How to Spend Your Time in Queenstown New Zealand

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the South Island of New Zealand, is a year-round destination with a climate that caters to all seasons.

It covers an area of approximately 3,361 square miles (8,704 square kilometers).

Queenstown is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, with not only Lake Wakatipu but also the Remarkables Mountain Range providing a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor activities year-round.

Annually, Queenstown attracts around 3.7 million visitors who come to experience its outdoor adventures, relax in its picturesque surroundings, and explore its vibrant dining and entertainment scene.

Queenstown's natural beauty is an ever-present backdrop, ensuring that every moment in this South Island gem is a picturesque one. No wonder Queenstown is also called the "Jewel of the South Island."

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Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown is a playground for adventure seekers, and there's no shortage of thrilling activities to indulge in.

The town's nickname is literally, "The Adventure Capital of the World."

You can start your day with a breathtaking sunrise experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a bungee jump from the iconic Kawarau Bridge or the Nevis Highwire Platform.

Bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge near Queenstown, New Zealand, is an iconic adventure activity. It was here that commercial bungee jumping began in 1988, pioneered by AJ Hackett and Henry van Asch.

Doing the bungee jump was undoubtedly a highlight of my time in Queenstown, New Zealand,

The bridge spans the Kawarau River and offers a 141 foot (43-meter) drop, providing thrill-seekers with a memorable adrenaline rush against the backdrop of stunning Central Otago scenery.

This site remains one of the most popular bungee jumping locations globally, drawing visitors from around the world to experience this daring leap in a picturesque setting.

If you've got several days in Queenstown, you can explore the surrounding fjords on a day trip, such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

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Enjoy the Food in Queenstown

Queenstown isn't just an adventure capital; it's also a foodie haven. Be sure to sample New Zealand's famous Fergburger, an iconic burger joint known for its delicious, locally-sourced ingredients.

And don't miss a visit to the Queenstown Farmers' Market, where you can find artisanal products and fresh produce.

Queenstown is also close to the Central Otago wine region where you can explore vineyards and enjoy wine tastings.

Whether you're in the mood for fine dining, street food, or a cozy cafe, Queenstown offers a diverse range of culinary delights.

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Queenstown's Iconic Mountain Range

The Remarkables Mountain Range is a prominent feature near Queenstown, located to the east of Lake Wakatipu.

It's a striking sight with rugged peaks that reach heights of over 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) above sea level. The range runs roughly north-south and forms a dramatic backdrop to Queenstown and the surrounding area.

While the Remarkables are not directly within Queenstown, they are easily visible from various points within the city.

Their proximity means that visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountain range from several vantage points around Queenstown, including along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and from viewpoints like the Skyline Queenstown Gondola.

The Remarkables mountain range, so named for its unique jagged peaks, offers a striking backdrop for any outdoor adventure. Nearby Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons with its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and iconic Milford Sound, a place of jaw-dropping beauty.

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Weather at Queenstown

Queenstown see a temperate maritime climate, meaning it experiences moderate temperatures throughout the year.

Summers, from December to February, are warm and ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on the lake. Autumn, from March to May, paints the region in a symphony of reds and golds as the leaves change, making it a perfect time for wine tasting and scenic drives.

Winters, from June to August, bring snow to the surrounding mountains, transforming Queenstown into a skiing and snowboarding paradise, with world-class resorts like Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.

Spring, from September to November, is a time of renewal, with budding flowers and increasingly warmer weather, making it great for golfing and early-season hiking.

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Queenstown New Zealand to Te Anau

The journey from Queenstown to Te Anau offers a scenic route through some of New Zealand's most captivating landscapes.

Te Anau is located approximately 171 kilometers (106 miles) northwest of Queenstown and serves as the gateway to Fiordland National Park and the renowned Milford Sound.

This journey from Queenstown to Te Anau showcases the natural beauty of New Zealand's South Island, providing opportunities for scenic viewpoints. Definitely stop and take advantage of seeing those views! 

This picture shows you what you can see on the Remarkables Road.

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