush you experience right before leaping off a 40m tall bridge. Allow yourself to embrace the feeling, keep your gaze fixed ahead and take the plunge into the crystal clear river below. If you are up for the challenge, visit the website to reserve your spot. It’s $265.00 (NZD) to secure your spot and you can even opt for a tandem jump if you can persuade your mate to join in.

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Food and Drinks

Food, food, and more food and dont forget drinks. It is no secret that my blog is filled with mouth-watering tales of my culinary adventures. I simply can’t resist exploring new food spots and indulging in different cuisine and it is no different in my homeland. Fergburger is renowned as one of the top food destinations and was crowned the ultimate traveller’s choice in 2020. Although you may have to wait in line for these delectable burgers, rest assured that the wait is absolutely worthwhile. The price of the burgers can vary between $15 to $25 (NZD), depending on your preferred flavour and taste. After dinner or if you have a sweet tooth, make sure to add ‘Cookie Time’ to your food list right away. It’s a must-try for all dessert lovers. The final suggestion for all you cocktail enthusiasts is the Minus 5 degree – Ice Bar. It’s the hottest (or coldest!) spot to enjoy a yummy cocktail and chill out (literally). This unique experience is available throughout the year, ensuring you never miss out on the enjoyment. The crew there provide you with all the essentials to keep nice and warm and cozy while you enjoy this unique experience. You can make bookings online and discover all the essential details for an incredible ice adventure.

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