Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, is where thrill-seekers come to play. If you're the type who thinks “Why walk when you can jump off a bridge?” then you’re in the right place. From heart-stopping heights to roaring rapids, Queenstown has something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or someone who prefers to keep their feet closer to the ground (no judgment here). So buckle up, because here are the five outdoor adventures you absolutely cannot miss in this adrenaline-soaked paradise.
1. Bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge
Let’s kick things off with the classic: bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge. This is where the bungee craze began, and it's hard to believe it took someone that long to realize that jumping off a perfectly good bridge could be a sport. Standing 43 meters above the river, you’ll get a front-row seat to fear, excitement, and maybe a little bit of regret as you prepare to leap into the abyss. I’ll admit, when I did it, I spent the entire countdown questioning my life choices. But the rush? Totally worth it.
What to expect: You’ll get a safety briefing that might just convince you to keep your feet safely on dry land. But if you do go through with it, the feeling of free-falling is like nothing else. You’ll feel like you’re flying, if flying means plummeting towards the ground at an alarming speed. And when you bounce back up, you might just find yourself laughing in disbelief. Or maybe that’s just the adrenaline talking.
2. Jet boating on the Shotover River
If you think bungee jumping is a bit too extreme (or just not your style), how about a jet boat ride? The Shotover River is known for its stunning scenery and narrow canyons, but let’s be honest: you’re really here for the thrill factor. Picture this: you’re racing through the water, skimming just inches from the rocky edges, while the driver pulls off 360-degree spins that will leave you squealing like a kid on a rollercoaster. Spoiler alert: it’s way more fun than it sounds.
What to expect: You’ll get a life jacket and a safety briefing (again with the safety stuff). Then it’s all hands on deck as you hold on tight and brace for impact. The drivers are pros, so you’re in good hands. Just remember—if you’re prone to sea sickness, you might want to skip the tacos for lunch.
3. Paragliding over Queenstown
Ever wanted to soar like a bird? Well, now you can—without the whole "growing feathers" thing. Paragliding in Queenstown is like floating above a postcard. You’ll take off from the top of Bob’s Peak and glide gracefully down towards the stunning Lake Wakatipu. The views are so breathtaking; you might even forget you’re suspended in the air. Or maybe not, because you’ll still be strapped to some stranger. Just don’t look down; it’s a long way to go if you change your mind!
What to expect: After a quick lesson on how not to crash land (always a plus), you’ll be off the edge and into the air. Most pilots will allow you to take the controls for a bit, which is a nice way of saying you can pretend to be a pro. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of Queenstown’s wildlife from above. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself doing a little happy dance in the air—it’s a thing.
4. Hiking the Ben Lomond Track
Okay, let’s take a breather—literally. If you’re looking for something that gets you moving but doesn’t involve free-falling or jetting across water at breakneck speeds, the Ben Lomond Track is your go-to. This hike is a bit of a workout, but the views from the summit are worth every step. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, which is probably because you actually are. Just don’t forget to bring snacks—trust me, they make the trek much more enjoyable.
- The track takes about 6-8 hours to complete round trip.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views are Instagram gold.
- Be prepared for changing weather—Queenstown can be a bit moody.
What to expect: The trail is well-marked, but it can get steep. You’ll encounter some stunning landscapes, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a few friendly sheep. Just don’t expect them to carry your backpack. They’re not that helpful.
5. Skyline Gondola and luge rides
Last but not least, let’s talk about the Skyline Gondola. If you’re looking for a slightly less heart-pounding experience (because sometimes you just want to chill), this is it. Ride the gondola up to Bob’s Peak for stunning views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to catch your breath before you hit the luge track. Yes, you read that right—luge! It’s like go-karting downhill, and it’s just as ridiculous as it sounds. You’ll be laughing all the way down, or at least until you realize you’re not as great a driver as you thought.
What to expect: The gondola ride is smooth sailing, and once you reach the top, you can take in the views or grab a bite to eat. Then it’s time to hop on a luge cart and race your friends. Spoiler: you’re going to want to win. And remember, it’s all fun and games until someone gets a little too competitive.
Queenstown is the place where your wildest outdoor dreams come to life. Whether you're soaring through the air, racing through water, or just enjoying a leisurely hike, there’s never a dull moment. So pack your bags, gather your courage, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish. You might leave with a few bruises, but hey, those are just badges of honor, right?
