Queenstown: Explore the Adventure and Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand

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Queenstown: Explore the Adventure and Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand

Idyllic views of snow-capped mountain peaks, the gorgeous blue waters of Lake Wakatipu and plenty of activities to give you the adrenaline rush you might be craving, Queenstown often brings out the best in travelers. The scenic city sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu and is known for a number of extravagant adventure activities. It's also one of the best places to explore the vast expanse of gorgeous and amazing vineyards you'll find lining the hills around the area. The city is a kaleidoscope in terms of culture, vibrant vibes, shopping, wine, activities and adventures. Here are the top ten places you absolutely need to explore when in Queenstown.

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Queenstown: Explore the Adventure and Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand

1. Lake Wakatipu

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New Zealand's popular city of Queenstown is snuggled along the deep blue waters of the mesmerizing Lake Wakatipu, a z-shaped lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The unique shape of the lake causes a tide which leads the water to rise and fall, however the phenomenon has long been part of a mythical story. People used to believe that the lake came into existence after a monster called Matau was burnt to death with its heart still pounding in the lake causing the water to move.

2. Skippers Canyon

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The canyon is a scenic gorge which is around 22 kilometers in length and is carved out of the Shotover River. It's one of the most breathtaking scenic journeys that you can take through the area. The canyon leads to the Coronet Peak and become home to a number of people after discovery of gold in the river. The mesmerizing view of the canyon, wilderness and bridge along with the azure waters of the river makes for the perfect scenery.

3. The Remarkables

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Located on the south-eastern shores of Lake Wakatipu, this incredible mountain range clearly justifies its name. The peaks of the mountain range rise sharply in the clear skies creating a stunning backdrop against the lake. You'll also find a ski resort in the north slopes of the mountain range with an impressive number of courses for all levels. It's an excellent place for a skiing break during the winter and the season usually lasts from June to September.

4. Shotover River

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The Shotover River is nearly 75-kilometers long and rose to fame during the Otago Gold Rush. Today however it's a popular destination for adrenaline junkies wanting to try out the Shotover Jet, a high-speed boat ride that reaches speeds of up to 85 kilometers per hour. Twisting abruptly around the river's bends and turns, it takes passengers on the water ride of a lifetime along the natural flow of the river.

5. Skyline Gondola

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The perfect way to get a glimpse of the snow peaked mountains, city, and the beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings in one frame, make sure to take a ride up the Skyline Gondola. The rugged mountain terrain of The Remarkables and the stunning Lake Wakatipu together is breathtakingly beautiful and well worth making the trip. The journey travels 446-meters up to the summit of Bob’s Peak and is one of the steepest cable car rides in the Southern Hemisphere.

6. AJ Hackett Bungy

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New Zealand is known as one of the best destinations to go for a range of gut-wrenching activities like bungee jumping. Navis Valley is a particularly popular destination and the renowned A J Hackett Bungee is the perfect place for those needing a shot of adrenaline. This jaw-dropping 134-meter jump drops into the Kawarau Gorge and over the river that flows beneath it, enough to give a shock to even the most experienced of adrenaline junkies.

7. Lake Wanaka

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The gorgeous lake with its mesmerizing shade of blue is tugged in a tussock covered hill that overlooks the peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. The town of Wanaka is located just beside the lake along the shore and it is home to some of the best artists of the country. It's a very peaceful and rural location that's especially popular among the elderly as a spot to settle down and retire. It's also known for offering many activities like fishing, recreational boating and swimming along with numerous trails for hiking around.

8. Mount Crichton Track

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This relatively easy hike takes you across the scenic terrain of Queensland for around two to four hours. The trail traverses the absolutely stunning and gorgeous Mount Crichton Scenic Reserve amidst the tall beech forests to Twelve Mile Creek Gorge which is known for the Otago Gold Rush. There are a number of minor cottages that you can see on the way while hiking around the mountain peaks. You'll find some outstanding views of the mountain ranges in the distance and also of Lake Wakatipu which can often be seen while hiking in the area.

9. Queenstown Garden

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This large botanical garden is set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is a great place to visit with family. The garden was created for the first time in 1867 and contains a number of native and international plant species. You'll also find a number of large Douglas fir trees presented inside the garden along with its historic oak and fir trees that were planted by first Mayor of Queenstown back in 1866.

10. Kiwi Birdlife Park

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The kiwi bird is one of the national icons of the country but is rarely seen in the wild. This flightless bird is nocturnal and stays in remote locations inside forests. However the Kiwi Birdlife Park gives you a wonderful opportunity to see these birds up close. There are nocturnal houses built inside the park for them so you can see them in a natural environment.

Conclusion

Queenstown is home to some of the most naturally inspiring landscapes that you'l find around any cities of the world. The lake overlooks the peaks of the mountains, amazing natural trails and endless activities for adrenaline junkies make it one of the perfect destinations in New Zealand.

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