Why Queenstown tops the list of adventure destinations /

It all started in 1988 when a few people shuffled and jumped to the edge of a bridge near Queenstown, New Zealand. Little did they know they were making history, and few expected the activity’s popularity or prosperous nature, let alone put Queenstown on the map as an adventure destination.

Queenstown has experienced a bit of a revival, transforming from a small ski town in the 1980s to today’s bustling adventure capital of New Zealand. Today, more than 80,000 people bungy jump in New Zealand alone each year.

The adrenaline-pumping sports are vastly expanded, ranging from ziplining to rappelling. Once known only to rock climbers and bungy jumpers, the city has become the heartbeat of New Zealand adventure, appealing to a wider travel audience.

The question in Queensland is not “What can you do?” it’s more about what can’t you? The list of activities is as long as they are challenging, including skydiving, mountain biking, white water rafting, paragliding, canyon swings, and easy access to three ski resorts.

Bungy jump, swing or zipline

Bungee is still king in Queenstown. There are currently three jump sites ranging from 43m at Kawarau Bridge to 134m at Nevis Bungy. The Nevis Catapult is a bungy-style jump that propels you 500 feet across a ravine at 62 miles per hour, producing up to 3G of force before plunging to the valley floor. If bungy jumping isn’t what you’re into, try the world’s steepest zip line or giant swing.

go jet boating

Jet Boating is one of the most popular activities in Queensland. Race across rivers and lakes in a speedboat, stopping barely inches from shore. Laugh and scream in fright or delight as the boat completes rapid 360-degree spins, splashing water everywhere. It is a family-friendly activity and can be done all year round.

The Dart River Adventures is undoubtedly the most exclusive jet boat tour. It originates in Glenorchy and travels along the River Dart to a place known as Paradise. It includes a bus tour back, a scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy, jet boating and a nature walk. It is hands down one of the top things to do in Glenorchy!

See Mount Cook from the air!

Skydiving is without a doubt the most extreme adventure activity available in Queenstown. You can choose from different skydive activities with jumps open at 2750 meters, 3660 meters and 4572 meters. If you complete the highest and craziest jump of 4572 meters, you can brag!

You can also take a full-day trip to Mount Cook for an incredibly spectacular experience. Skydive from different heights and see Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, from above! Mount Cook is a must-see on any trip to the South Island.

Hydro attack shark

Well, you could say, only in Queenstown, because it’s something you can only do in Queenstown. The Hydro Shark is similar to a jet ski, except it can dive underwater like a shark. If you’ve been to Lake Wakatipu, chances are you’ve seen it whiz around the lake, jumping in and out of the water.

Essentially, you sit behind the driver and the windshield is closed over you. The shark glides quickly over the water and dives under and out just like in real life. Book this well in advance as it gets booked up quickly.

White water rafting down the Shotover River

Queenstown’s famous Shotover River is wild and untamed. Tackle this rugged beauty and experience the thrill of white water rafting. Although you’ll encounter six rapids along the Shotover River, it’s not all thrills and spills. There are stretches of calm water to enjoy the scenery, swim, and learn about the river’s gold mining history. But this wouldn’t be an epic adventure if it didn’t end with rafting through the 170-foot Oxenbridge Tunnel and shooting the Cascade Rapid.

Ride the Queenstown Gondola

Board the Skyline Gondola for a 450m ride to Bob’s Peak (the highest gondola in the Southern Hemisphere) Experience stunning views of Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.

When you reach the top of the gondola at Bob’s Peak, your day is far from over; there is still much to do. For added thrills, take a ride on the Queenstown Luge. The Skyline Queenstown Luge has become a thrill and a must-do activity in Queenstown. Hop on your specialized Luge cart and enjoy an exhilarating gravity-driven descent.

Located at the top of the gondola, the Luge carts put you in control as you navigate 800 meters of twists, tunnels, and dippers. Take it easy on the Blue Track or fly through the turns and over the bumps on the Green Track, then hop on the chairlift and repeat. One ride will get you hooked and you’ll go back for more.

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At Bob’s Peak, opt for a relaxed cafe or enjoy a romantic lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar while taking in some of the best views in the Southern Hemisphere. End your day with a glass of wine and a beautiful sunset over Queenstown.

Cycle the Queenstown Trail

A fantastic way to explore the quieter side of Queenstown is via the Queenstown Trail. It is one of New Zealand’s 22 Great Rides, a network of routes that provide a safe and environmentally friendly way to visit New Zealand’s exceptional places. Queenstown Trail allows you to explore Queenstown by bike (or on foot) through 130 kilometers of beautiful off-road routes. From Queenstown to Gibbston via historic Arrowtown, your adventure begins on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy spectacular views of lakes, mountains, rivers, bridges and breathtaking landscapes.

Plan a stop in Gibbston and explore the oldest vineyards and the most extensive wine cave in New Zealand. Ride along the beautiful Kawarau River to surrounding wineries while enjoying the scenery. Signage along the trail makes it easy to navigate to and from the winery, giving riders quick access to some of the region’s best wines and food.

To say Queenstown has it all would be an understatement. It is without a doubt New Zealand’s most popular tourist destination all year round. Whether you crave the adrenaline rush or just looking for an easy adventure, you’ll find something to enjoy. Relax in luxury hotels, dine in award-winning restaurants and explore the vibrant city.

Andrew Morten is the founder of TravelEssence. TravelEssence makes tailor-made trips to Australia and New Zealand.

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