The word ‘scenic’ does not do justice to Queenstown. Known in the native Māori language as Ngāi Tahu, this city on New Zealand South Island is known for seriously magnificent natural beauty. In recent decades, though, Queenstown has upgraded from a quick stopover for ski and hiking enthusiasts to a vibrant city packed with culture, great food, and activities for everyone—even the indoorsy types. In this itinerary alone, we’ll be bungee jumping, skiing, wine tasting and soaking in hot springs. So, pack more than just your hiking gear for our week long tour of Queenstown.
Hitting the Slopes at Coronet Peak
From June to October, Queenstown offers some of the best powder in the Southern Hemisphere. So, while you are still full of energy, begin your week in the snow. Coronet Peak is the perfect place to start. Jump in your Hertz rental car for an easy 20-minute drive from the city centre, grab yourself a pass from $100, and hit the slopes. 
In the summer months it’s still well worth the trip to Coronet Peak. Swap your skis for a mountain bike or try your hand at disc golf. For something more leisurely, you can simply take a cruisey gondola to the peak of the mountain to take in the views.
Sometimes weather events lead to last minute closure of the mountain, so make sure to visit Coronet Peak’s website before you go.
Testing Your Limits at Kawarau Bungy Centre
Now that you’ve warmed up on the mountain, it is time to kick your heart rate up another notch. Queenstown offers some of the most beautiful (and terrifying) adventure activities. One of the classics is the bungee jump off Kawarau Bridge. You can easily drive the 1.5 hours from Queenstown to the Kawarau Bungy Centre—we recommend cueing some serious pump-up music on the way. You’ll be able to purchase photos and videos of your jump afterwards, so you can impress your friends at home.
If a bungee jump is a bit much, then here’s a slightly gentler option: hot air balloons at sunrise. It’s a quick drive to the launch site,15 minutes outside of Queenstown, where you’ll set off at dawn for a flight up to 6000 ft in altitude. Glide over lakes, rivers, and mountains, making your own mental map of Queenstown and its surroundings. You’ll celebrate with a glass of juice or sparkling when you land.
With any adrenaline-filled activity, make sure you’ve given yourself a moment to settle before you get back behind the wheel. And, if you’re drinking alcohol, make sure you have a designated driver with you.
Wine Tasting in the Central Otago District
Spend a day on a Wine Trail Tour in the Central Otago region. You’ll be taken to 4 different cellar doors across 6 hours, tasting up to 20 different wines. As you’re traveling between the wineries, you’ll be able to take in the Central Otago District’s luscious green vistas, and you might even catch a glimpse of its old-timey gold mining town.
We recommend taking the tour’s bus if you plan on drinking throughout the day or taking a designated driver between wineries.
Rest & Relaxation at the Onsen Hot Pools
After a relaxed brunch in town, hop in your car to make the easy 10 minute journey to the Onsen Hot Pools. The Onsen Hot Pools are a Kiwi twist on the traditional Japanese Onsen, with private, cedar-lined tubs, panoramic views, complimentary refreshments, and the option to add on some seriously luxurious spa treatments (the hot-stone massage is a fan favourite). If the views on their own are not enough, make your booking for an outdoor Onsen at sunset, so you can watch the bright, orange light melt over the formidable mountains. This experience is pretty special, so make sure you book in advance to secure your spot.
Now you know Queenstown is worth more than a quick fly in, with days of culture, food, and adventure to experience. Book a Hertz rental car so you can easily soak it all up safely and on your own schedule.
