Queenstown, New Zealand: The Complete Guide

Queenstown sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, beneath the sawtooth ridge of the Remarkables, and has built a reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand. It earned the name: commercial bungy jumping started here in 1988, at the Kawarau Bridge. But the town has another side — Central Otago wine, lake-and-mountain scenery and a base for some of the country's finest walks — that makes it rewarding even for travelers who never intend to leave the ground.

The adventure

• Bungy and jet boat. The original Kawarau Bridge bungy and the Shotover Jet, which runs through narrow canyon walls, are the signatures.
• Skiing. In winter, Coronet Peak, the Remarkables, Cardrona and Treble Cone are all within reach, along with heli-skiing.
• Hiking. The Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, starts near Glenorchy at the head of the lake.

The slower side

• Central Otago wine. The Gibbston and Bannockburn valleys produce some of the world's most respected Pinot Noir, a short drive from town.
• Arrowtown. A preserved gold-rush village, especially striking in autumn when the trees turn.
• Lake Wakatipu. Cruise aboard the century-old steamship TSS Earnslaw, or soak in lakeside hot pools.
• Glenorchy and Paradise. The road along the lake leads to film locations and some of the South Island's best scenery.

Day trips

Queenstown is the launch point for Fiordland. Milford Sound can be reached on a long but spectacular day, by road and boat or by scenic flight; Doubtful Sound is quieter and wilder. Both are among the most dramatic landscapes in the country.

When to visit

Each season changes the town. Summer, December to February, is best for hiking, the lake and the wineries. Winter, June to August, is the ski season. Autumn, April and May, brings cool, clear days and the Arrowtown colours, along with the Autumn Festival. Spring is quieter, with snow still on the peaks and the valleys greening up.