Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand is the adventure capital of the world, perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with dramatic Remarkables mountain views. While it has a reputation for splurging, savvy travelers can stretch their dollar by timing visits well, self-catering, and mixing paid thrills with stunning free scenery.
Why go to Queenstown
Bungee Jumping at Kawarau Bridge
Leap from the world's first commercial bungee site above a turquoise gorge, pure adrenaline history.
Skyline Gondola & Luge
Ride the gondola to panoramic views of lake and alps, then race down the hillside on a luge cart.
Milford Sound Day Trip
A jaw-dropping fiord flanked by sheer cliffs and waterfalls that photographers and nature lovers call life-changing.
Remarkables Ski Area
World-class skiing and snowboarding set against impossibly photogenic peaks just 30 minutes from town.
Shotover Jet Boat Ride
White-knuckle 360-degree spins through razor-thin Shotover River canyons at 85 km/h.
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Good to know in Queenstown
- Transit: Orbus Queenstown buses connect the town centre, Frankton, and the gondola area for around $2-4 NZD per trip, buy a Bee Card for discounts and skip taxis entirely.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in New Zealand; rounding up or leaving a few dollars at a café is appreciated but never expected.
- Tap water: Tap water in Queenstown is clean, cold, and excellent to drink, carry a reusable bottle and save on bottled water costs.
- Free-entry days: The Queenstown Gardens, lakefront, and Arrowtown's Lakes District Museum courtyard are always free; the museum itself occasionally has free community days, check the Queenstown Lakes District Council events calendar.