This region is bursting with things to do, making it the ideal destination for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts of all interests and abilities. From the snowy mountains to buzzing towns, visiting Queenstown and Wānaka this winter is the perfect way to burn off steam and recharge without the usual complications of travel. Things flow more smoothly here, and we have just the person to attest to that.
Jack Howaston is a sit-skier and adaptive adventurer based in Queenstown. Not only is Jack's story inspiring, but his love for adrenaline and determination to enjoy the Queenstown and Wānaka region to the fullest is contagious. Let Jack guide you through his favourite ways to enjoy the area.

In the Snow
"This will be my fourth season sit-skiing. It took a bit to figure it all out, but with plenty of support from this incredible community and heaps of practice, I've got the hang of things now. Of course, it comes down to mindset. Queenstown and Wānaka have so much to offer, so buzzing and giving off a positive vibe is something people here are drawn to."
"Cardrona is the best resort to start. That's where I used to rent sit-skis from before I got my own. I did lessons there, too, and I highly recommend it. I had a chance to mingle with other sit-skiers training up there. It was a great way to learn and the vibe was extremely friendly. They also have an unbelievable park, and the terrain is perfect for learning to sit-ski."
"The Remarkables offers an incredible park versus terrain balance. You can get off the new lift, and the shoots are literally right there. Coronet Peak is super fun when the snow's good. Whether traversing, going off-piste, or park riding, I can go anywhere the lift can take me, which is amazing. Wherever you go, you'll have a good time."
Eating & Drinking
"Cardrona Hotel is a good place to stop on your way back from the ski field. Yonder is also a sweet spot to eat. Or, for a Guinness at the best Irish pub in town, pop into Póg Mahone's."
"My ideal evening, though, after skiing in the morning, mountain biking in the afternoon, is grabbing some takeaway food. I really like Devil Burger and Fat Badgers Pizza. There are few things better than chilling down by the lake, enjoying a well-deserved meal and washing it down with that epic view."

Off-Mountain Fun
"There are heaps of off-mountain activities to choose from. My current favourite is frisbee golf. I'm obsessed with it! There are plenty of fun courses between Queenstown and Wānaka. I also spend a lot of time mountain biking on the Ben Lomond Trails. The selection is insane, with some gnarly tracks across incredible terrain."
"If you're after some day trips ideas, Wastebusters in Wānaka is worth checking out. It's a thrift shop packed full of gems, including outdoor gear. Also, Arrowtown and Glenorchy are great little towns to visit."
"Okay, I have to rave about iFLY. That's what got me into skydiving. Not all activities can be adaptive, so it takes time to figure out which ones I can do. But everything was a breeze with them. My main activities have always been mountain biking and skiing. I'd never been in a wind tunnel before, so it was a completely new experience, and I ended up loving it. I'd rate it on the same tier as skiing and mountain biking. Next level fun!"
"That's me, though. I've always liked the adrenaline; it's where I find my Flow. Everything seems effortless when my mind is clear, and I'm having fun. It's the best feeling! If you're looking for a break instead, you can check out a movie in the evening. Or, if you're feeling sore, there are heaps of saunas to choose from. There's a solid mix of adventure and relaxation here."

Getting Around
"Queenstown's a very hilly place so biking doesn't fit every occasion. Uber's are one easy way to get around. Driving's also an option, although we could use some more mobility parks. There's plenty of scope for improvement, but I think that's just life. Society has been built around the majority, so we need to adopt the local mindset of making things happen. What's great is that people and businesses here want to learn and are willing to lend a hand. You can ask anyone on the street for help, and they're more than happy too, which is super cool. For example, there have been many times when I was in my chair pushing up a hill in Queenstown and every second person asked "Oh, do you want a push up there?" It's a really polite and friendly community."

Come visit Queenstown and Wānaka this winter. We're a stunning region that caters to everyone, making planning a little easier and bringing Flow State within reach. Just ask Jack:
"There's so much here. This place has everything. I firmly believe that anyone can do anything. If you want to try something out, give it a go. In a spot like this, the possibilities are endless. I'm so passionate about Queenstown and Wānaka, and love sharing that passion with people of all ages, interests and abilities. It's a wonderful place and anybody who visits is bound to say the same."
For future stories and ways to plan your winter adventure to Queenstown and Wānaka, keep an eye on our social media channels and sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss out. We'll see you soon!