Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, if not the world. Located on the scenic South Island, the resort town sits on the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu surrounded by remarkable mountains, rushing rivers and spectacular canyons. People from all over the world flock here to embrace the great outdoors and test their limits on a range of adrenaline-pumping activities. The Kiwis practically invented extreme adventure experiences for the travel market. They’re always coming up with new offerings that become the next big craze. Be warned, there’s a seductive energy down here that makes even mild-mannered types get swept up in the fever. You may find yourself partaking in all sorts of thrills you never dreamed of doing before. Once you see everyone else taking the plunge (often literally), you won’t want to miss out on the fun. Here are 10 daring things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand.
1. Bungy Jump
Bungy jumping has its roots in Vanuatu, where islanders were known to fling themselves off highpoints with vines tied to their feet. A couple of crazy Kiwis updated this concept back in the 1988, using latex rubber cords and a platform on the Kawarau Bridge, near Queenstown. With safety top of mind, they produced an adrenaline adventure activity that has blossomed into more than just a passing backpacker fad. Today, over a million travelers have taken a leap off the bridge where it all started, and it has become something of a required rite of passage when in Queenstown. Now there are The Ledge and Nevis jump sites to choose from, too. Try a tandem, backwards, blindfolded, water-touch or night jump to up the fear-factor.
