QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND — It was truly by God’s grace that my family and I had the opportunity to come visit over here — rightfully known as the adventure capital of the world. Though our stay is short, every moment is filled with discovery, beauty, and excitement.
We departed Auckland on April 29, and arrived here in Queenstown after a smooth one hour-55-minute flight. As soon as we landed, the crisp air of 6°C greeted us, dropping to a chilly 4°C by the evening. It was a refreshing change from the usual warmth we’re used to.
Jewel in the south island
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown is a feast for the senses. It’s not just a paradise for thrill-seekers—with activities like bungee jumping from Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, and jet-boating through the Shotover and Dart rivers—it’s also a gateway to scenic vineyards, historic gold rush towns, and tranquil lakes.
One of the best ways to appreciate Queenstown’s dramatic landscape is from above. Tourists can experience skydiving or ziplining, both offering breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and forests.
So here we immersed ourselves in Queenstown’s natural beauty, and vibrant energy. Some of our most cherished experiences included: watching jet boating on the Shotover River, exploring the botanical gardens, a serene escape amid nature; witnessing the iconic TSS Earnslaw Steamship as it cruised along Lake Wakatipu—an authentic coal-powered vessel, and a living piece of New Zealand’s gold rush history;observing skydivers taking the plunge from dizzying heights; and watching zipliners glide through the treetops with Lake Wakatipu in the background.
Queenstown’s charm lies not just in its adrenaline-pumping adventures, but also in its walkable streets and clean, modern infrastructure. With most amenities being digital and self-service, the city feels both efficient and eco-conscious.
Driving around the area, we were in awe of the pristine lakes—Wakatipu, Wānaka, and Hāwea—all offering different activities and breathtaking views. We made a quick stop at Kining Queensland, a mountain standing 330 meters (1,080 feet) tall, offering picturesque vantage points.
Bustling destination
With a land area of 86.61 km² and an urban population of around 28,600 (as of June 2024), Queenstown is classified as a medium-sized urban area. However, it punches well above its weight in tourist numbers.
In 2023 alone, over 368,000 international visitors arrived here, a 13.6 percent increase from 2019. Visitors come from all over the world, making Queenstown a vibrant, multi-cultural hub.
Cost of paradise
Queenstown’s popularity does come at a price—literally. The demand for lodging, food, and activities, especially during ski season and summer, makes it one of the more expensive places in New Zealand.
For example: my son Dean paid NZ$30 (a steep P1,000) for just a few hours of parking. Food prices are also high; an ordinary hamburger can cost up to $20 (about P660).
The town’s high cost of living stems from its remote location, booming tourism industry, and New Zealand’s relatively-strong economy. Even locals feel the pinch, with higher rental and grocery prices compared to other regions.
Yet, this economic boost also benefits the local workforce and infrastructure development. In a way, the elevated prices are part of the trade-off that comes with progress and global attention.
Despite the expenses, Queenstown offered us more than just a vacation—it gave us a renewed appreciation for nature, adventure, and human creativity. Each day brought something new: a breathtaking view, a flavorful meal, or a simple walk that turned into a moment of reflection.
Clean, green, and alive with energy, Queenstown truly lives up to its reputation. It’s not just a destination—it’s an experience, one that we’ll carry in our hearts for a lifetime.
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Author’s email: wea_129@yahoo.com
