Queenstown
(population 7500)This is the "The Adrenaline Capital" of New Zealand. The town lies on the northern side of Lake Wakatipu. Besides the Outdoor activities which can be undertaken in Queenstown it also offers some nice boutiques, restaurants and bars. Many tourists visit this town. Like many other towns in this region Queenstown flourished during the gold rush in the 19th century. Before the Europeans started settling in this town in the 1850's there was probably a Maori settlement.
For more information of Outdoor activities in the area around Queenstown, which are many, go to: "Area's of Interest" "Queenstown Region". The activities described in "Queenstown Region" can be undertaken as a daytrip from Queenstown. When reading "Queenstown Region" you will understand why Queenstown carries the name "The Adrenaline Capital" of New Zealand.
Outdoor
Aerial sight seeing
You can make a tandem paraglide from the top of a hill at the boarder of Queenstown.
Bird watching
There is a Kiwi and Birdlife park north of Queenstown. In this park you will be able to see lots of nice birds including the Kiwi, which is very difficult to spot in wildlife.
Extreme(r) sports
There are many possibilities to make a bungy jump within Queenstown. You can also undertake a bungee rocket. A ledge sky swing is also an option.
Golfing (and mini golf)
There are some Golf courses in Queenstown. Millbrook is a very popular and nice course. There is also possibility to do mini Golf in Caddyshack City in Queenstown.
Tramping (and cable car)
Skyline Gondola is a cable car going up a hill in the city. There are some excellent views on the hill. It is also possible to walk uphill (30 minutes from town); this is, in contradiction to the cable car, for free.
A nice place to tramp within town is Queenstown Gardens. A 3 hour trip can be made to Queenstown hill. For a more spectacular view you should climb the Ben Lomond, this will take approximately 7 hours from the city centre.
Rock Climbing
It is a possibility to rock climb at the hills of Queenstown. For inexperienced there are rock climb guides available.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activity
Maori Concert and Hangi
It is seen very little on the South Island but in Queenstown you can visit a Maori show.
Museum
Underwater world
This is a museum showing the underwater world of New Zealand.