Queenstown

Queenstown is often considered to be the adventure sports capital of the world as well as one of the world's premier alpine resort towns. The town gained worldwide fame being the birthplace of Bungee Jumping and the central location of the Lord of the Rings films. It's impossible to be bored in Queenstown, and although it looks like a small town, this energetic city offers a mountain of activities. Whether you're into bungy jumping, rafting, sledging, jet boating or skiing (or all of them) there is always something you can add to your to-do list.

When you're not jumping off bridges or zooming down the lakes and rivers, there are plenty of places to relax, with some of the most trendy cafes in the country and world famous restaurants, you can kick back and watch what everyone else is doing - you might even get some ideas.

Queenstown is no stranger to both local and international tourists, so you can expect world-class tourist facilities and also huge crowds. Summer and winter are the busiest months, bringing tourists to the water sport and ski seasons, so if you're looking for something a little quieter, but still bustling with activities for you to do, why not come in spring or autumn instead? No matter what you decide, Queenstown will welcome you with open arms.

Attractions: Queenstown has so many things for you to do when you get there, it would be impossible to tell you about them all, so here are some highlights:

The original Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump in Queenstown is an absolute must do. Queenstown is the birth place of bungy jumping, so these guys really know how to do it. Go from nervous to completely elated in five seconds with this gut-wrenching experience diving 43 metres at the world's best-loved bungy site.

If you're after something a little less extreme but still a Queenstown tradition, take a Central Otago Wine Tour. Tours leave from Queenstown and take you to the heart of the region through the picturesque valleys and rolling vine-draped hills of the countryside and beyond to taste the finest wines of New Zealand. There are multiple tour options which range from 5 to 7 hours.

Onsen Hot Pools are a must to relax and unwind from all the thrill-seeking adventures Queenstown has to offer. Offering a unique twist to traditional Japanese bathing, this high end boutique experience overlooks the picturesque Shotover River and offers therapies and treatments for both face and body.

Transport around City: Buses, ferries, taxis and car hire.

Recommended Restaurants: Captains Restaurant (Queenstown CBD), Winnies (Queenstown CBD), Fergburger (Queenstown CBD), Margo's (Queenstown CBD), Nest Kitchen and Bar (Fernhill).

Recommended Bars: Bardeux (Queenstown CBD), Le Salon Rouge (Queenstown CBD), Little Mez (Queenstown CBD), The Lodge Bar (Queenstown), Ferg's Bar (Queenstown CBD).

Recommended Hotels: Sofitel Hotel and Spa (Queenstown CBD), Novotel Lakeside (Queenstown CBD), Millbrook Resort (Arrowtown), Crowne Plaza (Queenstown CBD).

Culture: Being a resort town, Queenstown is a cosmopolitan place with influences from most major countries around the globe.