Queenstown accommodation from NZ$145

Everywhere you look in Queenstown, there's incredible scenery. Lake Wakatipu offers some great swimming beaches, beautiful alpine views and rides on the historic T.S.S. Earnslaw paddle steamer. This lake is also unique in that its unusual shape causes its waters to rise and fall about 10 centimetres every 25 minutes, in what many refer to as a "standing wave". However, Maori legend says that the rising and falling tide is due to the heartbeat of the giant monster, Matau, who sleeps at the bottom of the lake. Whether you believe in monsters or not, you'll find the lake is beautiful and peaceful, much like Fiordland National Park, where you can see rare animals and plant life, nestled amongst gorgeous mountains and valleys.

Queenstown is also lovingly known as "the bungy capital of the world", but bungy jumping isn't the only adventure sport you can try here. There's forest ziplining, white water rafting, jet boat riding, paragliding, kayaking and charter boat fishing. Queenstown is also the world's first ever river surfing spot. Grab a boogie board and take advantage of the opportunity to ride the white water rapids without a raft. If that isn't enough, there are plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes and have a go at skiing and/or snowboarding in winter. Don't forget to check out our Queenstown ski accommodation. If you want some real winter fun, the American Express Queenstown Winter Festival goes for 10 days in June. This event has been running since 1975 and never seems to disappoint with its street parties, live entertainment, fireworks displays and snow sports events.

If you're not really into extreme sports, and just want a laidback holiday, you'll find it in Queenstown. There are lots of wineries to tour and a lively bar scene to enjoy. You can also sit down at award-winning restaurants that serve a wide range of cuisine choices. After you've had your fill, you might like to pick up some high-end fashion items, beautiful handcrafted jewellery or one-of-a-kind artworks. Shotover Street, Beach Street, Ballarat Street and Camp Street are the main shopping strips for these kinds of pieces. You can also find arts, crafts, fresh produce and gourmet food items at the Remarkables Market on Saturday mornings in summer.

The airport is only 10 minutes from the centre of town and the public bus system is great, so you won't have any trouble getting around. So, check out our cheap flights to Queenstown, book your Queenstown accommodation and enjoy this treasured city.