A trip to Queenstown — New zealand uncovered

No weekend in Queenstown would be complete without some form of adrenaline fueled activity. There are so many options even on a cold damp spring day. Jet ski, cruise, kayak, fish, even speeding around in a jet boat is to be spotted out on the lake. That’s not to mention the numerous bungy jumps, ziplines and scenic flights available.

Looking out over Queenstown and it’s lake

I took advantage of the wet weather to join Shark Attack on the lake. I figured I was already wet so why not! A true Kiwiesque experience ‘Shark Attack’ has taken the humble jet ski and converted it into something that can soar underneath the lake and bounce up out on top. Designed as a shark it’s a novel sight just to watch let alone have a go in. You squeeze in behind your shark driver and the glass roof is pulled across over you and then the fun begins. The shark whizzes through the water at top speed, often on its side. It frequently plunges down into the depths beneath as per the habits of a real shark I guess. You are left holding your breath knowing if that small covering doesn’t hold it’s not going to take very long for your cramped space to fill up with water. And by heck that lake water is cold, trust me I've dipped my toe in it..... It’s curious to see under the lake though – the water is a vivid pure blue as you dive down which is created by the glacial rock salt. Be warned your ears will continue to pop long after you have escaped the sharks interior.

Bungy jumping is just one of the many crazy fun things you can do in Queenstown

After all that excitement I needed a moment of tranquillity and relaxation. The Lodge Bar is positioned perfectly on the forefront of the lake right in the heart of Queenstown. It’s part of the men’s clothing store Rodd and Gunn and offers comfort aplenty with big comfy seats in Scottish highland colours, lots of fluffy cushions and rugs aplenty. They have a tempting small plate menu and a substantial drinks list. The wine by the glass represents the local region. It’s all very civilized as you while away the time people watching.

Lakeside people watching is part of the fun in Queenstown

For a bite to eat you could take on any number of Queenstown restaurants, there are some fantastic eateries here catering for a wide range of budgets. Just along the lake front from my seat in The Lodge is Botswana Butchery, long behold as one of the best steak restaurants in New Zealand.

Top Tip: if on a budget treat yourself to lunch at Botswana, the menu is extensive and a lot more affordable than later in the day.

Lunch at the Botswana Butchery, leave room for the dessert

I also love a trip to Madam Woo. It is always buzzing and offers some great Malaysian street food which is recommended for sharing. Try the roti rolls that are a real treat. Blue Kanu showcases the best of Pacifica and Asian fare. I love their duck nachos and strongly recommend a curry, the clever play on ingredients makes it a fun place to eat. They also showcase local Otago wines.

My sleep for the night was at the five star QT Hotel and I will talk about this in a later blog shortly.