5 Reasons to Visit Queenstown in a Campervan

Queenstown, the jewel of New Zealand’s South Island, is a dream destination for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Kiwi landscape. While Queenstown is a year-round paradise, summer unveils its true colors, and there’s no better way to experience it than in a campervan. Here are five compelling reasons to pack your bags, hit the open road, and explore Queenstown this summer.

Freedom to Roam

The freedom of a campervan journey is unparalleled. Queenstown and the surrounding areas offer a multitude of designated campervan parks and freedom camping spots where you can park your home on wheels and wake up to stunning views every morning. This flexibility allows you to wake up to serene lakeshores, lush forests, or picturesque mountain vistas on your own terms.

Short Hikes with Big Rewards

Queenstown’s hiking trails offer something for everyone, from seasoned trekkers to leisurely strollers. Here are a few short hikes with spectacular rewards.

Queenstown Hill: A 2-3 hour hike leads you to the famous Basket of Dreams sculpture and offers 360 views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

Bob’s Cove Track: A family-friendly 1-hour hike around Lake Whakatipu takes you through native forests and offers beautiful lake views.

Ben Lomond Track: Fancy a challenge? This moderate 5-6 hour hike offers panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range.

Iconic Adventure Activities

Queenstown is renowned as the world’s adventure capital, and summer provides the perfect weather for a wide range of thrilling activities. Note: not for the faint-hearted.

Skydiving: Jump from a plane and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Queenstown’s stunning landscapes.

Jet Boating: Experience heart-pounding excitement as you race through the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers.

Bungee Jumping: Challenge your limits with a bungee jump from the iconic Kawarau Bridge.

Explore Lake Whakatipu

Lake Whakatipu, with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains, is Queenstown’s crown jewel. Here’s how you can make the most of it:

Cruises: Take a scenic cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw. The lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere while sipping on some local wine.

Kayaking: Paddle across the lake’s pristine waters and explore hidden coves and secluded beaches.

Fishing: Cast your line and try your luck with some of New Zealand’s finest trout fishing on a guided tour.

Scenic Drives and Must-See Places

Hit the road and explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Queenstown. Don’t miss these must-see places:

Glenorchy: Known as the Gateway to Paradise, this small town offers mesmerizing landscapes, horseback riding, and jet boating opportunities.

Arrowtown: Step back in time as you explore this charming gold-mining town with its historic buildings and serene streets.

Moke Lake: Take a beautiful drive through the winding mountain road to Moke Lake. Breathtaking views, a DOC campsite, and a sweet 2-3 hour loop track will keep you busy.

Queenstown

Visiting Queenstown during the summer is quite the experience. The freedom to explore at your own pace, the stunning short hikes, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Lake Whakatipu make it a dream destination for road trippers. So, grab your keys, & your sense of adventure, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Queenstown’s summer magic.