Queenstown bustles year-round with thrill-seekers looking for that ultimate adrenaline rush. And, with everything from jet boating and bungee jumping to hiking and skiing, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Meanwhile, nearby Wanaka offers all the same beauty, but with more of a laid-back vibe. Speak to our specialists to find out how to incorporate these two stunning destinations on your next New Zealand holiday.

Get adventurous in Queenstown

Of course, Queenstown’s reputation demands attention; with Lake Wakatipu at its fore and the Remarkables mountain range to its aft, it’s a well-worn trope to refer to it as the country’s ‘adventure capital’. However, look beyond the white-water rafting, skydiving and skiing and you’ll find everything from mountain hikes and relaxed vineyard tastings to laidback lakeside and historic gold rush towns. It’s also a figurative jetty for voyages into Fiordland. 

Paragliding above Queenstown

Get active in Wanaka & Mt. Aspiring National Park

Just a short drive through the Alps from Queenstown, Wanaka still offers a superb range of activities, but with a more relaxed, small-town atmosphere. In summer, lazy evenings can be spent at quiet cafés and restaurants overlooking the lake, while sunny days offer the chance to chill out on these same picturesque shores. And, if you're looking for some daytime thrills, the neighbouring Mt. Aspiring National Park delivers in spades, with everything from hiking and climbing to scenic flights and jet boating. In winter, the excellent Treble Cone ski a resort is a match for its more famous Queenstown cousins.

Hiking above Lake Wanaka