What are the best things to do in Queenstown?

Queenstown on the south island of New Zealand is one of the first words inked into travellers bucket list and dubbed as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’. The town buzzes with energy throughout the year combining adrenaline punching activities with all action events.

Winter brings fresh enthusiasm every June as the ski lifts start whirring and the snow continues to fall. Whether you’re on a whistle-stop tour or staying for the season, here are the raddest things to do in Queenstown that you’ll want to check out this winter.

1. Night ski at Coronet Peak

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If you’re heading to Queenstown this winter then you can’t be too afraid of the cold. That’s smile-worthy news because Coronet Peak has extended night skiing to 3 evening a week. Whoopaaa, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday until 9pm allows for a bonus 12 hours skiing a week.

If you need more laps or just fancy a sunset ski then grab an extra layer. Stars, snow, DJs, fires, beer and pizza. Enough said.

2. Take a cruise

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Lake Wakatipu engulfs Queenstown and the surrounding hills. Wedged between mountains and glacial lakes the town draws its spine-tingling energy from the landscape. Float your way around the crisp waters in an ambience of your choosing.

The iconic TSS Earnslaw is a pick of the fleet. The century-old coal-fired steamship entwines history with landscape. You’ll be doughy eyed for ‘QT’ after this voyage.

3. Float up the Skyline Gondola

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Another staple of the Queenstown experience for visitors and locals alike is the Skyline Gondola. Running from near the centre of town the bubble lift, that is more akin to a ski resort, floats you way up up above town for a myriad of breathtaking adventures.

In warmer months you’ll be able to get some serious world-famous downhill mountain biking down. Ziplines, rope swings and luging may be more suited to most visitors looking for an adrenaline hit. If the finer things are more your style, what about sunset, cocktail and dinner…

4. Ski The Remarkables

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Winter in Queenstown means skiing. There’s festivals, parties, shopping, mulled wine and frosty mornings. You can’t resist going for a serious shred or at least trying. Grab yourself some ski rental and head up to one of New Zealand’s premier ski resorts.

Skiing for all abilities is on primed including beginner areas, long cruisers, off-piste and terrain parks. Busses run from Queenstown to The Remarkables ski area for easy access to an iconic mountain range that has got to be on your bucket list.

5. Drive the Crown Range to Wanaka

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New Zealand’s highest main road, interested? The drive alone is enjoyment enough especially when you stop at the top of its winding hairpins to take in the surrounding vistas. Keep cruising through and eventually down the thrilling road until you meet more of the local experiences.

First up you will stumble upon Cardrona, another of the South Islands world famous ski resorts. Freestyle skiers and snowboarders will ogle at the kickass park setup the attracts pro riders from across the globe. Continue your journey further to explore the growing lakeside town of Wanaka that resembles Queenstown’s chilled out brother.

6. Onsen Hot Pools

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WOOOFF!! It’s time to warm up, pretty please. You’ve been out in the nighttime freeze, cruised the lake, skied some more and explored the mountains. I think a bubbling hot pool is in order.

Onsen Hot Pools nestles away at Arthur’s Point creating the perfect afternoon of relaxation. Book yourself in for a session and you’ll be picked up from Queenstown and whisked away. Each hot pool is completely private with remotely controlled walls the roll away for a viewing of the planets best cinema. Nature.

7. Bungee Jumping

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Come on, you’d didn’t think this list would end without the Queenstown classic? Bungee jumping is THE thing to experience. Huge creeks and cliffs provide the perfect setting to take the challenge. There’s a fierce set of jumps on offer from regular bungee to brain shattering canyon swings. There’s not too much more that needs to be said, pick your prefered adrenaline shot and start screaming.

There’s a ton of adventure at your mercy in and around Queenstown. These 7 activities only scratch the surface of rad things to do in Queenstown, you’ll never run out of things to do! If your looking for any more inspiration follow author the Eliot on Instagram to see what’s going on in real time!

Related Articles:

8 Of The Best Things To Do In New Zealand

8 Of The Best Hikes In New Zealand

Feature image credit: queenstownnz.co.nz