Queenstown

New Zealand's adventure capital is set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains, lakes, and valleys. Bungee jumping was invented here, and the surrounding landscapes inspired Middle-earth.

Best time to visit

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar

Essentials

Currency: NZD
Language: English / Maori
Timezone: Auckland

Average temperatures

Jan 22°Feb 21°Mar 18°Apr 14°May 10°Jun 7°Jul 7°Aug 9°Sep 12°Oct 15°Nov 18°Dec 20°

Things to do

Bungee jump at Kawarau BridgeJet boat through Shotover CanyonTake the Skyline GondolaCruise Milford SoundSki at The RemarkablesVisit Hobbiton (3h drive)

Local cuisine

LambGreen-lipped musselsPavlovaSauvignon Blanc

Lake Wakatipu stretches 80km through the Southern Alps, with the jagged Remarkables mountain range as a backdrop. The lake's crystal-clear waters and surrounding peaks are simply breathtaking.