Tāhuna – Queenstown: Aotearoa – New Zealand’s Adventure Capital

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Queenstown night lights and start gazing

Tāhuna – Queenstown rests beside Lake Wakatipu, framed by the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps. Known around the world as Aotearoa – New Zealand’s adventure capital, this alpine town offers more than just thrills. It is a place of natural beauty, cultural meaning, and unforgettable moments.

From bungee jumps to lake cruises, and ski fields to wine tasting, Queenstown delivers experiences for every kind of traveller.

A Personal Note from Us
One of our favourite ways to arrive in Tāhuna – Queenstown is by plane. If the weather is clear, choose a window seat because the views flying in are incredible. Driving in is just as stunning with mountain views lining the road all the way. Once you arrive, it feels like you have stepped into a postcard. Everywhere you turn has that wow factor. It is the kind of place that leaves a mark.

What Makes Tāhuna – Queenstown a Must-Visit Destination?

Tāhuna – Queenstown is where commercial bungee jumping began, but the adventure continues well beyond that. Jet boating, skydiving, white-water rafting, and paragliding all happen here with dramatic lakes and peaks as your backdrop.

There is also plenty of space to slow down. Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, visit the vineyards of Gibbston Valley, or relax in a spa with sweeping views. In winter, the nearby slopes at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak bring skiers and snowboarders of every level. You do not need to be a pro to enjoy the snow here.

The town has its own energy. There are cosy cafés, lakeside spots to unwind, and some of the best food in Aotearoa. You can hike or bike during the day, then settle in with a good meal and a peaceful sunset by the lake.

Tāhuna — Māori Name and Cultural Significance

The Māori name Tāhuna means “shallow bay” and reflects the shape of the lakefront. The region sits within the rohe of Ngāi Tahu, the principal iwi of Te Waipounamu.

Long before it became a tourist hub, the area was a seasonal travel route for gathering pounamu and kai. These lands and waterways carry deep stories. Today, you will see more te reo Māori, signage, and efforts to honour local history. It is a welcome way to connect with both the place and the people who have cared for it across generations.

Table of Contents

🧗 Tāhuna – Queenstown’s Top Adventure Activities

Embrace the raw beauty of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s adventure capital with these unforgettable experiences in Tāhuna – Queenstown. From sky to water and land to snow, these adventures showcase the true spirit of this alpine wonderland.

Skydiving Queenstown Photo @inteligenciaviajera.com
  • Bungee Jumping
    • Tāhuna – Queenstown is where commercial bungee jumping began. The Kawarau Bridge is a popular jump site, offering a 43-metre leap above the turquoise Kawarau River. For a bigger thrill, the Nevis Bungee stands at 134 metres, making it one of the tallest in the world. With jaw-dropping views over the Nevis Valley, it’s as scenic as it is heart-racing.
  • Skydiving
    • Tandem skydiving here delivers sweeping views over the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu. Leap from up to 15,000 feet and experience the rush of freefall before floating gently back to earth. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, seeing Tāhuna – Queenstown from the air is something you’ll never forget.
  • Jet Boating
    • Experience the thrill of skimming over shallow water and zipping through narrow canyons. The Shotover Jet is a favourite for its high-speed spins through the dramatic Shotover River gorges, offering a fast-paced ride and a fresh look at the landscape.
  • White-water Rafting
    • The Shotover and Kawarau rivers offer rafting options for all confidence levels. The Shotover’s grade 3 to 5 rapids cut through steep canyons, while the Kawarau is a great introduction to rafting with its calmer grade 2 to 3 sections. It’s wet, wild and full of fun.
  • Paragliding
    • Glide over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range on a tandem paragliding flight. You’ll launch from the hills above Tāhuna – Queenstown and enjoy peaceful, soaring views as you float gently back down. It’s a quieter thrill with breathtaking rewards.
  • Mountain Biking
    • Explore more than 30 km of world-class trails at the Skyline Queenstown Bike Park. Ride the gondola to the top and choose from beginner to expert tracks, each winding through alpine forest with views around every corner. It’s a must for any bike lover.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding
    • In winter, Tāhuna – Queenstown becomes a snowy playground. The Remarkables and Coronet Peak offer slopes for beginners and experts with terrain parks, powder bowls and night skiing. The season runs from June through October with gear hire and lessons available.
  • Hiking and Trekking
    • Tāhuna – Queenstown is surrounded by trails with views that never disappoint. The Ben Lomond Track leads to a summit panorama, while shorter walks like Queenstown Hill offer stunning lake and mountain vistas. For more remote multi-day hikes, the Routeburn Track is an unforgettable alpine journey.
  • Ziplining
    • Zip through native forest on a series of suspended cables. Queenstown’s zipline tours combine scenic views with high-speed thrills and are a great way to get above the treetops. It’s an exciting mix of nature and adrenaline.
  • Canyon Swinging
    • Take the leap with a freefall swing over the Shotover Canyon. The Shotover Canyon Swing is the highest cliff jump in the world, combining a vertical drop with a huge arc that swings you across the gorge. It’s an experience that’s part terror and part pure joy.

We usually start with Viator and Get Your Guide when planning tours or activities — both are easy to use and have loads of trusted options. But we always check Tripadvisor too, as it’s packed with local gems and more traveller reviews.

🌊 Lake Wakatipu and Surrounding Attractions

Lake Wakatipu offers more than just a beautiful view. These nearby experiences bring you closer to the lake, whether you’re cruising its surface or relaxing on its shores.

  • Scenic Cruises
    • Glide across the deep blue waters on a vintage steamship or modern catamaran. Cruises include local commentary about the area’s history and geology, making it a relaxing and enriching way to enjoy the scenery.
  • Fishing
    • Lake Wakatipu is home to brown and rainbow trout. You can fish from the shore or head out on a guided tour with all the gear provided. It’s peaceful, scenic and perfect for anglers of any level.
  • Lakeside Walks
    • Trails around the lake offer everything from flat lakeside strolls to longer hikes with alpine views. Expect native plants, quiet rest spots and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Bring layers as the weather can change quickly.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing
    • Paddle along the lake’s edge or venture out toward secluded beaches. Guided tours are available or you can hire your own gear and go at your own pace. It’s a quiet way to enjoy the scale and clarity of the lake.
  • Jet Skiing
    • Speed across Lake Wakatipu for an adrenaline-filled ride with epic mountain views in every direction. Rentals and guided tours are available for all experience levels.
  • Parasailing
    • Fly high above the lake for panoramic views that stretch across the Remarkables and surrounding peaks. Tandem flights make it an easy and exciting way to take it all in from above.
  • Picnicking
    • There are plenty of peaceful lakefront spots to throw down a blanket and relax. Bring local cheeses, fruit and your favourite drinks and enjoy a laid-back meal with one of the best views in the country.
  • Bike Riding
    • Cycle along easy lakeside paths or head toward the Queenstown Trail for more adventure. There are scenic routes for all abilities and plenty of places to stop along the way.

For more Things to Do in the Lake Wakatipu area Check out Viator and Get Your Guide

🛏️ Best Accommodation in Tāhuna – Queenstown


Accommodation options in Tāhuna – Queenstown are as varied as the landscapes that surround them. These picks come from personal stays, trusted recommendations, and solid research.

When it comes to finding the right place to stay, we usually start with Booking.com — it’s easy to use and covers everything from budget motels to boutique stays and self-contained options. We also like to check Tripadvisor for reviews and side-by-side comparisons, and Hotellook is a handy tool for comparing prices across multiple platforms. Between them, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s available and what might suit your travel style best.

Affiliate Note: This post contains trusted partner links (including Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and other travel services we personally use). If you book through them, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Tohu Travellers.
Azur Lodge
  • Azur Lodge
    • Located on a hillside above Lake Wakatipu, Azur Lodge offers private villas with floor-to-ceiling views. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals, spa baths, and curated local experiences like heli rides and wine tastings.
  • Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa
    • This vineyard retreat is just outside town and perfect for wine lovers. The lodge has luxury suites with views of the vines, a full-service spa and easy access to Gibbston’s top cellar doors.
  • Glam Camping Queenstown
    • Only 20 minutes from town, these eco domes at Moke Lake offer comfort in nature. With wooden floors, queen beds and glass walls for stargazing, it is camping but elevated. The 1.5-hour Moke Lake loop track starts right outside.
    • Check glamcampingqueenstown.co.nz for availability.
  • Tāhuna – Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park
    • A short walk from the town centre, this holiday park offers powered and non-powered sites with clean facilities and mountain views. It is a great choice for van travellers and budget-conscious adventurers.

🍽️ Best Places to Dine in Tāhuna – Queenstown

Food is deeply personal, but these spots left a mark during our time in Tāhuna – Queenstown. Some stood out for their flavour, others for the warm welcome or the setting itself.

Yonder
  • Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen
    • A relaxed vineyard venue serving local wines with seasonal sharing plates. Set just outside of town, it’s perfect for a long lunch or laid-back brunch with mountain views.
  • Rātā
    • An elevated dining experience led by top Kiwi chefs. Expect fresh local ingredients prepared with creativity and care. The menu changes often but always feels like a celebration of Aotearoa.
  • Yonder
    • Great for casual bites and live music. The menu covers everything from vegan bowls to burgers and bao. It’s upbeat, central and often buzzing with locals.
  • Taco Medic
    • Fast, fresh and full of flavour. This taco stop brings authentic Mexican flair to Tāhuna – Queenstown with handmade corn tortillas and bold fillings. Great for a quick, tasty meal.

When it comes to finding great places to eat, we usually check out Tripadvisor first — it’s full of honest reviews, local favourites, and hidden gems. Whether you’re after something casual or a special meal out, it’s a great place to compare what’s nearby and see what other travellers recommend.

🚶‍♀️ Walking and Cycling Trails in Tāhuna – Queenstown

Tāhuna – Queenstown is packed with trails that showcase alpine beauty, lake views, and peaceful forest routes. These picks range from easy wanders to challenging mountain treks and thrilling rides.

Ben Lomond

Challenging Trails

  • Ben Lomond Track – A Climb with Big Payoff
    • Distance 16 km return.
    • Time 6–8 hours
    • This full-day hike rewards you with sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding peaks. It is steep in sections, especially near the summit, and best tackled in clear weather.
  • The Remarkables Mountain Bike Trail – Technical Rides in Wild Terrain
    • Distance 21 km one way.
    • Time 2.5–4 hours
    • Ride through alpine terrain with epic descents and big views. This one’s for experienced riders looking for flow and challenge on one of Queenstown’s most rugged mountain bike trails.

Moderate Trails

  • Queenstown Hill Time Walk – Panoramas Above the Town
    • Distance 4.2 km return.
    • Time 1.5–2.5 hours
    • A steady climb that leads to a summit viewpoint with wide-open lake and mountain views. The Basket of Dreams sculpture marks the top and is a favourite photo spot.
  • Jack’s Point Track – Lakeside Riding with Scenic Punch
    • Distance 12 km one way.
    • Time 1.5–2.5 hours
    • This trail skirts the edge of Lake Wakatipu with gentle climbs and wide views. Great for intermediate riders who want natural beauty without too much technical terrain.
Queenstown Hill Time Walk – Basket of Dreams

Easy Trails

  • Frankton Arm Walkway – A Flat Lakeside Meander
    • Distance 9 km one way.
    • Time 1.5–2 hours
    • A smooth path along the shoreline linking Tāhuna – Queenstown and Frankton. Ideal for a relaxed walk, with cafes and rest spots along the way.
  • Arrow River Bridges Trail – A Scenic Ride into Arrowtown
    • Distance 16 km one way.
    • Time 2–3 hours
    • Ride beside the river on a wide gravel trail with bridge crossings and old mining history. Suitable for all fitness levels and a great way to explore the area at a gentle pace.

Before you hit the trail, it’s always a good idea to check the DOC (Department of Conservation) website. You’ll find important updates on track conditions, weather alerts, and any closures or hazards. It’s also where you can book huts or campsites on popular multi-day hikes. Checking in first helps you stay safe, pack what you need, and enjoy your adventure with confidence — especially in Aotearoa’s wild and changeable backcountry.

🌅 Best Spots to Witness the Majestic Sunrise and Sunset


Tāhuna – Queenstown offers unforgettable moments at both ends of the day. Here are a few places where the light and landscape come together beautifully.

Sunrise Spots

  • Coronet Peak
    • Just a short drive from town, Coronet Peak delivers sweeping alpine views as the sun climbs above the mountains. During winter, snow-covered ridgelines catch the first light and glow in soft pastel tones. It’s quiet, elevated and worth the early start.
  • Moke Lake
    • Tucked away in a peaceful valley, Moke Lake is a calm place to begin your day. When the lake is still, it mirrors the sky in stunning detail. Bring a warm drink and take in the slow glow of morning light across the hills.
Ben Lomond Track Sunset

Sunset Spots

  • Ben Lomond Track
    • If you time your hike right, the summit of Ben Lomond offers one of the most dramatic sunset scenes in the region. Watch the colours stretch across Lake Wakatipu and fade into the ranges. Bring layers and a head torch for the walk down.
  • Skyline Tāhuna – Queenstown
    • Ride the gondola up and settle in for a show. From the viewing platforms or restaurant, you’ll see the light shift over the town and lake with the peaks silhouetted in orange and gold. It’s easy to access and always delivers.

🚐 Getting to Tāhuna – Queenstown


Tāhuna – Que

By Air

  • Tāhuna – Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
    • The airport is just 10 km from the town centre and has direct flights from major cities across Aotearoa – New Zealand. There are also international routes from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
  • Transport from the Airport
    • Shuttles, public buses, taxis and rental cars are all available at the terminal. Buses run regularly into town and are a budget-friendly option.

By Road

  • Self-Drive
    • Driving to Tāhuna – Queenstown gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. From Wānaka or Invercargill, take State Highway 6. From Christchurch or Dunedin, follow State Highway 8 then connect through the Lindis Pass or Kawarau Gorge. Roads can be narrow or icy depending on the season so take care.
  • Bus Services
    • Several long-distance bus companies run services to and from Tāhuna – Queenstown. It’s a slower journey but affordable and filled with great views along the way.

📌 5 Fascinating Facts About Tāhuna – Queenstown

  1. Birthplace of Commercial Bungee Jumping
    • Tāhuna – Queenstown is where it all began. In 1988 the world’s first commercial bungee jump launched from the Kawarau Bridge. Today it’s still one of the town’s top attractions.
  2. Lake Wakatipu’s Mysterious Tides
    • Lake Wakatipu has a natural phenomenon where its water level rises and falls about 20 centimetres every 25 minutes. Known as a “seiche” this rhythmic tide is often linked to Māori legend about a sleeping giant’s heartbeat.
  3. Remarkables Mountain Range Is True to Its Name
    • One of only a few mountain ranges in the world that runs directly north to south the Remarkables live up to their name with sharp ridgelines and snow-covered peaks visible from much of town.
  4. Gold Rush History Runs Deep
    • In the 1860s Tāhuna – Queenstown boomed with gold fever. The nearby Arrow River and Shotover River were among the richest gold-bearing rivers in the world at the time.
  5. It’s a Four-Season Playground
    • Unlike many destinations Queenstown thrives in every season. From snow sports in winter to hiking biking and lake adventures in summer it stays busy and beautiful all year round.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels — from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport, and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

🧭 Some booking links can be shy around VPNs! If one doesn’t open, try turning off your VPN or switching to a secure Wi-Fi network.

Kōtahi te kākano, he nui ngā hua o te rākau

A tree comes from one seed but bears many fruit