Welcome to Queenstown
Situated in Central Otago's tranquil lakes region, Queenstown is both a summer star and a winter wonderland. Since its shantytown beginnings Queenstown has flourished to become a shining alpine city and a dream destination for both adventure seekers and those traveling in style, seeking the most luxurious retreat New Zealand has to offer.
Founded by miners in search of riches in the Otago goldrushes of the 1860s, Queenstown has always been the golden heart of the South Island's spectacular mountain region. The town, set next to the crisp clear Lake Wakatipu and nestled in among the towering Remarkables ranges, was fast to become a popular holiday spot for local people, and into the twentieth century its magnificent scenery began attracting sightseers from around the world. Today Queenstown retains all its natural beauty yet is also treasured for its adventure opportunities and luxury lifestyle. While this young modern city has kept with the time, the spirit of the goldfields history has been retained at the nearby historic mining town of Arrowtown.
At short scenic walk from Queenstown's centre is the Skyline Gondola complex. Travel to the top on the mountain by cable, experiencing breathtaking scenery, then step out onto a panoramic observation deck nestled among the mountains to see the most stunning possible views across the lake and mountain ranges.
Experience long hot summer days amongst the grassy fields and tussocks, making your own adventures in the forested hills or taking a cruise on the glassy mountain lake, or exploring the marvels of the surrounding alpine lake regions and tasting the specialty of the dozens of local wineries, the exquisite Pinot Noir.
In winter, the region is transformed into a snowy paradise; the many local skifields burst into life and the city hums with the many visitors who make their way to the district to see New Zealand's ultimate winter destination at its peak, and take part in the world-renown Queenstown Winter Festival which really kick-starts the season into action.
Spring brings a fresh green to the majestic landscape; mountain springs give way to blue surging rivers, fresh grass shoots appear and the golf courses and their resorts bring a fresh and idyllic world-class experience. The more adventurous will find countless options, from paragliding, gondola rides, jet-boating, sky-diving and white-water rafting to the quintessential New Zealand bungee jump from the top of a peak or from the historic bridge over the wild, rushing Kawarau River.
No matter what the season, you can count on finding the perfect experience with luxury accommodation, a wide selection of local designer shops, unique cuisine, a vibrant nightlife and of course enough adventure to satisfy even the most wild at heart.