All it takes to enjoy New Zealand's Queenstown is to take a stroll

On a clear summer morning, Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand’s South Island is an ethereal vision. It is flanked by the Southern Alps, with the jagged, saw-tooth-shaped mountain range The Remarkables forming the highlight. On its northern shores, ranged around a bend in the lake sits the beautiful and scenic town of Queenstown. Its history goes back to the mid-nineteenth century when it was the epicentre of the gold rush, vestiges of which still survive in nearby places such as Arrowtown.

Queenstown’s allure is seductive — from the stunning sights of the lake and the mountains to the lakefront with beautiful buildings and the vineyards that lie on the outskirts. It also proudly wears the sobriquet of party town. The lakefront and mall street are packed with restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars, boutiques and shopping establishments. Come evening, and the place reverberates to the buzz of people and buskers every few feet filling the air with music.


That simplest of things — taking a walk — is the best way to enjoy Queenstown. Stroll along the lakefront on Beach Road, Marine Parade and Mall Street, where a statue of William Rees, founder of Queenstown, fondly looks over everything. It is magical in the evening when the setting sun paints the sky a vivid orange-pink while the lake’s water shimmers a golden yellow with boats gently bobbing along the piers. The steps along the water are usually speckled with musicians —from solo instrumentalists to full-fledged bands. The air is thick with the aromas of crepes, popcorn, roasted nuts... Then there are a slew of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world.

There’s no better way to get an up-close experience of Lake Wakatipu than on the SS Earnslaw. Known as the Lady of the Lake, this century-old steam ship was commissioned the same year as the Titanic to serve farming communities around the lake. Restored to its original condition, it allows passengers to take a look at almost every aspect of its working.

Disembark at the far end of the lake on Walter Peak sheep farm. Get a glimpse of sheep dogs at work, see how sheep are sheared and just wander around. End the visit with a delectable barbecue of beef, pork and chicken as well as a profusion of seasonal vegetables.

LOTR Land From the time the majestic mountain peaks of The Remarkables come into view, fans of the movie The Lord of the Rings will be hard-pressed not to get excited. The LOTR theme is such a leitmotif in and around Queenstown that there is something every few miles and it seems like the real-life version of Middle Earth. Once you get used to the mountain peaks, which are LOTR’s Misty Mountains, there is the road to Glenorchy off which is Twelve Mile Delta where the Ithilien Camp was located and where Frodo and Sam gazed at passing oliphants.

Elsewhere, there are references to Isengard, Lothlorien and Fangorn forest. New Zealand is known for adventure; in and around Queenstown, it goes up several notches. From a ride to Bob’s Peak for stunning panoramic views to luge rides, from bungee jumping to jet rides on the lake, from parasailing to ziplining and skydiving, there’s a wide variety on offer. In winter, it is also possible to ski down the mountains. There are also hiking, trekking, mountaineering and cycling trails. Queenstown is the gateway for scenic flights, especially to Milford Sound.

Queenstown's gold rush history is kept alive in Arrowtown. It is a charming gold mine settlement that has been preserved as it was more than a century ago. The main street, Buckingham Street, and its neighbourhood have over 70 restored buildings and cottages.

(The author is a Bengaluru-based writer)

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