Nestled among the soaring peaks and glacial lakes of New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown and Wanaka are the siblings of the south; one wild and daring, the other calm and reflective. Both equally breathtaking.

Perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with the jagged Remarkables mountain range as its backdrop, compact Queenstown pulses with energy. Leap from Kawarau Bridge on a bungy cord, rocket through the Shotover River canyons in a jet boat, or feel the thrill of the rapids in a white-water raft. Less exhilarating but just as iconic, Skyline Gondola transports you high above this bite-size town, where panoramic views are revealed in every direction. In the evening, the lakeside lights up with vibrant bars, gourmet eateries and fireside wine lounges.

A little further afield lies remote Glenorchy, a beautiful 45-minute drive along the lake shores.  The views are spectacular, and there’s a range of activities, including walks, scenic jetboating, horse-riding, fun-yaks and 4WD tours to film locations from Lord of the Rings. 

Just over the breathtaking, switchback Crown Range Road leading away from Queenstown, Wanaka’s mesmeric lake mirrors the Southern Alps, inviting kayaking, sailing, or lazy afternoons on the pebbled shores. Marvel at the renowned Wanaka Tree, standing resilient in the lake’s shallows, then take on the legendary Roy’s Peak Track, where sweeping views make the climb unforgettable.