Summer in Queenstown Bay
Warm days, long evenings and dazzling starry nights make Queenstown irresistible in the summertime. There's an incredible range of inspiring activities, ranging from easy to extreme. Which of these adventures will you put on your holiday hit list?
There is no better place and time to take the plunge out of your comfort zone. With three different bungy jumps – including New Zealand’s highest – plus canyon swings, flying foxes, and one of the world’s most scenic paragliding and skydiving drop zones, Queenstown will sate the cravings of the first-timer and adrenaline junkie alike.
An extensive network of peaceful cycle paths, the Queenstown Trail is a great way to immerse yourself in the region’s renowned landscapes while taking in many of its major sights. Six themed trails – linking Queenstown, Arrowtown and the wine-soaked Gibbston Valley – offer almost endless options for exploration with guided rides and shuttles easy to arrange.
Take in the view from Skyline Queenstown
Take in the view from Skyline Queenstown
Queenstown’s must-do, the Skyline Gondola sweeps up to iconic Bob’s Peak, 500 metres above town. Staggering lake and mountain views are just the first course in a feast of al fresco adventure that includes the outrageously fun luge, world-class mountain bike trails, park, and tandem paragliding flights through beautiful blue skies.
With the snow out of the way, visitors can explore mountain high and valley low on a series of walking trails throughout world-famous Middle-earth landscapes. Queenstown is a popular base for the region’s Great Walks and other multi-day wilderness adventures, but there are also countless short options for day walks ranging from lakeside strolls to strenuous climbs such as the hikes up Ben Lomond and Queenstown Hill.
The region’s high country farms, lakeland and river valleys are an unforgettable backdrop for horse trekking adventures
Jet boating on Kawarau River
Jet boating on Kawarau River
Lake Wakatipu and three spectacular rivers – the Shotover, Kawarau and Dart – are the setting of some of the world’s most exciting jet boat rides. Buckle up and hang on for hair-raising spins through narrow canyons, or soak up Southern Alps scenery on a slower-paced safari. Take trips to the next level by combining them with a helicopter trip or 4WD tour.
The region’s high country farms, lakeland, and World Heritage river valleys are an unforgettable backdrop for horse trekking adventures close to Queenstown. Riders of all levels are catered for on various trips, run by experienced guides and enhanced by the stories of the region’s natural and human past.
Rafting in Skippers Canyon
Rafting in Skippers Canyon
Embark on a rafting trip to get up close and personal with two of New Zealand’s most famous rivers, both of which boast lofty rocky canyons and beautiful mountain scenery. Conquer the Shotover’s grade 3–5 drops and shoots in historic Skippers Canyon, or cruise the more playful, grade 2–3 Kawarau finishing with the Dog Leg, one of the longest rapids in the country.
Sleep in then stay up late to maximise Queenstown’s lively vibe that lasts well into the wee hours. The Queenstown nightlife never disappoints. Linger over a sundowner while watching the light fade over the lake. Savour local food and wine in sophisticated restaurants. Head out for live music and dancing in one of many friendly pubs and bars, then round things off with a nightcap. Tomorrow, most likely, will be another long, sunny day…
Queenstown's long summer days are an invitation to pack even more adventures into your must do list!
Majestic Middle-earth scenery, pioneer history, and plenty of refreshment stops make walking around Queenstown richly rewarding.
Backpacking and looking to stretch your budget? Here are some things to do to meet people and experience some Queenstown must do’s for free or very little.
The Queenstown region is made for al fresco dining, here's a roundup of the locations that are perfect for a lakefront lunch or afternoon drinks in the sun.
Breath-taking scenery and an epic trail network have cemented Queenstown’s reputation as one of the world’s best mountain biking destinations. A whole lot of easy trails make it a dream for novice riders, but it’s the intermediate and advanced rides...
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