Queenstown, New Zealand is the definition of picturesque. Every corner you turn, there is a new spectacular view. You will feel like you are in a Lord of the Rings film while here! I got to know this small melting pot of a town pretty well during my 10 days there, and now I am here to share the low down with you peeps.
I visited in February, which was a great time because it was still warm out (December, January, and February are the warmest months in NZ). If you are going for winter activities (skiing/snowboarding), anytime between June-August will be a better time to visit.
Accommodation
I have stayed at a lot of hostels in my day, and this is by far the nicest one. Clean sheets, comfortable beds, and nice bathrooms!
Beautiful views of the water and right by the beach.
Great place to meet people from around the world.
Perfect location.
Extreme Sports
Skydiving
We went through a company called NZONE from Jack's Point (highly recommend this company). The views were INSANE!
We booked this 1 month prior to arriving, but many people book once there (you will just have to be more flexible on the time of day that you go).
Photo above in the lower right hand corner.
Canyon Swinging
We went through a company called Shotover Canyon Swing. Adrenaline rush of the century.
We booked this upon arrival through our hostel.
Photo above in the upper right hand corner.
Bungee Jump
Nevis Bungee is the most popular one because it is the highest bungee in NZ!
I did not have the guts to do it....but you should!
Mountain Biking
If you are a beginner, I personally do not recommend. This ended very poorly for me. I found the green (easy) courses to be extremely difficult, rocky, and bumpy. I made it about 2 minutes riding down before flipping over the bike and calling it quits.
If you are experienced, DO IT!
We booked this upon arrival through our hostel.
Skipper's Canyon Jet Boat Tour at Shotover River
Skipper's Canyon was a great company to go through!
Plan to get wet!
We stopped at some beautiful views along the way to take photos.
You see where Lord of the Rings was filmed! It is beautiful.
We booked this upon arrival through our hostel
Photo above in the second row
Other Activites
Lake Wanaka is a beautiful lake near Queenstown (book a day trip in advance or rent a car).
Take a ride on the Skyline Gondola to see some crazy views of the area! Photo above.
Go kayaking or on a aqua cycle ride from the beach downtown! Photo above.
Visit the Queenstown garden for a scenic hike/walk/run. Photo above.
Wine tasting tour! Cheers!
we booked through our hostel upon arrival
NZ produces some of the world's best wine! While here, I visited:
Mount Rosa Winery in Gibbston Valley
Carrick Winery and Vineyards in Bannockburn
Akarua Winery in Bannockburn
Restaurants
Fergburger (for the best/largest burger you will EVER eat-- this is an iconic must do spot)
Vudu Cafe & Larder (great brekkie)
The Bathhouse - Tapas Bar (right on the water--sit outside)!
The Bunker Restaurant and Bar (romantic & cozy dinner spot)
Bars/ Nightlife
Winnie's
The Find
Atlas Beer Cafe
Below Zero Ice Bar
Keep in mind that most everything listed above was booked upon arrival (other than the hostel and sky diving)! Don't stress trying to pre-plan everything. The best vacations are typically the most spontaneous ones, am I right? Also--this town makes it really easy to play everything by ear!
Let me know if there are any questions and thank you for reading!
Xx,
Nat
