Queenstown: Wildlife / Adventure

Queenstown: The Adventure Capital of New Zealand, where breathtaking landscapes meet heart-pounding thrills.

Queenstown

Nestled amidst the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown beckons adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. From the majestic fiords of Milford Sound to the adrenaline rush of bungy jumping, this region is a playground for those seeking extraordinary experiences. Explore ancient glaciers, pristine native forests, and encounter diverse wildlife, all while pushing your personal limits in a stunning natural setting. Queenstown truly offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Attractions

Milford Sound

A breathtaking fiord within Fiordland National Park, famous for its towering Mitre Peak, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Hint: full day trip

  • Scenic cruise past waterfalls like Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls
  • Spot seals, dolphins, and penguins
  • Experience the 'Rainforest Shower' under waterfalls
  • Walk the Milford Sound foreshore
Buy tickets (Tiqets)

Kawarau Bridge Bungy

The world's first commercial bungy site, offering jumps from a historic bridge over the Kawarau River.

Hint: 2-3h

  • Choose your bungy style: ankle-tied or harness
  • Dare to touch the water or go fully submerged
  • Watch others jump from the viewing platform
  • Visit the AJ Hackett bungy centre for history
Buy tickets (Tiqets)

Shotover Jet

Experience an exhilarating jet boat ride through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River, renowned for 360-degree spins.

Hint: 1-2h

  • Speed through the Shotover River canyons
  • Execute thrilling 360-degree spins
  • Hold on tight as you skim past rocks
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the canyons
Buy tickets (Tiqets)

Routeburn Track

One of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering stunning alpine scenery, ancient forests, and spectacular mountain views.

Hint: multi-day or day hike

  • Hike sections like Key Summit for panoramic views
  • Explore lush beech forests and subalpine vegetation
  • Cross swing bridges over clear rivers
  • Spot native birds like fantails and kea
Buy tickets (Tiqets)

Kepler Track

Another iconic Great Walk, featuring dramatic mountain ridges, deep fiords, and native forest around Lake Te Anau.

Hint: multi-day or day hike

  • Hike along the Luxmore Hut Ridge for alpine vistas
  • Explore the scenic lakeside sections near Te Anau
  • Cross suspension bridges over gushing rivers
  • Spot local wildlife including Takahe (rare native bird)
Buy tickets (Tiqets)

Fiordland National Park

New Zealand's largest national park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic fiords, ancient rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

Hint: multiple days needed

  • Explore Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound by cruise
  • Hike sections of the Milford or Routeburn Tracks
  • Kayak in serene fiords
  • Spot seals, dolphins, kea, and rare birds
Buy tickets (Tiqets)

Hotels

QT Queenstown

A design-led hotel offering stylish rooms, stunning lake views, and a vibrant rooftop bar.

Area: Central Queenstown

  • Rooftop bar
  • Lake views
  • On-site restaurant
  • Fitness center
Check rates on Booking.com

Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown

Enjoy comfortable accommodation with magnificent views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range.

Area: Central Queenstown

  • Lakefront location
  • Outdoor pool (seasonal)
  • Ski storage
  • Restaurant & bar
Check rates on Booking.com

Adventure Queenstown Hostel

A highly-rated hostel known for its friendly atmosphere, clean facilities, and central location ideal for adventurers.

Area: Central Queenstown

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Shared kitchen
  • Common lounge
  • Activity booking desk
Check rates on Booking.com

The Rees Queenstown Hotel & Apartments

Sophisticated lakeside accommodation offering spacious apartments and hotel rooms with stunning views and personalized service.

Area: Frankton Road

  • Private balconies
  • Fine dining restaurant
  • Day spa
  • Complimentary shuttle
Check rates on Booking.com

Kamana Lakehouse

Perched on a hill, this boutique hotel offers modern rooms, outdoor hot tubs, and panoramic lake and mountain views.

Area: Fernhill

  • Outdoor hot tubs
  • Lake views
  • On-site restaurant
  • Free parking
Check rates on Booking.com

Restaurants

Botswana Butchery

A premium dining experience known for its succulent cuts of meat, local produce, and stunning lakeside setting.

Cuisine: Steakhouse

  • Wagyu Beef Ribeye
  • Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder
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Fergburger

A world-famous burger joint renowned for its massive, gourmet burgers and often long queues.

Cuisine: Burgers

  • The Fergburger (classic beef)
  • Sweet Julie (chicken burger)
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Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door

Located in a beautiful vineyard setting, offering a 'Trust the Chef' menu with fresh, seasonal ingredients paired with their wines.

Cuisine: New Zealand, European

  • Trust the Chef Degustation
  • Amisfield Pinot Noir
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Erik's Fish and Chips

Serving classic New Zealand fish and chips, including local fresh catch and gluten-free options, perfect for a casual meal.

Cuisine: Seafood, Fast Food

  • Hoki Fish and Chips
  • Kumara Chips
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The Cow Restaurant

A cozy, rustic restaurant set in a historic stone building, famous for its hearty pizzas and pasta dishes.

Cuisine: Italian, Pizza

  • The Cow Special Pizza
  • Spaghetti Bolognese
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