“Staggering beauty and heart-pumping thrills await in Queenstown”..... what a description from the discerning community of reviewers at Trip Advisor last week!

Queenstown proudly scored a place in Trip Advisor’s “15 Destinations on the Rise”, announced on 29 December 2011.

It’s fantastic to achieve this recognition from millions of independent international travellers, the very people who come here and experience the region’s activities, attractions and alpine environment. And Queenstown is in good company - other rising destinations include Moscow, Cannes, Cape Town and Stockholm.

The diversity of experiences on offer in Queenstown means that you can play golf in the morning, enjoy a lakeshore bike ride or walk in the afternoon and dine out in style that evening with a view of the lake and a glass of award-winning wine in hand. No two days are ever the same and local activity operators really do offer something for everyone.

There are heaps of opportunities for relaxation on a wine tour, at a local day spa of simply having coffee al fresco and people-watching the day away. Hearts pump at the end of ziplines, bungy cords, in white water rafts and on heli-biking trips. Exertion is rewarded by some superb retail outlets, restaurants and bars to suit every taste, not to mention a buzzing nightlife.

Here’s a bit more of an insight into why Trip Advisor users rate our region, “the alpine resort on Lake Wakatipu began its life as an 1860s gold-mining town, but it now draws droves of outdoor enthusiasts for kayaking, bungee jumping, hiking and skiing.

For a more mild-mannered adventure, take a quiet cruise through nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fiordland National Park World Heritage area, or sample South Island pinot noir from one of the region's 75 wineries.”

“No matter the season, you won't want to stay indoors.”