Queenstown, New Zealand is a small but vibrant city situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Known as the “adventure capital” of New Zealand, Queenstown is a hub for outdoor activities, adrenaline-fueled adventures, and stunning scenery. Here are some of the top activities, accommodations, and eateries to check out in and around Queenstown.
Top Activities in Queenstown:
- Bungy jumping: AJ Hackett is the birthplace of bungy jumping and offers several jump options from the original Kawarau Bridge bungy to the Nevis bungy, one of the highest in the world. Prices range from $195 – $395 NZD per person.
- Skydiving: Skydive Queenstown offers tandem jumps with views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu. Prices range from $309 – $559 NZD per person.
- Jet boating: Take a thrilling ride on a jet boat through the Shotover Canyon with Shotover Jet or navigate the rapids of the Kawarau River with Kawarau Jet. Prices range from $129 – $149 NZD per person.
- Milford Sound day trip: Take a scenic drive or bus ride to Milford Sound, one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand. Prices for a day trip range from $100 – $200 NZD per person.
Top Places to Stay in Queenstown:
- Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel: A stylish and modern hotel located a short walk from the town center. Prices start at $315 NZD per night.
- Novotel Queenstown Lakeside: A hotel located in the heart of Queenstown with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. Prices start at $194 NZD per night.
- YHA Queenstown Central: A budget-friendly hostel located in the town center. Prices start at $39 NZD per night for a shared dorm room.
Top Places to Eat in Queenstown:
- Fergburger: A must-visit for anyone coming to Queenstown, this burger joint is known for their massive and delicious burgers. Prices range from $11 – $18 NZD per burger.
- The Cow: An Italian restaurant located in the town center with a cozy atmosphere and delicious pizza and pasta. Prices range from $15 – $30 NZD per entree.
- Vudu Café: A popular spot for breakfast or lunch with a variety of healthy and delicious options. Prices range from $8 – $20 NZD per dish.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or just looking to relax and take in the stunning scenery, Queenstown is a must-visit destination in New Zealand. With plenty of activities, accommodations, and eateries to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
The history of Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand is a small city located in the South Island of the country. Its history can be traced back to the mid-1800s when the first Europeans arrived in the region. The Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, had inhabited the area for over 500 years before the arrival of Europeans.
In the early 1860s, gold was discovered in the area, and this led to a rush of miners coming to the region in search of their fortune. The gold rush lasted for several years, and the population of Queenstown grew rapidly. During this time, the town was named after Queen Victoria, the reigning monarch at the time.
In 1863, the first hotel was built in Queenstown to accommodate the growing number of visitors. By the 1870s, Queenstown had become a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the region.
In the early 1900s, tourism began to take off in Queenstown, with visitors coming from around the world to experience the city’s unique outdoor activities and adventure sports. In the 1960s, the first ski fields were opened in the surrounding mountains, and Queenstown became a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Today, Queenstown is known as the “adventure capital” of New Zealand, offering a wide range of activities from bungee jumping and skydiving to hiking and skiing. It has a thriving tourism industry, and visitors from all over the world come to experience the natural beauty and outdoor adventures that the city has to offer.
Despite its rapid growth and development, Queenstown has managed to maintain its small-town charm and friendly community atmosphere. The city has a rich history that can still be seen in its architecture and landmarks, and visitors can explore the town’s past through museums and historic sites such as the Queenstown Heritage and Arts Trail.
Overall, the history of Queenstown is a testament to the spirit of adventure and resilience of its early settlers, and the city’s evolution into a world-renowned tourist destination is a testament to the natural beauty and unique offerings of the region.
