Queenstown Leisure

While there is plenty to do in this resort town, you will find that most of it revolves around the great outdoors. With all the beautiful nature at your doorstep, you won’t want to stay at your resort hotel any longer than you have to. Here is a short list of some of the top things to do in Queenstown.

1. Aoraki (Mt. Cook) - Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park - website

The highest peak in New Zealand is one of the most impressive mountains you’ll ever see. Even if you don’t climb it, you can still visit its base and enjoy the incredible views.

2. Bullock Wagon Trail - Trails, Lake Tekapo - website

Learn a lot about the history of this part of New Zealand and take some unforgettable photographs at the same time on this beautiful and lengthy trail.

3. Chad Farm - Chard Rd., Queenstown - website

One of the most respected wineries in the country, Chad Farm is a quiet retreat away from the tourist traffic and a great spot to visit during the off season.

4. Chinese settlement - Bush Creek, west end of town, Arrowtown - website

A beautifully and meticulously restored town that showcases an original settlement by the Chinese in this part of New Zealand. Go back in time and enjoy a bit of unique history at the same time.

5. Deer Park - Peninsula Rd., Queenstown - website

If it is your goal to immerse yourself inside of The Lord of the Rings, make Deer Park a high priority for your trip here. The views are so good you won’t believe them until you see them.

6. Lake Tekapo - website

As pretty as a postcard, Lake Tekapo is one of the most photographed spots in the hemisphere. Good for water sports, swimming, fishing, boating and so much more.

7. Lakes District Museum - website

With an attached bookstore and the default tourist center, The Lakes District Museum is always a hub of activity. Trace the history of this great area back to the famed gold rush days.

8. Milford Deep Underwater Observatory - Milford Sound - website

A must see if you’ve never been to this part of the world before, the surrounding waters provide a completely unique ecosystem that is both beautiful and baffling.

9. New Zealand Fighter Pilots Museum - State Hwy. 6, Wanaka - website

Did you know that New Zealand lost more fighter pilots per capita during World Wars I and II than any other country? Pay your respects here.

10. Queenstown Gardens - website

More beauty in an area already flush with it? The Queenstown Gardens are an exemplary example of botanical magic. You’ll need several hours to get through it all.