Posts Tagged ‘New Zealand’

Queenstown New Zealand – Things to do and see

Sunday, August 16th, 2009
by Roman Ashton-Murray

Queenstown is the jewel in New Zealand's crown, situated in a stunning natural alpine setting. Lakes and mountains surround the town and provide the scene for the many wonderful things to see and do on your vacation.

From Bungy Jumping to White Water Rafting, Tandem Paragliding, Heliskiing, River Jet-boating and mountain hikes - if you want to know you are alive, there is plenty to choose from in Queenstown.

Although Queenstown has a repuation as the Worlds premium playground for adrenaline junkies it certainly has a lot more to offer. If unwinding and relaxing is more your style, you will find many indulgent options in this incredible part of the Southern Lakes. There are many of the countries best restaurants, health and beauty spa's, several international golf courses, beautiful nature walks, fly fishing, shopping (of course), peaceful lake cruises and much, much more.

Queenstown is not just a Summer resort, in winter is it becomes a wonderland. It has a great range of easily accessed ski fields including Coronet Peak, Cardrona Alpine Resort, The Remarkables Ski Area and Treble Cone. If you want world class Heliskiing then try Harris Mountain Heliski.

If you are feeling brave take a leap of faith into thin air with the guys at AJ Hackett Bungy. Choose from the historic Kawarau Bridge, off a ledge at the top of a mountain, or swing from a rope over the Shotover Canyon.

For a more sedate experience, highly recommend things to do include a ride up the Skyline Gondola for 220 degree panorama views including Coronet Peak and Lake Wakatipu. Restaurant, cafe, luge, walks and hikes can all be located at the top! For a touch of Kiwi culture Haka Pa offers a Maori cultural experience that includes a formal welcome to their Maori Village, concert performance and traditional Maori feast.

A scenic cruise on board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship across Lake Wakatipu is another wonderful way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Everything you have heard is true - Queenstown really is an incredible destination that offers so many exciting opportunities. Where else in the world in a single day can you jump off a bridge, play a relaxing round of golf, take a gondola ride up a mountain before racing back down on a Luge. By now it is only lunch time so enjoy a meal at an award winning caf before a spot of fly-fishing. If you still want more then a break-neck jet boat trip down the Shotover River could be fitted in before a relaxing massage. Then it's time to hit the town to enjoy the awesome bars and restaurants. Still plenty left for tomorrow!

Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter, Queenstown has plenty to offer visitors, no matter what your age, holiday tastes or budget!

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