How many ways can you ride a zipline in Queenstown, New Zealand?

It has been for quite some time that I’ve wanted to visit New Zealand, but I never had the chance.

Then, just three weeks before leaving Manila for Sydney, I was talking with Nini Licaros. She shared that she was planning to visit New Zealand in May with Abe, her daughters Rosanne and Teresa, and her son Angelo. Without hesitation, I asked if Renato and I could tag along; this seemed like the perfect opportunity. When she agreed, I immediately booked an airbnb near her lodgings. Little did I know that this decision would lead to one of the most memorable trips of our lives, shared with good friends who loved the same activities and food experiences that we do.

Our adventure began with the iconic Skyline Gondola ride up Bob’s Peak. One of the first tours we did was to take a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu. Although the historic TSS Earnslaw steamboat was under repair during our visit, we enjoyed a regular lake cruise that offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the lake’s tranquil waters. The cruise included a stop for a buffet lunch at Walter Peak Farm, where we explored the working farm’s grounds, gardens, and sheep shearing demonstrations. The farm is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, and we appreciated the chance to learn about sheep farming and rural life in New Zealand. After exploring, we enjoyed a hearty farm-to-table lunch at Walter Peak’s restaurant, featuring local meats, fresh vegetables, and regional wines. 

The panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains are simply breathtaking. At the top, we transferred to a chairlift that took us even higher, offering a bird’s-eye view of this stunning landscape. The highlight was riding the Luge, a fun, adrenaline-filled go-kart, down winding tracks that weave through the mountainside. It was an exhilarating way to enjoy the scenery and get the adrenaline flowing, although I admit I was a bit scared because part of the track was icy.

On another day, we tried four different zip lines. Our guides encouraged us to try various positions—like hanging upside down, Superman (lying on your back with arms extended), and prone (lying on your stomach)—each offering a different perspective and speed. I didn’t dare to try all of them, but Renato, at age 77, bravely did, much to everyone’s amazement. The guides and fellow adventurers couldn’t stop talking about his daring spirit; they even asked how old he was because his adventurous attitude was so inspiring. The courses offered a perfect mix of thrill and scenery, flying across canyons and treetops at high speeds while taking in stunning vistas.

One of the most adrenaline-pumping experiences was the Shotover Jet Boat ride. The Shotover River is renowned for its narrow, twisting canyons carved by glaciers. The boat, designed for high-speed river adventures with powerful jet propulsion, glides just inches above the water. Speeding through the canyon at up to 85 km/h, the boat performs sharp turns, spins, and skids, providing an exhilarating ride through some of Queenstown’s most dramatic scenery. The guides, expert drivers, skillfully navigate the canyon’s curves, making this a truly unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Another highlight was our day trip to Milford Sound; carved by glaciers over thousands of years, this fjord (a long, narrow sea inlet) features towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. We flew in a small plane, soaring above the landscape and gaining an appreciation for its grandeur. Once on the ground, we took a two-hour cruise that brought us even closer to Milford Sound’s majestic cliffs. Learning how Milford Sound was formed by glaciers and geological forces made the experience even more awe-inspiring.

Milford Sound is a fjord—a long, narrow sea inlet—carved by glaciers over thousands of years, and features towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls

A memorable highlight was our day trip to Wanaka, a charming lakeside town about an hour and a half from Queenstown. Known for its iconic Wanaka Tree and stunning mountain views, Wanaka offered a peaceful escape into nature. We explored the lakeside, walked along the famous tree—one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots—and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. We expected to see a gigantic tree, but it turned out to be a small, solitary one growing in the lake. We also finally savored some delicious seafood at a Chinese restaurant, which was a wonderful treat.

Another  stop was visiting the Kiwi Park, a small sanctuary dedicated to conserving and showcasing New Zealand’s iconic and endangered kiwi birds. The park offers a unique opportunity to learn about these nocturnal, flightless birds through educational exhibits and guided nighttime tours. Seeing the shadow of a kiwi up close in a naturalistic setting is an experience, but we could only see them in the dark, as these elusive creatures are rarely seen in the wild. The guides shared fascinating insights into kiwi behavior, their importance as national symbols, and conservation efforts to protect them. The experience also included encounters with other native wildlife.

One of my favorite towns was Arrowtown, which we visited several times, a charming historic gold-mining town just a short drive from Queenstown. Known for its well-preserved buildings, cobblestone streets, and shopping, Arrowtown exudes quaintness and character. Strolling through its boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries was like stepping back in time. 

Here, all of us ladies loved shopping for possum wool combined with merino and silk. Possum in Queenstown have turned out to be a major pest problem, destroying the ecological environment, thus the decision to reduce its population. 

Just days before we left Queenstown, the ski season officially began with the opening of Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, two of New Zealand’s most popular ski resorts. Although we didn’t get to hit the slopes, we were thrilled to see the resorts bustling with activity, their snow-covered peaks standing proudly against a clear sky. Watching skiers and snowboarders glide down the mountains reminded us of Queenstown’s year-round appeal as a premier adventure hub. 

 

The culinary scene in Queenstown is equally impressive, with several standout restaurants:

Amisfield Winery is renowned not only as one of the top wineries in New Zealand, but also as one of the best restaurants in the world, and offers a truly extraordinary dining experience. Famous for its farm-to-table philosophy, exquisite wines, and scenic setting amidst rolling hills, Amisfield has an approach to food that is innovative and artful. Their dishes are meticulously prepared and beautifully plated, turning each meal into a visual masterpiece. The experience is unlike anything else—a whole new way of appreciating cuisine that combines refined technique, fresh local ingredients, and stunning presentation. Dining here is not just about the flavors, but about immersing yourself in a holistic sensory journey that elevates New Zealand’s culinary reputation to a global level.

The Nest is perched among the mountains with panoramic views, and is a contemporary, innovative restaurant that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and creative presentation. Located inside the Kamana Lakeside Hotel, it offers a dining experience that blends breathtaking scenery with culinary artistry. What sets The Nest apart is its thoughtfully curated set menus, expertly structured to provide a balanced and memorable gastronomic journey. The menus typically feature multiple courses—appetizers, mains, and desserts—each designed to showcase seasonal ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. The dishes are beautifully plated, with artistic attention to detail. The chefs employ modern techniques such as sous-vide, smoking, and plating artistry to create dishes that are not only delicious but also visually stunning. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest local produce, and each course is carefully paired with local wines or beverages, enhancing the flavors and overall experience. What makes The Nest truly special is its ability to deliver a multi-sensory experience in a serene setting, with panoramic views of the mountains and Lake Wakatipu providing a perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. 

The Nest is perched among the mountains with panoramic views, and is a contemporary, innovative restaurant that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and creative presentation

Ayburn Wineries is more than just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant hub of culinary and cultural activity. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, it houses multiple venues such as Woodshed (famous for hearty wood-fired dishes), Bakehouse (baked breads and pastries), and The Manure Room (known for inventive cocktails and a lively social atmosphere). The Bakehouse is particularly notable for its artisanal baked goods—freshly baked breads, croissants, scones, and a variety of pastries—all made using traditional methods with locally sourced ingredients. Their baked breads are crusty and flavorful, perfect for breakfast or to take home as souvenirs. The pastries and scones are flaky, buttery, and often served with homemade jams and clotted cream. For breakfast and lunch, Ayburn offers a diverse menu that caters to different tastes. You can enjoy the aroma of spit-roasted chicken, seasoned and cooked to perfection, with tender, flavorful meat. Alongside this, they serve an array of delicious pizzas, including classics like Margherita and gourmet options topped with regional ingredients, fresh vegetables, and meats. The menu also features hearty breakfast options such as eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, and avocado toast, as well as fresh fruit and locally roasted coffee. For lunch, you can indulge in gourmet sandwiches, salads, and small plates that highlight regional ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. The overall experience at Ayburn combines scenic beauty, excellent food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a true highlight of Queenstown’s culinary scene. Its story is further enriched by Ajax, the legendary sheep symbolizing resilience, celebrated with a life-sized sculpture reflecting the region’s pastoral roots. 

Gibbons is a popular breakfast spot that offers hearty and delicious options in a cozy setting. It’s the perfect place to start a day before heading out on adventures. 

Mora Winery is celebrated for its premium wines and intimate tasting experiences, emphasizing sustainable viticulture and local varietals. 

Don’t miss breakfast or brunch at The Boat Shed Café, a beloved spot. It offers hearty, freshly prepared dishes with stunning lake views—an ideal way to start a day of exploration.

Fergburger is one of Queenstown’s most iconic and internationally renowned food destinations, and has earned a legendary reputation for its delicious, generously-sized gourmet burgers. Located in the heart of town, this humble burger joint attracts both locals and tourists alike, often with long queues stretching down the street. What makes Fergburger so famous is its commitment to quality ingredients, inventive flavor combinations, and the sheer size of its burgers. From classic options like the “Fergburger” (a juicy beef patty with bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce) to unique creations such as the “Cali” (with chicken, avocado, and mayo), each burger is crafted with care and passion. The buns are freshly baked, the patties are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful, elevating the humble burger to an art form. The combination of great taste, generous portions, and the lively atmosphere makes Fergburger a must-visit culinary icon that’s worth braving the queue for a memorable meal.

For oyster lovers, I highly recommend a trip to Bluff, about three hours’ drive from Queenstown. Known for its rugged coastline and scenic beauty, Bluff is where some of the best oysters in New Zealand are harvested. The Oyster Cove restaurant is the perfect place to indulge in seasonal oysters, available from May to August, making a visit during this period especially worthwhile.

Now, whenever I think of Queenstown, what will immediately come to mind is its breathtaking scenery, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountains.

Queenstown has so much more to offer that we couldn’t explore during winter. We plan to return in spring or summer to enjoy nature hikes, visit nearby towns like Glenorchy and Paradise—famous as Middle Earth, where The Lord of the Rings was filmed—and, of course, experience an onsen bath, which was fully booked during our stay.