Speak to any New Zealander about one of the most beautiful places in their country, and you’re guaranteed to hear Queenstown listed in the top three.

Nestled at the base of steep guarding mountains, on the edge of the pristine Lake Wakatipu – Queenstown is something out of a children’s fairy-tale book. Within the township itself you’ll find an eccentric mix of locals and tourists all taking in the stunning views, world-class food and some of the most thrilling outdoor activities in the world.

To get you started on your Queenstown adventure, here is our pick of the top 12 things you MUST do during your stay.

1. Go for a Hike

There are plenty of noteworthy hiking tracks in Queenstown. The regions stunning flora and fauna offer incredibly diverse walking tracks that you will not find anywhere else in the world. Many tracks start from the centre of the town, whilst others worth noting, such as the Fiordland and Mount aspiring trails are worth the short trip out of town. Whatever your fitness level, there is something for everyone, including the kids, and is number one on our list of things you must do whilst in Queenstown. 

2. Take the Gondola

Just 5 minutes’ walk from town centre the Gondola takes visitors high above Queenstown to take in some of the best views you will find in the area. At the top you’ll find a seriously spectacular 220 degree view of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range, and right across Lake Wakatipu. This is not to be missed and an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

3. Visit Arrowtown

Arrowtown is historic gold mining town just 20 minutes out of Queenstown. This little settlement has plenty of stories to tell and is one of the most picturesque little places sitting right alongside the gold-bearing Arrow River. Although the gold mining days are long over, you can still pan for gold in the river, enjoy the history in the local museum or take a 4WD journey to Macetown, a ghost only accessible by wagon track!

4. Be an adrenaline Junky

And it’s not hard to do in Queenstown! Try bungee jumping for an iconic New Zealand adrenaline rush – some of the highest jumps in the world are located in Queenstown. Or maybe the sky swing is more your thing – being catapulted 400 metres over Queenstown will give you a rush you won’t soon forget! There are plenty of Jet Boats that operate in the area and are sure to get your blood pumping as you shoot through narrow rocky gorges and whizz around tight corners. Make sure you don’t leave without experiencing one of these blood pumping activities – it’s not only an essential part of the Queenstown experience but a must-do for New Zealand in general. 

5. Walk in the Queenstown gardens

Follow your nose around Queenstown beach, away from the docks, and you’ll reach the Queenstown gardens. The serenity and beauty of the place is beyond anything you’ll find elsewhere. For something truly iconic to Queenstown – why not enjoy a game of Frisbee Golf. As silly as it sounds it’s a great way to spend an afternoon and is a great way to meander around and experience the gardens too.

6. Get a Fergburger

Don’t question it – just do it! It’s a part of the Queenstown experience and trust us – you won’t regret it. With names for burgers like Southern Swine, Morning Glory and Cockadoodle Oink – you really can’t go wrong. They’re big enough to keep you satisfied all day and are open until 5am, the perfect after party meal!

7. Patagonia Chocolates

There is always a line out the door of this place but worth the visit. Sit and enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate whilst taking in those glorious Queenstown views. From ice creams to biscuits to coffee – this place is a great little pit-stop during your Queenstown adventures.

8. Nightlife

Although it’s a small town, there are over 30 bars and nightclubs, each with its own quirky personality.  When you’re done with one it’s only a short walk down the street to the next. To make it easier there are plenty of companies offering pub-crawl tours for the ultimate night-life experience. Prepare to meet people from all over the world on a night-out where anything is possible!

9. Street Fair

The Saturday Creative Queenstown Art & Craft Market runs throughout the year and is a really awesome way to meet and interact with the locals. Everything is 100%, and very proudly, New Zealand made so why not support the locals and grab a few souvenirs to take away with you. 

10. Skiing

Last, but by no means at all least, skiing and snowboarding. Queenstown is by far the most exciting and beautiful winter destinations in the world, and how better to experience it than on the slopes. There are four world renowned ski fields within easy reach from the town centre so there really is no excuse not to give it a go.

This is just the tip of a wonderful iceberg of activities and experiences that await you in this amazing town. Obviously there is loads more stuff that awaits you but we’ll leave the rest as a surprise. Finding accommodation in Queenstown is easy and when it comes to luxury, Highview Apartments offer studio, one bedroom and two bedroom apartments. Bookings can be made online or call (03) 450 2142