Queenstown
New Zealand, Oceania
Adventure capital of the world, set against mountains that belong in a fantasy film.
A lakeside town on New Zealand's South Island, ringed by the jagged peaks of the Remarkables and set on clear Lake Wakatipu. A year-round base for adventure, from bungee jumping and skiing to scenic hikes and wineries.
Our honest take
Queenstown is stunning but expensive and very touristy. The real magic is in the surrounding area. Milford Sound, Glenorchy, the Routeburn Track. Use Queenstown as a base but spend your days outside it.
Why go
- Milford Sound on a rainy day is actually better, waterfalls everywhere
- Bungee, skydive, jet boat, if it's extreme, it's here
- The drive to Glenorchy is one of the most beautiful roads on Earth
Skip if you can
- Skyline Gondola luge, fun for kids but overpriced for adults
- Fergburger queue, good burger but 45min wait; try Devil Burger instead
Things to do
Where locals eat
Queenstown's cult burger joint is a genuine local institution, big, messy burgers with lines out the door at all hours. Touristy now, but locals rate it too.
Fergburger in central Queenstown (expect a queue)
The high country around Queenstown farms lamb and venison, a Central Otago restaurant does these as the regional plate, often with local stone fruit.
A Central Otago restaurant in town
Queenstown is the gateway to Central Otago, one of the world's southernmost wine regions, famous for pinot noir. A cellar-door tasting is a genuine local experience.
A Central Otago winery cellar door (Gibbston Valley area)
The Kiwi café staples, a savoury mince or steak pie, and warm cheese scones, are the honest, cheap fuel between adventure activities.
A local bakery or café
Costs
Per person, per day on the ground, lodging, food, local transport and activities. Excludes international flights (see Getting there).
Bungee: $200-300. Milford Sound cruise: $80-250. Skydive: $300-500.
Getting there
Where to stay
Walkable to restaurants and lake, pricey
10min drive, cheaper, near airport and shopping
Historic gold-mining village, 20min drive, charming
Good to know
- Weather changes rapidly, pack layers even in summer
- Milford Sound road has avalanche risk in winter
- Sandflies are vicious near water, bring repellent
- Book activities 1-2 days ahead in peak season
Prices, visa rules, and transport details may change. Always verify with official sources before booking. Last updated: July 2026.
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