Queenstown is a small town located on New Zealand's south island. It is often touted as the "adventure capital of the world" because of its close proximity to many adventure activities that range from a simple shoreline hike to scaling a nearby Southern Alps peak; there is something for everyone. If there were anywhere in the world that one could point to successful tourism, this is probably it. So much so that there are 34 visitors for every resident.
This picturesque town is located on the water's edge of Lake Wakatipu; a doglegged shaped lake that stretches from Glenorchy, past Queenstown to Kingston.
It has the unmistakable lake side geography of Kelvin Point; that has made it highly recognizable in almost any picture of Queenstown when taken from high above on a nearby vantage point called Bob's Peak. To get to the top one can either brave a steep hike via the Tiki Trail or catch the steepest cable car ride called Skyline.
Once at the top, many enjoy the views from the restaurants, or some will ride the luge. For us, a hike up to Ben Lomond was a better choice! Nonetheless, many visiting families enjoy the day hanging out here.
The views of Queenstown from Ben Lomond are even nicer; as the hills and trails come into view against the town and lake. Whether hiking or mountain biking, these hills are a sure workout.
When arriving at Queenstown by air one is greeted by the Remarkables; aptly named as its steep mountainous yet jagged face that rises 7800 feet above the town, often catches the glint of sunset that lights it up remarkably!
Sitting just under its twin peaks is an alpine lake that makes up part of the ski-field in the area. Lake Alta is often a bright green indicating how cold it's water is even in the summer.
The road to get to the top of the Remarkables is a winding mountainous ride with great views of the valley and Kawarau river. Its also a great place to watch the planes come in for a landing at the Queenstown airport.
Queenstown itself is a small town in which its main town center comprises of just about 21 blocks. Here there are primarily eateries, bars and tour guide centers. The streets are narrow with some of the smallest roundabouts found anywhere!
During the peak of summer between Christmas and New Years, Queenstown packs it in with many international and local visitors alike. Getting a place to stay is almost impossible and if booking late, the price for a night quadruples. Getting a spot by the beach is even harder; as many crowd the waterline right in front of the town.
Its hard to believe that without tourism, this lakeside town is indeed quite idyllic, with its hillside homes dotting the hills over the quiet lake. Pick a vacation retreat away from the center of town and one may almost capture it.
But most come here for adventure, and there is a lot to offer. Water sports include jet boat rides on both the Kawarau and Shotover rivers. While those looking for great thrills can choose to bungee jump into the Kawarau Gorge.
This is the birthplace of AJ Hackett's original bungee jumping. For those looking for a little less excitement, take a visit to Arrowtown; an old mining town with a large Chinese settlement. Of course one's visit is never complete without visiting some Lord of the Rings filming location that are found all over the district.
As Queenstown grows as a main tourist attraction, the local lake council district is looking to levy a tax of NZD$7.50 per visitor per night in support of fixing its tourist overburdened and failing infrastructure. Such increasing costs will only further reserve this place for the affluent.
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