Queenstown & Wanaka | Antipodes NZ Travel

About Queenstown & Wanaka

Both located in the Southern Lakes region, Queenstown and Wanaka are picturesque towns of the South Island.

Queenstown is a vibrant resort town, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the dramatic Southern Alps. Known as the “adventure capital” of New Zealand, it offers a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and skiing. The town also boasts a lively food and wine scene, with many restaurants, bars, and nearby vineyards. Queenstown is a year-round destination, attracting visitors for its stunning scenery, adventure sports, and access to nearby attractions like Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park.

Wanaka is located near the southern edge of Lake Wanaka. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, clear blue waters, and the nearby Mt. Aspiring National Park. Wanaka is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, water sports, and skydiving. The town has a relaxed, friendly vibe with plenty of cafes, galleries, and events, making it a year-round destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for tranquility.

Lake Wanaka with one tree in the water and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Walker overlooking lake Wanaka through the clouds

View of a pyramidal mountain in Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown pedestrian precinct with steamer Earnslaw in the background New Zealand

One tree on lake Wakatipu shore with snow-capped mountains in the background Queenstown, New Zealand

A jetboat at full speed between cliffs on the Shotover River in Queenstown, New Zealand

The steamer Earsnlaw cruising on Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand

Highlights in Queenstown

Any adrenaline-pumping activities that makes Queenstown reputation as the “adventure capital” of New Zealand: jet boating, bungy jumping, rafting, paragliding, skydiving, sledging, canyoning, skiing, indoor thrills…

If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace activities:

Boat cruise: It’s one of the best ways to see Queenstown’s surrounding landscape – a cruise across Lake Whakatipu aboard the iconic century-old coal-fired steamship, the TSS Earnslaw

Ben Lomond Track: Reward yourself with stunning 360° views over Queenstown and the surrounding region on this challenging hike to the summit of Ben Lomond,

Moke Lake Loop Track: The track takes you right around the edge of picturesque Moke Lake, through grassland and surrounded by towering mountains. After a short climb, you will be rewarded with a stunning view overlooking the lake.

Queenstown Hill Time Walk: one of the most popular and accessible walks in the region. The track winds through pine forest as you climb, before breaking out above the treeline where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, parts of Lake Whakatipu and the Kawarau River. At the top is the famous ‘Basket of Dreams’ sculpture.

Biking: Queenstown is a biker’s paradise. With a huge variety of trails on offer, there’s a biking experience for everyone here, whatever your age, ability, or style of riding – from pedalling along cruisy lakeside trails or shredding down gnarly singletrack.

Golf: Queenstown boasts eight spectacular golf courses, including four championship courses and offers an unparalleled golf holiday destination for players of all abilities.

Wine tasting: With 200 Central Otago wineries within an hour’s drive from Queenstown, you’re perfectly located to taste the terroir of the world’s southernmost wine region.

Scenic flight: Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound or book an unforgettable scenic flight to soar over the majestic Southern Alps and pristine wilderness.

Lord of the Rings: The Queenstown region is home to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery. Take a tour and step into Middle-earth and beyond.

Shopping: Queenstown boasts great shopping with luxury brands, iconic New Zealand design stores, souvenirs, boutique fashion and adventure sports equipment aplenty all centrally located in the compact town

Highlights in Wanaka

Wanaka offers similar activities than Queenstown, a little less crowded sometimes.

Puzzling world: Puzzling World is an iconic attraction that has fascinated people of all ages since 1973. Boasting the world’s first ‘Mega Maze’, six Illusion Rooms and a huge Puzzle Café it’s a great place to visit on a rainy day.

National Transport and Toy Museum: Housing one of the largest private collections in the world, our Museum features four major buildings housing over 600 vehicles, 23 aircraft and 100,000+ toys and miscellaneous items.

Wine tour: Discover some of Wanaka and Central Otago’s wonderful vineyards and get up close and personal with the vineyard owners and wine makers.

Roys Peak track: The track begins by zigzagging along a steep 4WD track from the carpark to the conservation area. From there, continue on through wild tussock grasslands until you reach Roy’s Peak summit.

Mount Iron track: After climbing the rocky knoll, you’ll be rewarded with incredible 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Take in views of local landmarks including The Pisa range, Upper Clutha Basin and the mesmerising Southern Alps.